By JARROD POTTER
THE predicted walkover by Dandenong Thunder over State League 5 South team St Kilda City didn’t go exactly as planned, with the visitors forced to work for their 3-0 win.
St Kilda City had been the unexpected mover in the tournament – knocking out Berwick City at the first hurdle before continuing its winning streak over Mornington and Elwood City.
Dandenong tried to hustle the lower ranked side early and flex its muscles as the defending State Knockout Cup champion – putting its best side of the season out on the park to start.
Shane Rexhepi, Liam Kearney, Craig Elvin all started for the first time together this season, with Matt Theodore getting an extended run in his recovery from injury that ruled him out of the VPL grand final last season.
City held strong against the faster-running Thunder – deflecting a couple of half chances to keep scores level at the main break.
The floodgates opened after the change of ends – a St Kilda City handball in the box was converted by Rexhepi into goal number one in the 49th minute.
Following the go-ahead goal, Thunder coach Chris Taylor ringed in the changes – subbing five players in the second half to stay fresh for this week’s mega-clash in the VPL against ladder leader Northcote City.
Sean McIlroy, back from injury, was brought on for rising star Nick Epifano and made the most of the opportunity, slotting the perfect ball to Steven Topalovic who smashed it into the top corner in the 78th minute.
The cherry on top came from another substitute, Zac Walker, tapping in a magnificently worked pass from McIlroy to take the 3-0 victory.
Dandenong will face Werribee City on either 23 or 31 July in their SKC quarter final clash at George Andrews Reserve.
In the meantime, Dandenong Thunder faces Northcote City tomorrow (Friday) night at 8.30pm – its first open-gate match of the year at home.
