Basin have eyes set on finals

Coached by Paul Cubbo, the Dragons will open this season against grand finalists Gerringong – a challenge they are looking forward to.

“The pre-season has been good until the lousy weather set in recently,” Cubbo said.

“We've been getting good numbers to sessions and the guys are keen to get the season started against the Breakers.”

While Basin did not fare well on the table in all three grades last year, Cubbo insists the club will build on last year’s performances.

“Despite out finishing spots, every team we played against commented on how competitive we were in every game last season,” he said.

“This season we will be wiser from the experience gained and our aim is to win the close games that eluded us last year and qualify for the finals.”

The task if making finals could be a hard one, with Cubbo without the services of a number of last season’s stars.

“We've lost our key holding midfielder Jordan Thorncroft who's heading off to England in late May, but we have a couple of potential replacements, as some of the young guys we blooded last season are looking really promising at training,” he said.

“One in particular will be Connor McQueen who has recovered well from breaking his ankle in the first game last season.

“Our biggest concern though is not having a recognised first grade keeper as both Steven King and Colin Crangle have suffered long term injuries.

“We will also be without two seasoned key players for the first three games due to suspensions carrying over from the last game of 2016.”

Despite these issues, Cubbo believes he can get the best out of his team as coach

“As a coach, my job is to try and improve the ability and skills of my players so that they are constantly improving” he said.

“This then creates a competitive atmosphere where each grade puts pressure on the grade above them to perform.

“Our style, in all grades, will be a continuation of last years attacking and pressing play - but with an emphasis on converting many more of the opportunities we create.

“I also like to have a laugh with the guys and encourage lighter moments at training - after all we are all involved in football because we enjoy it.”

The Dragons will host the Breakers on Saturday at St Georges Basin Sporting Complex from 3.15pm