Reds aim for strong kick-off

La Fiamma will open their 2018 Consolidated Energy Amateur League division 3 campaign away to Stirling Lions on Sunday at Macedonia Park.

After a solid pre-season overseen by first team striker Adriano Rossi, the Reds are determined to begin strongly and ease any relegation fears early.

Along with a series of friendlies against Mid West Soccer Association clubs, the Reds also played a thrilling 3-3 draw against Brazilian-born side Brozzy SC.

Training has been an arduous twice a week, with a solid blend of match simulation and gym circuits, with strong numbers across the first and reserve team.

Reds president Mark Gray said he was confident of gaining a positive result against the Lions, who are a notoriously enigmatic opposition from year to year.

Both sides split their meetings last season, winning each of their encounters at home.

The Lions ended last season on a downward spiral over the final two months, going from mid-table to narrowly avoiding relegation.

Gray said he was happy a number of new players were settling in at the club and were being supported by their teammates.

All home matches will be held at the Salvatore Sciuto Stadium, with kick-off times again at 6pm.

For Reds fans who are also keen to follow the Quadrio Earthmoving Geraldton Buccaneers down the road at Activewest Stadium, the first five home games are held on the same night as the basketball — with all home games post-round 16 not currently clashing (subject to the SBL finals series).