Soccer: Striker stakes claim

By TERRY MADDAFORD

Scoring the winning goal in the Football Kingz' 3-2 win over Marconi in Sydney has pitched former Socceroo striker John Markovski to the front of the queue as the club attempts to replace the departed Vas Kalogeracos.

Talks between Markovski, coach Mike Petersen and the club today should sort out contractual arrangements and open the way for the former Carlton player to join the Kingz.

George Goutzioulis opened the scoring against Marconi. The home side equalised before halftime, but Paul Urlovic put the Kingz ahead again from the penalty spot after Riki Van Steeden had been brought down.

Marconi equalised before Markovski grabbed the winner.

In earlier games on their tour, the Kingz drew 0-0 with Northern Spirit and lost 4-2 to defending NSL champions Wollongong Wolves.

"Mike Petersen definitely wants Markovski," Kingz chief executive Chris Turner said. "It would be a straight swap for Kalogeracos."

Turner and Petersen will also discuss Geoff Brown's future with the club this weekend.

The Miramar striker, like Markovski, joined the Kingz on trial in Australia.

The team returned from Australia yesterday, but Petersen went to Melbourne where he will have discussions with departed midfielder Con Boutsianis. Turner said Petersen was still keen to have Boutsianis.