Melbourne Heart FC midfielder Nick Kalmar is hopeful of retaining his spot in the starting XI this weekend after his stellar performance against Perth Glory on Saturday.
Melbourne Heart FC midfielder Nick Kalmar is hopeful of retaining his spot in the starting XI this weekend after his stellar performance against Perth Glory on Saturday.
Kalmar, 25, was named the man of the match against the Glory, as voted by fans on Twitter for the Club’s Interactive Match initiative.
The midfielder scored the opening goal of the match, and his first of the season; a stunning free-kick that left Glory goalkeeper Danny Vukovic with no chance.
But with captain Fred and Simon Colosimo available for selection this weekend, the competition for starting berths is heating up.
“In recent weeks we’ve had a lot of experience missing,” Kalmar said .
“[Fred and Colosimo] are both leaders of the club and very important to the group.
“To have them back in the team gives group confidence going forward.”
Kalmar, who is one of only six foundation players still playing at the club, struggled to make an impact last season due to injury.
“I’ve probably had some glimpses of good moments but with the injuries last year I missed a lot of football,” Kalmar said.
“It was just really good to play and be involved in a win. It felt pretty good.
“Getting through 90 minutes and the three points are very important at this stage of the campaign.”
Melbourne Heart FC travel to Hunter Stadium to take on Newcastle Jets this Friday which looms as an important clash in the race for an illusive finals spot.
“It’s very tight for those two [finals] spots,” Kalmar said.
“But we’re full of confidence. We do have a poor record away from home but we are looking to change that.”
Friday 15 February
Hyundai A-League Round 21
Newcastle Jets FC v Melbourne Heart FC
Venue: Hunter Stadium
Kick off: 7:30 pm
