Consistency and doing the small things right are the keys for St Albans Saints in the National Premier League this season.
The Saints showed positive signs in a round one draw before being beaten by a better Preston Lions in round two, to be without a win after the first two rounds.
Coach Cameron Watson said while it wasn’t the ideal start, said things were going OK.
“I think the first game we should have put it to bed in the first half,” he said.
“We didn’t take our chances. The longer games go in early in the season, the tighter it gets. We dropped two points at home.
“Preston then outplayed us and we were a little bit flat.”
Watson said they weren’t worried about things being early in the season and had shown that when they play well they think they will be up there.
“It’s about being consistent,” he said. “Not worrying about anyone else.
“We are a better outfit than what we showed on Friday. Every week we have to do what we did the week before.
“We have to be confident in our own ability and perform. It’s the small parts and details that cost you.”
Watson said they were hoping to see a response from the playing group in round three, against Oakleigh Cannons.
The Cannons entered the game with a win and loss.
“We have another chance at home against Oakleigh on Friday night,” he said.
“They are a good team and everyone is looking forward to it.
“They have to give us a reaction to last week, the club a reaction to last week.
“We have to do the things in our game plan.”
Watson said they were really happy with the squad they had put together this season, adding some key experienced players to the group that they already had.
Ajak Deu crossed late from Oakleigh, signing two days before the window closed.
Lloyd Isgrove reunites with Watson after switching from Hume City and will provide a good target.
Aaron Anderson, goalkeeper Christian Rossi, Anthony Leban and Japan’s Atsushi Inoue are other new signings for the Saints.
Watson said they felt they were in a better position than 12 months ago, his first full season in charge.
They missed finals last year.
Watson said they felt it would take six to seven rounds for the season to sort itself out and get a good indication of where everyone sits.
