It wasn't all smooth sailing for the Great Western Lions as they took on Royal Park in their final practice match of the 2014 preseason.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
There were good signs early for Great Western as they came out all guns blazing, kicking seven goals in the first quarter.
Unfortunately that is where the smooth, high quality football stopped.
After the first term Great Western managed just five goals in five periods and their lead went begging.
Coach Nick Thomas was disheartened by the game and the way the Lions finished.
"It was disappointing to see how well we started and then to let the foot off, and not only let them back in it, but give them the lead and victory.
"Considering we lost six games by less than two goals last year, it just proves no game is a walk in the park and that we need to work on finishing games off," Thomas said.
BJ Burton was one player that really stood out in the eyes of the coach, impressing in his return from injury.
Burton, who has suffered a groin injury, was dominant through the middle of the ground and showed poise when he needed to.
Luke Cadzow, who has returned to the club this year, re-injured his knee, but the extent of the injury is still unknown.
"It is an old recurring injury. I have spoken to him. He's walking around and there isn't too much swelling so we will just have to wait and see," Thomas said.
From here until the first round the Lions will increase their intensity at training and will look at an intra-club match depending on numbers, but it is important for Thomas to have all his men 100% fit for round one.
Last year Great Western had many players go into games at 50% and that is something they would like to eliminate this year.
Teams to watch this year in the Mininera and District Football League in the eyes of Great Western are Tatyoon, Wickliffe/Lake Bolac and Moyston.
Great Western's season will start on April 12 when they take on Glenthompson Dunkeld.