It is finally the Grand Final. Although my team (and maybe yours) is not at the big dance I am really starting to get excited that I will be attending my first Cup Final in the flesh. So as the sun sets on Gold Coast United's 2010/2011 season I would like to reflect on our finals performance.
It was nothing short of remarkable the way the team stood up against their fancied rivals. Melbourne took us to the wire and Adelaide forced us to dig out a come from behind win which considering the pressure of the moment was a great feat as we were not big on come from behind victories this season.
Central Coast Fans also gave us the most original banner of the finals season, and when friend of the program Chris sent it to me I laughed out loud.
As heart breaking as that comedic goal was, we could not come back and spoiled our dominance in the first half by not finding the back of the net early.
With Gold Coasts season now consigned to the record books for another year, it is time to look to the future already.
You all know the big names that are leaving, Dino (China), Van Den Brink (Korea), Caravella (Adelaide), Pantalidis (Indonesia) and Culina (Jets). Also we all read with interest Perth's efforts to lure Smeltz away with their Marquee position and one could be forgiven for thinking the team will not leave the foot of the table next season.
Firstly do not underestimate the value of a squad turning over. Not too long ago the Roars new coach became enemy number 1 when he forced what was considered the team's core out the exit door and rebuild them in his own mould. Now Gold Coast has the opportunity to do this organically and what better place to start then its own back yard. Through its youth team will graduate its finest students, the leaders and game changers that led Mike Mulvey's young charges to back - to - back titles in their first two years of existence.
With this comes the re-signing of fan favourite Glen Moss who was more than happy to show Gold Coast the faith that they had shown him. Everyone knows a quality keeper is half the battle and we can claim to having one of this seasons stand outs between our sticks heading into next season.
With new signings to come, possibly including one of the AIS's top talents to wear the Gold strip in season 2011/2012 It is shaping up to be a very interesting but ultimately enjoyable off-season and I can't wait for next year's pre season matchups as the new look team comes together.
My wife groaned at me last night remarking "At least after the Grand Final is over, you won't be busy with football all the time". I didn't have the heart to tell her the new season begins now. Forget the doom and gloom that some like to paint us in and get ready for the off season carnival (oh, and the ACL - good luck Victory and Sydney).
For now onwards to Suncorp this Sunday where I can witness what I hope will be the game of the season from the top two teams from the comfort of my seat and this time not my couch.
