Campbelltown
How their year went
The Blues were always behind the eight-ball losing their first three matches before opening their account against Sydney Hills Eagles in Round 4. Lost four consecutive games again from Rounds 6 to 9 before a much improved showing in the back half of the season where they beat and at least troubled a number of finals outfits. Finished with a 50% win-loss record in seventh position.
What they need
The back end of the season should indicate they are well and truly on the right track. Retaining their players will be key and another experienced class ball user through the middle would help in bringing on their younger brigade.
Shining lights
Matthew Edwins led the side very well this season after coming back from Sydney Hills. He is one of the under-rated players in the competition with his ability to go into the middle and also hit the scoreboard regularly across half-forward. Amua Pirika was the most exciting player of the competition and set up a number of attacking raids across half-back.
Season defining moment
Finals was always a tough ask given their slow start to the season. Their Round 11 match against Pennant Hills signalled a drastic change for the better. They lost by five points but the result gave the squad the inner-belief to defeat North Shore next week by two points away from home, and then beat three other sides placed higher on the ladder before the end of 2013.
Players on the rise
A number of players fit into this category. Taran Etto is a jet who has GIANTS eyes on him. Paul Green took another step in his development this year as a crafty forward pocket who should look to go into the midfield more in 2014.
Grade
B
To put it simply, the side finished the year much better than they started it. For a club that has tasted little success in several years they should be tickled pink with the development of the squad under AFL Sydney Coach of the Year, Neil Brunton.
2014 prediction
The club should continue its upward curve and challenge for finals in 2014. Will win more games than they lose.
Last Modified on 30/09/2013 13:02
