United faces crucial game against Yoogali SC

He said it was “do or die” for the team after they defeated Griffith City 5-0 last weekend.

United will need to carry on with its winning ways if it is to remain a finals contender. 

Alampi said the side would take confidence from last Sunday’s match, but said there was still room for improvement. 

“We were up 4-0 at half-time, which was a great effort,” he said. 

“After half-time we only put the one goal on the board. 

“I thought we took the foot off the peddle a little bit, but the wind was going in the right direction for Griffith. 

“I think the conditions (of the ground) probably slowed us down as well.

“We probably could have put more pressure on in that second half.”

Scorers for United on Sunday were Adam Raso, 2, Lilian Thirion, 2 and Ben Nardi, 1. 

Unfortunately for Leeton United, key player Xavier Margirier received his third yellow card on Sunday, meaning he will automatically have to sit out this weekend’s match up with Yoogali SC. 

United is also hopeful several other players will be available to play, with some needing to sort through work commitments in order to take the field. 

Alampi said his side must throw their all at the remainder of the games this season if they were to be a chance of making finals. 

“This weekend is definitely a big game for us over in Griffith,” he said. 

“It’s another night game. 

“In the past we’ve played pretty well over in Griffith at night, but this year it’s been a bit hit and miss. 

“I think we’ve played probably seven or eight night matches this year, so we really need to use that experience to our advantage this weekend. 

“It basically needs to be pretty much a perfect match on our behalf.”

Yoogali SC is currently sitting second on the ladder due to percentage, but is on the same points as ladder-leaders Hanwood FC. 

United’s form against Yoogali SC this year has been solid.

In their first round, Yoogali SC got away with a 1-0 win, while United got the upper hand in the second match up with a 3-2 victory. 

“It’s going to be a very tough game,” Alampi said. 

“I’m confident we can win, but in saying that they are a very strong side. 

“We will need to be on top of our game that’s for sure.

“Last weekend our passing was really good. 

That and our defence will need to continue against Yoogali. 

“Hopefully we’ll have those few key players right to play as well. It’s going to require a full team effort.”

Training for United this week focused on fitness and polishing some areas of play. 

“We’re definitely headed in the right direction after last week’s win,” Alampi said.