No panic button for Reds

 

The match was played in humid conditions which made handling especially tricky, but captain James Slipper took some encouragement from their pack's effort up front ahead of their clash with the Crusaders next week.

 

"Here in Cairns it is very humid and hot, it was very slippery out there but in saying that both teams had the same conditions. 

 

"It did loosen up a lot as the game went on, but for us we dropped a lot of balls which is something we are going to have to address.

 

"As a front rower I was very happy with the way things went in the first half and I think our bench came on and did well, so going forward that is an aspect of the game we can be proud of but going up against the Crusaders next weekend is going to be a tough assignment as well," he said.

 

Coach Richard Graham said that their dominance in the set-pieces was a highlight, and was satisfied with the way all the new players fared.

 

"For a first hit-out I was really pleased, I thought our set-piece was very good. Clearly it wasn't a night for attack, I don't think either team scored off phase-play.

 

"It certainly gives you a good idea of where you are at, I thought the defence was really good. Considering the fact that 40% of the group made their debut at this level it gave us a good indication of where that group is at as well," he said.

 

One of those new players was code-hopper Karmichael Hunt, who was grateful to be able to get a feel for the game despite limited opportunities in the conditions.

 

"I think the conditions dictated how we played tonight, so we kept it tight. Also we didn't have too many tries off phase, it was all pretty ruck dominated and mauls so there wasn't really a chance for the backs to showcase our skills but I think it was a positive step going forward.

 

"It was good to be back in some contact, that was my focus – to get a feel for the gainline and the pace of the game. It was a bit of a slow game but there should be a bit more pace next week against the Crusaders. 

 

"I wanted to get a feel for the gainline and get a feel for the contest at the rucks," he explained.