Brunswick City’s scintillating start to the season has not gone unnoticed, certainly raising an eyebrow or two. The Spartans – previous competition cellar dwellers – have now recorded four wins and two draws from their opening seven games, placing them third on the NPL2 East ladder.
There have been many impressive performances by George Karkaletsis’ men, who have shown immense passion and desire on the pitch. One man replicating those traits is winger Dimitri Vithoulkas, who has been somewhat of a revelation for Brunswick this year, scoring three goals and assisting two.
“This season has been extremely enjoyable, we’re third on the ladder and in our highest position ever as an NPL club,” Vithoulkas said.
“It’s good to see the club in such an improved position , with both seniors and 20’s playing great football and picking up important results.
“I think we are in for a good year, thumbs up to the club and everyone involved – let’s continue on.”
The culture at Dunstan Reserve has taken a turn for the better this year, creating a great spirit amongst the club.
Vithoulkas believes that the club is making continuous steps to improve from juniors up to seniors.
“Whether it’s the committee, the players or the supporters everyone’s committed, everyone wants to be part of Brunswick this year,” he said.
“We are all as one this year, the players, the committee, and that’s why everything is coming together so well.”
The 24-year-old has been an unsung hero this year. His influence has been vital to the success of the club so far this season, with his ability to beat players, create and finish all playing a part in helping his side secure 14 points thus far.
He is a player who combines his talent with passion and gives everything for the jersey. Vithoulkas began his footballing career as a Brunswick junior and has fallen in love with the club ever since.
While Vithoulkas has played at several other clubs within Victoria, his love for Leonidas has always stayed with him.
Vithoulkas’s talent has not gone unnoticed in the last three seasons at Brunswick, with his technical ability and eye for goal attracting numerous clubs within Victoria for the winger’s signature – although his sights are only set on Brunswick.
“I’ve had the chance to go to other clubs and play but I have decided to stay at Brunswick because firstly, you’re playing in a competitive league, and secondly, Brunswick has a vision and I want to be part of it,” he said.
“A lot of players chase money but you can’t chase loyalty, I’d rather play at a club and enjoy myself anything above that is a bonus.”
With Brunswick third on the ladder and breathing down the necks of Kingston, a surprise push for promotion could be on the cards.
It isn’t impossible, and while there is somewhat of a football miracle taking place now with Leicester looking to cash in on the English Premier League, could Brunswick be this year’s surprise package?
“The club would of course love to get promoted such as any other club would, as a playing group we are taking it one game at a time,” Vithoulkas said.
“Of course football is unpredictable, nobody can predict how it’s going to go, so in the meantime let’s just keep up this form and enjoy playing good football.”
Vithoulkas and Brunswick city travel to George Andrew’s reserve this Saturday for a mouth-watering clash against Dandenong Thunder.
“Dandenong have gone seven straight, of course it’s going to be a battle, we will continue to play our game and we will be smart about what we do,” he said.
Image: Mark Avellino