Tara Murray
Just about everything is going to plan so far for the Keilor Wolves.
The Wolves were undefeated after the first three rounds of the FV state league 4 west season and are still alive in the Australia Cup, as one of the lowest ranked teams.
Coach Sofiane Soufi said they were pretty happy with how things were going so far.
“We started the season really good, with three games and three wins,” he said.
“We have a really strong squad and have depth on the bench, that is where we lacked last year
“We’re very happy with the group. The main focus is to keep going every week and for us every week is a final.”
Soufi said they had about 20 players up from 15 or 16 last season to ensure they have enough players throughout the season.
He said with injuries and suspensions, that everyone will be called upon at some stage.
The extra depth is set to come in handy with the club’s Australia Cup run.
The lights going out during the club’s round four match with Ashburton, meaning the two teams have to play the match again this week.
“We are still overachieving,” he said.
“On Thursday night against Ashburton there was extra time and it was 1-1 when the penalty kicks were about to start and the lights went out.
“I don’t think they expected extra time as we were one division lower and the lights were on a timer.
“The game now has to be replayed. We have to redo it, which is very costly in terms of energy.”
The Wolves proved too strong in the rematch, winning 4-2.
They now face National Premier League side Hume City.
Soufi said he didn’t think that they had played a club of that level before and it would be special for the club if it happens.
Off field, he said things were also going well.
“The vibe around the club is fantastic,” he said. “The junior kids are watching games and the parents are watching the games.
“We’ve got senior players coaching juniors, that is what community football should be.”
The Wolves faced Melbourne City on Saturday, suffering their first loss of the season, losing 1-0.
Soufi said before the match was a pretty important one for them.
“We drew with them last year and it cost us the season [promotion]. We want the three points and are very hungry.”
