One of the cornerstones of my blog last week was built around the future of some of the club's elder statesmen. I wanted Ponders and Musky to retire whilst they still had a shred of dignity in their tired legs, to pave the way for the next generation of Victory youngsters to bring home the silverware for many years to come.
Alas, Murphy's Law struck me down.
During this week, Victory and Muscat saw fit to have the biggest letdown of an announcement in A-League history by announcing that ‘Super Kev' was going around one more time. I was heartbroken. A dagger was driven through my heart as I imagined striker's running rings around Musky, taunting him the same way that a Matador taunts the bull, before driving their sword through the bull's heart with a perverse pleasure reserved for sadist's who enjoy the suffering of the once proud bull.
I've been a champion of Musky for many years now, always thought that he played the game hard, and that his mental strength is a testament to all the obstacles he has overcome in his long and decorated career. However, and I say this with a heavy heart, I do believe time has passed him, and this will be ever more evident as the season progresses. I don't think Leijer and Vargas can keep covering for his lack of mobility anymore, and whoever is in the sticks will have a torrid time ahead of him this season.
The game has moved on. Unfortunately, Muscat hasn't.
Another short blog, as the boys return back to the club on the 15th. Hopefully Gary Cole and Co. have a big surprise in store for us in terms of a striker or three, as well as a new goalkeeper to replace the now departed Langerak. I wish him all the best on his German adventure.
Despite the deficiencies in the squad, all Victory fans can look forward to the marquee friendly against Boca Juniors as another feather in the cap for Victory's international reputation, as well as the season ahead, as we battle the odds, like we did last season. Here's hoping the boys are refreshed, both physically and mentally, and can fly the Victorian flag once more, as the pride of Melbourne.
Enjoy the World Cup.
