By Luke D’Anello
SUNSHINE George Cross has parted ways with senior coach Fabrizio Soncin.
Soncin, originally from North Queensland, was handed the top job in March after the club gave Chris Ketsakidis his marching orders.
The Georgies, relegated from the Victorian Premier League last season, were yet to name a replacement for Soncin when Star went to print. Sunshine George Cross has experienced a below par start to its State League One campaign, winning just two of its first eight games.
A meeting between the committee and Soncin sealed his fate on Thursday, 26 May.
“The committee was very concerned at the poor results attained this season, but even more so over the team’s performances in the first six matches of the season,” the club said in a statement.
“The coach also realised this and he, too, was concerned because Soncin was totally committed to the club and was at his wits’ end seeing the team play so poorly. Agreement was reached between Soncin and the club to start afresh under somebody new for the benefit of the club, following revelations the players had lost confidence in Soncin.
“Sunshine George Cross appreciates the hard work Soncin did in his short time at the club and thank him for his effort. The club wishes him well in the future and his coaching career.”
Meanwhile, on Sunday, the Georgies scored a 1-1 draw against top two side Port Melbourne. Sunshine dominated the fixture but had to be content to share the points. The Georgies failed to take advantage of a flying start, with George Slefendorfas scoring after just three minutes. Port drew level after 31 minutes, but the Georgies continued to press for a lead and produced several encouraging pieces of play. With 10 minutes left, Con Anthopoulos hit the back of the net, but the goal was disallowed.
