Otago United started off the season well but rather tailed off at the end, eventually finishing sixth, ahead of Waikato and Manawatu in the eight-team league. Last season, the side finished seventh, so it was a minor improvement.
The team had just three victories from 14 games and coach Richard Murray said the long season, on the back of a full winter for most players, eventually told on the players.
The team also lacked experience and that had a telling effect on the team.
"The guys play in the winter league here and they can afford to switch off, as they can get away with it. But in the national league if you switch off, then you get found out," he said.
"There were those key moments when guys were just not quite there and were made to pay for it.
"But overall, I think the guys improved over the year and will be a good experience for them."
The side this year decided not to use any imported players and relied on talent from within the southern region.
"So, hopefully, the majority of them will stay here and we will be able to build a team here. That is why I am keen to stay on, as you want to build on what you have already done.
"You can't get anything done in one season. You need two or three seasons to see some results starting to happen."
The side suffered from injuries and players taking up contracts overseas, which meant Murray was always having to name a different side. He used 27 players in the season.
"The majority of the guys are aged from 20 to 22, while the good sides, from Auckland, Wellington and Canterbury had guys who were around the 25 age mark. You really need that experience."
The side played only six games before Christmas but in the new year, with a cup competition thrown in, played 10 games in 11 weeks, It was tough for many players, as they were coming to the end of playing the game for one whole year.
Players to stand out were fullback Tristan Prattley and midfielder Harley Rodeka. Attacker Ant Hancock improved as the season went on and defender Matt Joy also kicked on later.
One bonus for the side was playing at Forsyth Barr Stadium.
Murray said though there was not a huge crowd at the matches at the stadium, he said it was a great atmosphere and a top surface to play on.
Otago United season record
• Played: 14
• Won: 3
• Lost: 9
• Drawn: 2
Scored 15 goals, conceded 37.
