That game was a much needed tonic after the last 5 weeks of rubbish we’ve dished up. The key is going to be maintaining that standard week in and week out from now on. The next 2 games are so crucial to our season because we’re playing the warriors and bulldogs away, both are teams on the same number of wins as us and both are away from home, if we can go 2 from 2 that’ll put us at 4-5 which makes the second half of the season much more manageable. Problem is they’re both teams we historically have a lot of trouble with but at least we’re getting them both at a good time I think.
In terms of today’s game, we were all over Parra for most of the game and the change in attitude was the most pleasing aspect. Parra look like a good side this year so they were always going to come back into the contest but I was impressed with how we absorbed the pressure especially from the 40-60 minute mark when the momentum had swung back in the Eels’ favour and we were under the pump for a while there. To concede only one try during that period (even though it was a soft one) was really pleasing.
Pearce played like a $1m halfback today. Imo it looks like he’s been trying his butt off every week but has been down on confidence. Today he just took the game by the scruff of the neck and dominated, his defence was a highlight.
Levi had an excellent game, probably his best in first grade so far. Problem is these games have been few and far between for him and he’s played quite a lot of NRL now so I want to see him do it regularly before I get too excited.
DSaf must start from now on, he’s becoming really consistent. His ability to poke his nose through the line and get to his front and get a quick play the ball is excellent and I think he compliments Klemmer really well. Also means we can bring Gavet on for short stints just to inject some energy when needed.
I must say Josh King has impressed me over the last 4-5 weeks, his errors and missed tackles are way down on previous seasons and he seems to have learned how to offload as well, and he’s actually made some pretty decent runs too. I can’t believe I’m saying this but he’s actually earned his spot on the bench imo.
As a few others have mentioned Hymel Hunt has been strong all season so far. His post contact metres are good for a centre and he is breaking tackles and making some good tackles himself. At this stage it’s looking unlikely that Moga will push him out unless there’s an injury. He’s been an astute signing and I would be happy for us to hold onto him for another couple of years if we can.
All in all it was a good team performance and the boys stepped up at home which is important but we now need to take that form away with us for the next couple of weeks and come back with the points.
