Kiama Quarriers finished 2016 just outside the playoffs on goal difference in a dramatic last day of competition. They will be looking to at least go one better this season headed by Coach James Spence who is in his third year at the club.

Gauging by what they have been able to put out in the pre-season, the Quarriers appear to have a young and enthusiastic side however it must be a concern already for Coach Spence that the team has conceded 9 goals in its last three competitive games. If Kiama are going to feature in the playoffs, this needs to be corrected sooner rather than later.

They will be tested right from Round 1 where they take on the free scoring Fernhill away.

Kiama suffered a major setback in the preseason when they lost their leader and captain Dean Land with an ACL injury that looks to have ruled him out for the season.

The Quarries though will welcome back Daniel Swinton who looks to return from a long-term injury as well as relying on the experience from Daniel Gillespie, Chris Christodoulou, Adam Hinkley and Dylan McDonald. Youngster Jacob Lester will be looking to link up with Kiama’s leading goal scorer from 2016 – Keegan Beringer.

Kiama have recruited Cameron Barrett from Port Kembla, Michael Hampton from Wollongong Olympic, Brenton Burke from Oak Flats and former player Ben Hardcastle.

Whilst on paper Kiama have a good enough side to reach the playoffs, preseason form and the loss of Land suggest otherwise. I expect Kiama to be competitive and although I hope I am wrong, I think they will finish mid-table this year.