Defence is key

Normal, Sports
Source:

The National, Friday October 11th, 2013

 By JACK AMI

Kumuls coach Adrian Lam  says the main focus for his side at the World Cup is on defence. 

Lam said last night the emphasis for the side would be on shoring up defensively in light of the 40-point mauling at the hands of the Australian Prime Minister’s XIII two weeks ago in Kokopo.

He said he was continuing to impress on his players the need to work as a unit on defence. 

“We have a lot of work to do and a lot of areas to improve on in defence and attack to get it right in the World Cup,” Lam said.

“The Aussies beat us because our defence was not up to it. 

“They shattered our lines and even though they were bigger, than us we had to find a way to keep them out, ” he said.

“This is the reason the coaching staff has been working on defence in every training session before we leave for the United Kingdom on Monday.

“If we sort ourselves out in that area than we’ll get results at the World Cup.

“Players have to get their heads up and work hard with their fitness as this is important in training and game situations as well.”

Lam said with the involvement of Gold Coast Titans David Mead brought excitement, maturity and experience which is important for the team runs. This also applies to the other overseas-based players whose involvement will lift spirits.

Lam said international players North Queensland’s Ray Thompson, Newcastle’s Neville Costigan, Warrington’s Paul Aiton, Roosters Nene Macdonald and Penrith Panthers James Segeyaro are all expected today. 

England-based Menzie Yere and Jason Chan join the team in the United Kingdom.