Soccer: Chance for Jackson to stretch his legs

By TERRY MADDAFORD

Chris Jackson is likely to be pitched back into action when he returns to the Football Kingz squad for tomorrow night's away game against Melbourne Knights.

Jackson has seen little action this season - his last game (and only appearance this year) was in the 1-0 home win against Sydney Olympic in late January - and fears his chances of All Whites' selection might be in danger unless he gets some onfield play.

Kingz assistant coach Shane Rufer said Jackson will travel with the team this afternoon in place of Riki Van Steeden and is likely to play in the midfield, with Andy Bluhm headed for the substitutes' bench.

In the only other change, goalkeeper Chris Marsh replaces Simon Eaddy on the bench.

Julio Cuello is again likely to start.

"A good start is imperative," Rufer said. "The Knights have never been behind at halftime at home this season.

"We have to concentrate from the start if we are to have a chance.

"The Knights are one of only two teams we have never beaten - Wollongong is the other - but we came close last time when they scored in the last seconds to grab a 2-2 draw."

Many rated much of last week's game against Marconi in Wellington as disappointing, but Rufer said it was difficult to play against a team who had so obviously come intent on playing for a draw.

"I am pleased with the way the players have reacted to the different [off-field] pressure, including the uncertainty of next season," Rufer said.

"We can all hold our heads high, especially with our excellent disciplinary record. We are the only team not to have had a player sent off or suspended this season."

Victory tomorrow night against the sixth-placed Knights would keep the Kingz' play-off hopes alive because they play three teams below them in the next three weeks.