A courageous Maribyrnong Greens picked up a point against the odds in a 1-1 draw with Truganina Hornets in FFV men’s state league 4 west at Skinner Reserve on Saturday.
The Greens, minus 10 first-team regulars, were so desperately undermanned that coach Omar Makki had to pull on the boots.
And his decision to play was a master stroke, as he not only filled a void in defence but stepped up to score the equalising goal in the 93rd minute.
Makki’s shot from a free kick slammed into the defensive wall, but when the ball rebounded to him he sent it into the top corner.
“I wasn’t supposed to play,” Makki told
Star Weekly. “I’m still injured and I’m having a scan on my back. I’ve had the injury for two years, but numbers-wise, I had to throw myself in.
“I have eight injuries in my senior squad and two others who couldn’t make it, so I’m very pleased with the result considering.”
With so many reserves players stepping up, it was a great chance for Makki to see the potential of some of the club’s youngsters.
He liked what he saw and believes they will put pressure on the first team starters in the near future.
“From the beginning, I’ve said that none of the senior players are guaranteed their positions,” Makki said.
“A lot of the ressies have been stepping up and a few could make their mark this year.”
Elvir Hasanbegovic was the heartbeat of the side on Saturday, the captain and central midfielder asserting his authority over the game from the outset.
“He was always going up for a ball, always challenging,” Makki said.
“He picks up a yellow card every now and then because he goes in so hard, but I don’t mind that because I know he goes for the ball. He’s not dirty and never goes for a player.”
Striker Francis Ho continued his strong early form at his new club and is fast becoming a favourite of his coach and teammates.
“He never gives up,” Makki said. “If he loses the ball, he will chase it. If anyone else loses the ball, he’s the first one to try to chase it down.”
The Greens will hit the road for the first time this season on Saturday, making the short trip to Altona North.
Meanwhile, Greens goalkeeper Semir Ekic showed he can do more than stop shots.
With the Greens low on players, Ekic helped out the reserves … as a striker.
And he had a day out, with four goals in an entertaining 5-4 win over Truganina.
“All this year, he’s been saying he wanted to play striker,” Makki said. “He ended up with four goals and, of course, had to tell me about every one afterwards.”
