ILLAWARRA RUGBY
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Eleven years after their last premiership title, Kiama might be on the verge of an overdue resurgence.
If Kiama's season-opening defeat of Tech Waratahs didn't grab the attention of rivals, Saturday's 23-17 home win over reigning champions Camden most certainly will.
While coach Darryl Thomas was impressed by his team's unexpected hot start, he isn't getting carried away.
Asked about Kiama's final five prospects, Thomas said: "That's our goal but that's everyone's goal. It's only early days.
"If we stay fit and keep pushing forward, we can make some inroads. We've still got a lot of work to do but it's a bit better than things looked for us last year."
Indeed, two wins don't make a season but Thomas hopes the early form isn't a fluke.
"We had a horrible year last year. We did it really tough," he said.
"We had a coaching change a week out from the first game, we had 13 first graders out through injury at different stages. Towards the end of last year we had 12 guys fit to play both grades so we've certainly done some hard yards.
"We got together and had a chat. The boys have been training since November so they're pretty fit. That's only going to help us become a more consistent team.
"There's a good attitude among the club at the moment and there just seems to be a bit more belief this year than last year."
Camden's loss was their first for the season.
"The conditions were shocking and they had a few guys out," Thomas said.
"Having said that, we played well. The boys dug in. It was a really good game.
"We got through with no injuries so that's always a big plus.
"Camden will get their main guys back and it might be a different story next time, but we're happy with it."
Bowral showed they might pose problems after going down to Vikings 12-10.
University and Shamrocks drew 15-all while Avondale trounced Shoalhaven 48-3 .