By MARK CASHMAN

Northern Suburbs coaching director Zak Beer knows that the Shoremen won’t be able to run under the radar when the Shute Shield kicks off in early April.

But he’s confident that the 2021 version of Norths can be better than the one that was knocked out in the preliminary final against Eastwood last season, a game that went to extra time in driving rain at Pittwater Rugby Park.

“Last year we evolved the way that we trained, played and the language that we used,” Beer said.

“Obviously there was a bit going on with COVID-19, coaching remotely over Zoom and a stack of new players but we’re into it now and we have picked up where we left off last year.

“On reflection we are a year older, a year wiser and guys are now coming to the club to learn and improve their games.

“The foundations were well and truly set and we are keen to build on all that work.