It is going to take something special to stop Hoppers Crossing from winning Football Federation of Victoria’s state league 4 competition.
The Reds have a perfect winning record after 10 games and hold a six-point lead over nearest rival FC Strathmore.
But it’s the nature of Hoppers Crossing’s winning ways that should instil fear into opponents.
Nine of the club’s 10 wins have been by two goals or more.
Hoppers Crossing president Steve Lambrakakis is rapt with his side’s first half of the season.
“You can’t ask for anything more than what the guys have been able to achieve,” he said.
“We’ve taken everything that has been thrown in front of us.
“I think one of the big things for the guys has been the fitness side of it.
“We want to be the fittest team and that’s something that has come through in a few games. There have been games where we have started off behind and managed to come roaring back in the second half.”
Further highlighting Hoppers Crossing’s dominance, the Reds have scored the most goals of any side in the competition – 32.
They have also conceded the least of any side, with only eight goals getting through the defensive unit.
Lambrakakis is hoping such a level of consistency will allow his side to remain on top throughout the second half of the season.
“We’ve scored the most and conceded the least … if it continues like that I think we will have a pretty good year,” he said.
“It’s an old adage in football that goals win you matches and defence wins you championships. I don’t think truer words can be spoken.
“At the same time, we want to play an attractive brand of football … the longer you keep it off them, more than likely you’re going to score more than them. If you’ve got the ball, they can’t score.”
After a 3-0 win against Melbourne City last week, Hoppers Crossing will take on Surf Coast away this Saturday.
