Ballarat Red Devils fall to Port Melbourne
TIM O'CONNOR
16 Jul, 2010 11:53 PM
AN EARLY first-half blitz was enough for Football Federation Victoria state league two pacesetters Port Melbourne to record a 2-0 win over Ballarat Red Devils last night.

The home side capitalised on a defensive error in the second minute of the match to record the opening goal, before again finding the net in a goal-mouth scramble 13 minutes later.

Despite working back into the game, and having the better of the possession in the second half, the Haymes Red Devils were unable to score.

Ballarat coach Michael Leslie exploited his attacking game-style once again, pushing players forward late in the second half, but was unable to force a goal.

With just two players across the defensive line, goalkeeper Aaron Romein made a classy save from Port Melbourne striker Joe Diorio in the dying minutes to ensure the margin wasn't extended.

Leslie said two individual mistakes had cost Ballarat a result, but was pleased with the way the Red Devils responded against a quality opponent in the second half.

"They were a good side, but we did match them in the second half. We just need to turn our performance into 90 minutes and not just 45 minutes," Leslie said moments after last night's game.

"We were slow out of the blocks, let them dictate to us and get on top."

The victory - its 10th - helps Port Melbourne move seven points clear at the top of the table with the remaining five round 14 matches to be played today.

Ballarat is fourth from the bottom, six points clear of the bottom two.

The Red Devils take on Altona East Phoenix in Ballarat next week.


http://www.thecourier.com.au/news/local/sport/general/ballarat-red-devils-fall-to-port-melbourne/1887870.aspx

Red Devils unchanged for first time this season

16 Jul, 2010 01:40 AM

BALLARAT Red Devils have retained an unchanged line-up for their encounter with top team Port Melbourne in Football Federation Victoria state league two at Port Melbourne tonight.

Coach Michael Leslie is sticking with the same combination that defeated Sydenham Park 4-0 on Saturday.

This is the first time this season the Haymes Red Devils have not made any changes.

Port Melbourne is a massive test for the Reds, which are chasing a third win in a row.

"We are playing really well," Leslie said.

"I'm pleased with the way the players have responded to the situation that we found ourselves in a couple of weeks ago.

"We have controlled the past few matches and scored plenty of goals for the supporters.

"We are playing a good brand of attacking football that will keep getting results for us."

Port Melbourne has lost just once this season.

It has the best defensive record, having given up only six goals.

"We scored against them at home earlier in the season and with a bit of luck we could have got something out of that match," Leslie said.

"Their keeper pulled off two or three top-draw saves, so we know that we have the players to trouble them."

Ballarat is solid at the back with two clean sheets since Leslie took over as coach.

Aaron Romein in goals has been in excellent form and, with Port Melbourne's firepower, he is sure to be busy again.

Defenders Luke Armstrong, Tristan Romein and Leslie will have big jobs to do if the Reds are to win.

Sam Muscat and Josh Romein will have to dominate the middle of the park, while Simon Murphy should be suited by the open spaces at Port Melbourne.

Dom Swinton and Leigh Sissons have the potential to be match-winners for the Reds.

Each has been red hot and has the potential to cause headaches for Port Melbourne's defenders.


http://www.thecourier.com.au/news/local/sport/general/red-devils-unchanged-for-first-time-this-season/1887117.aspx