United makes move to secure star striker

By Teo Pellizzeri

December 25 2007

Shepparton News

Shepparton United is looking to counter the loss of star forward Frani More with a sensational swoop for prolific Yoogali striker Grant Davidson.

More scored six goals for Shepparton this season, but has returned to his native Scotland after passport complications.

Davidson said yesterday he had been approached about a move to Shepparton, but was swaying towards staying with Yoogali.

Shepparton United's administration was not sure if More would be able to return to Australia for next season.

"It looks unlikely, but we're waiting for confirmation on his status," secretary Shane Harford said.

"There has been some sort of hold-up with his passport and the club understands Frani returned to Scotland on December 18."

United coach George Traianidis said More would be missed if he was unable to return.

"He was very consistent and won our club best and fairest," Traianidis said.

Davidson scored 15 regular season goals for Yoogali this year as well as two in his side's 4-3 qualifying final win over eventual premier Shepparton.

The tall striker scored what was widely considered goal of the year in the match, with a strike from the top of the penalty area Shepparton coach Andy Ingham described as "one in a thousand".

The Griffith to Shepparton switch is not uncommon in North Eastern Soccer League with Shepparton signing Stuart Vance from Yoogali last year.

The move paid off as Vance scored 22 regular season goals as well as two in the qualifying final and the Reds' equaliser in the grand final.

Davidson said it was fellow Scot More who had approached him about a possible move to United.

"I would like to play for United one day," Davidson said.

"But right now I'm quite happy where I am."