Hunters learning a lot: Rau

By PARKER TAMBUA
SP Hunter Junior Rau says it has been an exciting three weeks with the squad learning a lot of new skills under new coach Matthew Church in the offseason.
The two-time Kumuls winger said he was confident of a stronger campaign in the Queensland Intrust Super Cup next season after a dismal 2019 that saw them finish second from bottom.
“We are learning new things every day and I can say this pre-season is more fun and the boys are enjoying it,” Rau said.
“Unlike the past, this pre-season is more about building stamina and focusing on ball skills.
“Everyone is working hard to make the final cut for next year’s roster. We want to perfect everything at training so we can have a chance to make the squad.” Rau, who is set to play in his third ISC season next year, said he wanted to work on his kick returns and fitness. Meanwhile, Australian Church said although some players may be good at training, it was not always the case on game day.
“Some players can be so good in training but when they play, it doesn’t reflect that,” Church said.
“Some can be bad in training but when they play, they perform well.
“Guys like (Queensland legend) Allan Langer, he’s not good in training but he performs well on the pitch.
“That is why I have gone through some video footages of Digicel Cup games this year to look at how some our squad members played.
“They may not be good at training but they can be great in games.”