With four rounds played and just two points dropped, Swinburne FC’s reserves coach Nathan Gorga is quietly building something special in Metro 6.

Joining the coaching fold this season alongside Harry, Gorga has wasted no time making an impact.

“It’s been a good start,” he said. “We’ve brought a good brand of football and only dropped two points from the first four rounds. Couldn’t have asked for much more.”

While the unbeaten run is impressive, Gorga’s still kicking himself over a recent draw.

“We should have won,” he admitted.

“When you’re a good football side, those draws feel like losses. We’ve mulled on it, but we’ll be looking to bounce back this weekend against Middle Park.”

And he’s not hiding from expectations.

“Absolutely, the goal is to win the league,” Gorga said.

“We all turn up every Thursday, Sunday, and even Tuesdays. Everyone’s putting in effort, so we’ve got to be aiming high.”

Sitting top of the table with ten points from a possible twelve, belief is strong in the squad.

“We’ve got a good feel for the league now. I think we’re not just up to the level — we’re setting it,” he said. “The aim is to keep the momentum going and go all the way.”

A few key names have already emerged. Returning midfielder Andrew ‘Twig’ Harris has been a standout in the attacking third, while Rishi has found the net recently even if the referee gave one to the opposition as an own goal.

New recruits Ben Douglas and Sam Young have also made strong starts to life at Swinburne.

“The boys have gelled really well. We’re happy with the squad we’ve got,” Gorga said.

He was full of praise for the wider club too, particularly the thirds who are showing real signs of growth.

“Two wins already after not getting any for two years? That’s massive,” Gorga said. “They’ve got momentum now, and Seb’s got those boys firing.”

Gorga’s also enjoying his own football again after an injury-interrupted 2024.

“The groin gave me trouble last year, so I spent the off-season rehabbing. It’s held up well, and with Harry helping on the coaching side, I’ve been able to get back out there and just enjoy it again.”

He made sure to shout out the senior team too.

“The ones have looked really strong recently. After a couple of draws to start, they’ve got wins going and they’re right in the mix now. Metro 2’s a tough league — not enough people realise how hard Sunday League actually is.”

And finally, he had a word for the supporters especially the furnace faithful.

“The sideline support has been unreal,” he said. “Triple headers, chants, late goals — it’s made a difference. I remember the 88th-minute winner, shirt off, limbs everywhere. That’s what it’s all about.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Furnace (@furnace.sfc)