Semi-Final Rematch Promises to Sizzle But Strange is Under No Illusions
Ardent fans of the NRLW will be licking their lips at the prospect of seeing the Sydney Roosters face the Brisbane Broncos in the first meeting since last year's famous semi-final, but Coach John Strange says the focus starts from within ahead of tomorrow's blockbuster.
After dethroning the Broncos from their Premiership reign, the Tricolours crowed to their way in an incredible 22-16 comeback victory at Leichhardt Oval en route to their inaugural title.
Strange: "The Focus Has Been on Ourselves"
Following a strong Round 1 performance that saw the Roosters record their highest-ever score, Strange says that while there will be some focus on their opponents, it all begins with team trust as his side looks to go two from two to start 2022.
“It was good to get Round 1 out of the way last week against the Eels and get the two points which was really important to just start our season off well,” Strange said.
“We had it pencilled in for Round 2 against the Broncos that it was going to be tough, especially up here in Suncorp and in particular after last time we met and knocked them out of the semis.
“Obviously there are a few key focuses on their players. They’ve got a really good squad and some dangerous players. We’ve spoken about those during the week, but there’s going to be a real heavy emphasis on ourselves.
“We did last week. Parra had some really good players but it was more about us and our style of footy. It’s going to be about trust in what we’ve been doing and trust in each other on the field.
McGregor: "We Really Hit Our Straps"
“We’re under no illusions that it’s going to be a tough game.”
With a number of new faces brought into the squad to defend the crown, Strange explains that a heavy emphasis has been placed on building new combinations, particularly those within the spine.
While a 22-point victory was pleasing to see, particularly with so much shifting of the ball either side of the ruck, there is still plenty of work to be done according to the man holding the clipboard.
“The way we played with our ball movement, it was looking good at training but it always sort of does leading into the first game so you’re never really sure until you’re put under the blowtorch, so to speak,” he explained.
“The girls were hitting their targets and getting their points and everyone understood their role, especially for Round 1.
“It’s probably the new combinations. Sammy Bremner has come in at fullback and Destiny at hooker so they’re key positions and for them to be feeling a part of this squad
“We had a five-week pre-season and that was good for them. Last week I was really impressed with them so it’s about forming those combinations which is going to happen out at the game.”
Obviously there are a few key focuses on their players. They’ve got a really good squad and some dangerous players. We’ve spoken about those during the week, but there’s going to be a real heavy emphasis on ourselves.
John Strange On Facing the Broncos
Veteran fullback Bremner showed that age and pregnancy would prove to be no barrier, as the former Jillaroo and State of Origin fullback put on a show against Parramatta, setting up three tries and running over 170 metres.
According to Strange, the diminutive and dynamic custodian has proven to be an influential significant signing both on and off the pitch for his fledgling squad.
Bremner: "I'm Really Happy For The Girls"
“Her energy, she’s had a couple years out with giving birth to her kids,” he said.
“She’s got a real hunger to be the best. She’s been the best fullback in the game playing for the Jillaroos and her state.
“There’s a couple of girls that have stepped up and been going really well in her absence, and I just feel that she has taken her game to the next level.
“She’s a great leader and a great person off the field as well and it’s been really good for the younger girls to have her come in.”
