Tara Murray
Westgate’s hopes of promotion have suffered a setback with coach Goran Lozanovski returning to the National Premier League.
Lozanovski, who has coached the FV state league 2 north-west side since the start of 2021, decided an offer to coach Hume City was too good to refuse.
The former Socceroo said having spent most of his career in the NPL, he was always open to returning.
“I said to Westgate, it has been a fun exciting time, but if the right opportunity came up I would consider it and give it a crack,” he said.
“Hume approached me during the week and we had a conversation about what their goals were and what they wanted to achieve.
“They wanted a bit more experience on board. I thought about it for two to three days and said yes.”
Lozanovski is no stranger to the NPL having played in the competition and then coached several sides, including a stint at Hume in 2008-09.
Westgate was sitting in sixth spot when Lozanovski made the decision to resign. It had been a mixed season, with three wins, two losses and two draws.
It came after the side was sitting top when last season was called off due to the pandemic.
Lozanovski said he wished the side well and hoped they would have success in the future.
“Unfortunately we weren’t able to achieve anything,’ he said.
“Last year we want on a run for six to seven weeks and were in a good position and on a technicality we didn’t get promoted. Upfield has come up and they’re a good side and the other teams have strengthened, so it’s a bit more competitive.
“It’s a good club down there and a good group. Whoever they get, I’m confident that they can still be promoted.”
In a statement on its social media, Westgate said it was disappointed to lose Lozanovski.
“Westgate Sindjelic FC can confirm that Goran Lozanovski has left his position to take up the role of head coach at NPL1 side Hume City FC.
“We are obviously disappointed as the timing of this change is not ideal, however we thank Goran for his services and wish him nothing but the best with his future coaching endeavours.
“The club will begin the process of appointing a new head coach immediately and will provide updates in due course.
Westgate played Albion on Friday night, winning 2-1. Westgate scored once in each half.
