 His first match against South Melbourne FC at Knights Stadium attracted a record 11,500 people; unfortunately the side was thrashed 4–0.The 2000/01 season was the most successful season during this period, a season that saw the return of championship players Andrew Marth, Steve Horvat and Ljubo Lapsanksy after the early season disbanding of Carlton SC.Coach and club legend Vlado Vanis led the side.