Things are heating up on the training track as players strive to convince new coach Michael Garcia they’re deserving of a spot in his starting eleven. Inglewood United’s first game under Garcia – a Night Series clash with Armadale – is just over a fortnight away and defender Shane Pickering says the tempo and intensity at training has increased accordingly as the season opener approaches.
“Since returning from our Christmas break the players have stamped their foot on the pedal and we are well underway for a promising year, with Michael and (assistant coach) Victor Sikora in the driving seat,” Pickering enthused. “For everyone to be fit and sharp so early in the year is a massive positive, and the enthusiasm within the team at training has been excellent.”
Inglewood comes into 2015 with a renewed sense of purpose thanks to an astute recruitment drive which has revitalised the playing roster. “There is no doubt Michael has brought in some great talent,” commented Pickering, whose new teammates include Aleks Vrtestki, Jovo Pavlovic and Rikki Smith. “As a result there’s a much better balance to the squad and increased competition for spots.”
“Last year we continually had players playing out of their preferred positions,” the defender explained. “But at the minute we have two or three worthy candidates for all eleven spots on the field. Everyone knows that each session is an opportunity to impress the coaches and this creates an intense, intrinsically motivated environment for the players.”
“This has to be the most depth we’ve had in the side since I’ve been at Inglewood,” added Pickering, who has been part of the first team set-up since 2012. “The best teams in the world have depth with the players on the bench just as good as anyone on the park, that’s the way we’re looking … the Night Series will give us a good idea of where we stand.”
Pickering has set the bar high for himself this winter. “Obviously, I want to be in that starting eleven week in-week out,” he said. “But this year I don’t want to be just another player on the park, I want to be someone who has a real impact on games. Over the past two seasons, getting regular first team football, I’ve developed into a much more confident player in this league.”
And as for what Inglewood will achieve this year? “The top four is a realistic goal for this squad,” Pickering commented. “New coaches, expanded goals, a developed philosophy, fresh talent and an enthusiastic, competitive environment – bring on 2015!” Inglewood’s Night Series campaign commences on Sunday 8th February with a 5.00pm kick-off against Armadale at Litis Stadium.
