By Tara Murray
Whittlesea Ranges are edging closer to their first win of the National Premier League 2 west season.
It’s been a tough season for the Ranges, with little joy so far.
On Saturday, they had their chances early against the Moreland Zebras, but had to settle for a 1-1 draw.
Ranges coach George Karkaletsis said there was some really positive signs in the match.
“I spoke with their coach afterwards and we both said it’s the old cliche, it was a tale of two halves.
“We had our fair share of the play in the first half and they did that in the second.
“It was 1-0 at half-time and we were quite confident and were controlling the game.
“They came out more aggressive after half-time and had a really good 15-minute period.”
Karkaletsis said the most pleasing thing for the side was how they responded after the Zebras scored the equaliser.
He said in previous matches they had given up once the other side scored.
“To our credit, we reacted well and fought back and tried to take the result, rather than concentrate on trying to protect the draw.
“The whole team thought we could get that second goal.
“That was the most pleasing thing.”
It was an unusual week for the Ranges, who faced the Zebras twice within the space of four days.
The first clash was in the FFA Cup, which the Zebras won 2-0.
Karkaletsis said he had hoped to play the FFA Cup this week, after facing the Zebras in the NPL competition.
“They beat us convincingly on Wednesday night,” he said.
“We rested half our squad and maybe that gave them a false sense of belief.”
Karkaletsis said the FFA Cup game was meant to be played this week but was changed.
He said the Zebras used the Wednesday game to serve out suspensions for several players, allowing them to be available for Saturday’s clash.
The Ranges have four points and have moved above Ballarat City at the bottom of the table.
Karkaletsis, who took over after round eight, said he was seeing improvement within the side.
“We’re getting closer to getting that win,” he said. “We’re having good starts, but we’re lacking that focus at crucial moments.
“Since I’ve taken charge we haven’t lost at home, Epping Stadium.
“There’s a lot more belief in the team now.”
The transfer period opens next week, with Karkaletsis saying they would look to be busy during that period.
“We will be looking to bring in some players and have a good mix. Hopefully we can bring in some new blood.”
Whittlesea Ranges face Bullen in their next match, on Monday night.
Meanwhile in the NPL, Hume City lost to Green Gully 1-0.
