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Balga SC reserves squad took on the powerhouse of Amateur football in Western Australia and past Amateur Premier Division champions, North Perth.

The team started off uncharacteristically slow and were 4:1 down at half time. Reserves Team head coach Adrian Caloiero was less than impressed with the scoreline. “Today we came up against a team in a different league that had a different approach to the game and style of play compared to what we have been exposed to so far” said Caloiero. “We started off very flat and we were not ready to get going today. Our first touch let us down on many occasions and our decision making and passes were non existent”.

After half time, Caloiero made personnel changes to try and spark the team and instill more belief in the players. “At half time we asked the players to be a bit more composed on the ball. We made several changes through out the game to see if we could spark the boys” said Caloiero. “The introduction of young George Duku into the midfield at half time added some much needed running. There was a huge improvement going forward but at times we still looked a little suspect at the back”.

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The scoreline did improve but unfortunately for Balga SC it was not enough to rain in North Perth. “The game finished 6:4 and they clearly deserved the win. Credit to North Perth and good luck to them for the upcoming season and the Cup semi finals.” said Caloiero. “This week we had several key players missing and was a opportunity for others to get a chance to play in positions and get a good run out. The lack of game time and fitness in some players was very evident”.

The Balga SC reserves squad travel to Beaconsfield for their next pre-season match against Fremantle City FC. The game is scheduled to kick off on Saturday at 11am. Caloiero is hoping that the game against North Perth is a wake up call and is looking for an improvement from all players. “I hope this is a real wake up call to the team and that everyone is there at training working hard and trying to improve on this result” he said.