"Five games into the new season now and, despite just one victory, there are definite positives to be drawn that should give us encouragement.Our solitary win was a comeback victory from one-nil down and that’s always particularly satisfying. Also, we’ve had a number of new good quality players join this season much to the benefit of the strength of the squad. However, there’s no disguising the fact that 4 defeats in 5 games is disappointing. Twice we’ve been trounced which is never a nice feeling but two narrow defeats, both 2-1 against the same opposition, is even more frustrating.
We’ve identified there’s not much to choose between most teams in our league so it’s particularly important for us to score points against other teams of the same level. We cannot simply trust to luck or hope that things will go our way, it’s a sharper edge and increased effort that will deliver what we are capable of.
Somehow, we’ve allowed the opposition, such as Munchen, to win more of the ball, control the game and win the match. I urge us all as a collective not to allow the opposition to gain control in such a way. If we are genuinely outplayed then we must accept the need to improve our skill level or adjust tactically.
Often, our main issue is the need to show greater desire and strive to achieve the best result. Recent results, three defeats in three competitions, have not been a true reflection of our abilities. Our target remains as at the beginning of the season, we are a ‘top-half’ team. Ten to fifteen percent extra all-round in terms of determination and belief should result in a winning run to put us back on track.
This league is no easy ride but I’ve no doubt we can meet the challenge."
