The Falcons will be looking to put an inconsistent 2016 behind them. They have picked up the experienced Mark Vinton as Head Coach and already the team seems to have shown signs they are not going to just make up the numbers this year.

Mark brings son Jarred (formerly from Port Kembla) to the club in what I expect to be one of the key players for the club. The Falcons have lost defenders David Kiss and Gary Newell to Bellambi however in pre-season, they look to be using veteran Daniel Pisani in a defensive role this year to add some stability along with youngster Jay Mason (from Wollongong United) whilst the Murzevski (Jason and Chris) brothers look to add some competitiveness to what was an inconsistent midfield last year.

The Falcons also have picked up Luke Greathead and Chad Keating from Warilla where they featured in several of the Wanderers’ wins last year. Also on their books is the travelled Ross Graham (from Fernhill). If these players can be as consistent as they were last year, Oak Flats may just see some finals football this year.

Goalkeeper Ben Wunsch had a solid year last year. With the club picking up another shot-stopper in Ryan Franks (formerly from Port Kembla), there is some competition for places.

I think depth will be tested with this team as the year goes on. Not convinced they are a top five team just yet however one thing is for certain, I don’t think there will be many teams playing Oak Flats this year expecting an easy three points.