NYC PREVIEW: 'TIME TO ROLL UP SLEEVES'
By Wayne Cousins
13/04/2012 11:21:31 AM
Wests Tigers NYC Coach Todd Payten has called on his players to ‘roll up their sleeves in defence’ against Penrith on Sunday, April 15.
The Panthers are chasing their fifth consecutive victory against a Wests Tigers side who had a four game winning streak halted at the hands of Brisbane last Friday night.
Penrith have won five of their six matches to sit second on the ladder with Wests Tigers a place back in third position. The match at Centrebet Stadium kicks off at 12.45pm.
Payten said his players were still hurting following the loss to Brisbane.
“I could see it in their faces at our video session on Monday,’’ he said.
“They now have the opportunity to rectify things against a very tough Panthers side. We will need to be at our best to beat them.”
Payten said Penrith have a very big mobile pack and a number of quality players who will have to be watched closely.
“Halfback Harry Siejka is one of their most influential players so we’ll need to keep him quiet. He has already had a taste of first grade having played a couple of games last year. He takes the line on and also has a good kicking game.
“Their edge back-rower Vaipuna Tiakilifi can also be a handful. He’s big, strong and very skilful. They also go to their centre Wellentony Taufa Satini a bit in attack.
“Fullback Clay Robinson has been scoring a few points recently so we’ll need to watch him closely too.
“We just need to get back to basics. Roll our sleeves up in defence and get physical with them. In attack, it’s all about ball control and field position. Completing our sets after scoring points will be crucial.”
