Sydney University
Final position
Fifth- 7 wins, 10 losses, 1 draw
Snapshot
The Students announced themselves as a contender with three wins in the opening month, before May saw them register only one draw against UTS- with three of their losses being a total of 26 points combined. They limped into the finals despite two big losses to Pennant Hills and Manly-Warringah in the final fortnight. They refound their mojo with an Elimination Final win over Western Suburbs, which along with their Round 14 triumph would go down as they best wins of the campaign. Their last hurrah would be their 21-point Semi-Final loss to St George the following week.
What worked
Greater depth and a dedicated recruitment drive made work much easier for first-year coach, Anton Turco. Turco did a great job with his troops with a clear game plan and the third best defensive record in the competition. They were able to get out of the blocks early in the season with a better pre-season than most clubs. They had strong leadership with Jack Caspersonn and Glenn Smith leading by example. They were able to blood some good youngsters and finally looked like a side befitting of Premier Division for the first time since the club was admitted into the NEAFL competition.
What failed
Sydney University lacked a bit in attack and this probably cost them wins in a three week stretch from Rounds 10-12, as well as some others. They only beat one top-five side in Western Suburbs despite going close against sides higher than them on the ladder. Their lower-tier players also got found out on the big stage but there were fewer of these this year compared to previous seasons.
MVP: Glenn Smith
Smith was a Mr Fixit for Turco with his ability to play key defence and also play outside his weight division in the ruck. Made the interchange on the AFL Sydney Team of the Year. He also kicked nine goals for 2014. Caspersonn, Sam Sleigh and Evan Smith (42 goals) will also figure prominently in Sydney University’s Best and Fairest count.
Surprise packet: Sam Sleigh
Last year you could find Sleigh on a Division Four team sheet at Sydney University. The youngster has taken his game to another level this season. Apparently the nicest guy off the field, he is anything but on the field with his tenacity and sheer will to win effusive in the way he played the game. He won his own ball and used it well down back and in the midfield in 2014, dividing his time between Premier Division and even in the NEAFL side.
Low point
Sydney University knew they had to win their final round match against Manly-Warringah to seal an Elimination Final berth but didn’t give a yelp, not managing a goal in their 92-point loss at a soggy Henson Park. Fortunately for them, they still made the finals due to UNSW/ES surprise loss to East Coast. The loss was character building as they bounced back to defeat Western Suburbs the following week.
What do they need to improve?
Building the pipeline must continue to be a focus given they are now the only NEAFL club with AFL Sydney representation. They have most lines covered but need more forward support to Evan Smith who would be pushing for a NEAFL berth in 2015. Another key defender would also take the pressure off Jacob Swarts. Another good ball user in the midfielder should also be a focus.
Grade: B+
Interestingly, the Students won more games in the 2013 regular season than this year which you could attribute to less depth in the Premier Division competition. Their higher ladder finish and playing finals must mean that this year was a more than a pass mark for their Premier Division side. They have a better direction and the cattle on-field and off-field to take them forward.
Last Modified on 13/10/2014 09:41
