Soccer: Kingz must reward Dugdale - or else

By TERRY MADDAFORD

It is not yet time for Football Kingz coach Ken Dugdale to contemplate taking some drastic measures, but he might well entertain such moves if his team do not pick up at least a point in tomorrow's Australian National League clash with the Melbourne Knights.

Neither team have won this season.

Four of their previous eight clashes have ended in draws, with the Kingz' only win coming in their last meeting, 2-1 away in February.

Against frontrunners Perth last Sunday the Kingz produced their best football of the season in the first 45 minutes. But their failure to turn half-chances into goals cost them any chance against the defending premiers.

With Michael Utting still sidelined, goalkeeper Ross Nicholson will again be in action.

He turned in a solid effort last week after a couple of anxious moments the previous week and will be more confident for the experience.

Mark Burton remains the key for the Kingz. The talented midfielder, in the right frame of mind, can be a matchwinner and the Kingz will be hoping he turns up with his A-game at Ericsson Stadium tomorrow.

Despite being punished for a couple of defensive lapses by the Perth attack, the Kingz' defence showed that they could be finding their feet and ready to play the game how Dugdale wants.

* In the national women's league, Central and Capital have the chance to continue their unbeaten starts to the season and take a break on the field when they meet Southern and United Soccer 1 in fourth-round action.