Soccer coach has options

Press, 2 June 1984, Page 72

Soccer coach has options

There is no shortage of options for Christchurch Brother United’s coach, Laurie Blyth, as he prepares his team for its Rothmans Soccer League doubleheader against HanimexNorth Shore today and against Photo Life Manurewa on Monday, both at Queen Elizabeth II Park. Those alternative strategies are brought about by the suspension for both matches of the striker, Steve Wooddin, and the return to the squad of the veteran attacker, Kees Doornenbal. During United’s highly pleasing 2-1 win over University Cowan last weekend, Mr Blyth pushed the hard-working midfielder, Keith Braithwaite forward into a striking role, and was suitably impressed with the results. If Mr Blyth sticks with that plan, it could mean the dropping of Brent Berry,

whose performance has tailed off a little recently to make room for an extra midfielder. More likely, however, is for Mr Blyth to use Doornenbal, who is having an impressive season, as a wide attacker, enabling Braithwaite to remain in the heart of the midfield. There is unlikely to be any change in the defence. Marcel Verweij, who came in for Alan South at left back last week-end, was United’s outstanding player, and is sure to retain his place. North Shore has scored more goals than any other team to date in the league, and in Brian McKeown has a proven goal-taker. Of special interest will be the performances of its two English imports, John McGinlay, and Steve Wilkins, the younger brother of the England midfielder, Ray Wilkins.