Heracles begin promotion push with trip to VVV-Venlo
Vincent Heilmann says results must now justify a positive pre-season as Heracles Almelo open their Keuken Kampioen Divisie campaign with three players unavailable.
Heracles Almelo will start their new Keuken Kampioen Divisie season away to VVV-Venlo on Friday evening, with head coach Vincent Heilmann making an immediate return to the Eredivisie the club’s stated objective.
Heilmann will be without injured pair Rhys Bozinovski and Mimeirhel Benita for the opening fixture. Luka Kulenovic is also unavailable as he serves the final match of a suspension imposed after his red card away to Telstar last season.
The coach nevertheless believes Heracles are well equipped for the campaign. He described the squad as broad, with two options in every position and relatively little difference in level between the players. Heilmann also highlighted the value of completing the group early in pre-season, which allowed his staff to introduce and develop tactical patterns without repeatedly returning to the basics.
Heracles’ preparations have been encouraging, but Heilmann cautioned that pre-season performances will carry little weight once competitive football begins. He said the experienced squad understands the demands of a full campaign and welcomed the strong travelling support for the opener in Venlo. The club reported that the away section is sold out as Heracles begin their push for promotion.
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- Heilmann blikt vooruit op competitiestart: "Uiteindelijk tellen de resultaten" - Heracles Almelo— Heracles Almelo Official
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