Melton Phoenix was lucky to succumb by only two goals in its match against Maribyrnong Greens on Saturday in the state league 4 west.
In wet conditions, the Greens dominated the second half at Skinner Reserve, scoring their two goals in the process.
Phoenix president Steve Fuller said it was a disappointing result.
“We had four key players out of our starting team,” he said.
“One had his wife give birth of the morning of the game; a couple were away and another player was sick.
“What made it worse was it impacted the reserves side, with players having to step up into the seniors.”
Fuller said such was the Greens’ dominance that there were few attacking opportunities for the Phoenix.
“I think we may have had one attacking foray in the second half,” he said. “There weren’t any positives out of the game. It should have been 4-0 instead of 2-0.”
Beau Chang and Richard Antczak were Phoenix’s best players.
“A couple of young blokes came in and played well, but those two [Chang and Antczak] were outstanding,” Fuller said.
The loss dropped Phoenix to fourth on the ladder with three wins and two losses.
This week it faces Laverton Park at MacPherson Park.
“Their coach used to coach our side, so it’s likely to be a fiery clash,” Fuller said.
“I’m bold enough to say I think we will win this week.”
