No concessions for junior teams who face long road trips

February 20 2014

Shepparton News

‘‘A review of the competition structure and season timelines for future years will be conducted towards the end of this year’s season,’’ Bentley said.

‘‘Football Federation Victoria will be working with all clubs throughout the year to identify any issues within the structure.’’

The club’s senior and under-20 teams also face a major challenge to be ready in time for round one in three weeks’ time.

The Suns are still to appoint coaches and finalise playing squads.

Bentley stood by FFV’s decision to place the Suns — a brand new entity — in the top tier of NPLV, against the likes of established Victorian powerhouse clubs South Melbourne, Melbourne Knights and Northcote City.

‘‘We are confident that Goulburn Valley Suns will more than hold its own as it stems from a very strong football region,’’ Bentley said.

The senior team had its second training session at McEwen Reserve on Tuesday night.

Twenty players attended , including Shepparton United premiership captain Cossie Kalafatis, who did not train.

Eight of those players are eligible for the under-20 team, including at least two under-16 players.

Former West Bromwich Albion youth academy coach Melvyn Wilkes took the session.

Players went through possession and shooting drills, before a nine-on-nine game.

Shepparton South striker Craig Carley, United playing coach Nick Kalafatis and last year’s Goulburn North East Football Association Rising Star Hussain Sumaili were among those involved.

The first session on Tuesday night reportedly attracted close to 40 players, including United striker and visa player Carl Lamb.

It is yet to be determined if players will be allowed to register with the Suns as well as their local club.

Bentley would not comment on the issue of dual registration, saying FFV was still reviewing the registration process.