The Parramatta Eels once again came close to their second win against the Raiders, but lapses of concentration are still hindering them, explains Eels coach Stephen Kearney explains.
REFLECTING on yesterdays match in Canberra, it was certainly a frustrating end to a difficult week for the Club and its supporters.
Its never an easy road trip heading down there to take on the Raiders but our first half just wasnt where it needed to be if were serious about winning football games in the NRL.
As I said following the game, until players begin to take ownership of their own individual performances and cut out errors and lapses in concentration from their game well continue to struggle.
I asked the lads to show some fight in the second half and pride in their jumper, and to their credit they went out and did that.
Luke Burt was a stand-out in his 250th game for the Club. His goal-kicking from the sideline kept us in the game yesterday, and his contribution since returning from a stint in Wentworthville has highlighted just how professional he is.
While it was a shame we couldn't get the win yesterday for Burty, were confident in where we are heading as a team... but its going to take a bit of time for us to get to where we need to be.
One thing Eels fans can be proud of is the performance of some of our younger players who are still very inexperienced at the NRL level.
Young Matt Ryan has shown he has a big future, and Cheyse Blair proved a handful for the Raiders defence at centre. Ryan Morgan is another young player really putting his hand up and contributing.
For us, the bye has come at a good time. Well use this week to refocus ourselves on the rest of the season. Certainly, our defence is one of many parts of our game that needs to improve.
Theres still plenty of footy to be played in 2012 and plenty of opportunities ahead to show what were made of, and were looking forward to a big challenge against the Dragons in Round 11.
On another note, on behalf of the squad Id like to thank all our fans who made the trip down the Federal Highway to see us play on Sunday. Stick with us, there are better times ahead.