West’s Young Sensation – Matthew Bouzalas
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West coach Steph Pappas recently labelled Matthew Bouzalas “the new little magician” and certainly there are reasons to justify this tag: the teenager is a forward currently playing in the Under 19’s, wears the No 10 shirt and has the happy knack of imposing himself on games.The youngster made a name for himself against Comets where his Golden Left Boot scored a tally of five goals for the day (four goals in a sparkling performance in the 19’s and then a thunderous winner in the Reserves after coming on a substitute).
Not surprisingly, Matty's silky skills, finishing ability and versatility has attracted a lot of attention from the West fans who are predicting big and bright future for him.
“Matty is still raw in his talent and needs to develop physically but we expect him to develop his game in the next one or two years and then become a big star.” Said Coach Pappas.
Bouzalas has flourished since his debut in the 19’s, with his darting forward runs and amazing dribbling ability making him an instant hit at Hellas Park. Not only that but ‘Lil Boz’ is West's top scorer having already bagged nine goals for the 19’s in four matches also highlighted by a superb first half hat-rick against Olympic which included an amazing 30 metre free kick.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------West’s Super Gloveman – Josh Kolesnikowicz
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West Coach Tory Caputo has nothing but praise for his young keeper Josh Kolesnikowicz. His contribution to the West Adelaide’s Reserves title hopes this season cannot be underestimated. His superlative displays in last four matches were typical of his form and attitude that he has displayed since signing for the club at the start of the year.
Josh's saves have been vital and times when the team was under pressure it was these saves that team-mates drew inspiration from. “I m just happy to do my bit for the team… If I’m called on to make a save or two and contribute to the team winning, then I have done my job. I’m happy that the coaching staff have faith in my ability and I hope to repay them with my performances.” Said young custodian Kolesnikowicz.
"There's no secret formula," Goalkeeper Coach Gerry Roussianos insists. "I know Josh has got the ability, but it is his work ethic and attitude that sets him apart.”
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------West’s Midfield Dynamo – Dion Lambrinos
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A change of role has been instrumental in turning West’s fortunes around. West’s midfielder Dion Lambrinos previously had done well as West's in-house utility man, playing at right-back and as a right-sided midfielder.
But the decision of Coach Carl Robinson to restore him back to the team's midfield anchor has allowed the 21-year-old to make the leap from being good to superb. He has been one of the West’s better players of the season thus far.
"I love being in central midfield," says Lambrinos. "I get more of the ball, I'm more involved. I'm like to break down the opposition attack and then start our own attacking play. But more importantly I’m just happy to be back playing.”
Coach Robinson is a fan, saying: "With his intelligence, work rate and class… he's as close to the ideal central midfielder as we're likely to find." He is a more direct player, more inclined to look for the intelligent pass or burst past the opposing midfielders in an attempt to link up with the forwards.”
Lambrinos has just recently come back from an extended injury lay off and it is no coincidence that since his move back into the centre of midfield that West Adelaide has started to recapture its winning ways. Lambrinos is a vital member of the West Adelaide team and a true favourite amongst the Hellas faithful.