Newly appointed Under-18s coach Chris Finlayson has been delighted with the reaction he has received since taking the reins little over a month ago.   New Zealand-born Finlayson has been sharpening the skills and minds of the next generation of Inglewood United players as an assistant coach since the start of the year.

The 44-year old stepped into the head coach role in late May, following the resignation of Brad Rushton.   In six games at the helm Finlayson has guided his young team to four wins and two losses, moving them to fifth on the ladder and just two points outside the top four.

“It’s been great to see the players responding to a new structure, discipline and – most of all – the desire to fight for their results,” commented Finlayson.   “I’m trying to instil the belief, work ethic and desire as I had as a player and that passion is starting to rub off on the lads.”

“When I joined the club at the beginning of the season, being a new squad, they were playing more as individuals rather than a team.   We have now evolved into a cohesive, hard-working unit focusing on attitudes, desire and a winning mentality which is slowly resulting in positive outcomes.”

“I’m excited to be part of the players’ journeys and can already see some fantastic young talent coming through.   Through hard work, a greater self-belief and an understanding of what club and personal pride is all about, I can only imagine what the future holds for us as a club.”