By Tara Murray
Sunbury United is seeking consistency in the FV state league 3 north-west season.
United has had a mixed start to the season under new coach Jason Hayne, with just one win so far.
After poor performance in round two, he put the pressure on the group to stand up heading into round three.
It worked with United winning its first game of the season, beating Bundoora United 2-1.
“We were poor and didn’t turn up against Hoppers Crossing,” he said. “Last week I asked them to respond and it was a positive one.
“Everyone turned up to play. After 35 to 40 minutes we went a man down and the rest of the squad stood up and gave a good account of themselves.
“I was super proud of them.”
Hayne said that performance and effort was the standard that they had set for themselves and needed to bring each week.
He said consistency would be a key for them.
“The most disappointing thing about round two was a lapse for the full 90 minutes,” he said. “We had a few changes in formation and personnel and it worked really well.
“That effort needs to be consistent now and we’ve set the standard and if not, we need to get better.”
Hayne, who has stepped up from being a player to coach, said he was really pleased with the squad that he had put together.
He said he was really enjoying the coaching challenge.
“We’ve got 20 players and a couple of young boys who are 16-17,” he said. “Really structured squad.
“We have the maturity from the older players and the youth and the excitement coming through.
“So far it is looking good.”
Hayne said seeing some of those young players already come into the senior side was exciting for what they are trying to do.
Riley Hampton played about 20 minutes [in round three],” he said. “He played for the reserves in the first two rounds.
“The opportunity came up and he took it in both hands. There are more there as well. We’re looking at them week in, week out.”
United was in action on Saturday against top side Surf Coast.
Hayne said before the game he was keen to see how his side stacked up against them being it was one of the top teams.
It was a tough day for Sunbury, losing 4-0.
“We had one good game, we can’t rest on that,” Hayne said.
In state league 5 west, Gisborne lost to Spring Hills, 6-0.
