Companions bracing for Souths United assault after winning start

Companions rushed out of the gates on Saturday and caught Kootingal off guard with their pace and youth.

However, as Souths possess a similarly young and dynamic lineup, Mahony is readying for a "fast and attacking" style from their upcoming opponents.

"It's attacking football starting from the back, right through to their forwards," he said.

"It will test our fitness this weekend, because we haven't had a massive preseason. Things like interchange and how we roll our substitutions will be important."

Indeed, one of the key takeaways for Mahony from round one was the need for the Companions to improve their fitness. Their explosive start, which yielded three goals in the first half, slowed in the second as they tired and Kootingal made adjustments.

"Our fitness definitely wasn't quite there, so I'm hoping with a few more games that our fitness improves," Mahony said.

Regardless, the Companions players took confidence away from their victory, having found success with a new-look team and a number of fresh combinations on field.

But a fit and battle-tested Souths outfit is a daunting prospect.

After winning the Kevin Johnson Cup last month, Souths had a bye in round one and will come into this weekend's game rested and rearing to go.

"We're expecting them to be quick and fit," Mahony said.

"They've got plenty of youth on their side and they'll be quite enthusiastic for the whole 90 minutes. We'll have to make sure our defence is rock solid, and I'm expecting a lot more communication from the boys this weekend."

At the outset of a new season, most teams will discuss their goals and what outcomes they could realistically target with regards to positions on the ladder and finals.

But, Mahony said, most of the discussions within the club this year have revolved around developing and retaining young talent, and building towards a strong future for Companions.

"When I came across, it was all about trying to create a pathway for some of those players at the age of 15, 16 to be able to play up into the seniors," he said.

"It's all about creating a culture of learning and fun, and to make sure it is balanced. Many of us play different sports and some of the kids are doing their HSC as well, so it's really about ensuring that there's that perspective and balance between schooling or work and soccer."

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