Context is always important. Last season was a challenge, with the Sharks regularly on the end of bruising results. Nevertheless, their belief never dwindled, their effort could never be faulted and their team spirit remained strong and rather than viewing last season as a failure, they chose to view it as a season of learning and improvement with rewards to come. Determined to keep the momentum going, the vast majority of the team trained throughout the off-season. And boy did it pay off.

Despite several illnesses and injuries, including to our incredible Goalkeeper, Dexter Williams, the Sharks started their season in scintillating fashion. We have talked a lot about having high standards led by the players: a high quality warm up, high intensity from minute 1, being first to every ball and this was evident immediately. To tell you the truth, the opposition looked a bit shell-shocked as they found themselves unable to get on the ball due to the intensity of the Albury press, the discipline in the defensive shape and the dogged determination to win every challenge. What was particularly pleasing to see was the creativity of the sharks in possession, mounting wave upon wave of devastating attacks.

After several close shaves and excellent saves from the opposition goalkeeper, the deadlock was broken by a glancing header by Luciano Gouviea, deftly redirecting an arrowed cross from Harvey Rush for a debut goal. Clearly showing a poachers instinct, Luciano turned in a second Harvey Rush cross minutes later. In fact, the two combined twice more in the first half, a simply outstanding debut from a boy who told us that he only ever played in defence at his former club.

This was not an individual performance in any way though. Gabe and Greg organised the back four with immense power but also with real calmness. Monty and Harry provided solid cover in the full-back positions while also bombing forward to support the attacks.
A new midfield of Daniel McGraw, Noah Davies, Freddie Larkin and Captain Ben Gregory ran the show in the middle of the park, with Josh Smith (playing an unfamiliar role of the lone attacker) absolutely running the defence ragged. The moment of the match came from Ben Gregory playing a lovely 1-2 with Josh before hammering a half-volley into the roof of the net from long range: an early contender for goal of the season.

The game was clearly won before half time, and so we challenged the boys by playing them in unfamiliar roles in the second half. Though the whole team had to adapt, Albury still had all the momentum, attacking in droves. Luciano got his fifth with a beautiful curling strike and Harvey Rush got himself a goal with a thumping finish off the crossbar, completing the seven.

The score line was obviously very pleasing, but on reflection, these were things that pleased us most:
1. The high standards at the beginning of the game remained throughout, even when it was obvious that the game was won.
2. The team spirit was incredible, with positivity flowing across the team. Special mention to Daniel Egbe and Freddie Larkin for volunteering to go in goal for the sake of the team (and each keeping a clean sheet!) Another special mention to Daniel Stovald and Dexter Williams for attending to cheer on the team, despite being injured themselves.
3. I could hear leadership all over the pitch. Captain Ben Gregory even had a go coaching during the second half.
4. The boys reacted really well to being played out of position in the second half. We want them to become more complete as players, and everyone adapted top their new task really well.

A great foundation to build on this season and a real pleasure to watch!

Goals:
Luciano x 5
Harvey
Ben

Assists:
Harvey x4
Josh
Harry
Ben

Paul's MOTM: Luciano
Harry's MOTM: Josh