Players to watch in Men’s State League 1
It was a captivating opening round of the Men’s State League 1 competitions. Here’s a look at the players to watch this season. From rising stars to maestros, there’s some impressive names.
Local Sport
Don't miss out on the headlines from Local Sport . Followed categories will be added to My News.
The Men‘s State League 1 North-West and South-East competitions promise to be highly competitive this season, with some of the top teams from last season returning to battle it out once again.
North-West sides Sydenham Park and Banyule City will be eyeing the championship this season after finishing in the top four and narrowly missing out on promotion.
It will be the same for Malvern City and Mornington who finished in the top four in the South-East competition and narrowly missed out on promotion.
As seen in the opening round, fans can expect thrilling matches and intense rivalries as all 24 teams look to establish themselves as the best in their respective divisions.
With their experienced players and talented squads, it will be interesting to see who will come out on top in this year’s competition.
Here’s a look at the players to watch in Men’s State League 1 soccer this season.
Melvin Becket (Westgate)
The versatile midfielder is a clever and skill with plenty of pace to move past opposition players. Becket was a part of the Altona Magic side which went from State League 1 to NPL 1. He also played with South Melbourne and Green Gully. Becket has the ability to play as a defensive, central of attacking midfielder.
Josh Calabria (Westgate)
The defender who can also play as a defensive midfielder is coming off an outstanding 2022 season where he captained ACT NPL 1 club Monaro Panthers to a domestic treble. In the feat, he won the 2022 ACT Community Shield, ACT FFA Cup and the 2022 ACT NPL1 Championship. He was voted in the ACT NPL Team of the Year in back-to-back seasons. He is known to be a strong leader with excellent precise passing, hard tackling and great aerial ability. His defending and attacking skills are both at a high level making him an all-round player. He has also played with Canberra Olympic and Pascoe Vale in the past.
Harry Crocker (South Springvale)
The left footed defender joined the club last season from NPL Tasmania where he helped Davenport win the title in an undefeated season. Crocker came to Melbourne to continue his studies to become a fully qualified doctor. He is a player who has had a massive impact on the group. He has been able to successfully integrate his busy work schedule with his love of the game and the club.
George Hatzinikolaidis (Banyule City)
The left back has been appointed as captain for this season following a great 2022 campaign which almost got the club promoted. City is now fit and ready for 2023 and dedicated to earning promotion.
Yusuke Nishiyama (Banyule City)
The centre back is quick, great in the air and technically amazing. He has joined City from the Japanese J League and has settled well in Australia.
Darcy Rapa (Corio)
The hard working, skilful box to box midfielder is looking forward to returning in 2023 following a serious neck injury sustained in season 2021. Rapa is a technically gifted midfielder who has shown true character by overcoming the challenges he has faced in rehab during 2021. Corio coach Bob Stojcevski is looking forward to Rapa’s positive attitude and smile around the club this season.
Steve Sifinos (South Springvale)
Sifinos is the current longest serving player, having been at South Springvale for almost 10 years now. The father of three girls is hoping 2023 brings the ultimate success to the club. He was a major factor in 2019 when the club was promoted back into State League 1. He is South Springvale through and through with his eldest daughter having joined in the juniors.
Thomas Simos (South Springvale)
Simos is a product of the South Springvale junior program. He is the club captain and carries on from his father who was a major player in the glory years at the club through the 90s. The 26-year-old is in his first year as captain and leads the team as one of the premier centre backs in the competition. Simos has an inspiring story having fought back from two knee reconstructions.
Vedran Stojanovic (Corio)
The Corio striker is a star and may be remembered by local football followers for his 100 goals he scored in four seasons from 2013 to 2017. Stojanovic has power and speed, and can use both his feet advantageously. He is also an aerial threat.
Goran Zoric (Westgate)
The winger has had stints at Oakleigh Cannons and South Melbourne in the NPL as well as overseas with Police United in Thailand. Zoric was crucial in the clubs 2022 promotion back into State League 1. He was the club’s best and fairest, top goal scorer and player of the season. He also topped the league in goals last season with 15. Zoric is known to be a flamboyant winger with plenty of pace and flair along with an eye for goal.
All State League 1 clubs were contacted to provide players.
max.hatzoglou@news.com.au
Premier Cricket: Men’s and women’s Team of the Week
Young guns lit up Victorian Premier Cricket in men’s and women’s sections. We’ve named our teams of the week. SEE THEM
Star leg-spinner ‘should be starting to be looked at’
Carlton all-rounder Connor Rutland has tipped praise on the Blues’ star leg-spinner, saying Saturday’s match winning spell was further proof he has what it takes at a higher level.