St Albans Saints could not have asked for a better start to the 2019 National Premier League 2 west season.
They slaughtered Whittlesea Ranges 6-0 on the road at Epping Stadium on Saturday, with new recruits making significant contributions.
Saints coach Kruni Razov was pleasantly surprised after witnessing 90 minutes of ruthless football from his side.
“As a coach, you couldn’t ask for a better start,” he said. “It was fantastic.”
The rout began early when new recruit Adam Hodor put St Albans ahead in the 19th minute.
The Saints’ lead doubled just before half-time through captain Michael Grgic.
There was more domination in the second half, with new recruits Jordan Wilkes and Ayodeji Omoboye finding the back of the net for St Albans before substitute Joseph Monek came on to complete the job with a double.
Photo Gallery: Whittlesea Ranges vs St Albans Saints
Razov was delighted to see St Albans’ tough pre-season pay dividends.
“The boys were happy with themselves and it’s pleasing for a coach,” he said.
“After your players do 12 weeks of hard pre-season, you don’t know what you’re going to get in round one, so it’s good for them.”
St Albans will host Moreland City in its home opener at Churchill Reserve on Sunday.
In top-flight NPL, it was a successful weekend for both of Brimbank’s clubs.
Melbourne Knights caused an upset on Friday, beating Oakleigh Cannons 2-1 away after a double from striker Hamish Watson.
Green Gully Cavaliers claimed all three points after a second-half goal from Alex Salmon secured a 1-0 win over newly promoted Altona Magic on Saturday.
Both clubs will play their home openers this weekend, with the Knights hosting Altona Magic on Friday night and Gully entertaining Heidelberg United on Saturday.
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