Tara Murray
Point Cook Centrals may sit undefeated after six rounds of the Western Region Football League division 2 season, but they aren’t getting ahead of themselves.
After finishing second bottom last season, the Centrals have made massive improvements in the opening rounds.
Coach Dean Chambers said they were continuing to focus on the task ahead of them each week.
“You don’t hand out medals in May,” he said.
“It’s been a good start considering last year when we were second last and the reserves were middle of the road.
“Our seniors, reserves and women’s teams are all undefeated. There’s a good vibe around the club with a lot of juniors watching week by week.”
Chambers said while the on field results were good, it was about getting the things off field right first.
He said the club had made a real focus of being an inclusive club, and setting a strong culture right from the start.
“There’s been a whole culture shift and it’s about leaving the egos at the door. We’re playing some good footy and getting good numbers at training, Winning helps too.”
On Saturday, the Centrals had a big win against a struggling West Footscray side. Centrals won, 37.15 (237)-6.7 (43).
Aaron Williams kicked eight goals, while Lachlan Grant and Daniel Strnak chipped in with six goals each.
Chambers said in matches like that it can be difficult to stay focused.
“Credit to West Footscray, they were a little undermanned but they were able to fight out the game.
“We still had a decent side in as we didn’t want to flirt with our form.
“We got through unscathed and have pretty much a full side to pick from this week.”
Chambers said one of the strengths this season had been the spread of goalkickers, with 13 players hitting the scoreboard on Saturday.
The big test comes this week for the Centrals, who face Parkside which is also undefeated.
Chambers said that while the match would give them a good opportunity to see where they were at, it was all part of the process.
“We had set a target of playing finals this year,” he said.
“It’s been a real team effort and it’s taken us a good four to five weeks to gel.
“It just gives the club a bit of belief. We talk about opportunities every week, and every week is an opportunity to get better.
“Icing on the cake is hitting the scoreboard the way we are.”
