Under-20s coach Chris Finlayson is pleased with how his squad is shaping up for the 2019 National Premier Leagues.   The Under-20s hit the training track for the first time in early October and, now a fortnight out from the start of the season, Finlayson is seeing the fruits of those labours.

“We are extremely happy with the squad and the level of commitment shown by all the players,” Finlayson commented.   “It’s been a long pre-season and it’s been extremely pleasing to see the lads take ownership of the structures and disciplines, and they are starting to become the strong squad that we hoped for.”

“Pre-season games have been the focus of last six weeks.   What’s happening on the training ground is starting to be reflected on the park and we are challenging the players on different ideas.   Things are improving with every game and we can see that we’re heading in the right direction.”

“From the start we have been building strength in multiple positions and we now have depth in all areas and that competition for spots, which is creating a few starting line-up headaches assistant coach Keegan Greipl  and myself … those pre-game selection conversations are getting longer.”

Finlayson would like nothing more than to win a trophy for Inglewood this year, however, the coach also has a big picture view of his role.   “All squads set their goals to win the league but you have to be mindful to not focus too much on the end goal but make sure you tick all the boxes along the way,” he explained.

“At the end of the day we are here to get this group of lads ready for first team football and to build for the club of the future.   A few of the lads experienced some first team football during the Night Series and that’s great for their development, which is what it’s about at this level … but it would be nice to finish top of the league too.”