Despite the encouraging positives that we took out of our previous defeat to Gippsland Power, we are now faced with the harsh reality of being placed at the bottom of the ladder. Whilst last weekends bye gave the boys an opportunity to return to their local clubs, the Vic. Country Training Squad met for their second training session.
On board the rented Toyota Tarago, the Rebel’s representatives were driven by our Regional Manager Phil ‘Pistol’ Partington to the Quest Apartments in Flemington. Spending a night with our new team mates was a great opportunity to mix and to get to know each other a little better. ‘Carbo’ loading was a feature of a much anticipated dinner which saw some of the bigger fellas help themselves to up to three platefuls!
A team meeting followed as coach Robert ‘Hydey’ Hyde instructed us on our team set-ups and the teams were announced for the next days scratch match. Hydey emphasised that a group of passionate and hard working country boys will have what it takes to beat a more flashy and talented Metro team.
Nick Suban was branded with his new nickname, ‘Freddy’ after Hydey recalled a somewhat embarrassing moment endured by his old man when the two were team mates.
Breakfast was served on a dewy Saturday morning before making the short trip to Victoria Park for our much awaited session. Off the fence and full ground drills were undertaken with skill and intensity levels high, I definitely felt that the pace was a big step up to the already fast TAC competition.
Match practice consisting of two 25 minute halves allowing the squad to put our team set ups and tactics into practice. Everybody was keen to impress knowing that a spot in the team could be very tight. This without doubt placed added pressure on us to perform and play to our ability.
Heading to watch our Roosters play at Port Melbourne, our Regional Manager was keen to showcase his knowledge and experience in the Melbourne CBD. Known for his tricks in the traffic, a simple U-turn was all that was required to avoid the stagnant football traffic ahead. Only to realise that he had failed to avoid a “moving” parking meter, now wedged in the front grill of our hire car! Apparently it was ‘camouflaged’ into the road; despite it being directly in front of his vision… we’ll take his word for it. A statement was made by Mr. Partington immediately after the incident but unfortunately had to be edited for public consumption.
After arriving back to AUSTAR Arena, the boys wished Parto all the best as he faced the music inside Budget Rentals’ office. However the real focus on our minds is avenging our previous losses as we aim to dismantle a very talented Northern Knights outfit. Hopefully our passionate play and home ground advantage will see us back on the winner’s list.
Until next week!
Last Modified on 08/02/2009 16:21