It is the eight-letter word that Coffs City United simply don’t mention.
But the Lions have another chance to maintain their unbeaten record this season when they head to Korora on Saturday afternoon.
But coach Glenn Williams doesn’t want to see any bad habits creep into his side – he wants them to maintain the rage.
“We’re just going to go at it like it’s a normal game,” he said.
“I don’t want the guys to relax at all because that’s probably not the best preparation.”
Williams will put his best-available side out on the park knowing the Northern Storm have pride to play for.
He also wants them to maintain their consistent performances that have been regularly displayed throughout a challenging campaign.
“It’s like having a weekend off or having a bye … the Storm have a bit of pride to play for as well so it’ll be a tough contest,” Williams said.
“We’ll put a full-strength team out there to get ready for next weekend.”
The coach said they hadn’t spoken about what an all-successful season would mean.
“We don’t mention that word … not even at training,” he said.
Coffs City tuned up for their clash with Boambee next Saturday with a hard-fought 1-all draw on Wednesday night.
They already know Boambee await in the Coastal Premier League northern conference grand final next weekend.
Despite their lofty position on the ladder, the Lions could go into next weekend’s match as outsiders.
“It’s always tricky on a grand final night because we’ve got a few younger guys who can get a bit overawed,” Williams said.
“Anyone can do that because it’s magnificent playing out at the stadium so nerves can play a part.
“Boambee has been there the past three or four years so a lot of their players are used to playing there.”
For the Storm, they will want to finish the season on a high.
Coach Eric McCarthy said last week that “no-one expected Northern Storm” to be in the semi-finals so they have arguably over-achieved.
But the foundation has been laid for the side to have a strong 2021.
In the other match, on Sunday, Boambee plays Sawtell at Ayrshire Park. Coffs Tigers have an early end to the season.
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