The results aren’t yet falling their way, but the confidence is growing for Melton Phoenix in FFV state league 5 west.
After a tough start to the season, the Phoenix have lifted a level the past two weeks and been unlucky not to come away with a win.
Phoenix coach Mark Parnis said there had been a change within the playing group.
“We made a few minor changes with the personnel and team structure,” he said. “With that there’s been such a difference in the whole squad and the club.
“Even though we’ve lost and had a draw, we feel like things are turning around.”
On Saturday, the side drew 1-1 with Westside Strikers, which entered the match undefeated.
Jason Hill scored for Phoenix.
Parnis said the performance backed up the team’s performance the round before against Moonee Valley, another one of the top sides.
“Against Moonee Valley we got a harsh penalty decision after we had blown them off the park,” he said.
“We were unfortunate not to score two goals. This week we had a few older players in the side. The way they carved us up with the first goal was brilliant movement.
“That was it all day. We should have scored two goals in the last five minutes to get the win.
“We realistically should have won both matches.”
Parnis said they were hoping this would be a good starting point to build for the rest of the season.
Currently the Phoenix has just one win and a draw and is eighth on the ladder.
“We’re happy with structure of play and we’ve really come on the last few weeks.”
Despite hitting some good form, Parnis said a bye this week had come at the perfect time.
“With the injuries we have, it’s a great time,” he said. “We had four or five out of our starting 11 the last few weeks. Add those players in and it makes a difference and adds more experience.
“Against Moonee Valley we started four under-20 players and had two against Westside Strikers.”
The Strikers slip to second on the ladder behind Gisborne, which has played one more game.
In state league 4 west, Springs Hills drew 1-1 with Surf Coast. The Stallions sit fourth with three wins and two draws.
