WRFL: Parkside welcomes recruits including Jy Lambley, Michael Jubb

Parkside are set to have a new look forward line in 2022 while its midfield could go to the “next level” after a heavy recruiting haul which includes a 100-goal junior star.

Parkside has been quietly going about its business as it aims to go to the “next level” in 2022.

The Magpies have welcomed a swag of recruits to the club in the off-season although they might not have made as much noise as rival clubs.

There has been no recruiting announcements on the club’s public Facebook page.

Since the transfer period reopened in 11 players have requested moves to Henry Turner Reserve.

Among the arrivals are Jy Lambley and Ty Priest from Caroline Springs and Tarneit with coach Chris Muratore declaring the pair would help establish a “new look” Magpies forward line.

“We’re really excited to have both boys on board and they’ll add different things to our group,” he said.

“Jy knows where the goals are and played some really impressive senior footy in Division 1 last season. Then there’s Ty who adds a lot of experience on the field but he is also a great person to have around the club.

“Brent Kelly and Jackson Lesko didn’t play too many games last year and we’re hoping to get a full season out of them.

“Brent played his first game back in our practice match on Wednesday night after breaking his leg and looked really good as well.

“Our target during the off-season was going after guys to take us to the next level.”

Jy Lambley has crossed from Caroline Springs. Picture: Local Legends Photography

Parkside’s midfield is also expected to bat deeper than last season following the arrivals of Jackson Barrett (St Bernards) and Michael Jubb (Tarneit).

They’re expected to play alongside the likes of Shaun Campbell and Nathan Montague who have re-signed for 2022.

“Mick has had a super pre-season and hasn’t put a foot wrong,” Muratore said.

“He’s proven at this level and enjoyed a really strong year with Tarneit in Division 3 last year.

“Jackson was someone we went pretty hard after and we’re thrilled to get him across the line. Both guys can rotate through the midfield and hit the scoreboard as well.”

Parkside fans can expect to see more of Jackson Lesko in 2022. Picture: Aaron Cook

Muratore said an absence of an under 19 side at Parkside meant the club often targeted young players.

They included Lule Pupillo who played senior footy at Maribyrnong Park in 2021.

Developing forward Rory McClure, who kicked 117 goals in under 17s country footy, in 2019 has also arrived.

“We’ve always tried to bring in up to four guys under the age of 22 since I have been the club’s coach,” Muratore said.

Parkside will open its season against last season’s Division 2 minor premier Wyndhamvale on April 2.

Muratore said the competition was “super strong”.

“I think this season will be the battle of the mind,” he said.

“We haven’t been at a point where guys are playing in August and September for almost three years so I think it’s going to be a fantastic season.

“It’s a marathon and you’re going to need a list that bats between 28 and 30 players deep if you’re going to win a premiership.

“It will be a fantastic reward if we’re able to find the season after what everyone has been through.”

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