Goalkeeper Alex Dunn says the importance of depth will come to the fore this weekend, with Inglewood United playing twice in three days.   Inglewood make the relatively short journey to Balcatta on Saturday for their second round National Premier Leagues fixture before heading south 48-hours later for an FFA Cup date at South West Phoenix.

“It’s proven in every league around the world that you need depth if you want to compete for silverware,” Dunn said.   “We’ve got two games in three days coming up and the quality we’ve got at Inglewood throughout the squad will give Taki (Nicolaidis) the chance to rotate his players if needed, that’s not a luxury every coach has.”

Balcatta have done it tough this year, losing five of their six games to date, but Dunn says that will mean nothing come Saturday.   “There’s no room for complacency in this league; any team can beat you on their day,” he said.   “We certainly won’t be taking Balcatta lightly.   Our preparation will be the same as every other game.”

“If any added incentive to get the win was needed then the fact a few of us, myself included, are ex-Balcatta players will provide it.   We’re coming off a good win (3-0 over Floreat Athena) and the lads are very confident at the moment.   Everyone will work for one another to ensure we get a win against Balcatta.”

Dunn has no doubt Inglewood will be in tip top condition when they step out onto the field in Bunbury on Monday.   “It can be a big ask to back-up a Saturday game with another only a few days later,” said the goalkeeper.   “But I know Taki will be organising ice baths after the Balcatta game to best prepare us.”

“The FFA Cup is probably the highest exposure for players at our level.   Travelling to Sydney with Perth SC last year was a great experience and to have that opportunity again with this group would be brilliant.   There’s depth and hunger for success in the playing group … we all are looking forward to both games this weekend.”

National Premier Leagues, Round 2

Balcatta vs Inglewood United
Saturday 26 March @ Grindleford Reserve

Kick-off times

First team 3.00pm
Under-20s 1.00pm
Under-18s 11.00am

FFA Cup, Round 4

First team
South West Phoenix vs Inglewood United
Monday 28 March @ Hay Park Multi Sports Pavillion, Bunbury, kick-off 3pm

Under-20s
Perth SC vs Inglewood United
Monday 28 March @ Dorrien Gardens, kick-off 12.45pm

Under-18s
Perth SC vs Inglewood United
Monday 28 March @ Dorrien Gardens, kick-off 10.30am