Orchids remain upbeat

PAPUA New Guinea Orchids can draw positives from the recent Prime Minister’s 13 clash despite going down 4-64 to Australia, coach Ben Jeffries says.
Jeffries told The National yesterday that his side had switched their focus to their opening Rugby League World Cup pool game against Canada at Headingly Stadium in Leeds, England on Nov 1.
“The positives that we’ve drawn from the Prime Minister’s 13 camp are that the whole staff and playing group for World Cup have now all met face to face and started to bond well within,” Jeffries said.
“There were some deficiencies in our game that need to be rectified prior to our game one against Canada.
“However, the time we have together in the United Kingdom coming up and the trial game against York City Knights will allow us to work on these aspects.”
Jeffries highlighted his side’s attack failures that needed to be fixed before facing Canada.
“Some areas acknowledged that require attention within attack were the halves. Our halves need to take more control of our sets with communication and direction, plus their last play options.
“Defensively, the group displayed that they embrace contact, however attention to detail around ruck control, try line defence, line speed and numbering up on short sides has been highlighted.”
Meanwhile, Jeffries said players should uphold the team’s standard and values when in England during the tournament.
“Internally we’ve set some values and standards which will assist our behaviours on and off the field once arriving in the UK,” Jeffries said.
“I thought we’ve seen some good signs by multiple players especially the younger personnel like Sera Koroi, Emily Veievers, Bertshiba Awoi and Essay Banu who are going to be long term Orchids if they keep learning and developing.”
The Orchids will regroup in Brisbane on Oct 10 before traveling to England on Oct 12.