Plains has opportunity to atone for demoralising drop to bottom

GOLDEN Plains will go into tomorrow night’s do-or-die clash with fellow struggler Balmoral FC aware its season is on the line.

With the Eagles plunging to the foot of the State League 4 table after last weekend’s 4-2 loss to previous cellar dweller Melbourne City, tomorrow’s showdown with second-last placed Balmoral is a sixpointer in the truest sense.

Despite the lowly opposition, Eagles coach Daniel Cucinotta is adamant his charges will not underestimate them in the same way they did against City.

“After last week’s woeful performance, this week we are going to tackle the game against Balmoral with a different mindset,” Cucinotta said, still seething from the demoralising loss at home.

“Maybe last week was the kick up the backside we needed. But, to be honest, we need the entire team to lift and perform on the park and not just a select few.

“The boys have been made fully aware of that. There is no doubt, this game is a make-orbreak one for us. It’s a grand final, a real six-pointer. Even though there are five rounds left, we can’t rely on other teams doing the work for us.”

The Eagles have been boosted by the signing of experienced attacking midfielder Zac Harry from State League 2 side Geelong Rangers.

“Zac has come to us at the perfect time and his experience is very welcome,” Cucinotta said.

Harry played his first game for the Plains in last week’s loss, while attacking midfielder Michael Radojevic made his long-awaited return from injury in the reserves.

“Mikey has been sorely missed, having been injured for much of this season. He played most of the seconds’ game last week and managed to score two goals. He might be an inclusion in the seniors, depending on how he pulls up after this week on the training track,” Cucinotta said.

Tomorrow night’s game at Balmoral Park kicks off at 7pm.