Tara Murray
Extra depth will hopefully help Romsey close the gap in the Riddell District Football League this season.
The Redbacks made finals last season, but not for the first time in recent years, was knocked out early in the piece.
New Redbacks coach Justin Sherman said the focus for the club this season was to take that next step.
“We don’t only want to play finals, but we want to be competitive in finals,” he said.
“I don’t want to put extra pressure on the group, but their best footy is good enough. They’ve had a good pre-season which should hold them in good stead.
“I feel like our best football is ahead of us and hopefully that will take us as deep as possible wherever that takes us.”
One of the key areas that the Redbacks have looked to address is depth. Sherman said it was something they lacked at times last season.
“We’ve added nine or 10 players and the squad is a deep squad,” he said.
“We have 35 to 40 guys capable of coming in and playing senior football. That is what you need for a successful team.
“We are in a strong position as a whole club. Under-19s, reserves and seniors, we’re strong across the board.”
Sherman said the guys they have brought in, they looked to make sure they are good fits for the club off field as well.
Gavin Cathie joins the club from the Essendon District Football League, while Ali Khalil comes from Northern Football League division 1, having previously played in the Victorian Football League,
Samuel Wilson and Darcy Lockens both played for Gisborne last season but have joined the Redbacks searching for more senior opportunities.
The Redbacks have a bye in round two after a first round loss to Wallan.
Sherman said there were some positives out of the first round match.
“We felt like we sort of controlled the first half, forcing Wallan to go down the line,” he said. “The game plan was going well.
“In the third quarter there was some ill discipline which cost us. We unfortunately lost by a couple of goals.”
The Redbacks next week face Melton Centrals.
