A WEEKEND washout came at the perfect time for Morwell Pegasus as the state league south-east division one side regroups from a 6-1 loss to Casey last fortnight.
Wet conditions at the weekend postponed Pegasus’ clash with Frankston Pines to this Saturday’s catch-up round, allowing some injured Horsemen extra time to recoup.
Coach Ivan Bajo said it was a welcome opportunity to recover.
“The week off was definitely a bonus for us, we’ve got a few boys out,” he said.
“There’s a few boys also in the reserves, they’re a bit shy of numbers, so the week off did us all well.”
Paul Kuol (ankle) is among the troops relishing the week off to get niggling injuries in check, while brother John is also returning to form following surgery.
“Johnny Kuol has been doing much better, he played the last two games, got 90 minutes against Cranbourne and he’s getting back to his (normal) self,” Bajo said.
“He’s still a bit frustrated but you can definitely see he’s getting back to his best self.”
Key men Hayden Ross-Schultz and captain Steve Maselli are sidelined with long-term knee injuries, putting a big dent in the playing roster.
Bajo said the side was progressing in their absence, but was also missing their quality.
“We’re playing football, it’s a shame we’re not finishing as much as we can and the injury list doesn’t help, and they’re key players as well,” he said.
“Maselli… is one of the best players down in the Valley; he’s a big loss. Hayden’s a massive loss, he carries the team and (wears) his heart on his sleeve.
“You’ve got two key players (there) that are big losses.”
Pegasus’ last match ended in a calamitous second half capitulation against Casey.
The Horsemen led 1-0 at half-time before conceding four goals in the span of 20 minutes to kick off the second 45 minutes.
Casey then added a further two goals to run out 6-1 victors.
“They came out after half-time ready to go; they’re a top four team… they came out firing and that’s what happens,” Bajo said.
Currently ninth on the ladder and not yet safe from relegation calculations, Bajo said this weekend’s match was a must win at home.
“They’re points we definitely need. Last time we drew against them and this time we need to get our points and get a win at home. We’re good enough to do so, so hopefully we show up,” he said.
Pegasus plays Frankston Pines at Ronald Reserve, Morwell from 3pm on Saturday.
