OFI started the 2019-20 Greek Super League season full of vigour and endeavour. The Cretans stunned the league as they occupied a spot in the upper echelons of the ladder in the first half of the season. Giorgos Simos excelled in his first job as a head coach, and the team’s youngsters and clever foreign recruits were hard to stop.

However, as expected with any surprise package, OFI have eventually slumped. That said, they are still well placed to clinch a spot in the top half of the ladder to compete in the playoffs and avoid relegation.

A few weeks ago, they lost 2-0 at Asteras Tripolis in what was their seventh loss in 10 matches. It was also their seventh straight away loss from Heraklion. To their credit, the ship was steadied to an extent as they have picked up five points from the ensuing four matches - a win over Panionios on the road to arrest their poor away record, a loss against Olympiacos, and draws against Xanthi and Larissa.

Amongst those poor results, they also exited the Greek Cup at the round of 16 stage, bowing out to reigning champions PAOK 7-1 on aggregate.

Moving forward, the Cretans can take comfort in the fact they have beaten fellow top-six sides Panathinaikos, AEK, and Aris already this season. This could act as a psychological boost when it gets even tougher in the remaining weeks of the regular season.

However, when assessing OFI’s efforts to date, it is worth noting they barely held onto their top-flight status last season, edging fellow Cretans Platanias in the all-important playoff match (courtesy of a late goal deep in stoppage time). It is, therefore, essential to have a sense of realism when looking at this season’s goals.

The fact that they are still pursuing a European spot, instead of battling relegation speaks volumes of the work Simos has done in his first season as a manager. Were they a victim of their success at the start of the season?

From here, OFI should look to build on their own identity by maintaining a high pressing game, close and sharp passes, and a quick recovery when losing possession. Maintaining their top-flight status and consolidating their place among the country’s best does not happen overnight. Instead, hard work is required. The summer transfer window will also present OFI with an excellent opportunity to reassess and strengthen where necessary (an experienced, tough-tackling centre-back with leadership qualities will not go astray).

credits: www.agonasport.com