Rockliff keen to play winning structure

The Lions got off to the perfect start in its NAB Cup campaign last weekend when it shot straight to the top of the pre-season competition ladder with wins over Hawthorn and Gold Coast.

Victory over Greater Western Sydney in Wagga tonight will put the Lions in the box seat for a spot on the NAB Cup grand final.

Rockliff explained yesterday that getting structures and systems right for the season proper is the main aim during the pre-season competition, but said the thought of a grand final appearance is exciting.

“Any time you get some silverware, whether it be the season or pre-season, it means something,”  Rockliff said yesterday.

“Especially for a club like us that hasn’t had a great deal of success lately.

“We’re just hoping to win NAB round two at the moment and our focus is the first round and the first month of the season.

“But if we get the chance to play off in the grand final then the guys will be rapt. 

“For all of our younger guys to play in a game like that where all eyes are on us, with a bit pressure on as well, it will be a great experience and it will good to see how we perform.”

Rockliff said there was a great feeling around the club this week after such a good start to the NAB Cup competition.

“The boys played really well,” Rockliff said.

“We got out of the games what we wanted to and there is still areas where we can improve as well.

“This week we get another chance to work on things that we didn’t do so well and try to get them in line.

“Obviously you go out to win every week but at this time of year it’s not the be all and end all.

“We need to make sure we get the structures and set ups right for round one and the first month of the season. If that means we’re in the game at three quarter time then we’ll definitely be throwing everything into winning the game.”