Kings' Men Practice Report

The Kings' mens soccer team is beginning to take shape for the season.

They play a preseason match tonight (Thursday, 9pm, Wickwire Field) against local NSSL side Halifax City.

"Not worried about the result. Just a tune-up for the weekend," said Kings coach C.J. Young.

The real match is Saturday's season opener away to Holland College. Young doesn;t quite know what to expect from the team Kings beat in the ACAA finals last year.

"They're programs are only 2-3 years, so they have a lot of turnover of players," said Young.

Kings' defeated Holland College on penalties in last year's final, with departed keeper Mike Beazley proving crucial.

"It's a bit of a grudge match," said captain Greg Bathe. Bathe returns as team captain after making the CCAA tournament all-star team last year.

The starting keeper spot is up for grabs, with last year's back-up Josh Viner perhaps having a bit of an edge over two others trying out.

Kings will also look to rookies Nino Kovacevic and Ken Wallingford to contribute.

Kovacevic plays central midfield and if Wednesday's practice is anything to judge by, he can move the ball around.

"Should be a good pivotal player," said Young, meaning he can defend and attack. "The league isn't full of talented centre mids, so it's nice to have one."

The Blue Devils have already played an exhibition game against AUS' Acadia Axemen soccer team. Kings' won 2-1. For an ACAA team, technically a level below AUS, that's a significant accomplishment.