Comets align with the Stars

CASEY Comets Soccer Club gained a point away against the Southern Stars in Men’s State League division-one action at Ross Reserve with a 0-0 result in a bruising encounter.
The Comets sported a new-look backline with Anthony Ciccarelli reverting to sweeper behind Ben Cullen and Mirro Karac.
It looked like a shaky start for the Comets when Stars’ player Terry Boi got into the box and his low cross hit the post and bounced clear.
Robbie Acs in the Comets goal got his angle perfect on this occasion, but a few minutes later was left stranded as Boi again rattled the woodwork as he latched on to a cross at the near post.
But the Comets fought back and Milan Savic had a long-range shot skim the crossbar. Ben Watson bustled through and only a last-ditch tackle stopped him from putting it past Michael Sivulja in the Stars’ goal.
Just before half-time the Stars had a player sent-off after a second yellow card and despite heated protests referee Laz Vassiliadis stuck to his decision.
The Comets made changes at half-time with Kevin Petersen coming on at sweeper and Anthony Ciccarelli moving to the left-flank, but they were losing the midfield battle as the Stars were stronger in challenging for the ball.
Fikret Korkaric could have stolen full points at the end, but his downward header at the back-post hit the side netting.
Comets coach Dario Simunic was disappointed that his players did not take advantage of their extra player and was very vocal in his address to the players after the final whistle.
The under-21s got their first win of the season, thanks to a late goal from Daniel Castillo.
The young Comets have struggled so far, so this win will be a great morale boost for them.
This week sees the Comets at home to the new league leaders Brunswick City.
The under-21s start at 1pm and the seniors take to the pitch at 3pm at O’Tooles Road in Cranbourne.