Currently occupying the top positions on the table, the Greek clubs have started the new season in the best way possible.
It appears that they will have to fight through many intense battles to maintain their standing.
As the fourth matchday approaches, there are potential matches that could prove difficult for the Blue and White clubs.
Dandenong City – Oakleigh Cannons
The weekend brings another exciting game for the Cannons as they travel to Dandenong to face off against Nikos Tolios’ City.
Under the guidance of the Greek-born coach, Dandenong City has made a strong comeback to the top division of the NPL and has had a decent start to the season with two wins and a single loss in three games.
Meanwhile, the Cannons are in great shape with their fresh lineup and adapting well to Chris Taylor’s style of play.
Each new game shows an improvement in their performance, and in their last match against Altona, they put on a strong display despite only playing for one half.
With the team continuing to play up to their potential, it is safe to say they will have little trouble securing a victory and three points against Dandenong.
Chris Taylor, gave us a comment on the performance of the Cannons so far and their upcoming match against Dandenong City.
“We are off to a very good start. We are playing attractive and effective football, which makes me especially happy. It’s also great for our fans who support us every week.”
He continued, “City is a very good team, and they have started the year strongly. We will have to play exceptionally well to get a win in Dandenong.”
We asked him if he is satisfied with his new players.
“I am pleased to see the new players bonding with the team. They seem like they have been playing with us for years. I have a high level of optimism and truly believe that we will be a formidable opponent for all other teams this year. They will not find it easy to defeat us.”
Manningham United Blues – South Melbourne
On Saturday afternoon, South Melbourne will travel north of the city to face Manningham United in Templestowe.
The Greek club, who currently sits at the top of the table with three wins in three matches and has yet to concede a goal, is determined to continue their successful streak and retain their first-place position in the standings.
However, the game against Manningham won’t be easy, as Manningham, led in the field by Christos Theodorakopoulos, has the ability to challenge any opponent.
So far, their team’s defensive line has been the Achilles heel of coach Karkaletsis.
If South Melbourne can exploit their weaknesses in defense and showcase their offensive prowess, they will likely achieve a positive outcome.
Hume City – Port Melbourne Sharks
Port Melbourne will face a highly dangerous mission this weekend as they take on the always tough Hume City on their home ground.
The Sharks, who are currently in-form, will need to put up a strong fight to overcome Hume City’s very strong team.
In last week’s game against South Melbourne, Hume City showed their strength by giving their opponent a hard time. It was a strenuous battle and the Greek team had to work hard to break the solid defensive line of the Reds.
However, they managed to ultimately secure three points and a victory.
Hume City will surely be looking to maintain their position in the top rankings by securing a win at home.
The Sharks, on the other hand, will have to give their all and fight until the final whistle of the referee if they want to come out with a positive outcome in this intense Greek-Turkish match.
Heidelberg United – Green Gully
As the week approaches, anticipation builds for the upcoming game at home for Heidelberg United.
This season, under the guidance of their new coach John Anastasiadis, the team has made a dazzling start.
With a strong understanding of their coach’s playing style, the players’ enthusiasm is at an all-time high.
In the eyes of experts, Green Gully is considered one of the top quality clubs in the NPL and will undoubtedly prove to be a formidable opponent.
Their speed and strength are their main assets, but Heidelberg United has their own strengths to rely on.
Their players’ technical skills will be crucial in breaking through Green Gully’s defense in order to secure a victory. It will be a challenging match, but with their potential and determination, United has the ability to come out on top.
The excitement and energy surrounding the team is palpable, making for an electrifying atmosphere on game day.
NPL1
This week, the local Lions of Preston will host Northcote City in a highly anticipated match, drawing the attention of fans of local football and its rich history.
The game, starting at 8:30 pm on Friday (1/3), is expected to attract a sizable crowd of supporters for both teams. Additionally, Brunswick City will host Melbourne City and Bentleigh Greens will face Western United at the same time and day.
On Monday (4/3) afternoon, the fourth Blue and White team of NPL1 will also compete as the leaders, Kingston, go up against Werribee with the ultimate goal of securing a victory to maintain their top spot on the table.
NPL – Schedule
Friday (1/3)
Heidelberg United – Green Gully 19:30
Dandenong City – Oakleigh Cannons 19:45
Moreland City – Avondale 20:30
Saturday (2/3)
Manningham United – South Melbourne 15:00
Altona Magic Dandenong Thunder 18:15
Hume City – Port Melbourne Sharks 20:00
Sunday (3/3)
Melbourne Knights – St Albans Saints 16:00
NPL – Table
1. South Melbourne 3 9
2. Port Melb Sharks 3 7
3. Heidelberg Utd 3 7
4. Avondale 3 7
5. Dand City 3 6
6. Green Gully 3 6
7. Hume City 2 6
8. Oakleigh Cannons 2 4
9. Manningham 3 3
10. Melb Knights 3 1
11. St. Albans 3 1
12. Altona Magic 2 0
13. Dande Thunder 3 0
14. Moreland 3 0
NPL1 – Schedule
Friday (1/3)
Preston Lions – Northcote City 20:30
Brunswick City – Melbourne City 20:30
Bentleigh Greens v Western United 20:30
Saturday (2/3)
North Geelong Warriors – Bulleen Lions 15:00
Caroline Springs George Cross 17:30
Monday (4/3)
Melbourne Victory – Eastern Lions 20:30
Kingston City – Werribee City 20:30
NPL1 – Table
1. Kingston 3 7
2. Melb Victory 3 7
3. Langwarrin 3 7
4. Werribee City 3 5
5. Carol Springs 3 5
6. Brunswick 3 5
7. Bulleen Lions 3 4
8. Bentl Greens 3 4
9. Preston Lions 3 4
10. Northcote 3 3
11. Melb City 3 2
12. Eastern Lions 3 2
13. Western Utd 3 0
14. North Geelong 3 0
