Frankston have brought to an end a 22 game losing streak, recording their first win of the 2011 season. After giving the Northern Bullants a scare in round eight, Frankston went a step further against fellow winless side Coburg as they took the points, and lifted themselves from the bottom of the Peter Jackson Melbourne VFL ladder.
While Simon Goosey was relieved to bring up the sides first win of the season, the 22 game losing streak had not been a focus for the club.
“It was good (the win), but we have never been too concerned about how many loses we have had. I know you like to win, but it is more (getting right) the direction we are going in with the group.
“We have never lost focus on where we are heading and a win is always good, and hopefully there is plenty more.”
After a 16 point loss against second placed Northern Bullants, the Dolphins were full of confidence heading into their round eight clash against Coburg – the last team they had beat in round two, 2010. Despite the positive signs that were brought out of the Bullants game, Goosey believes the turnaround for his side started on the training track after the Port Melbourne defeat in round six.
“The week we had on the track after the Port Melbourne game was the turning point on our efforts. We were terrible that game and we had a very pressing week on the track and since then we have put things in place, and it seems to be working a lot better.”
One player that continues to stand out for Frankston this year despite their results is ruckman Russell Gabriel. The Dolphins big man has had to face some pretty tough competition, but has been up to the challenge.
“Russell was fantastic (against Coburg). I always sing his praises and I know a few recruiters say that he might be a couple of centimetres short, but he has taken on all before him this year,” Goosey said.
“He took on David Hille when we faced Bendigo Bombers and he broke even with him, if not beat him on the day, and then he played against Angus Graham on the weekend who has played a lot of senior AFL football, and Russell was fantastic.”
Amongst the best for the Dolphins against Coburg was 23rd player Lachlan Wallace, in an unfamiliar role for the Dandenong Stingray.
“He has been used down back for the Stingrays, and he was up forward for us and kicked two goals and presented really well,” Goosey said.
After their first win of the season, Goosey is not worried that his team has a bye this weekend.
“I don’t mind it so much with the young group that we play four or five games, then we have a break.
“It is not too bad, as we have been going flat out since October the 20th so it gives them a chance to recharge their batteries.”
Frankston will face North Ballarat after the break, and with the likes of Clint Proctor and Paul Rogasch on the road to recovery from injury and returning via the reserves, Goosey is slowly beginning to get his full side on the park, which will put some pressure on his senior group come selection night.
Last Modified on 24/05/2011 18:00