MUSWELLBROOK Eagles president Andrew Spradbrow is predicting the local football club will bounce back to form in 2016.
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After a disappointing season, which only ended six months ago, the Eagles are determined to reclaim a spot in the top echelon of the Zone League 2 competition.
And, Spradbrow believes he has the players to do just that.
“It’s been hard the past few years,” he said.
“Shiftwork affects us badly and, while it’s still a bit of an issue, we might be okay this time around.
“First grade went through a rebuilding phase in 2015 – there were a lot of young fellas in the side, and both teams finished second last on the ladder.
“However, I believe we’ll push for a trophy this season.
“We’ve picked up a couple of guys, who previously played with us, and kept the core group.
“We’re also expecting the likes of Josh Adams, Shawn Honeysett, Brodern Adam-Smith and Jayden Galvin to really step up.
“We’ll definitely have two solid squads when the competition starts in April.”
Another coup for the Eagles is prized signing Lachlan Nicol.
“He’s played at the highest level, State League, for Weston and Maitland,” Spradbrow told the Chronicle.
“We’re anticipating big things from him.
“But, the club’s travelling well at the moment.
“We began pre-season training at the start of the year – and numbers have been good.
“We’re getting about 20 a night.
“Our three main outfits – first and reserve grade, as well as ladies – are training as one big squad.
“I’m doubling as the senior coach and Daniel Galvin is overseeing the ‘seconds’.
“We’re still seeking a mentor for the women’s side.”
Muswellbrook will kick off its 2016 campaign on Friday night, with trial matches against Hamilton Azzurri at the Eagles Nest.
Reserve grade runs onto the field from 7pm and the firsts start from 8.45pm.