MULTIPLE challenges face Three Colours in Round 9 of the S-League season.
Not only do they face an Irymple Knights full of confidence after their win over the previously undefeated Mildura City last round, they also have to battle the elements of night-time soccer at Aero Ovals under lights on Saturday.
Colours coach Peter Di Giorgi knows his team has their work cut out for them, but believes his side can push Knights.
“It will be a bit of a challenge for us,” he said.
“They’ve been in some pretty good form and we haven’t, so it will be tough but we’ll be giving it our best.
“Playing under lights will be tough. The pitch isn’t in magical condition anyway, it will likely be more slippery which adds another challenge.
“We’ve just had a bit of a form slump over the past few rounds with a combination of players away and injured, but I think once we get everyone back it will make a difference.”
Having conceded 12 goals in their past three games, Di Giorgi admits defence, and their ability to transition the ball into attack will be important against a strong Knights attack.
One of their real highlights has been French forward Sofiane El Ghhazali who has scored three goals, while countryman Martin Lucas has also been a solid addition to the squad.
“Earlier in the season we showed some pretty positive signs and we’re going through a hard time at the moment but if we get that whole group together it will be better for us,” Di Giorgi said.
Saturday games on Pitch 10 at Aero Ovals begin with Reserve Men at 6pm, followed by Senior Men at 7.45pm.
In the other Senior Men’s contest on Sunday, Mildura City will have the rare ask of bouncing back from defeat, taking on Nichols Point.
Since their most recent win over Three Colours in round 5, the Pointers have conceded 11 goals in their past two games, however, eight came from a single hammering against Irymple Knights.
An upset win by the Pointers would push them ahead of third-placed Mildura United who have the bye this week.
In Senior Women’s Irymple Knights and Nichols Point face off in a crucial contest.
While not a fait accompli, City are well ahead in the title race, but for Knights especially, they can bridge the gap further to the ladder leaders with victory.
Knights grabbed a 2-0 victory in Round 6 through a brace from rising star Natalie Prictor, while their round 3 clash ended in a nil-all draw.
