The media has taken the throw-away line from Pollock this week and inserted it into every printed publication going.

"A season is not lost by one result".

While this is essentially the truth, I fear the season may have been hijacked as the last game in 2004 came its dark conclusion. Planning, recruitment and commonsense seem to have been left at the back door of the of the black, white and cardinal (not pink please) coaching department.

We (North Harbour) spin hopelessly out of control like an asteroid destined for inter-planetary contact in the not too distant future, or do we? (pause for deep intellectual thought).

I know it is early and I hope this piece of amateur journalistic interpretation is nailed to the shed wall for inspiration, but frankly readers my pants are a bit wet. My hands are clammy and my heart beats a little bit faster as each NPC fixture approaches. (It is acknowledged that my heart thing may have to do more with my doctor informing me of a slightly higher than normal cholesterol level.)

As a long-time Harbour supporter I have developed a thick skin for defence against my other provincial detractors, and to be honest I feel at home with my Union underachieving and playing like shite. Now, I'm sure there is a perfectly good psychological answer for this state of mind but for now we will keep it between ourselves.

What was I talking about, ah yes, lack of preparation. As we move to Wellington for the next phase of the 2005 campaign I outline my concerns for Habour:

1. Buying Lomu. Might be good for a bit of PR but it is unlikely that the big man will get back on the field. Nothing against him but it is a bit like buying a new front door (with big brass knocker) when you have a leak in the window joinery.

2. The loss of our stars to Wellington, Nelson Bays and Otago were unfortunate but not totally unexpected. We have done little to shore up these holes and I believe we will pay the price.

3. We have a great deal of young talent but I'm not sure they are ready. I would feel better if they were surrounded by some sort of experienced players.

4. Fullback, halfback and First-five are all a bit shaky. If Luke isn't there then we must have a kicker who is. I see we have dispensed with Whiteman already - I rest my case your honour!

5. I do note the loss of the Wulfman, Lomu etc. which has obviously not helped the cause. This piece of reality is to aid my own journalistic integrity in producing a balanced argument. Jason Pollocks to that my son.

Enjoy the season.....