After receiving feedback from a number of clubs, the Men's Premiership Competition has decided to run with a 'One League'  14 team Competition on a home and away basis.

This means that the clubs face a longer season of 26 arduous rounds, hence the reason why the league kicks off almost a month earlier than normal this Saturday.

Whilst it is important that clubs get off to a good start, this season could become one of attrition with some sides required to 'go the distance' for their shot at glory come September. 

After a rain affected preseason which included a shortened version of the Frat Cup it has been difficult to guage which teams have emerged as the ones to beat as we move into a tough season ahead as clubs tussle for the right to earn promotion to the IPL.

On the back of their Frat Cup success, Berkeley Sports would have to be one of the favourites for at least a top five finish.  Coach Jason Higgs has had his charges training since early December and when we spoke to him after the Cup win last Sunday, Higgs said that we was happy with where his team was at in terms of preparation for the season opener. 

The two sides that fought out the last season's Grand Final, Warilla Wanderers and Helensburgh Thistle bear little resemblance to the two teams that played in the WIN Stadium decider and may not be able to impose themselves in 2014 in the manner that they did last season.

One side expecting to do well is one of our oldest clubs, Corrimal Rangers and with Rookie Coach, David Cuda in charge, they too have had a tough preseason, having been together since November.

Cuda has brought some experienced Premier League players to the club, including Striker Luke Picciolini and solid defender, Daniel Dafkovski.

The club has high expectations for 2014 and anything less than a top 3 finish would be considered a disappointment. 

Oak Flats Falcons have brought in Coach, Michael Garcia to steer the Club towards the top of the Divison after a few seasons in the lower reaches. A number of Wests Ilawarra players have followed 'Gus' to Keith Bond and they should figure in the pecking order at season's end.

Another Rookie Coach in charge of a First Grade Club for the first time is Steven Dimitrievski at Wests Illawarra. Wests will have virtually a new look First Grade side after a host of player losses as previously mentioned and they may have to settle for a mid table finish at best.

There is no doubt that Thirroul FC, once again managed by Ian Cirson will give a good account of themselves and should be fighting for a semi finals position throughout the campaign. Picton Rangers will also fall in this category along with Frat Cup runners up, Shell Cove.

The remaining teams, Kemblawarra, UOW FC, Coniston Lions, Balgownie Rangers and Kiama Quarriers are really unknown quantities but they do have some good coaches in their ranks so they are sure to be well organised and ready to go come Saturday after noon at 3pm.

Predictions: 

Champions - Berkeley Sports, Runners Up - Picton Rangers

Top 5 - Corrimal Rangers, Warilla Wanderers & Shell Cove FC

 

Disclaimer - No apologies if we have put the 'mocker' on your team. :)

 

Good Luck to all Clubs and may you all have an enjoyable season!

 

Picture: Courtesy Fotosportz - Berkeley Sports (Cameron Morgan #11) Shell Cove (Michael Mitrevski #4 & Ile Kostovski #9)