Friday, 9 January 2004 12:00 AM
The Australian Soccer legend that is Paul Trimboli is set to reach new heights on Sunday when he becomes the second highest games player in National League history.
South Melbourne takes on Sydney United on Sunday night at Bob Jane Stadium when Trimboli is expected to play his 446th senior match. Trimboli has played 424 of these games with South and the remaining 22 with Sunshine George Cross.
Trimboli’s record is simply outstanding and includes the following highlights
· 1988 and 1989 National Under 21 Player of the Year
· 1992/93 & ‘97/98 NSL Player of the Year
· Member of South Melbourne Soccer Club Team of the Century
· Youngest player to reach 300 and 400 senior NSL games
· Represented Australia on 46 occasions including 39 “A” grade games
· Captained South Melbourne for seasons 1995-2003
· Member of South Championship teams of 1990/91 and 1997/98, 1998/99
· Won South’s best & fairest 6 times
“This is a special day for the club and even more special for Paul, we are encouraging our fans to come and celebrate this enormous achievement on Sunday” said CEO Mark Patterson.
Fans will also be invited to attend a special function the following week to celebrate with Paul and his friends at the club. The night will include a roast from a special panel, music, and celebration.
This week’s match also promises more celebration with skipper Vaughan Coveny sitting on 99 national league goals.
TOP THREE NSL APPEARANCE MAKERS
518 Alex Tobin*
445 Sergio Melta
445 Paul Trimboli*