Year of the Tiger? Football NSW League One club Northern Tigers have opted for stability as they chase promotion in 2022.
Having finished off last years shortened campaign in a good run of form, Football NSW caught up with club captain Jamie Lobb on the eve of the new season.
Lobb who is entering his fourth straight season at the club and second as captain is excited about the season ahead.
“We definitely found our straps towards the back end of the season and getting out of the blocks early is what we are aiming for this time round, every point counts when you get closer to the business end of the season.”
When asked about his experience after being appointed captain last season, Lobb continued.
“It is an honour being captain of the Northern Tigers. There have been a lot of great players who have donned the arm band before me, and I feel privileged to be amongst their company.
“I am lucky that I have had previous experience as a captain at my former club. I will be leaning on this experience, along with last year’s season to help steer the squad in achieving our objectives.”
Now with another hectic season ahead of them, the Tigers have seen four players leave and another four come in.
Of their departures, recognizable names such as Jamie Glover, Nic Kalergou, Sam Wilson and youngster Kealey Adamson stand out.
But on paper at least, they look to have recruited well to replace them. Bringing in Hiyori Kawaguchi from fellow league one club Bonnyrigg. Scott Browning from Sydney FC and the manly duo of Jack Fulton and Liam Tachjian.
Reflecting on how they’ve adjusted to the squad. Lobb told Football NSW.
“As a squad, we have come together nicely on and off the pitch. It feels like the new players have been around for longer than 3 months and this is demonstrated in the teams’ performances during preseason.”
When asked about the clubs’ goals for this upcoming campaign. Lobb leaves nothing to the imagination.
“Promotion is on every club’s agenda, and we are no exception.
“We will be focusing on performances and that will take care of results. We believe we have a squad (players, coaching staff and background support) that can cause a lot of headaches in the league.”
Asked what promotion would mean, he continues.
“Gaining promotion would be huge and something special to be a part of. Unfortunate circumstances have stalled the opportunity of promotion for the past 2 seasons, so we are looking forward to putting it all on the line this year.”
Northern Tigers come into the season as one of the favourites to go up through the top four. Their first game pits them up against Blacktown Spartans at North Turramurra Recreation Area, March 12th at 7pm.
-By Justin Smith
