The Bulldogs jumped the Saints early before the visitors managed to sneak back in front at quarter time. Poor kicking at goal again marred the Saints effort which at best was lack lustre.
The second term was not much better as the home side kept applying the pressure on the competition leaders, hunting in packs to drive the ball forward. The Saints again lacked intensity and commitment but still went into the main break in front.
A stern briefing by Coach Dick Gleeson seemed to fire up the Saints as they turned the tables around to dominate the quarter by kicking 4 goals to 1 to set up a comfortable buffer going into the last term.
Poor kicking at goal once again came to the fore for the Saints as the blew a chance to make the game a big percentage booster but overall it was a slightly better effort from last week for the Saints who went on to win 15 28 118 to Gunnedah 10 6 66
Stewart Walker was one of the leading lights for the Saints as he continued to contest hard for the ball while Tony Halloran once again provided a target all over the ground.
Joe Kimmince again grew another leg at full back by making it tough for the Bulldog forwards while Alex Dasey used his speed and tenacity at the ball to be one of the best for the Saints.
Gary Hadland was singled out by Coach Dick Gleeson for his effort, saying he was the only player to play a consistent 4 quarters.
It's taking time for the Saints to regain their early season form following the mid season break and it's essential they capture it soon with big matches against the Roos, Nomads and Muswellbrook to come.
Something that needs addressing is the discipline of the side. It seemed to have deteriorated against the Dogs and it's paramount that players focus on the job at hand and not worry about umpiring decisions no matter how baffling it is.
The reason for our early success is that we have been focused, disciplined and ran the backsides off opposition sides. For the Saints to continue their success, they will need to refocus on those aspects of the game and just simply have fun.
Time to get dirty again and do some hard work because rival teams are coming after us....Be prepared boys
Gerry Taveira
Last Modified on 23/06/2007 23:13