The SG Ball Steelers are gearing up for a crucial match against last year’s premiers, the St George Dragons, this Saturday at WIN Stadium. The team coached by former Steelers and Dragons legend Shaun Timmins aims to recover from a disappointing home loss to the Wests Magpies last week.
Both players and coaches are determined to address the issues that plagued their performance, particularly in defence, and come out with renewed energy for their next challenge.
One key player looking to make an impact is Daniel Meafou, who is returning after a year-long injury layoff due to an ACL tear.
“It’s definitely good being back, but the game fitness isn’t quite there yet,” said Meafou.
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“There are little things like timing and tackles that need work, but I’m just focused on getting the reps in and improving my game.”
Meafou joined the Steelers at the age of 16 and has progressed through the Harold Matthews and SG Ball teams. He is now focused on improving his fitness and performance, having only played a few games since his return.
“I want to make it to the first grade and just focus on improving every week.”
We Got What We Deserved: Timmins
Timmins acknowledged the team’s disappointing performance in last week’s 42-14 loss.
“Our defence was probably the most disappointing thing. We came off a win the previous week, but to play at home and concede poor defence was not up to standard. We got what we deserved,” Timmins said.
Timmins says the team has been working hard at training this week, with a focus on improving their defence and reducing errors.
“Defence is probably our biggest area of improvement, and we need to stop turning over the ball and giving the opposition more chances.”
Good Vibes
Timmins is also keen on developing leadership within the squad, emphasising the importance of hard work on and off the field.
“You don’t have to be the biggest talker, but if you train hard and show the right attitude, guys will follow you,” he said.
Despite the tough loss, Timmins remains optimistic about the team’s potential, particularly considering the improvements seen in training.
“The vibe has been pretty good. We had a good road trip to New Zealand and a win, but last week’s result was disappointing. But we’re focused on turning things around for the Dragons.”
Friendly Rivalry
As they prepare for the upcoming game against the Dragons, both players and coaches recognise the importance of this match. Timmins described it as a “huge game” and emphasised that his players need to enhance their overall effort, particularly in defense.
“We need to be better, hold the ball, and show more effort than we have in the past two weeks,” he added.
Meafou also shared his thoughts on the local derby.
“It’s like a home away from home,” he said.
“It’s a rivalry, and we’re all from one big club. There will be a lot of people watching, so it’s definitely the time to impress.”
Family Connection
Both Meafou and Timmins agree on the importance of family and fan support. For Meafou, playing for his family keeps him motivated during tough times.
“Family and friends are everything. We do it for more than just ourselves. It’s a huge motivator for me,” he said.
Timmins expressed a similar sentiment, emphasising that support from families reaches beyond the players themselves.
He is now coaching the sons of former teammates, including Hudson Bailey, the son of Luke, and Aaymon Fitzgibbon, the son of Craig and grandson of Allan, the Steelers inaugual coach when they entered the NSWRL competition in 1982.
“It makes you feel old, but it’s great seeing the next generation come through.”
Round 6 – Saturday, 8 March, WIN Stadium
- 10.30am – Steelers LFC v Cronulla Sharks
- 12.00pm – Steelers TGC v Cronulla Sharks
- 1.30pm – Steelers HMC v St George Dragons
- 3.00pm – Steelers SGB v St George Dragons
Words | Angelina Raula