MILDURA City captain Jacob Rodi says his side will remain focused on Sunday’s S-League contest against Nichols Point, despite a potential title-deciding contest against Irymple Knights looming next week.
With City having the final round bye, all results before then will be vital.
The defending champions are a game ahead of Knights and three points in the black on goal difference.
City’s last meeting with the developing Pointers in round 9 was an absolute goal-fest, Golden Boot leader Nicolas Woods scoring a hat-trick in the 9-3 result.
“I’m sure it will be a good game, but we’re just looking forward to building more before next week’s big game,” Rodi said.
“We know that game is there but we also do instil that mentality of just focussing on the next play, and we do take things one step at a time.
“We’ve had a pretty good year, you do have your ups and downs but you’ve just got to keep putting in the same effort each week.”
While the likes of Woods up front and City’s stingy defence led by Rodi have earned many of the plaudits, the skipper praised the efforts of his midfield brigade.
Tyler Rayson has been stationed in the more defensive role, Brandon Pollifrone has kicked nine goals in attacking midfield, and youngster Tenace Moraitis has made the step up at senior level.
“I think it helps when you have a solid defence and a strong attack, but I think we’ve actually got a good balance across the field,” Rodi said.
Meanwhile, Knights must defeat Three Colours to keep their title hopes in tact.
The last contest between these two sides was under lights on a Saturday night, with Knights getting the victory courtesy of a brace for both Chris Romeo and Anthimos Sitaras.
In senior women’s Nichols Point also face-off against Mildura City.
The Pointers women’s side are on a three-match winning streak, which includes a 1-0 victory over the title winners elect in their last meeting.
While City have the season wrapped-up there is still a grand final series to come after round 15 with another trophy on the line, meaning any edge gained could be valuable for all teams.
