O’NEILL BACKS YOUTH TO LE AD WAY FORWARD
THERE is a bright light at the end of the tunnel for the Cowboys and Justin O’neill says the club must head towards it.
Despite the disappointing results that have culminated in the departure of head coach Paul Green, a host of exciting young players have begun to forge their paths in the NRL.
Teen sensations Hamiso TabuaiFidow and Daejarn Asi featured on the highlights reel in the match against the Penrith Panthers, and O’neill said the Cowboys needed to harness those moments.
The veteran centre also said it was not just up to the coaching staff to enhance their progress, the senior playing group had a crucial part to play.
“I guess we’re all very disappointed about the decision,” O’neill said. “It’s sad to see someone leave who has done so much for the club.
“If anything, if we can look at it in a positive way. We’ve got such a young team. With a fresh start, (you can see) how this club can develop.
“This year’s been pretty disruptive as it is, it hasn’t been easy to say the least. As senior players we’re looked to as leaders, and the best thing we can do when times get tough is lead the group and really stay strong.
“I think if we can do our role for the club and for the team, stay strong and lead by example, that’s the best thing we need at this point in time.”
Green coached the side one last time on Sunday afternoon against the Panthers, then informed the squad that his time had come to an end. Josh Hannay has taken over for the remainder of this year’s campaign.
But there has been little time for the Cowboys to dwell on what has happened because a quick turnaround means they play against the Manly Sea Eagles on Friday night.
O’neill said that could be a blessing for the team, particularly the younger players who had never experienced this type of disruption in their careers.
“It’s almost probably better we have a quick turnaround and not much time to think about it and have everything sink in,” he said.
“We’ve got the coaching staff to do that, we’ve seen what Josh Hannay y can do. He’s been great alongside e Greeny.”