ANOTHER week, another win… it’s getting routine for the temporary coaching duo of Mike Rush and Keiron Cunningham!
After the 28-16 victory over Warrington in their own barn the whole squad once again took the plaudits from the backroom staff.
Rush in particular paid tribute to the senior players and the massive defensive effort in the second half.
“We dug in deep when we needed to in the second half,” the Acting Head Coach said. “There were a number of sets where we needed to put our shoulders in, be patient and wait our turn.
“We played very well in the opening 20 minutes and I thought we were unlucky not to get another try. There were a couple of close calls where we pushed the pass a little, but it’s hard to be critical when you are asking them to push the ball and take chances.
“We knew Warrington would come back and it’s how you weather that storm… and that’s what we did. I learnt that early in my coaching career – the game will swing… you’ll get your chance and then they will get theirs’. It’s how you cope with that.
“Our pack was dominant though and you can tell we have KC on the coaching staff. That’s how he played and the forwards are reaping the benefits.”
Paul Wellens grabbed two tries in the match and Rush was keen to point out his captain’s endeavours.
“I don’t think Wello’s performance has ever been in doubt, other people make suggestions to his age but in the last two games he has been our best player. Jon Wilkin was excellent last week and was the same today. He played for 80 minutes, kicked, tackled and is an international player.
“Josh Jones acquitted himself well too. He probably knew he was getting a game about two hours or less before kick-off and I doubt his parents were even at the game because they wouldn’t have known he was playing.
“I’ve known him since he was 13 and he did exactly what he does week in week out in the Academy.”
He continued: “Once again though it’s important we keep the players’ feet on the ground and begin preparing for Friday’s game. We’ll give them a couple of days off to recover, then it’s games on Friday and Monday. We will monitor the lads and get them through as best as we can.”
