Magpies ready for the Lions

Busselton Magpies league coach Steve Lester is “up for the challenge” in round 1 against a strong Harvey Brunswick Leschenault who have a new coach, John Baggetta, and several new recruits.

“We’ve got to focus on our game style and adjust during the game to how they’re playing,” he said.

“We’re going to have a pretty good idea of where we’re at after the first two rounds playing against two strong sides in HBL and Donnybrook who will be the benchmark of the competition.”

The Magpies just missed out on the finals last year finishing eighth but Lester said he was looking for improvement in their skill level.

“If we can make less errors then we will go a long way to improving and hopefully we can get the four points and shake up the competition this week,” he said.

The Lions, with Baggetta at the helm for his first game, are seeking to improve on sixth position last year to play in the finals.

“It’ll be a bit messy in round 1 as the guys get used to playing with each other,” he said.

“It will take four or five weeks to get that chemistry.

“We’re fairly mobile and young, so we will take their handball game head on and hopefully come away with the win.”

HBL will unveil former Subiaco premiership player Sean Bradley and mobile ruckman Jack Fletcher tomorrow, with the star duo joining the club over the pre-season.

“We know what some of the guys are capable of,” Baggetta said.

“Quality players will play well wherever they are positioned on the ground, but we’re looking to develop a team game and implement a strong set-up.”