Heartland keen to challenge favourites

IN FORM: Omar Guardiola, pressing for starting spot.PHOTO/FILE

Carrying the underdog tag won't bother Heartland Wairarapa in their National Youth League football match with Waitakere United at Hullena Park, Masterton, tomorrow.

For while they are yet to secure their first win of 2014, Heartland Wairarapa have impressed coach Lloyd O'Keefe with the improvement they have shown over the three games they have played to date and he believes they are ready to give unbeaten Waitakere United a decent run for their money.

And, what's more, they will do so by playing an attractive brand of football, enjoyable for the players and spectators.

O'Keefe is no fan of the "kick and chase" tactics that he says are all too often prevalent in the Kiwi game. Rather he looks to have his players build their attacks through quick, short passes, even when they are deep in their own territory.

It is a plan that O'Keefe readily admits has a high risk factor, but he sees it as crucial if the youngsters under his command are to develop the skills necessary to have them succeed at the highest levels.

"It highlights the importance of accuracy and concentration, and that's what these young guys need to learn," O'Keefe said. "Why bother having a league like this if the development of the players isn't the major priority?"

Last weekend's national Under 19 club tournament in Napier did nothing but boost the confidence of the Heartland Wairarapa camp leading into tomorrow's game. The O'Keefe-coached Wests side were runners-up to Birkenhead after losing in a final that went to extra time and the bulk of that team are also in the Heartland Wairarapa squad.

There is also a strong possibility that at least three Wairarapa-based players will join them. Defender Chris Cox has been in such outstanding form in previous games he seems assured of a starting spot. Also pressing for that distinction are Mark Hemi and Omar Guardiola who, like Cox, were part of Wairarapa United's Central League team.

Waitakere United have emerged as the team to beat in this year's competition and nobody has managed to do it yet. Even a cursory glance at reports of their opening three games suggests they play attacking football with pace and finesse.

Tomorrow's game kicks off at 2pm.