Burgh show title credentials in Frat Cup
Helensburgh are shaping as genuine contenders for the Illawarra District League title after a tremendous showing in this year’s Fraternity Cup.
The Thistle topped their group with three wins from three including sizable results over the Warilla Wanderers and University. Even more impressive, however, was their quarter final performance against Premier League outfit Corrimal who they led for a majority of the match before succumbing 5–4 in a penalty shootout.
One is seldom not impressed when they watch the Burgh due to their committed defence and electrifying attack giving them a chance in every match. Last season’s second division champions Coniston can attest to this with the sides meeting four times in 2018 with the ledger split at two apiece including an enthralling clash on the final day of the regular season.
Helensburgh have been the nearly-men since Brad Boardman took over as head coach in 2017, finishing fourth two seasons in a row as well as a grand final appearance in his first year. This campaign could be the one the club push for major silverware with the coach pleased with how his side has navigated the preseason.
“The boys have been putting in for the whole of preseason, we are undefeated too and we have had a few big results,” Boardman said.
“Our defence is solid, [Jarrod Benham and Ryan Hope] are going from strength-to-strength and I’ve just brought in Shota [Kihira] and he held that midfield really well and helped lock up our defence [against Corrimal].”
Helensburgh have suffered two considerable blows to their midfield with the forced retirement of captain Luke Wyatt while his deputy Kei Mitani is set to return to his native Japan. Despite this, the additions such as Kihira and the progression of his young chargers has left Boardman with plenty to be positive about.
“We are pretty close [to being ready for round one],” he said.
“We have a bit of depth this year which is something we haven’t really had over the last two years.”
“I am really impressed with the way the boys are adapting to my sessions and the way I want to play and they’re much more disciplined this year.”
Given their preseason, those watching on are beginning to sound out Helensburgh’s promotion chances, and though Boardman is keen to give back to the club, he’s remaining measured.
“When I started at Helensburgh there was the aim of getting a title, we came close the first year, second year we bowed out, so this is the year I really want to push for something for the club.”
“As a team, we owe the club for what they give us every week but we will go from week one and see how we get on.”
This Thistle begin their season away to Shell Cove on Sunday, March 24 before returning to Rex Jackson Park to face Unanderra Hearts in round two.
