Work colleagues Michael Garcia and John Gibson will be in opposing corners when Inglewood United takes on Perth Glory in this weekend’s National Premier Leagues round. Inglewood boss Garcia works as a Community Development officer with Glory, whose youngsters are under the tutelage of Gibson, but those friendships will turn to rivalries at Inglewood Stadium on Saturday (3.00pm).

Garcia said he and Gibson regularly talk football before admitting his sole focus this weekend is on getting three points for his team. “I’m close to Gibbo and constantly try to seek his guidance and advice about coaching and football in general,” he told perthglory.com.au. “But of course we need to win to get our season going, so we need to have that mindset.”

Gibson is of much the same opinion. “Michael is a good friend and colleague, and we catch up frequently for a coffee and chat to discuss all things football,” Gibson said. “The banter has already started, but all in good fun. Both sides and coaching staff are competitive and we’re both looking forward to the game.”

The opening rounds of the new season have been anything but smooth sailing for Inglewood. The team responded to a poor display on day one by showing what they are made of through spirited performances against Perth SC, NPL champions Bayswater City and Balcatta, each of which was rewarded with a share of points.

“It’s been a frustrating start to the season, but after a poor first game we rebounded to draw against Perth, Bayswater and Balcatta,” he explained. “We showed in those games we are capable of matching it with the best, however, we need to more clinical in front of goal to reward the good lead up work and convert the performances into results.”

Photo Courtesy of Perth Glory FC