Perth Glory hit the road this weekend when they travel to Wonthella Oval in Geraldton to take on Sorrento in Week 19 of the PS4 National Premier League WA. The game is part of the Country Sports Enrichment Scheme and will see both clubs taking part in community engagement programs, which will include clinics for junior players, plus coaching and refereeing workshops.
The Glory youngsters were edged out by league champions Perth SC last week, and young defender Luke Bodnar said it was a good second half but the damage was done in the first. “Yes it was a disappointing result, but we learnt a great deal from the experience, to see where we are at,” he said.
“Our second half performance was good, and it showed that we have the mentality, that we never can be ruled out of a game, but we need to touch up details at both ends of the pitch.”
Bodnar said the game in Geraldton was a great innovative and the players are looking forward to the game and mixing with the locals. “I believe this is a great idea by Football West, and the players are looking forward to the trip and spreading the Glory brand, and it’s a good way to hopefully start to expand the area of football in WA,” he said.
“We are all looking forward to the game, and we are sure if we play our best we will come out with a win. They (Sorrento0 are a physical side, but we’re not too bothered about that, we’ve continuously shown that we are up for the challenge against any team, whatever they throw at us.”
Glory Head Coach John Gibson said the trip to Geraldton is a big game on the pitch, but also spreading the word of football, in regional WA.
“We are really looking forward to the trip, it’s a great chance for us to head up to Geraldton and give a little bit back, to the clubs supporters in the region,” he said.
“We have worked closely with Football West with this, and when they asked us if would play the game in Geraldton, we were delighted to do it, and we think it’s a great concept.”
The Glory were edged out by Perth SC last week, a game Gibson said his young side showed a great deal of maturity. “At half time we were two goals down, and facing an uphill battle, but after half time it was a super performance from the boys,” he said.
“We spoke briefly about the situation, and previously we would have a big chance of capitulation, but this group have shown they don’t fear anyone and put in a good 45 minutes.
“We stood toe to toe with one of the best teams in the league, and certainly pushed them all the way, which was pleasing.”
Gibson knows good performances don’t always get you the right result, but he said the player have deserved more in games this season.
“We have played some good football this season, created chances, but if you don’t take them you don’t win games, and that has really hurt us this season,” he said.
“We’ve said all season the group are young and a majority of the squad are playing their first season in the first team, but hey they are determined bunch and we relish the challenge.
“We go to Geraldton looking for a good performance – certainly process oriented, and the message has been consistent and the same throughout the journey – we will be positive and aggressive and determined to do well.”
MATCH DETAILS:
Saturday July 1, 2017
Sorrento v Perth Glory
Wonthella Oval, Geraldton
Kick off 5.30pm
