NPL preview: Victory v Melbourne Knights

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Melbourne Victory’s PlayStation 4 NPL Victoria campaign continues on Saturday afternoon, when it hosts Melbourne Knights at Epping Stadium.

Victory will head into the match motivated by last week’s stirring performance against South Melbourne, which saw it push the reigning PS4 NPL Victoria premiers for 90 minutes.

Despite losing the game 1-0, Victory will take confidence from the fact its defensive structure and front third stood up in the face of a tough challenge.

“I was really happy with the performance and the reaction after last week’s disappointing loss,” acting head coach Vaughan Coveny said.

“I thought we played well, we created a couple of chances and, playing against the league leaders at their home ground with that sort of atmosphere, I thought it was a good night.”

The returns of captain Joey Katebian, George Howard and Sebastian Pasquali added some extra bite up front, which will be needed against an in-form Knights.

Coached by Andrew Marth, the former National Soccer League powerhouse has enjoyed a reasonably fruitful season to date after fielding a relatively young side.

It bounced back from its 3-1 loss to Oakleigh Cannons at the weekend by exacting revenge in the fifth round of Westfield FFA Cup qualifers, coming from behind to beat the same side 2-1 on Tuesday.

Knights are yet to win on the road this PS4 NPL Victoria season, and will hope to banish this unwanted record on Saturday.

But it won’t be easy against a confident and rejuvenated Victory.

Three points for Victory could be see it rise up to ninth place, if other results go its way.

Please note, there will be separate entry points and viewing areas for Victory and Knights fans on Saturday.

Additional signage will be in place outside the venue to direct fans, and the match will be a dry event.

Entry is $10 for adults, $5 for concession and free for children 15 and under.

The under-20s will begin at 1.00pm, followed by the seniors at 3.00pm.

PlayStation 4 NPL Victoria 2016 Round 10

Melbourne Victory v Melbourne Knights 
Saturday, April 30, 3.00pm AEST
Epping Stadium, Epping