Altona Roosters are bogged down in unfamiliar territory in the Victorian Rugby League.
The break didn’t come quickly enough for the Roosters, who are well off the pace in second-last position after an ordinary 1-5 start.
Roosters coach Brandon Taonoa told Star Weekly a much-needed regeneration of the playing roster was behind a five-game losing streak.
“It’s a lack of experience … a young team, a lot of young guys,” he said.
“I wanted to bring in the youth and that’s why I took over the position.
“We have a few old boys there, but they’re all breaking down on me.”
The absences of three Bernard brothers – Rick, Justin and Michael – has robbed the Roosters of experience.
Rick and Justin are likely to return soon after the break, but Michael will be lost to the sport indefinitely.
“It was just a freak accident,” Taonoa said. “He got toppled and hit the goal post head first and fractured two bones in his neck. They reckon he might be able to play in two years.”
Despite the unfavourable lopsided win-loss record, the Roosters have at least been competitive in most of their games.
They were blown out 76-16 by North West Wolves, but all their other matches have been up for grabs in the second half.
Taonoa admits his side is yet to find that winning formula late in games.
“These young boys aren’t good under pressure yet,” he said.
“When they get under pressure, they lose a bit of confidence.”
Hooker Caine Sinclair has been a guiding light for the Roosters.
The captain, life member and Victorian representative leads by example in both voice and action.
“He’s one of our most experienced guys and he’s trying to nurture the young ones and point them in the right direction,” Taonoa said.
Keni Blair has been one of the Roosters’ most consistent players at half back, while centre Nea Vaka is the standout of the younger brigade.
The Roosters will chase their second win of the season when they travel to Doveton Steelers on Saturday.
“We’ve seen what we’re up against now and we know there are a few things we need to work on,” Taonoa said.
“We’re positive and upbeat about the second round of matches.”
