Duncan Thomson and coach Andy Cygan made welcome returns as Gunnedah FC got back in the winner's circle on the weekend.
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After losing their last two games and dropping to third, FC went into their double-header against Kootingal Kougars and Moore Creek hoping to turn their fortunes around.
They did, accounting for Kougars 3-nil on Saturday before getting past the fourth-placed Mountain Goats 3-1 on Sunday to push five points clear of them with three rounds remaining.
Thomson, who had missed their last couple of games, was pivotal in their success scoring five of their six goals.
Back himself after five weeks away, Cygan was particularly pleased to get the win on Sunday.
"They've been our bogey team. They've drawn with us twice, and are a big strong physical team," he said.
"We got a fairly early goal, then they equalised."
The score stayed at 1-all for about half an hour, but FC were eventually able to get on top.
"It was a good hard fought game. Previously we might have got outmuscled but we dug in," Cygan said.
"It wasn't a great performance and I made that clear to them, but we got the result."
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The commitment for him was the most impressive aspect of the weekend, after a bit of turmoil within the club.
"There's been a bit of in house fighting, and a few things said on social media, which we've addressed," Cygan said.
"We had a big talk on Thursday night at training and tried to put a few things right."
"We've committed now to win every game and see where we end up."
They've got Hillvue this Saturday, who they went down to 2-nil last time the two sides met, and will be without Michael Cooke after he received a three game suspension.
Cooke was sent off with around 25 minutes remaining of Saturday's game but had his ban extended for what Cygan described as abusive language.
On a more positive note they should get Rob Pryor back. He's been out with a knee injury but has been given the all clear to return.
Reserve grade also doubled up to continue their march towards the minor premiership. After beating Kougars 3-nil, they backed up with a 4-nil win.
Cygan said they have been the "surprise packet".
"They've lost one game in 15 or 16 and should end up minor premiers," he said.
He paid credit to the job coach Alexzanna Budge has done with the side.
"She stood in for me for first grade while I was away and still managed to keep reserve grade on top of the ladder," he said.
Cygan singled out Thomson, and from reserve grade Nathan Bow, Nathan Hobart and Daniel Pengilly for their performances on the weekend.