Isis coach not concerned for loss | Bundaberg Rugby League | NRL Rugby in Bundaberg

Above: Tempers flare between Devils’ Nathan Gatt and Wallaroos’ Todd Campbell as Simon Ricciardi runs in.

GARY HUTCHISON

IT IS an unusual attitude for a rugby league coach, but David Jones would not be concerned if his Isis Devils suffered a loss in next week’s opening round against Brothers.

He said a good flogging would do them more good than a win.

“We need to lose something before we get better,” the coach said.

Despite last weekend’s Vea Vea – Fewquandie Shield win in a fiery battle against Maryborough’s Wallaroos, Jones remains unimpressed with his side.

“I’m concerned a bit about their performance, to be honest,” he said.

“A loss would do us no harm.

“It would get us in a better frame of mind.”

Wallaroos fielded several reserve-grade players in their top side and still managed to outscore Isis in the first two thirds.

Fatigue set in and the Roos fell away in the third stanza, letting in three unanswered tries.

New recruit Michael Murray wore the number one jersey and crossed three times in his first game of league for 18 months.

“He’s a good ball runner, but he’s got a couple of errors in him,” Jones said. “Maybe that was the jitters, just not tucking the ball in before he hit the line — hopefully we can iron those out.”

Off-season signings Lyal Darby (leg injury) and Cameron Curtis (personal commitments) were absent from the Devils squad, but should be available for the first fixture against grand finalists Brothers next weekend.

But Ryan Geraghty is set to miss the clash.

“He adds a lot to the side. He just brings a spark and a whole lot of enthusiasm,” Jones said.

He fired back at punters who have talked up the team’s premiership credentials this year.

“I don’t expect anything from us except 100 per cent. I’m not concerned about premierships. I’m just concerned about next week’s performance,” Jones said.