IT'S just a trial, but new coach Jordan Hedington has vowed to try and install a winning mentality into Narrandera following a barren couple of years after a strong trial win over CSU on Saturday.
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The Eagles accounted for their Farrer League rivals by 22 points, with wing Ben Grinter, and ruck Bradley Hutchinson catching the eye of Hutchinson in his first match in charge.
Former Ainslie captain Rob Tuohey and and Belconnen recruit Luke McKay made their Eagles debuts as the club looks to improve on a three-win season in 2019 after sitting out last year.
"I said at quarter time 'I know it's a trial, but we still want to win," Hedington said.
"The club's had a rough trot the last couple of years and we're trying to get that winning mentality. It's only a trial, but we want to start winning now and hopefully when the season comes around we've got that winning mindset and know what it feels like.
"The new recruits coming from Canberra and surrounds have played in successful teams, it's good to have them on board to help the boys when the game's in the balance and they know what to do."
After a year-and-a-half of not playing for most players, the Eagles will have a limited training run on Monday as bodies get used to the weekly rigours of the game.
"It was great to get a run, only four or five of us played last year," Hedington said.
"The CSU boys hung around for a beer and it was great, it felt like Saturdays were back to normal.
"In the sheds everyone before the game was so excited footy was back."
Hedington said he is looking to implement a more deliberate playing style into the club.
"It was my first game as coach and the boys responded well to what I'm trying to say and do, I was very impressed.
"I'm trying to develop a style of play that will suit the players we've got and put them in different positions to see how they react. I'm pleased with how they're progressing.
"We want to hold onto the footy for as long as we can. It's a cliche but when we've got the ball they can't score, we want to try and control games off our own boot."
Narrandera will host Barellan in their next trial on March 27, before wrapping up the pre-season at home against Tuggeranong on April 10.
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