Panthers looking to douse brothers fire

BRL: Wests face the ominous task of meeting a red-hot Brothers' outfit in their match of the day clash at Salter Oval tomorrow night.

The Leprechauns annihilated a depleted Hervey Bay Seagulls team in a ruthless 80-6 display last weekend.

Panthers coach Shane Beatson conceded the enormity of the job ahead.

“Brothers were very impressive last week,” Beatson said.

“But we've got our best side on the paddock since the start of the season.

“If my blokes turn up with the right attitude, I believe we can be competitive against them, but I've got to be realistic.”

Halfback Joel Keune makes his comeback and the Panthers have reshuffled their forward pack to counter the dominance of the ladder leaders.

“We're a different side with Joel back to steer the team around the park,” Beatson said.

In the early game in Bundaberg, the Seagulls will be seeking redemption with a stronger performance against second-placed Isis.

At different stages through the season, Hervey Bay have been impressive and displayed form that can trouble the top sides.

Devils coach David Jones is well aware of this and is demanding his charges focus on an 80-minute performance.

“We're too patchy,” Jones said.

“We've got to learn to concentrate for the full 80 minutes, instead of 20 minute periods, and we tend to go to sleep just before halftime.

“We tend to save our best for the last 25 minutes and if we're going to be any chance of beating the top sides, that all has to change.”

Another change Jones is looking for is the introduction of more flair in their attack.

“I want them to be running at them in numbers,” Jones said.

“Then we've got to spread the ball wider.”

Excitement machines Wallaroos and Easts will clash at Eskdale Park in Maryborough, where a free-flowing, high-scoring game can be expected. That match starts at 5.30pm.

The game between Isis and Hervey Bay starts at 4.50pm, while the Brothers and Wests clash starts at 6.30pm.