With an influx of signings to complement a strong core of returning stars, how far can St Albans go in 2023?
St Albans turned heads at the beginning of 2022 after earning some surprise victories and sat as high as second place by the end of Round 3.
Deeper into the season results evened out, but an eleventh-placed finish was a positive finish for the Club, particularly after struggling to break free of the relegation zone in the incomplete 2021 season.
With Kruni Razov departing Churchhill Reserve at the end of the campaign, Ryan McGuffie has taken the reigns as head coach after making more than 100 appearances for the Club as a player.
“We will look to play at pace and dictate the speed of the game,” he said.
“It’s a big task because of how competitive the league is, but we need to have a strong mentality and the belief that we can go into every game knowing we can win.”
The Saints head into season 2023 having retained a number of key players, but have also added some depth and quality to their squad.
“We’ve managed to keep a strong nucleus together. Players like Chris Dib, Joey Monek, Michael Grgic (Captain) and a few others who have been there for years have trained really well in the pre-season,” McGuffie added.
Among the new signings are experienced midfielders Brian Summerskill and Troy Ruthven, who arrived from Heidelberg United and Port Melbourne Sharks respectively. The pair are proven performers at NPLM level and will add experience and steel to the Saints spine.
Joseph Colina, another midfield acquisition arrives via the Knights. The youngster played his junior football at St Albans and will be one to watch.
He’s joined in making the switch from Somers Street by young striker George Ott. The 21-year-old forward, originally from New Zealand, will provide a physical presence up forward.
“George (Ott) has a great attitude. He’s always willing to work hard,” McGuffie said.
On the defensive end, full-back Aaron Oppedisano has made the switch from New South Wales side Broadmeadow Magic. With a strong engine and an ability to bomb down the flank, Oppedisano looks a quality signing who can make an instant impact.
“Aaron (Oppedisano) is very fit. He’ll get up and down the flank and get to the touchline. I used to play as a full-back myself so I’m really looking forward to seeing him play,” McGuffie added.
Towering goalkeeper Jasko Keranovic also returns to the Club after recently representing Dandenong City.
While there’s plenty of positivity around the new signings, the absence of Zander Guy will undoubtedly be felt. Guy’s pace and aggression in the final third was key for the Saints last time out and his eight league goals led the way for the Club.
Although the absence of their reigning top scorer will be felt, the opportunity has now opened up for someone else to step up and lead the frontline.
The Saints will kick-off their campaign against the Melbourne Knights on Sunday at home, in what should be a thrilling contest.
Although coming up against one of the league's biggest teams, McGuffie says the squad has worked hard over the pre-season and feel ready both physically and mentally.
“We’re chomping at the bit to get started. We’ve worked towards this with every yard we’ve run and every ball we’ve kicked,” he said.
“The Knights are a formidable force and they’re going to want to come here and start their campaign with a win. We’ll do our best to take the game by the scruff of the neck, I truly believe anything can happen on match days, so I’m confident in the boys.”
OPENING FIXTURES
Round 1: St Albans Saints v Melbourne Knights
Round 2: Dandenong Thunder v St Albans Saints
Round 3: St Albans Saints v Heidelberg United