ORANGE CYMS centre Scott Piper had ambitions of cementing a place in the green and golds’ premier league side in 2010.

But he didn’t expect them to be fulfilled so soon.

“I’d been in and out in the past and probably didn’t take things too seriously,” Piper said.

“But I gave myself a chance of maybe getting a wing spot this season. I didn’t expect to be playing much centre but (captain-coach) Mick (Sullivan) gave me an opportunity and I took it with both hands.”

Joining CYMS after a stint in the juniors with SJS, Piper played most of his footy in the back-row or on the wing.

His first full season at centre hasn’t attracted much attention on CYMS’ left edge.

However, the combination he has developed with winger Chris Jones has proved fruitful.

And the pair’s defence has often brought about plenty of praise from Sullivan.

The 24-year-old said he’d developed a good understanding of Jones’ game.

“Playing with Chris has been really good. All of the boys call him big Dell. He likes plenty of attention,” he laughed.

“I think he just attracts plenty of players which creates a little bit of space for me.”

Piper will be looking to continue his good form against a tough Lithgow Workies side today at Wade Park.

He believes although Lithgow are a shadow of the side that has seen them make four out of the last five Group 10 grand finals, no team can be taken lightly.

“You can’t underestimate any sides in this competition,” he said.

“Mudgee have probably been the toughest side we have played so far and that was up in Mudgee.

“I think, not getting too far ahead of ourselves, we are in a pretty good position to finish first.”

Sullivan said after playing much of his juniors on the wing, Piper has made a successful transition to the centres.

“He’s still finding his feet in the centres but he’s been one of our best all year,” Sullivan said.

“He’s really developed into one of our strike weapons in the back half of the season.”

CYMS have turned Wade Park into a graveyard for opposing sides in 2010.