Instead of wielding the axe, North Queensland coach Paul Green has kept the faith – for now.
Green has given the likes of besieged winger Justin O’Neill a chance to redeem themselves after a disastrous NRL season opener in a largely unchanged side against Newcastle on Saturday night.
Melbourne recruit O’Neill was expected to be the first cut after dropping two high balls and coming off his wing to gift a try in a nightmare 24-minute period during last weekend’s 28-4 home loss to Sydney Roosters.
But Green has granted his team a shot at redemption at home, with just two changes made on the bench.
“I think it is important that players feel a little bit of security,” Green said.
“I have been pretty loyal in the past.
“The boys were disappointed with their performance … so I think I owe them a chance to make amends.”
Despite Kyle Feldt and Tautau Moga hovering, O’Neill was again named on the right wing on Tuesday.
In the only changes, Kelepi Tanginoa replaces Glenn Hall on the bench with Lachlan Coote named as 18th man.
Green’s message to O’Neill was simple: “I believe in you”.
However, Green reckoned he would deliver another before kick-off against the Knights in Townsville.
“Catch the ball,” he smiled.
“Justin was disappointed with his performance, but he is better than that.
“He was probably a bit nervous on debut for the club. It’s funny how a basic error can play on your mind.
“But I have confidence in him.”
The 24-point loss ensured early season title favourites North Queensland came crashing back to earth.
But Green sounded like he was keeping the result in perspective.
“There are high expectations on us but I don’t think we are the only team the Roosters will beat this year,” he said.
“We’ve copped a bit of criticism, fairly or unfairly.
“The only way we are able to shut people up is by how we perform on the field.
“I like to think that when guys don’t play to their own standards that should be motivation enough.
“Hopefully we show fans (last) Saturday night was a hiccup and we make amends (against the Knights).”
