Altona Magic will be right in the thick of the action as the Football Federation Victoria men’s state league 1 north-west title race comes to a thrilling climax this weekend.
Magic is one of four teams with a chance of taking out the premiership with just 90 minutes of football to play.
Two points separate the top four sides, with Western Suburbs and Sydenham Park equal on 42, Magic on 41 and Preston Lions on 40.
Magic needs to take care of their own business and get a win on the road at North Sunshine Eagles on Sunday – no mean feat considering the Eagles were on top of the ladder for most of the season before encountering turbulence late in the season.
Magic coach Vlado Tortevski knows his side’s title chances hinge on results at other grounds, but says his team is ready to pounce should the top two get stage fright.
“We have to win and then wait for other results,” he told Star Weekly.
“North Sunshine is always tough. Five games ago they were on top of the ladder and I don’t know what happened to them.
“It’s going to be a hard game but I’m confident we can get another three points.”
Magic simply refused to die this season.
Just a month ago, they were a massive six points off the summit but have capitalised on the yips experienced by then-ladder leader Western Suburbs.
Tortevski has lamented his side’s luck with injuries, late opposition winners and the odd refereeing decision, but lauded his players for getting on with the job.
“We haven’t given up even with all of the distractions … the hard time we had with injuries,” he said.
“I’m proud of the players for showing some character.
“Maybe we need a little bit of that luck to come back to us. Finishing on top would be a really great year for Altona.”
Magic gave themselves a chance in the final round after a 3-0 win over Keilor Park at the Paisley Park Soccer Complex on Saturday evening.
They had all three points under wraps after three goals in the opening 35 minutes.
Jason Hayne scored twice for Magic but had to go off in the second half because of a hamstring injury.
Hayne is considered doubtful for Saturday’s trip to North Sunshine.
“Definitely the best player on the ground,” Tortevski said.
“He scored two goals and then, unfortunately, injured his hamstring after the second goal.
“I didn’t want to risk him.
“If he can play last game, that’s going to be good for us.”
