IN a huge boost for Orange Wanderers, star striker Keegan Brooke is back on deck full-time.
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The former Australian Country representative played sporadically for Wanderers in 2013, and for the start of 2014 due to work commitments but is now available for the remainder of the men’s Premier League Hockey season.
His timing couldn’t be better.
Brooke helped Wanderers topple the previously undefeated Lithgow Panthers 2-nil last weekend, and said he wants his side to continue its giant-killing ways on Saturday against Bathurst St Pat’s.
After Panthers loss last week, St Pat’s have taken top spot on goal difference but Brooke is confident his side can secure victory at the Cooke Hockey Complex today and potentially take third place in the process.
“I didn’t play but they gave us a touch up last time I’ve heard,” he said
“They are one of the top sides, so we definitely need to be switched on. We had plenty of opportunities against Panthers, we got inside the circle a lot, I think the last pass was just letting us down a bit even though we won.
“We’ve been working on that a fair bit so hopefully we can start converting and back up last weekend’s win with another one.”
Brooke said the feeling around Wanderers’ camp is drastically different to the last time he played full time.
“It is different this season, a lot of the young guys are really stepping up,” he said.
“We’ve got plenty of old heads around the place too, it’s a good mix of youth and experience. (Wanderers assistant coach) Beth Shea has had a big impact too. “The new structures Beth has got us playing, the new style, have been good for us.
“I did miss it, it was tough being away with work all the time but you have to prioritise.
“It’s great to be back I’m really enjoying it, and we’re playing some pretty good hockey.”
Wanderers take on St Pat’s from 3.20pm on Saturday.