Warriors yet to choose

New coach unlikely before transfer window opens

NORTH Geelong will go into its third match under interim coach Nathan Rogers still with no clear decision on the club’s long-term coaching structure.

The Warriors have had several applicants for the job, including Rogers himself, and is eager to appoint someone before the NPL transfer window opens on Monday.

But it is looking less likely that deadline will be met.

North Geelong officials have kept an open dialogue with Rogers on the direction it is looking to take, with youth development a top priority for all parties involved.

The delay in appointing has not been easy on Rogers, but he is pleased the club is not rushing the decision.

“Whatever we do affects more than just the senior team with me coming up from the youth,” Rogers said.

“If we bring another coach in, do I go back down? Then the players lose that familiar face again. It’s a good thing they’re taking their time but on the other hand the senior team needs some stability and I’m sure the club is ready to give that very shortly.

“I was put in place to just steady the ship and the ship’s steady so let’s get the oars in the water and drive forward.”

The Warriors turn their attention today to Murray United at Elcho Park in what is a massive chance for them to make it two wins in a row — something that has not been achieved since Round 4.

Rogers is adamant his side can build on last week’s win, with the continual focus on structure the main discussion point at training.

“I don’t think there’s an opportunity, I think there’s no doubt we’ve got three points in our team this week,” he said.

“Without the structure it’s just a mess. If we can improve on the structure from last week then we will improve on our opportunities to score.

“I strongly believe you can’t coach players to attack that final third of the pitch — it’s an area where they need to know how to score.”

Andrew Scicluna will remain higher up the pitch after previously filling the void at right back under former coach Luciano Trani — a decision Rogers disagreed with.

“With all respect to the past coaches, Andy’s a midfielder. I would personally never play Andy in my backline,” he said.

Darius Madison (ankle) is the Warriors’ only injury concern, with a decision to be made closer to today’s 3pm start time.