The competition between Inglewood United and Balcatta is driven by similarities rather than differences according to coach Michael Garcia. Inglewood are away to Balcatta in Saturday’s Rivalry Round, where Garcia expects a fast-paced encounter. “Our style is very similar (to Balcatta’s) in that we like to play a passing brand of football,” said Garcia.

Garcia said his team is mindful of Balcatta’s attacking threat. “They’ve got quality players and match-winners who can break games open with individual brilliance,” he said. “We need to be mindful that one of their players could break the game open at any moment with some individual talent.”

Balcatta boss Ramon Falzon says despite Inglewood going winless over the opening five games of the season, he never doubted their capabilities. “For Michael (Garcia) it was hard because they didn’t win a game,” he commented. “Watching them play from my side, I could see it was just a matter of time until they started winning.”

Falzon said the rivalry between the two clubs was amicable, and that he enjoyed the sportsmanship both sides showed each other. “From our side, there isn’t a hatred towards Inglewood,” he said. “Both last year and this year since I’ve been at Balcatta, the games between us and Inglewood were never dirty games.”

However, Falzon still expects a spirited contest against the visitors, who drew 1-1 with Balcatta when they met earlier in the season. “They’re always a tough opponent to beat, and it’s always a very competitive game,” he said. Inglewood travels to Grindleford Reserve to play Balcatta on Saturday, kick-off is 3.00pm.

Written by Alasdair Beer, originally appeared on nplwa.com.au, 14 July 2015.