Newcastle Knights coach Michael Hagan says he is confident the team will make a strong start to the 2004 National Rugby League competition, judging by the success of its off-season.
While the side was defeated by the Roosters in its first pre-season match last weekend, Hagan says he is happy with how the team performed without it key players.
He says he believes it is possible for the team to make the top four this season, considering its solid preparation during the past few months and the quality of its younger players.
"We've had the benefit of a good pre-season and players have worked a bit harder in the gym over the past 12 weeks, but I think we've also got a lot of young players that are 12 months older and they are stronger by virtue of time," he said.
"Unfortunately it's a slow process sometimes to get that component up to speed but, no, I was quite happy with the younger players and their strength against a very physical and formidable forward pack in the Roosters."
Source: http://www.abc.net.au/
While the side was defeated by the Roosters in its first pre-season match last weekend, Hagan says he is happy with how the team performed without it key players.
He says he believes it is possible for the team to make the top four this season, considering its solid preparation during the past few months and the quality of its younger players.
"We've had the benefit of a good pre-season and players have worked a bit harder in the gym over the past 12 weeks, but I think we've also got a lot of young players that are 12 months older and they are stronger by virtue of time," he said.
"Unfortunately it's a slow process sometimes to get that component up to speed but, no, I was quite happy with the younger players and their strength against a very physical and formidable forward pack in the Roosters."
Source: http://www.abc.net.au/
