Cummins Confident Wollongong Fc Won't Bow To Pressure

Illawarra Mercury

Wednesday February 20, 2008

By PAUL ZALUNARDO

WOLLONGONG FC defender Danial Cummins said the pressure of expectation wouldn't affect the team heading into this weekend's start of the NSW Premier League season.

The Wolves take on Penrith Nepean in their season opener at Crehan Park on Saturday night, a season in which big things are expected.

Club chief executive Jock Morlando told the Mercury he predicted post-season action a month ago, a forecast Cummins said was welcomed.

"I would be disappointed if we didn't make it, you always aim for the finals," he said.

"That (Morlando's prediction) is no more pressure than we have put on ourselves, I definitely don't think that is a bad kind of pressure."

Despite the fact the pair would have been competing for the same position, Cummins said the Wolves' failed bid to sign Sydney FC's Jacob Timpano was disappointing.

Wollongong appeared to have Timpano lined up for a loan deal, only to see Sydney FC coach John Kosmina change his mind and not allow the former Young Socceroos captain to play for his home town.

"Not having him on board is a big loss," Cummins said.

"Jake is a sensational player, he has just had a poor run of injuries.

"He is the type of player who would add to any side he is in, and he is a wonderful kid as well. That is rare."

After having struggled over the opening rounds in recent years, Cummins said the 2008 Wolves were better equipped to hit the ground running.

"The last couple of seasons have seen very poor starts, we need to get the three points this weekend," he said.

"We can't have any excuses. Last year the reason why we missed out is because of our poor start to the season."

After winning the Tiger Turf Cup competition last season, Wollongong FC are hoping to give their fans some early season joy. Saturday's match will kick off at 5pm.

© 2008 Illawarra Mercury

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