Glenorchy Knights and South Hobart kick off the fourth round of NPL Tasmania games when they clash at KGV Park tonight at 8.15.
Both go into this game fresh from big wins against second-tier opponents in the Lakoseljac Cup Round-of-16 games.
Knights shrugged aside Hobart City Beachside 7-0, while South Hobart accounted for New Town White Eagles 9-1.
Tonight’s showdown promises to be a close affair.
Knights have lost their second senior player in as many weeks with the departure of Jack Turner, who claims work responsibilities have hindered his ability to play.
Before Easter, it was Eduardo Castaneda who left, complaining of lack of game time.
Castaneda has joined South Hobart but cannot play tonight. He is unable to play NPL for South Hobart until the internationally recognised transfer window opnes in June.
He was able to make his debut on Monday against Eagles as he is free to p;ay n cup games and in Southern Championship or NPL Under-21 games.
“It’s a really big game and we are really looking forward to having a talented South Hobart side at home,” said Knights coach, James Sherman.
“there’s probably a little extra in this game now that we meet them in the Lakoseljac Cup as well in two weeks’ time.
“I would love to see us move the ball with more speed and show a ruthlessness in front of goal.
“We’re going to need our players all on for 90 minutes.”
South Hobart coach Ken Morton said he would probably field much the same line-up as against Eagles.
“They have a good defence in Adam Gorrie, Tyler Harrison, Eli Luttmer and Mathew Brkic and we’ll have to try and break them down,” Morton said.
“We must prevent them having time on the ball and building up attacks.”
South Hobart’s mobility could create problems for the Knights.
Nick Morton, Bradley Lakoseljac, Sam Berezansky and Iskander Van Doorne drift all over the place and prove difficult to mark, while marauding fullback Tobias Herweynen can pose a danger with his shooting.
Both sides have been profligate in their shooting so the more accurate marksmen will determine the outcome tonight.
Tomorrow, Clarence Zebras entertain Launceston United at Wentworth Park at 2.30pm and the visitors pose a real threat.
They have a potential match-winner in import David Owusu and the home side will need to monitor him closely.
Josh Mathie and Pritchard Adjei may return from injury for Clarence Zebras.
Riverside Olympic welcome Devonport Strikers to Windsor Park at 4.30pm and the reigning champions should have the edge against the hosts.
Launceston City are at home to Kingborough Lions United at Buckby Motors Park at 4.45pm and a close game is expected.
The Lions are starting to hit their straps and will provide fierce opposition to City.
NPL Tasmania (As at 2 April 2023)
|
TEAM |
P |
W |
D |
L |
F |
A |
Pts |
|
Devonport Strikers |
3 |
2 |
1 |
0 |
9 |
2 |
7 |
|
South Hobart |
3 |
2 |
1 |
0 |
7 |
5 |
7 |
|
Kingborough Lions |
3 |
2 |
0 |
1 |
12 |
6 |
6 |
|
Glenorchy Knights |
3 |
2 |
0 |
1 |
7 |
1 |
6 |
|
3 |
2 |
0 |
1 |
3 |
2 |
6 |
|
|
Clarence Zebras |
3 |
0 |
2 |
1 |
6 |
9 |
2 |
|
Launceston United |
3 |
0 |
0 |
3 |
3 |
11 |
0 |
|
Riverside Olympic |
3 |
0 |
0 |
3 |
1 |
12 |
0 |
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