Round 3
North Qld Young Guns 36 d. Norths Devils 16

2006 Wizard Queensland Cup Index [Table] [Draw] [Player Stats] [Club Headlines]

Location: Australia > Queensland > State/Metropolitan Level Competition: Wizard Queensland Cup

Devils To Copy Guns?
Mon March 27, 2006
Source: QRL

WAYNE Treleaven has called for Norths to take a lead from North Queenslands book and recruit older and more experienced players in the wake of a 36-16 loss to the Young Guns in Townsville.

Securing the two points, the Young Guns equaled a competition record of 16 straight wins with the triumph at Dairy Farmers Stadium, matching Burleighs effort in seasons 1998-99.

Rod Jensen was outstanding in the eyes of coach Mick Crawley and, despite playing lock, put himself firmly in consideration for the Cowboys centre spot now vacant courtesy of an ankle injury to Ty Williams.

His performance coincided with strong games from Rob Tanielu, Mark Henry, Brent McConnell and Shane Muspratt, all players who have extensive Wizard Cup experience and are aged in their mid 20s.

By comparison Norths coach Treleaven said his four best players were Adam Blair, Sam Tagataese, James Aubusson and Smith Samau. The eldest of the group, Blair, turned 20 last week.

Indeed the Devils looked a touch at sea without captain and rock Anthony Boyd, a late withdrawal after suffering a severe cork on Friday at training.

Some of our kids just arent ready at this stage, Treleaven said.

You look at the Young Guns now and they arent really a kids team anymore. They recruit at an older bracket of around 21 or 22 where guys are ready for NRL if called upon.

I think its the way to go to be honest. Its something weve got to look at.

Treleaven revealed prop Pat Gardner had left the club in the off-season because he didnt feel the Devils could win a title while consistently blooding so many youngsters for the Melbourne Storm.

The straight-talking coach said the situation would have to be assessed so that the likes of Boyd and half Marc Brentnall dont follow suit in coming seasons.

Treleavens woes have been compounded by injuries to Brendan Afitu (broken wrist), Trent Henrick (fractured cheekbone) and Nathan Friend (broken finger). To add insult to injury, the Young Guns gave their Players Player award to former Devil Tanielu.

North Queenslands quest to record 17 consecutive victories is set to receive a boost with last years premiership skipper Daniel Strickland on track to return from a calf injury.

Strickland completed a 100km bike ride with conditioner Billy Johnstone last week and is fairly keen to escape the rehabilitation group and suit up against the Tweed Heads Seagulls on Sunday.

Norths meanwhile, is set to host Burleigh at Bishop Park on Sunday as well.

Advanced Search