Shane Smeltz

Shane Edward Smeltz (born 29 September 1981 in Göppingen, Baden-Württemberg) is a New Zealand professional association football player. He plays as a striker for Perth Glory FC.

Club career

Smeltz played for a variety of professional Australian clubs before trying his luck in England with Mansfield Town in 2005. Before signing for English club Halifax Town, Smeltz played in 61 competitive matches for AFC Wimbledon, including 11 as a substitute, and scored 26 goals.

Wellington Phoenix

Smeltz returned to New Zealand in 2007 signing a two-year deal with the Wellington Phoenix. In his first season he finished second in the Golden Boot race with nine goals from 19 appearances. In the 2008–09 season, Smeltz scored a record equalling 12 goals for the A-League season proper, resulting in the A-League Golden Boot 2008/09 and also goal of the season for his winning strike against Melbourne Victory at Westpac Stadium in round 13. The game finished 2–1.

Gold Coast United

In November 2008 the Phoenix lost its battle to retain Smeltz for the 2009 season as he signed a three-year deal with A-League expansion club Gold Coast United.Smeltz scored nine goals on his Gold Coast United debut as Miron Bleiberg's men recorded a 12–1 victory in their inaugural outing, a friendly against...
Read More