2018-2019 SFL Preview: Cockburn EWA FC

Last Season: 1st

If it ain’t broke? That’s the mantra of the kitchen in the off season as Mark Gavranic and Daniel Canicais put the feet up to debate kit combinations and sock colours. Although they did make time to swoop in for JSFL wonderkid Jason Quintiliani to compete with Golden Glove Winner Michael Dudek. That could quietly point to evolution rather than revolution in the Champs camp as the word about the league is they’re on the lookout for a training venue.

Given the love and attention their goals for column racked up last season, that seems hardly necessary. With a list that reads like an Allstars squad, they remain the team to beat and the gold standard for the pretenders to chase this season after swatting aside the traditional big 3 in the last.

Still, a taste of national competition would have whetted the appetite. With the golden ticket to SFA coming via a Sunday campaign, do they prioritize that or attempt to juggle the SFWA with the League? Those are questions only they can answer. Whatever happens next, you can bet they’ll serve up some entertaining fare this summer.

Main Man: Mark Gavranic 

The big left footer with the booming shot capped off a stunning campaign with the Premiership, the Cup and the Golden Boot. Can he do it again? Definitely maybe, but first he’ll need to find new boots and hit Priceline for a new headband for the summer. One thing’s for sure, there will be stepovers.

One to watch: Alex Gamble

The fleet footed flanker went under the radar as Gavranic, Lazzaro and Kukic took the plaudits and wonder goals. He’s less of an under the radar type now as the league cottons on to the scorer of 17 goals last season. With Gavranic on the lookout for new shoes and Kukic dabbling with haircuts, this could be the season Gamble takes the headlines.