Kearney has faith in struggling Warriors lineup
WARRIORS coach Stephen Kearney insists wholesale changes are not the answer to his side’s problems and is backing his players to prove their worth in Saturday’s NRL clash against the Gold Coast.
Backrowers Bodene Thompson and Ryan Hoffman, halfback Shaun Johnson and centre Solomone Kata have all retained their spots despite some forgettable moments in last week’s 3224 loss to Parramatta.
Kearney points to the fact the same players performed in the gritty round nine win over the Roosters and in the victory over Brisbane, and is confident they will make amends against the Titans at Cbus Super Stadium.
‘‘The same group of players did a pretty good job the week before, and again — apart from a few moments — in the match against Parramatta,’’ Kearney said.
‘‘It gets a bit frustrating for everyone but it’s important that I set a standard and a tone, and to make wholesale changes, in my eyes, is not the right thing to do.’’
Kearney’s loyalty is admirable but it was pointed out the same players had also struggled in backtoback losses to the Panthers and Dragons before again falling short against the Eels.
Rightside pair Thompson and Johnson have repeatedly been exposed on defence and the Kiwis playmaker has lacked confidence and consistency on attack.
Hoffman’s tackling has also been below par, while his leftedge partner Kata looked off the pace in his return after a fortnight out with a calf injury.
Kearney is aware of his side’s shortcomings but maintains consistent selections are required to teach his players how to bounce back and improve. Patience is wearing thin in the coaches box but he refused to put his team on notice and said selections would be reassessed next week.
‘‘They have the ability to do the job and that’s why I’m persevering with the selection choices that I’ve made.
‘‘My job is to persevere with them and make sure they’re getting the education and awareness so that they do become consistent NRL players.’’
Kearney’s persistence with Johnson and 299game veteran Hoffman is hardly surprising, but eyebrows have been raised by Thompson’s continued selection, with hardworking youngster Bunty Afoa waiting in the wings.
However, Kearney would not be drawn on the reasons behind Thompson’s form slump and reiterated his belief in the 28yearold.
‘‘I know what Bodene is capable of and I have trust that he can get the job done and I’m pretty confident that he’ll do the job for us this week.’’
Meanwhile, veteran wing Manu Vatuvei will play for the club’s Intrust Super Premiership side in Sunday’s clash against Blacktown in Sydney.
Injuries have restricted the 31yearold to just one NRL appearance this season, and a recurring knee problem spoiled a 53minute outing in the round three loss to Canterbury in Dunedin.
He then suffered a calf injury at the captain’s run before the round 10 loss to Penrith, but a successful return would put him back in the frame to face the Bulldogs at Mt Smart Stadium on June 23.
‘‘It’s a bit of a risk in my mind to take him over the Gold Coast without a run under his belt so he’ll get that opportunity this weekend.’’ — NZME