Jetstream: Colin O'Reilly - We need to find killer instinct

Oct 13 2011

Colin O'Reilly

THIS is my first column of the season and it comes after a disappointing run in the BBL Trophy.

As a team it’s still hard to know exactly where we stand due to our limited time together. None of us like to lose but we’ve not even been together a month and whereas usually we would still be in preseason right now, instead we are preparing for the first regular season game of the campaign with the visit of Leicester Riders this Sunday.

They have always been a tough match-up and it will take a very good performance from us to pull out a win in front of our passionate home support. 

Regardless of the compressed preparations collectively we have come together quite well and will have learned a lot from our cup encounters over the last few weeks. Although we didn't get the results we still feel there were plenty of positives, but our execution at times left a lot to be desired which is one of the key things we have been working on.

We have been up double digits in all three games so now we have to find that killer instinct to finish teams off once we get ahead. That will come with time as we become more accustomed to each others habits and continue to push each other hard in training.

And we have been pushing hard in training. As head coach John Lavery has not eased up on the work rate in training and the benefits are already showing in games. From what I've seen of both the new players and the old, the fans can expect a young and energetic side that will look to extend our defensive pressure and get out on the break.

Once it comes together, and that will hopefully be this Sunday, we will have the Northgate faithful rocking all season.