SINK or swim
That’s the message for Taree Wildcats as they prepare to tackle Port Saints in their Coastal Premier League opener in Port Macquarie on Saturday.
Wildcats coach Ben Sedlen knows Saints will provide an early litmus test with many predicting the Port Macquarie side will be up near the top of the ladder.
“We know what to expect from them, they’ve got big Roan up front and if we man up against them we’ll at least be in the game,” he said.
Taree striker Jackson Witt will make his return to the club and although the coach knows his front man will be underdone, he knows he will convert most opportunities that come his way.
“If we create opportunities, I’m sure he’ll put them in the back of the net,” he said.
“He didn’t join us until late because he was building a house and then when he did join us we had four weeks of no training.
“He’s probably going to be a little bit underdone to be honest with you, but he won’t take too long to get going.”
Sedlen was looking forward to starting the season with a clean slate after the club struggled in 2020.
“After what we went through last year we’re hoping for a better season this year without any stoppages,” he said.
“We’re not expecting to win the game, but we’re not going out to lose it either.
“If we can go out there and show we’ve got the ability to match it with Port Saints then we’ll be happy with that.”
Elsewhere, Northern Storm host Coffs City United at Korora Oval, while Boambee FC clash with Sawtell at Ayrshire Park on Sunday.
Port United hit the road to Polwarth Drive and the battle of Kempsey takes place at Optus Park with Macleay Valley Rangers to tackle Kempsey Saints.
Coastal Football Leagues 