Reds face their test in the Shark pool

23 Apr, 2010 12:52 AM

BALLARAT Red Devils run head-on into Football Federation Victoria state league two championship favourite Port Melbourne Sharks at Trekardo Park today.

While the Sharks are out to stay on top of the table in the third-round match, the Haymes Red Devils are looking to ignite. Spirits are high for the Reds after an away draw to Sydenham Park.

However, Port Melbourne is a much different ball game.

The Sharks have for a long time been one of the glamour clubs in FFV football.

Nine years ago they were the best team in the state.

Ballarat goes into the match with two changes.

Shaya Almousa makes his first appearance of the season at full back, replacing Marcus Lynch, and Franck Labakohler moves from the bench into the starting 11 in place of Dom Swinton.

"I've seen Port once or twice and they are a physical team, but they also have some excellent players," Reds coach Dale Harris said.

"This will be a real test for us, but we have trained well and look forward to the opportunity of taking on what most people are already calling the title winner," he said.

"We can win this match. Make no mistake.

"It will take 90 minutes of hard work and effort, skill and desire, but above all, the players need to understand that we can win."

Ballarat looked comfortable for most of its one-all draw against Sydenham Park last week, with Charlie King, Michael Leslie and Tristan Romein all playing well, along with goalkeeper Aaron Romein.

In the middle, Sam Muscat, Josh Romein, Labakohler and Adrian Curtain will need to be at their best.

Up front, if Sam Winch gets the right service from the likes of Leigh Sissons and the midfield, he will score goals.

Winch and Sissons are combining well and their partnership appears promising.

Winch is never shy when it comes to having a pop at goals and if the Reds can find him often enough they can, and will, win.

http://www.thecourier.com.au/news/local/sport/general/reds-face-their-test-in-the-shark-pool/1811906.aspx