Under new coach Ali Karsioglu’s stewardship, the Reds have beamed in a host of international and local talent to Vibert Reserve in an attempt to breach the division one finals bracket for the first time since 2016.
Given, the most recent knockout appearance was in the Regional Premier League days, but with a revamped roster, Shepparton has eyes on the post-season in Bendigo Amateur Soccer League this year.
The Reds were promoted to division one in 2024 after finishing top of the second tier the year prior, giving a fair account of themselves after a four-year hiatus out of the top flight.
A sixth placing — missing out on finals on goal difference alone — surely breathed life into Shepparton’s ambitions for the new campaign.
However, this year’s squad is significantly different to the past one.
Frenchman and Reds’ 2024 top scorer Leo Szwec (seven goals) is joined by a host of foreign talent, with countryman Theo Fernandes, Spaniards Alexander Rojas and Mario Peche Morote bolstering the ranks alongside Englishman Ethan Williams.
On the local front, Abdallah Farhood headlines the new pack after switching allegiances from rival side Shepparton United, while Mohammad Algazaly (six goals in 2024) has moved on to Goulburn Valley Suns.
With all the chopping and changing, will the Reds be able to gel?
By all accounts, it seems they already have.
Shepparton’s foreign group has assimilated into the local culture and, despite a quarter-final exit in the League Cup, the Reds have sent a shot across the bows: finding the back of the net is no issue.
Karsioglu’s troops were on the wrong end of a thrilling cup tie against Shepparton United, taking it all the way in a 4-4 extra time stalemate that eventually swung in the Blues’ favour following spot kicks.
A baptism of fire looms as Shepparton heads to Howley Oval for round one, set to meet reigning premier Tatura on its back paddock to kick-start the campaign.
Meanwhile, Shepparton Soccer Club hasn’t fielded a senior women’s side since 2019, but hopes are high the Reds can roll out a female outfit in the near future.
ONE TO WATCH
Murtaza Gulzari: A young midfielder with a wise head on his shoulders, Gulzari’s role as a conductor through the centre will be enormous for Shepparton this season. The former GV Suns junior is handy going both ways and sure knows how to pick a pass.
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