Tara Murray
Mill Park has unfinished business in FV state league 2 north-west this season.
After missing out on promotion by one point, Mill Park is keen to go even further this season to lock up a top two and promotion spot.
Coach Kevin Theuma admits they were disappointed after last season, but would look to use that as motivation this season.
“It was disappointing being one point away, but most of the guys have stuck around,” he said.
“The boys that have stuck around are hungrier than ever to make amends. We have unfinished business.
“We’ve recruited well and our depth is deeper than what it was last year, it should put us in good stead.”
Theuma said their pre-season had been a little up and down with players away on holidays. While not ideal he said it was better than it happening during the season.
Theuma said the squad they had put together this season was slightly stronger than what they had last season.
He said with the competition looking stronger it was important they improved as well.
“We have looked to recruit a few,” he said. “I reckon we’re on par with last year, if not stronger.
“It’s a ripper of a league, it will be excited.”
The biggest signing for Mill Park is that of Mohamed Aidara who joined the club from Altona Magic at the start of March.
Theuma said he was one of the better midfielders in the National Premier League and they were excited to have him at Mill Park.
Habib Fleifel joins the club from Albion Rovers, where Theuma previously coached him.
“Things didn’t work out for him there,” Theuma said. “I was keen to work with him again, he’s a proven goal scorer at this level.”
The club has also added some internationals including John Buceto and Kosta Stoumpos
Mill Park will start its season against Westvale on Saturday. They will be hoping for a better performance than their 2-0 loss in the Australia Cup which Theuma said they played poorly in.
“Hopefully we can get the three points,” he said.
“Billy [Georgopoulos] is a good friend of mine and he has put together a nice squad. It will be a really good test as they are a team that will be challenging for promotion.
“It will show us where we are early in the season.”
