Monday, 21 January 2008 11:55 AM
South Melbourne has started their defence of the annual Hellenic Cup pre-season tournament with a hard fought 1-0 victory over local rivals Port Melbourne at the Grange Reserve on Saturday.
Boasting a new look line-up which contained a mix of old and new players, South looked comfortable from the outset, attacking the Port Melbourne goal from the opening minute of the game.
At the 20 minute mark, a shot by last years MVP award winner, Ricky Diaco, was poorly dealt with by the Port Melbourne defenders and keeper alike, with the ball falling to Nathan Caldwell, who slammed the chance into the back of the net.
South continued to dominate play for the rest of the game, although some poor finishing and a distinct lack of luck thwarted the side from lakeside time and time again.
Out of the new crop of players, coach John Anastasiadis opted to use the speedy combination of Goran Zoric and Hamlet Armenian throughout the midfield and later in the game as strikers.
Both players impressed the South fans in attendance, with the expectation amongst the faithful being that both players can play an integral part in a tilt towards capturing the Foxtel Cup.
The game also saw Dean Anastasiadis back in goals for the club, with the veteran shot stopper back to full fitness following season ending knee surgery in 2007.
South will play two further group games in this tournament again next weekend, with both matches being played at the Grange Reserve.
The first game will be played against South Springvale on Saturday January 26th at 5.30pm, whilst the second game of the weekend will see South take on Serres South Springvale on Sunday January 27th at 4pm.
All fans are encouraged to come along to support the side, as well as to see the new recruits in action.
Tournament Schedule
South Melbourne FC vs South Springvale
Saturday, January 26th at Grange Reserve (Melway 79 F8)
Kick off : 5.30pm
South Melbourne FC vs Serres South Springvale
Sunday, January 27th at Grange Reserve (Melway 79 F8)
Kick off : 4.00pm