Ladder leaders Wollongong Wolves flexed their muscle to break a win-less run of close to a decade with a 4-0 thrashing of perennial title contenders Blacktown City at WIN Stadium on Sunday.
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The Wolves were in complete control on home soil despite failing to beat City since 2010 as they maintained their unbeaten start and a four point buffer at the top of the NSW National Premier League.
Thomas James continued his unbelievable form in front of goal with another brace while defenders Taylor McDonald and Nick Littler both cashed in with goals.
James, who now has 12 goals this season, helped put the Wolves 1-0 in front at the break before they fired home three unanswered goals in the second half to claim another big top flight scalp.
"I am very happy with the way we performed," Wolves coach Luke Wilkshire said.
"It is a great home performance and that is what we expect.
"We hit the bar a few times but I am delighted with the boys response because we were disappointed with the draw last week.
"To come back and do that [was impressive]. We want to make it a fortress here."
Wollongong were held to a 2-2 draw by last placed Sutherland Sharks last weekend, but rarely looked likely of dropping points a week on.
James gave the hosts a deservedly lead when he fired a well-placed left foot effort across the face of goal and into the bottom corner in the 30th minute.
Harry Callahan was unlucky not to double the advantage either side of half time after the attacking threat beat City keeper Tristen Prendergast only to find the woodwork.
The reward for their pressure came when James beat his man outside the box and fired past Prendergast again in the 62nd minute.
It was 3-0 just five minutes later as McDonald turned and shot into the top corner.
Littler piled further misery on the visitors after latching onto a cross when he was given far too much space in the six yard box.
Wilkshire was pleased by his squad's attitude after a disappointing result last week.
"The hunger and the drive of the boys impressed me," he said.
"I see it in the boys every session.
"They want to improve and we are improving but we still have more in us.
"That makes me proud to be with this group of guys."
Wollongong have just two matches before they reach the halfway point of the campaign, with a blockbuster clash with Rockdale City Suns looming at WIN Stadium next weekend.
They'll meet the big-spending Marconi Stallions in the final game of the first round of fixtures.
