Melbourne Victory goalkeeper Nathan Coe has predicted a ‘massive, massive year’ for the two-time Hyundai A-League champions ahead of the 2013/14 season.
Melbourne Victory goalkeeper Nathan Coe has predicted a ‘massive, massive year’ for the two-time Hyundai A-League champions ahead of the 2013/14 season.
Coe joined Victory just before Round 4 of the 2012/13 A-League campaign and helped them finish third on the ladder before getting knocked out in the semi-finals by eventual champions, Central Coast.
Injuries to key players Gui Finkler and Adama Traore effectively sabotaged Victory’s first campaign under head coach Ange Postecoglou but with that duo working their way back to full fitness, plus some new signings starting to gel, Coe believes he is in the best position of his career to win a title.
During the Australian goalkeeper’s time at Dutch side PSV Eindhoven and Danish outfit FC Copenhagen, both clubs claimed league titles but Coe barely featured on the field.
The 29-year-old Brisbane-born gloveman is convinced he will play a major role in any success for the Victory in the upcoming season.
“One of my reasons for coming to Melbourne was to win things and have a big part in doing that,” said Coe.
“So, you know, last year we were all disappointed that we didn’t end up winning anything.
“I think this year is going to be a massive, massive year for us and we all are aiming to win something.”
Coe is confident Finkler (knee) and Traore (ankle) will be pushing for selection by the time the Victory host arch-rivals Melbourne Heart in their season opener, while he has been impressed by new signings Kosta Barbarouses and Mitch Nichols.
With just under two months remaining until Round 1, Coe is working hard to ensure he can take a step up in his second A-League campaign.
The Victory had the equal-second worst defensive record last season, conceding 45 goals in 27 home-and-away matches.
“I wasn’t thrilled with how I played (in my first season),” Coe conceded.
“I think I played well in (some) games… badly in others.
“So this year I want to be more consistent and I want to play at a higher level throughout the season.”
