![]()
Pre-Season
As a player I always dreaded pre-season, just another chance to injure myself against some young kid looking to prove a point. As a manager it was my first opportunity to see the idea's I had in my head come to life on the field.
As a whole, results were decent but, more importantly, I was impressed with what I saw from the lads. Although I had asked them to learn a completely new system, they seemed to be adapting well.
Tactics
I have 2 main shapes I am looking to implement.
A 4-4-2 with a wide diamond in midfield is still my preferred way to play though, even after our recruitment efforts, I am still unsure if we have the balance right to pull it off.
Based on what I've seen of the guys, a 4-1-2-2-1 may be our strongest formation. We have the cattle to play it, play it well & mix things up to vary our threat.
I am also training a flat 4-4-2 but don't expect it to get much use. We only have 2 natural strikers in the squad at the moment so any shape that relies on both is a risky proposition.
Transfers
Unfortunately, the transfer embargo meant we weren't as active in the market as I'd hoped. I sat back & watched as a number of possible recruits were snapped up while our hands were tied. I did however get a few deals over the line.
In addition to Rhyss Keane, I've bought in a further 4 players so far. Tom King is a young left back with a wicked cross, Paul Savio an experienced right back or central defender, Matthew Demo is an explosive striker bought in to compliment the hulking frame of Stipo Andrijasevic & Seimata Chelia is a 36 year old Vanuatu international who plays in midfield.
All 3 of my departures have already been discussed. May & Surey were given free transfers to cut back on wages, Antun Kovacevic left to join South Hobart after refusing to discuss a new deal.
And that's about it, I think I have covered everything...
Nothing left to do but sit back & await my first competitive match as a manager. I honestly cant wait! Look out Ballarat Red Devils, Lippo's Knights are coming!
