Westvale Olympic made a rollicking start to the FFV Dockerty Cup with a 4-0 thrashing of the Western Eagles at the Polish Sports and Recreation Complex on Saturday.
The Vales advanced to the third round of the knockout competition and got a much-needed win after a scratchy start to their pre-season.
Vales coach George Karkaletsis said the win was a morale booster ahead of a team bonding session in Dromana following the match.
“We were a bit undermanned, so to score four goals was really satisfying,” he said.
“The players lifted after a few mediocre games and that’s important three weeks out from the season.
“It’s important to get positive results for the confidence of the players.”
The Vales have adopted a more structured, passing style of play out of the back, using the skills of goalkeeper Wes Coles.
Coles has a big load on his plate as both goalkeeper and captain but is expected to thrive in the roles.
“His attributes are enormous,” Karkaletsis said. “He’s a goalkeeper who can use both feet and distribute the ball well so we’re going to make the most of it. His enthusiasm rubs off on the other players.”
Arin Mesinovic arrived with big raps from Maribyrnong Greens. He has the versatility to play closer to goal or in an attacking midfield capacity.
After a couple of a uninspiring friendly outings, he finally showed what he can bring to the table with two goals.
“He scored two goals and was unlucky not to get a third with another hitting the crossbar,” Karkaletsis said.
Luke Cable scored a goal and had a say in another from the midfield. Daniel Walker excelled, firstly in the centre of defence and then as an overlapping right back.
“We’ve got a team with a fair bit of depth,” Karkaletsis said. “That’s something we’re excited about.”
In other games, Spring Hills had a 2-2 draw with Shepparton South, but went down 4-2 on penalties. Keilor Wolves were hammered 7-2 on the road to the Plenty Valley Lions.
