Crocs out to learn from rare defeat

PORT Douglas coach Brad Cooper is looking forward to seeing how his Crocs respond to last weekend’s first loss since late 2016 today at Holloways Beach.

The injury bug keeps nibbling at the twice-defending premiers as mobile forward Mitch Bohm will miss today’s contest with Cairns City Lions, as will West Gippsland recruit Lachlan Petch, while experienced midfielder Peter Bury is not ready to return just yet.

After putting together 26 straight AFL Cairns victories, Cooper (right) says his club will learn more from last Saturday’s loss to Cairns Saints than from any of their previous wins.

“Last week we took a step backwards and we need to get that back in a forward direction where we are working for each other,” Cooper said.

“There is a lot of things that stood out for us against Saints, and we spoke about that leading into the game, but it really resonated with the players afterwards.

“It will be interesting to see what kind of attitude the guys come out with this week.”

The Crocs have just 12 remaining premiership players from 2017 in today’s squad and Cooper is honest about the talent level at the club this season.

“On a piece of paper, Saints have probably got us pipped in terms of talent this year,” he said. “City Lions have the most decorated side running around.

“But we still have 10 guys who have been together for the last few years and we will rely on them to get everyone else up to speed.”