Great night. Atmosphere was top class. Really great support. And I think it absolutely made a difference. Particularly when it scoreline got close, the lads were under the sticks waiting for wire's kick. At that point the noise from fans went up even further. No griping or getting on players back, just 100% support. That's got to make a difference.
Main points I picked up:
Our defence is looking as mean as it has for 18 months. Solid, working for each other, good shape, better line speed.
Michael Lawrence is a major part of the above. Gotta be one of the best defenders in super league. Great technique coupled with a great engine and increased size and strength over last few seasons makes for a brick wall of a defender. As others have mentioned, his go forward is steadily improving too.
Our signings so far have made a real difference. Huby was quality. Didn't take a backwards step. Hughes was solid again. Ellis gives us real balance. Thought his first half kicking was very good
, he takes on the line and is a class finisher.
Brough was outstanding. Kicking master class. Was vocal through the match, geeing the lads up, didn't get his mardy head on, which with the number of the pens against was good to see. One thing I noticed in particular . Jerry made a tackle bust and spilled the ball. Danny was shouting from other side of pitch at him to keep his chin up and keep doing what he's doing and encouraging him.
Loads of other pluses. As baloo has mentioned we weren't perfect with the ball, but I still like where we are at.
COYG
