Josh Covelli closes in 100 goals for Hillside

As Hillside star Josh Covelli closes in on triple figures for the first time in his career, Sharks coach Chris Daley reveals what has been so key to his success.

Josh Covelli is enjoying a career best season. Picture : George Sal

It’s unfortunate Hillside has one of the last two byes of the EDFL Division 1 season.

It’s a result which means star forward Josh Covelli is less than likely to reach triple figures during the home-and-away season, in 16 games in fact.

The power forward has produced the best season of his career with 93 goals in 15 games to easily sit on top of the competition’s goalkicking charts.

His previous best in a season was 84 goals while playing for Burnside Heights in 2017.

With a potential finals preview to come against Maribyrnong Park, a side he kicked five against earlier in the season, the odds are probably against Covelli.

Hillside coach Chris Daley is just glad to have him in his side.

Covelli showed how impactful he can be with 11 goals against Moonee Valley on the weekend, proving the difference between the two sides.

“When you’ve got that sort of trump card up forward, it can make a difference,” Daley said.

“He uses his strength to his advantage. He had a pretty solid pre-season and was able to get himself to a really high fitness level alongside working really hard on his game.

“We make it a real goal of ours to get him his shots within 30 to 35m because we know he’s a lovely shot when he does get those types of opportunities.”

Hillside sit second on the ladder. Photo: Josh Chadwick.

Hillside was able to run away in the last quarter against Moonee Valley, kicking five goals to zero.

Running defenders Jackson McMenamin, Lachlan Pettigrove and Zain Yasmak won plaudits from the coach while the Sharks’ midfield was equally as impressive.

Ruckman Alessio Gobbo was able to play a key role in the absence of Fog big man Bevan Newell.

“They play their ground really well, we knew we were in for a tough contest all day,” Daley said.

“It was more about perseverance and making the most of our opportunities. We were a lot cleaner with the footy after half-time, our midfield got to work.”

Heading into the bye, Daley said it was a great opportunity for his side to refresh.

“It gives us a chance to look at what we haven’t been doing well and focus on that,” he said.