Eerily, the red, white and blues were in the exact same position after two rounds of 2013 with one draw, and a close loss. They went on to finish last, by the length of the straight.

For that reason, 2014 coach Mark Pengilly warned his improving team against complacency, especially considering they take on 2013 runners-up Lithgow Panthers today.

“Panthers will be a very tough team,” he said.

“They’re very clinical finishers, and I’m not sure if they had a few out last week in their draw [with Parkes], but after that I think they’ll be looking to come out and fire up a bit here.”

Pengilly highlighted his team’s attacking structure, or lack thereof, as its problem after last weekend’s 2-1 loss to Lithgow Zig Zag, and is expecting his troops to improve today.

“Our finishing was off more than anything,” he said. 

“If we can continue the way we’ve been going, but work on finishing our attacking plays, we should do ok.”

Pengilly said his side proved its more than capable defensively. 

’Feds have conceded just four goals so far in 2014, the fourth best record of any team.

“We need to make sure we mark up tight on Panthers,” he said.

“Stay close, and not give them the chance to finish, because they have one or two who are very good at finding the back of the net. The girls are looking forward to the challenge.”

Confederates take on Lithgow Panthers from 1.10pm today, at the Orange Hockey Centre.