IT was a disappointing way to finish the season on Friday night, with Magic FC deservedly taking the points at Carmichael Park.
For the first 25 minutes, I thought we were on top of the game and looked comfortable.
But we conceded a poor goal from a corner and that gave Magic the confidence they needed, particularly given what was at stake for them.
The second goal just after half-time made the task even harder.
Once you are chasing a game, you have to make changes and try to find a way back in.
I felt that some of the changes I made probably disrupted us even more.
It had been a difficult week.
The group was flat after not getting the result against Eastern Suburbs, and that probably carried into Friday night.
Looking back on the season, sixth place is progress from where the club finished last year, but there is still disappointment.
Given the start we had, a top four finish was a realistic target.
The frustrating part is that we performed well against many of the competition’s top sides but dropped too many points against teams lower down the table.
There are plenty of “what if” moments when you look back at the results.
My message to the players after Friday night was to stick together.
The clubs that have sustained success in the NPL tend to have a strong core of players who have been together for three or four years.
Moreton City and Lions are good examples.
There is a good group at Wynnum Wolves.
With a new coach coming in, the club has an opportunity to retain that nucleus, add in a few key areas and keep building.
I believe the squad could benefit from a couple of defensive additions and another experienced midfielder.
We were short in that area late in the season and really missed Joe (Duckworth).
There is talent coming through, but experience matters in this competition.
As for me, I will continue in my role with Chinese Taipei and take some time to see where life takes me.
I am not in a rush to get back into club coaching.
This season has taken quite a lot out of me, to be honest.
But I leave believing the Wolves have made progress — and that the foundations are there for the next group to take another step forward.
