GSL Preview: Ergotelis looks to stay out of red-zone

The Greek Super League (GSL) is only a day away; and here at the Greece Blog we’re counting down the days to kickoff of the 2008/2009 season with a preview for each of the sixteen clubs comprising Greece’s top level of football.

Last year, Ergotelis narrowly avoid relegation and the side from Crete is hoping they won’t cut it that close again this year. The Cretans haven’t been to active this offseason. Several players have left Pangkritio, but management has worked hard to ensure there are no holes in the roster. Despite replacing them, it seems the talent levels of those departing players couldn’t be retained.

One of the players leaving Ergotelis is Ioannis Koiliaras, who has joined Panionios for the next four years. MLS star Clint Mathis has also left the club, as the 31-year old has returned to the United States to join Real Salt Lake. Greek prospect, Nikos Karelis, was snapped up by Premier League club Arsenal and therefore his days in Greece have run dry.

Arrivals in Crete have seen the team add depth to the roster, with Rogerio joining from Asteras Tripolis, as well as Georgios Vakouftsis who joins from Cypriot cub AC Omonia. Dimitrios Orfanos caps the list of notable arrivals, after the 25-year old left PAOK for Crete.

However, if Ergotelis are going to succeed this upcoming season it seems one player will be responsible for the feat. That player has been the face of the club and with his pace and skill has scored many crucial goals for Ergotelis. Although eleven players play the game, striker Ogunsoto will play a critical role on the pitch for the Cretan club; it’s a lot to ask of player who seems to have limited reinforcements in attack.

When kickoff comes this weekend, Ergotelis will be hoping the first hurdle – a trip to Komotini to play Panthrakikos – won’t be too far out of a reach. Favorites to take the plunge into the second tier this coming May, Ergotelis will need a strong start to the season if they are to quiet their critics.