Westside’s win against Macquarie on Saturday gave them their first back-to-back victories in almost three years.
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Much was made of the Rabbitohs’ two year losing streak in Group 11 that they were able to snap with their Win against Nyngan a week earlier, but this was an even bigger deal, according to Claude Gordon.
“I couldn't be prouder, it's another occasion where everyone showed up for each other,” the man who shares the captaincy and coaching roles with Matt Naden said.
“This is unbelievable.”
READ MORE: Westside make it two in a row
Gordon freely admits he didn’t expect the side to be travelling so well this early in the season.
He and Naden have embarked on a ground-up rebuild of the club, focusing on improving the culture and getting players who are there for the right reasons.
Gordon said the players had embraced the change and were reaping the rewards, and he was also enjoying the success.
“I've got a smirk on my face. I didn't expect us to be where we are this early in the year. I thought midyear or a bit later we might have strung a few wins together but it's good to get the wins early,” he said.
And while in previous years a match against Dubbo CYMS might have been viewed with trepidation by Westside players, they are eager to see how they compare when the teams meet on Saturday.
“I'm looking forward to it. It's probably a game everyone is expecting CYMS to win but I'm looking forward to getting a gauge on where we are and where we need to be,” Gordon said.
“I don't think it will be hard to get the boys up for it. CYMS are that team that everyone wants to beat because they are so good.
“Everyone knows CYMS is the benchmark but if the guys can go out and give me the effort like they have done in the last two games, I'll be happy.
“Regardless of the scoreboard, if I get effort then that's all I can ask.”
Gordon said he liked what he saw from his men in the 26-20 win against Macquarie, praising them for not losing their call when they felt calls went against them, and giving 100 per cent in defence.
“I wanted the boys to keep their heads. Sure, a few bad calls go against us but we had a few good calls too. That's footy and you have to roll with it,” he said.
“Our defence has been solid and it's the sort of stuff we are trying to make a habit. When the ball goes past you, don't stop, keep going, keep chasing.
“We have a tight-knit team here. A lot of us have grown up together and all tied in with family. It brings us closer and it’s paying dividends on the field.
“We keep playing for each other. It’s worked for us so far and we’ll see how it works for us against CYMS.”