Tuesday, 9 March 2004 12:00 AM
A return-match victory at Bob Jane stadium is all that is between South Melbourne and qualifying for the next round of the NSL finals when it takes on Marconi next Sunday at 7.00pm…and the fans may have a big say in what happens.
Bob Jane Stadium is traditionally a torrid place for visiting teams and the club is urging its loyal support base to really make it an intimidating home ground advantage by coming out in force and vocally supporting South Melbourne.
“The team has been working really hard through a lean patch but we believe we’re over that now and are a real chance to move on” said coach Stuart Munro. “The players are eager to win and reward the fans who have been so supportive all year. If the fans can create a favourable home ground atmosphere it will help the guys lift to a new level” he went on to say.
South Melbourne’s dour and solid performance in the scoreless draw with Marconi on Sunday indicated to Munro that the early season form, particularly in defence had returned and that a strong showing from the forwards is not far away. “Our early season form was all about our defence and we created opportunities and goals from this strength” he said.
The South Melbourne crowd can be a huge benefit to the home team and the club believes that if the supporters come out in droves it will create a very favourable environment for the players. “The team has performed well at home and particularly when the crowds have been strong” said club CEO Mark Patterson. “Not only are we representing South Melbourne, there is state pride on the line in this finals series with five States being represented” he went on to say. “Let’s encourage our friends and all soccer fans to get behind this game and make it hard for the visitors away from their home state” encouraged Patterson.
Tickets are on sale from the club at Bob Jane Stadium, the club website www.southmelbournesc.com.au and at the ground on match day.