EFL: Montrose out to secure place in 2019 Premier division ahead of competition restructure

MONTROSE could put some breathing space between itself and the Division 1 relegation zone in the coming weeks as it looks to secure its position in the top tier for 2019.

Andrew Haining is wrapped up in a tackle. Picture: Chris Eastman/AAP

MONTROSE could put some breathing space between itself and the Division 1 relegation zone in the coming weeks as it looks to secure its position in the top tier for 2019.

The Demons sit one game clear of the drop zone with a 2-7 record ahead of this weekend’s clash against winless Knox and the Round 12 fixture against 11th placed East Ringwood.

Win those two games and Montrose could all but secure its place in next year’s Premier division, with two teams to be demoted at the end of this year as part of the Eastern Football League restructure.

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But after two recent two-point losses to Noble Park and Blackburn, the Demons still find themselves in the relegation discussion.

Montrose coach Peter Bastinac said he had not thought about the prospect of demotion.

“I’m not even looking at that, if you start looking at that, it sounds like you’re panicking and we’re not panicking,” Bastinac said.

Montrose coach Peter Bastinac. Picture: Chris Eastman/AAP

“We’re going to back ourselves in to win enough games, I think we’ve proven we’re a good team when we’re up and about.

“I’m not really considering talking about the end of the year, that’s for sure.”

Bastinac said his side had shown signs of being a good side but lacked the consistency.

“I’m really happy with our leaders, Brendan Gardoll as new captain, James Wilsen as vice-captain, I think those boys, Andrew Haining, they’ve all stood up,” he said.

“We’ve coped a couple of big losses and those boys have been really good supporting me and the team trying to rejuvenate from week to week.”

Recruits Jordan Bastinac and Tim Jones and returning premiership player Sam Goodman have also been consistent performers for the Demons in the absence of injured forward duo Mitch Davis and Billy Schilling.

Junior products Brent Paterson, Riley Hams and Corey Whitchell have also been given a taste of senior football.

“There are guys getting opportunities at the level so that is encouraging as well,” Bastinac said.

“We’ve just got to keep building our depth around the footy club and there are some guys getting some good exposure at the level.”