Fresh from leading Newcastle to a second straight NSW Country title, Nick Foster has his sights set on another two pieces of cricket silverware for 2020-21.
Foster's side Stockton are sitting fourth on the first grade ladder with two rounds remaining and a spot in the semis up for grabs, but the Seagulls also find themselves on top of the club championship charts.
It would mark quite the turnaround in fortunes if the peninsula outfit could claim the Robert "Dutchy" Holland trophy in 2020-21, having endured some lean seasons recently.
"The big item for us is the club championship," Foster said.
"It would be like Finland winning the medal count at the summer Olympics if we can get across the line.
"It would be a big deal for everyone at the club and shows what you can do with hard work after going through some tough times."
Stockton, who most recently clinched the Newcastle District Cricket Association crown in 2003-04, lead the way from last year's winners Merewether with Wests third.
In terms of the first XI, it has almost been as long between premiership drinks with the Seagulls last tasting success in 2004-05.
Foster feels they need to win at least one of their next two games to ensure a position in the final four.
Stockton (40 points) host an unchanged Toronto (26) at Lynn Oval on Saturday before finishing away against University (24).
"We've got ourselves into a decent position and things are shaping up pretty well," he said.
"I think we've got enough fire power to compete with anyone, especially with Jeff [Goninan] coming back in."
Foster and Goninan, who was in Western Australia until last month, helped Newcastle beat Riverina in Sunday's state final in Goulburn and they have now collected a combined 12 NSW Country Championships.
Courtesy: Josh Callinan (Newcastle Herald)
