Tough clash on cards

May 30 2008

Shepparton News

Respect Tatura is the warning Shepparton South coach Serkan Aktas has issued to his team ahead of the clash between North Eastern Soccer League's fiercest rivals.

The Ibises and Southerners have spilt bad blood more than once in recent meetings, and will square off again at McEwen Reserve on Sunday.

South holds third place heading into the contest on 16 points, while Tatura's finals hopes are on the line after falling to fifth place behind Shepparton United on goal difference last week.

South won 2-0 last time the sides met courtesy of two late goals, Aktas saying Tatura would have felt hard done-by with the defeat.

``They'll have nothing to lose and will take us on,'' Aktas said.

``I said to the boys at training, we have to show Tatura respect and try to break down their system with our own game.''

Aktas said his backline was under pressure to improve this weekend; crucial lapses in defence saw Shepparton United capitalise in its 4-2 win against South last week.

Set pieces have been the big focus at South's training this week, Aktas saying his side had to keep its concentration.

``Too many goals are being scored against us from free kicks and corners,'' he said.

``In general play I felt we had the run of the midfield early against United, but our wide players didn't keep up the support.

``Greg Nash and Connor Campbell have had two good games through the middle of the park against Victory and United, and we hope that will continue.''

South's squad depth is an ace Aktas will have up his sleeve, his cousin Khan Aktas one player working his way up to match fitness from the bench.

Rossi Lagana is still recovering from a knee injury, but will likely return in time to face Shepparton in round 12.

In this weekend's other match, Cobram takes on Shepparton United.

The Tigers sit last on the ladder with nine points, United in fourth on 10.