Oakleigh sits second on the Victorian Premier League behind Richmond, and coach John Anastasiadis says it was a great opportunity for the players to show their talents.

"It was a good thing for the boys. You never know, some players might get a look in down the track [to play for Melbourne Heart].

"We gave some of the younger boys a go ... it's a good chance for them to rub shoulders with guys who have played overseas and at national level, and who have won championships."

Heart fielded their strongest side and included former Oakleigh Cannons star midfielder Nick Kalmar, who becomes Melbourne Heart's 19th foundation player after signing a one-year deal.

A member of Altona Magic's triumphant back-to- back VPL championship sides in 2008 and 2009, the 22-year-old Kalmar has impressed Heart coach John van't Schip during the 2010 season.

Anastasiadis is thrilled for Kalmar, saying; "he's a quality player and I think he is technically the best player in the VPL."

Van't Schip said Kalmar would provide the Heart squad with added depth to the midfield.

"In a professional environment, I really think he can grow in to a quality player in Australia and play a very important role for us this season.

"Nick has been training with the club for some time, which has also given him a great chance to prove to us that he deserves a chance and has the capacity to make the leap to the Hyundai A-League.

"Importantly, we would also like to thank the Oakleigh Cannons for their role in ensuring Nick has been able to pursue his dream and play at the elite level."