North Shore
How their year went
The Bombers started strongly with five wins on the trot. A loss in Round 6 to bogey side UTS proved only a hiccup as apart from a Round 10 loss to St George would sit in a position to claim the minor premiership against Manly-Warringah in the last week of the regular season. Unfortunately for them, they lost that game and their two finals games to bow out in Week 2 of the Finals.
What they need
Depth. Injuries had a big impact on their season but they lacked the cattle in the Reserves unlike the other top sides to be able to cater for this. Sam Carruthers will need more support in the midfield next year. More depth in the forward line to support Daniel Roberts would be helpful as well.
Shining lights
By far and away it would be Carruthers. He had his most dominant year in Premier Division, going within a whisker of claiming the Phelan Medal from Tyrone Armitage. The small midfielder found plenty of the ball and alongside Jared Shattock are the best players on North Shore’s list.
Season defining moment
The final round against Manly-Warringah. In a perfect hit-out before the finals, North Shore struggled to hit the scoreboard and handle the relentless pressure from the Wolves. Despite a great game against Pennant Hills in the Elimination Semi they went from potential minor premiers to again bowing out in straight sets.
Players on the rise
Young talent is pivotal to them remaining in the top five next year. Lachlan Hayres showed glimpses of his talent and his credentials as an under-age star. Jack Davis also did some good things and has the skills to take the next step. Jake Monk is another in this category.
Grade
B-
You have to take injuries into account before jumping on the Bombers’ back in what was a sad case of déjà vu given where they finished last year. Disappointing exit nonetheless.
2014 prediction
North Shore need to be active in the recruitment market to try and counter for a lack of depth. They did lose some decent players to Manly-Warringah but still have a solid core to ensure they will be thereabouts in 2014.
Last Modified on 27/09/2013 12:08
