Northcote Park continue strong start to season, West Preston-Lakeside could lose Mark Kovacevic

Northcote Park continued its strong start to the NFL Division 1 season, heaping more misery on West Preston-Lakeside and the news could get worse for the premiers after Mark Kovacevic injured his knee.

Mark Kovacevic after being named best on ground in last year’s NFL grand final.

West Preston-Lakeside is sweating on scans after star big man Mark Kovacevic went down with a knee injury in Saturday’s loss to Northcote Park.

Kovacevic kicked the opening goal of the game but was forced from the ground soon after and didn’t return as the Roosters suffered a 38-point defeat at JE Moore Park.

Best afield in last year’s premiership triumph, Kovacevic would be a huge loss if the injury is serious with the club hopeful of getting scans before he flies out on business commitments this week.

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The loss left West Preston-Lakeside winless and on the bottom of the ladder after two games, while Northcote Park couldn’t have wished for a better start after the 13.14 (92) to 7.12 (54) win.

After missing finals last year, the Cougars are undefeated with wins over perennial contender Bundoora and the reigning premier.

Cougars coach Matt McLennan said there were no easy games in NFL Division 1.

Ash Close kicked eight goals for Northcote Park.

Mark Kovacevic in action for WPL. Picture: Nathan McNeill

“We’re improving every week and we’ve reaped the rewards early (in the season),” he said.

“West had a few out … but you can only play against who’s on the park.

“This is the closest competition in years and I think you’re going to see surprise results every week because there’s only 5 to 10 per cent between every team.”

Star forward Ash Close spearheaded the win with eight goals in a dominant display as Northcote Park held the ascendancy from the opening quarter.

Northcote Park coach Matt McLennan addresses his players.

McLennan said twin towers Close and Jackson Starcevic were working well together.

“Ash has kicked 8.5 — so he’s had 13 shots on goal — but (Starcevic) couldn’t catch a cold this week after kicking five the week before,” he said.

“They’re taking it in turns but I’m confident we’ve found the balance in the last two games.”

Ahmed Saad kicked two goals, while Jackson Clarke was named best for West Preston-Lakeside in the loss.

Following the Easter break, Northcote Park will look to keep their winning start to the season going when it hosts Hurstbridge, while the Roosters travel to North Heidelberg.

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