Collective mindset for Brothers
BROTHERS have suffered a major turnover in players over the past month, but coach Steve Mcnaughton has backed the collective focus of his side to get it across the line against Warriors in the qualifying final.
Both Emily Benton and Xanthe Dumbrell will miss the finals series after they were deployed for duty, while Darcee Bailey is at long odds to return from a back injury.
While most sides enjoyed a week’s rest leading into the finals, Mcnaughton put his troops through their paces over the past fortnight, as he attempted to rework combinations.
The seasoned coach was confident his troops could book their spot in the grand final in three weeks’ time.
“It has actually come up pretty well, such is the adaptability of the players,” Mcnaughton said.
Instead of moments of flashy brilliance, the premiership-winning coach had put the focus on individual roles that supported the team. “I would think it is as a collective, that is the only way we get across the line,” he said.
“What we have done really well across this season and the last couple is worked hard. We worked hard across the park, no one wants to let anyone down and it remains true.”
Mcnaughton was at 1300SMILES Active Park on Friday night to watch a historic moment for the club as its two women’s reserve grade outfits, which he oversaw this season, played off for a grand final spot.
It doubled as a scouting mission, with Mcnaughton likely to use the game to determine which players he brings up to his bench for Saturday’s semi-final.
Warriors have also suffered mixed fortunes in the final rounds, with two wins and two losses from their final month of football.
In the elimination final, MA Olympic will play against fourthplaced Saints Eagles South.