Smeltz Debuts in Turkey

Shane Smeltz made his debut for new Turkish club Genclerbirligi this morning. There was a start, but no goals for the All White striker, who was replaced after 70 minutes. But at least Genclerbirligi enjoyed its first win of the season, 2-1 over Istanbul BB, thanks to a dubious penalty and a late headed goal from a corner. After four games, Genclerbirligi are 11th of 18 sides in the Turkish Super League.

Smeltz Travels to Europe to Talk Turkey

Shane Smeltz has travelled to Turkey for talks on a move to Genclerbirligi .

FourFourTwo are reporting that the clubs have agreed a deal in principal and Smeltz has gone to Ankara to discuss personal terms and possibly put pen to paper on a deal.

This seems like a far better move for Smeltz than his aborted China switch but after Danny Vukovich had his contract torn up recently in Turkey, players and agents may be more wary of signing for clubs in the Turkish Super League.

Genclerbirligi have started the season with two draws and currently have on the books Australian International Mile Jedinak.

I'll avoid the obligatory reference to Shane's wife in any of this...but it is important to note that the deal has only been agreed between the clubs in principle and there are suggestions that Smeltz is not the no.1 target.

Friday Night Goals for Smeltz, Brockie

Jeremy Brockie scored his first goal for new club Newcastle Jets, but a late Ben Kantarovski own goal saw the Jets share the points with Melbourne Heart. Cutting back in off the right wing, Brockie's well weighted first touch set up a left foot finish past Heart goalkeeper Clint Bolton (highlights here). Back in the starting line up after recovering from a calf injury, its a great start to the season for the All Whites winger. I am a big fan of Brockie. He is one of New Zealand's best technical footballers. But his tendency to drift in and out of matches and in and out of form can be frustrating. Let's hope with injury behind him he can kick on and have the big year his talent warrants.

Brockie's was the third Kiwi goal of the night, with Shane Smeltz grabbing two against his old club in Wellington. A powerful first half header was followed by a more regulation six yard finish mid way through the second half (and could have had a third if not for the inside of the post). His two goals helped Gold Coast grab their first point off the Phoenix, recovering from a two goal deficit to earn a well warranted 3 all draw. So its back to business for the prolific Smeltz, who got plenty of stick from the local crowd but took it all in good nature. Highlights and goals here.