MPNFL 2021: Crib Point makes strong start to Division 2 season

There are early signs the old Crib Point spirit is back in full force this season in the MPNFL.

Crib Point coach Steve Hamill has the Magpies on the right track. Picture: Chris Eastman

Crib Point coach Steve Hamill says the atmosphere around the club is different this season.

The former Frankston Dolphins champion is in his third year at the helm of the young Magpies, who have stuck together in hard times in recent seasons when success has been elusive.

They won only one game in 2018 and two in ‘19, Hamill’s first season in charge.

But Crib Point has begun 2021 with intent.

It pushed Chelsea all the way before losing by a few kicks in round one and then dispatched Pearcedale by 68 points last Saturday.

Hamill is quick to point out it’s “only one win and we’ve got a lot of work to do’’, but he believes his Magpies are ready to take flight.

He says the return of a bunch of “good Crib Point people’’, who also happen to be excellent footballers, has been vital.

Hamill’s referring to Brad Arnold, a former club coach who has returned from Nyora and provides leadership and direction on the ground.

Also, Waide Symes, back from Tooradin-Dalmore, and David and James Cook, back from Foster, have been important inclusions (the Cook family is Crib Point royalty).

James Cook, left, playing for the Foster Tigers, has been a welcome inclusion at Crib Point.

“We’ve managed to get a few players who have been Crib Point people over the years coming back to the club and playing and they’ve had a really big impact,” Hamill said.

“They’re good footballers and they’re good people. And they’ve bolstered our stocks a little bit in terms of our senior level.

“They’ve just created that atmosphere where everyone is happy to be there.”

Hamill says the returnees are also great support for Magpies champion Luke Herrington.

“In 2019 we just didn’t have that group of older footballers — the 25 to 32 age group,” Hamill said.

“We’ve got a really good young list of guys and they (the more senior players) give stability to the side.”

Six members of Crib Point’s 2014 grand final side are powering the 2021 Magpies — Herrington, James Cook, Jacob Cook, Symes, Arnold and Zak Dekleuver.

Last Saturday, Crib Point kicked eight goals before half-time and then slotted four unanswered goals in the last quarter to run away from Pearcedale.

Arnold was fantastic around the middle, while James Cook in the ruck also showed great leadership.

Young Tommy Panich continued his good start to the year and Joel Wisken was excellent in the backline.

Crib Point faces Devon Meadows on Saturday before hosting Hastings on April 24.