Altona East Phoenix’s season had but a faint pulse 45 minutes into Saturday’s game.
Staring a two-goal deficit in the face at half-time, the Phoenix were in grave danger of being sucked deeper into the relegation quick sand.
Already in a precarious position and on the road, the second-last Phoenix faced off against top-five side Sydenham Park in Football Federation Victoria men’s state league 1 at Keilor Lodge Reserve.
They knew they had to get something out of the game, but a win would be a bonus beyond their wildest dreams.
But living up to their name, the Phoenix rose to the occasion, producing their best half of football for the season, and scoring an incredible four goals, for a runaway 4-2 win.
All of a sudden, the pulse that was barely a flicker at half-time turned into a thumping beat, resurrecting Phoenix’s survival hopes. They are now just a point away from the safety positions.
“I’d be surprised if we don’t pick up a few wins coming home now,” Phoenix president Jim Dimitriou told Star Weekly.
“The boys have finally got belief in themselves, they’re working well as a team.
“We scored four goals in half a game of football. Even though it’s late, we’re starting to turn it around, and we’ll be a very hard team to beat going forward.”
While Altona East was down 2-0 at half-time, this was not a true reflection of how the first 45 minutes were played.
Sydenham made the most of limited attacking opportunities, while the Phoenix came up empty handed after several chances.
“We hit the post, missed a couple of good opportunities and, against the run of play, they scored twice. We were under the pump, but the guys didn’t lose confidence.
“The coach told the boys to keep fighting … that’s what they did, they kept fighting and came back and won.”
Liam Francis was the catalyst for Altona East’s win. The youngster scored two goals and had a hand in another. Paul Galea also finished with a double for the Phoenix.
The Phoenix is hoping new coach Paul Falzon and mid-season additions Damir Marusic, Ralph Napoli and Lester Abalos can help stave off relegation this season.
The Phoenix will host Keilor Park – another side in the relegation mix – on Saturday.
