Thursday, 7 August 2003 12:00 AM
South Melbourne 4 defeated Stonington 0
Goals: Curijia 2, Coveny 1, Trimboli 1
In typically Melbournian winter weather South continued their pre-season “romp” easily accounting for Stonnington City by 4 goals to Nil.
New Zealand international Vaughn Coveny opened proceedings early on scoring a great goal and giving the few fans who braved the conditions something to cheer about. However, the South supporters present, no doubt attended to view the debut of Dutch import Max Lohy who caught the eye in his first game. Lohy showed silky skills and immaculate ball control, general consensus was that his presence at Bob Jane Stadium this year should help bring some flair back to South’s play.
To Stonnington’s credit they put on a brave fight limiting the potency of South’s forward line and restricting the Lakesiders to only 1 goal in the first half.
The second goal came after Coveny crossed for South stalwart Paul Trimboli who had little trouble slotting the ball home to make it 2-0.
Michael Curcija showing increased sharpness from his spell abroad rounded off the scoring with two second-half goals, his first a quality turn past his man with an equally impressive finish to match. Curcija then had little trouble beating the Stonnington keeper in a one-on-one duel after he had been played through by the South midfield, Curcija picked his spot well, placing cleanly into the bottom left corner.
Of the players on trial, Steve Lawrie impressed with his commanding presence and solid communication to his fellow defensive partners, a decision on whether or not he will be offered a contract is expected within the next week or so.