LIONS Reserves coach Shane Woewodin says his side will learn plenty from Friday’s six point loss to the Gold Coast Suns in a NEAFL practice match at Metricon Stadium.
With just five minutes remaining, Gold Coast led by 18 points. But, two quick goals from the Lions brought the game within reach and when the ball was delivered deep into Brisbane’s forward line, a score looked promising.
However, the final siren sounded to give the Suns a 10.7 (67) to 8.13 (61) victory.
“At times we did flow the ball really well”, Woewodin said.
“We outscored Gold Coast from turnovers pretty convincingly which was exciting, but our biggest room for improvement going forward and particularly when we play them in two weeks time is from stoppage. We were poor in our organisation (at) both ends of the ground and in our ability to win the ball inside too – with clearances we were minus 22 for the day.
“Our stoppage organisation and our intent in there will be our biggest focus going forward.”
Woewodin said Brent Staker, who has endured a tough few years with injury, got through the full match unscathed.
“It was Stakes' first real full game for a little while, two years really, because he’s only played half a game in the Seniors.
“(The match) was about getting some continuity in his game and learning his new role. We’ve got him more up and around the ball at the moment to get some run in his legs and his hands on the footy”, Woewodin said.
“He’ll probably continue that if he is to be with us going forward at least for a couple of weeks anyway. He may not play those roles at senior level but certainly just to get his confidence up and get some hands on ball will be pretty important for him.”
The Reserves will have a four day break to coincide with the Senior team and will play their final practice match against the Suns at Coorparoo on Easter Saturday.
"Hopefully we’ve learnt a bit this week and can take that forward into the next time we play them."