Tara Murray
Westvale Olympic’s depth has been the key to its FV state league 2 north-west season so far.
The side remains in promotion contention with three rounds remaining, exceeding the expectations of many.
Keilor Park has already sealed the minor premiership and the first promotion spot, but three teams are fighting for second spot.
Heading into the third last round, which was on the weekend after deadline, Westvale was in second spot four points clear of Whittlesea Ranges, with Albion Rovers another two points behind.
Coach Bill Georgopolous said they need to stay focused as they try and finish in second spot.
The side is only in its second season up in state league 2 north-west after winning state league 3 north-west in 2022. It was their first senior title since 2012.
“We had the opportunity to get three points and go clear [after round 19] but we put the pressure back on ourselves.
“We’ve got three games to get the job done.”
Georgopolous said they were a little surprised to sit so high on the ladder at this point of the season. He said they didn’t have the resources of some of the other clubs in the division.
“We don’t have the budget as some other teams,” he said. “At the start of the season everyone wants to set goals and we did that and hypothetically speaking we wanted to be promoted.
“We know other clubs and what they are spending and we thought we would be out of our depth.
“It is challenging but it’s nice to have such a young team and to be up there challenging.
“I’m so proud of the boys.”
Georgopolous said they had taken a different approach this season to what they normally do in the season.
He said with the side in contention they wanted to do everything they can to get promoted.
“We’ve had a lot of injuries and suspensions,” he said.
“I normally keep the squad the same but I haven’t done that this year.
“We kept topping up. The transfer window is closed and we have 17-18 players and everyone is in the same mould.
“It’s fantastic and we have depth. The winners for us have come off the bench numerous times this season.”
Westvale are set to face Uni Hill Eagles on Saturday.
It then finishes its season against Hume United and Craigieburn United.
