It’s an odd feeling walking away from a loss and not being overly mortified.
More than that, last weekend’s game left a feeling of hope.
It’s not a response you’d expect from a fan base that’s looking at a 2-4 win/loss record.
But I think it’d be a harsh supporter that didn’t take positives out of that game.
The fact is, we came up against a side that’s been playing some very good footy.
Not only were we well and truly in the game, but we could have and possibly should have won.
Unfortunately we didn’t win but we stuck out a very close game with only 15 players for much of it, after star forwards Shaun Fensom and Josh Hodgson were struck down by injury.
The boys played their hearts out and showed a very positive attitude throughout.
It just happened to be the case that we were playing one of the best wet weather football teams in the comp.
I honestly think if the gods hadn’t wept over GIO Stadium, we would’ve picked up the two competition points.
But put it down as unlucky and let’s move on shall we?
Game day this Sunday sees the boys take on an in form Tigers outfit.
The key to a win will be a good defensive attitude as always, but our attack will also really need to click.
The Tigers aren’t exactly setting the world on fire in attack but it’s their defence that has them sitting in the top eight.
The Tigers are the fifth best defensive unit in the competition, which means an 80 minute attacking effort from our boys will be required.
The guys have highlighted their second half attacking efforts this season as an area to improve. I’m sure we’ll see that improvement on the weekend.
But stats aside, there are a lot more than numbers to get you interested in this one.
Expect a cracker of a forwards battle this weekend.
Both packs are big, fast, and mobile, and should be aiming to put their stamp on the game.
The forward pack that wins this battle will most likely win the game.
We saw big Josh Papalii put his own stamp on Cooper Cronk’s ribcage last weekend and I’m hopeful we’ll see more of that against the Tigers.
I’ve seen some real improvement so far this year and it’s just a matter of time until we climb the ladder.
With our away form looking good this year, this is a game we can well and truly win.
So get yourself to Leichhardt Oval on Sunday if you can; or find yourself a comfy spot in front of the TV and get ready for what should be a very good game.
Up the Raiders!
