Draw enough to impress coach
BELL Park started its life under new coach Mick Svaljek in positive fashion, securing a 1-1 draw with Corio in the opening game of the Geelong Community Cup last night.
The State League 4 outfit created plenty of opportunities against the State League 2 promotion contenders and on another day could have taken all three points, according to Svaljek.
Corio recruit Jasko Ikanovic opened the scoring midway through the first half with a good poachers goal.
That was cancelled out in the 50th minute when All Whites striker Mijo Marinovic converted from the penalty spot at Myers Reserve.
“To be fair, it probably should have been 4-1. We created chances, one-on-ones with the keeper ... we were stiff,” Svaljek said.
“As a coach I am very satisfied. We held our own against a Division 2 side pushing for promotion, so I am very happy.
“The work rate off the ball was fantastic. I’m really happy with how the boys have bought into my game style and philosophy so far."
Corio coach Ante Didulica said his side had the majority of possession “but didn’t do anything with it”.
“It’s our first hit out,” Didulica said. “It was an even game, not a lot in it. We had more of the ball but we went sideways more than what we should have.
“We had five new players in the first half and five in the second. I wanted to see the new blokes as well. The ones late back to training have come back on Monday.”