Officer has the chance to turn its winning streak into a hattrick this week when the Kangaroos travel to Gembrook to face the Brookers in the Outer East Premier Division.
Both sides have been rapidly improving over the second half of the season, with Officer’s rise keeping its finals hopes alive.
Wins against Woori Yallock and Mount Evelyn have propelled its confidence, but the last time the sides met it was Gembrook Cockatoo that claimed the bragging rights.
The key for the Kangaroos will be building off their triumphs and not changing the mindset.
“That will be my message this week, it doesn’t just continue to happen unless you actually work for it,” Officer senior playing coach Nathan Allen said of the upcoming matchup.
“That will be the worry and the watch this week to see if we can repeat it.”
While Robin Nahas has been overseas, skipper Josh Tilly has been monumental in the middle with Aaron Firrito also providing strong performances.
Tilly has averaged 33.5 disposals and a goal over the last month, being the engine room that drives the Brookers forward.
“They have some stars out there, Tilly and Nahas really got a hold of us last time we played so it’s about trying to nullify their strengths while we still stick to our strengths,” Allen noted.
“We have to move the ball and use our run, just trying to use our strengths and stop theirs.
“It’s just about staying consistent and concentrating all game, not dropping your head if something goes wrong.
“It’s going to be tough because they bullied us last time, it will be interesting to see how we go.”
Lachie Shepheard will have his hands full down back with Mark Seedsman coming in with 13 goals in his last four games while intriguing half-forward Lachie Ward has also been in hot form.
The midfield battle will be huge, with Officer’s ball movement and transition much-improved in its victories.
The Kangaroos will capitalise on their recent patch, knocking off Gembrook Cockatoo by 17 points.
