Tara Murray
Parkside has been quick to strengthen its squad as it aims to build on a strong first season back up in the Western Football League top flight.
The Magpies finished seventh this season but weren’t far off in the closest season in years.
While the season has only just finished, the Magpies have announced a number of new signings.
Co-coach Chris Muratore said with the club not having under-16s and under-18s they didn’t have time to sit on their hands.
“For the coaches, it’s like grand final month,” he said. “We got our retention done early, we started at about round 12.
“Ninety per cent of the list has signed and it’s been about what we need, fill holes and how do we get better.
“We’ve executed so far.”
The biggest name signing for the Magpies has been Bruno Laguda, who crosses from East Keilor.
Muratore said he brings some leadership and depth to their midfield.
“We went chips all in to get him to our club,” he said, “He played at Essendon VFL [Victorian Football League]] and the Calder Cannons.
“He’s been playing premier division at East Keilor and was a star of the competition. Brings midfield depth.”
Rhys Smith also comes across from East Keilor and is another Muratore said would bring experience to a young playing group.
As well as experience, the Magpies have added some more youth to ensure that they’re continuing to have players coming through.
Brodie Lyons-Jones, who has played seniors at St Albans while still eligible for under-18s, is the latest signing.
Liam Canny is another Muratore mentioned that fits the band of players.
“They are outside mids with a lot of tricks.”
Chris Peirea, Matthew Bennardo, Chris Benon, Jordyn Croucher, Luke Rowland and Jordan Filakis are the other signings that have been announced.
Muratore said the focus for them next season was to try and ensure they were competitive for the whole 120 minutes.
“Every side that goes up talks about survival, we were talking about being positive and playing to win.
“We lost eight games under nine points. We were in front of 11 of 16 games at three quarter time.
“We had those dips. In division 2 you can have a 10-15 slip up and get away with it. We learned the hard way.
“The club is strong and where we want to be.”
