A senior coaching change has continued to pay dividends for the Sebastopol Vikings after its second consecutive win in the Men's State League 3 competition.
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The Vikings had to fight for all 90 minutes to secure the victory over a bottom placed Westvale side.
Interim coach Dan Hollingworth said the game was a scrappy one that saw Westvale gain confidence throughout.
"To be honest it was one of those games where we had to grind it out," he said.
"People thought it would be an easy win but they came up here and made it really difficult for us. We had a heap of opportunities in the first half but couldn't put any of them away.
"I think every minute Westvale were able to keep the score 0-0 they just grew in confidence."
Hollingworth said he was never worried about losing the game, instead focusing on making sure his players were doing the right things with the ball at their feet.
"We never really looked to be under threat defensively... there was no way we were ever going to lose the game, it was just about putting the ball in the net."
Entering half-time with the score still locked at 0-0, Hollingworth said he stressed the importance of consistency to his side.
"I just said to the boys at half time "we have to remain composed and keep playing our football and goals would come."
"We needed to make sure we weren't getting frustrated or changing what we usually do."
The coaches words of wisdom ultimately paid off as Kuanyjal Tuany registered a double to lead the Vikings to a 2-1 victory. Despite the sloppy nature of the game, Hollingworth was pleased to get the win.
"It was a bit of a patchy performance but it's three points nonetheless."
Having won two wins in a row now, Hollingworth said his side is rightfully confident going into its next contest against a strong, fourth-placed Fawkner side on the road on Sunday afternoon.
"Two wins in a row is no fluke... getting these wins gives the boys a lot of confidence. We've just got to make sure we don't let complacency slip in when we're probably not quite there yet."
As for the future of Hollingworth's coaching position at the club, he simply said he is happy to help the Vikings succeed in any way he can.
"I love the club, it's a big part of my life so I'm very proud to lead the boys out," he said.
"I've committed to staying on for the rest of the season to provide a bit of consistency but we're already looking for coaches for the season. For me personally I'd love to stay in the position but that's a decision for the club."
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