Underbank feeling positive

Jun 8 2007 By The Huddersfield Daily Examiner

UNDERBANK head to Leeds Academiks tomorrow (2.30) in confident mood after claiming their first Conference National win in three starts.

Player-coach Aaron Perrin hopes the 22-20 triumph over Hemel six days ago will act as a catalyst for his side to begin a run of good results.

But despite a turnaround in fortunes for Rangers, the Australian is taking nothing for granted – not least his team's next opponents, who have had 110 points scored against them in their last two outings.

"Hemel are a top-six side so the victory has given us a lot of confidence," explained Perrin, who welcomes back in-form full-back James Price after recovering from a groin injury.

"It's a result that probably a few weeks ago we would never have got.

"We showed a lot of strength and determination which has been growing as games have gone on.

"It's definitely a positive result that sets us up for the season and should spur us on.

"We are looking forward to the Leeds game and will be looking for another victory, although we realise they also have a decent squad."

Even after the much-needed win, Perrin feels his team are still making errors.

"We stuck in there last week, despite being behind at half-time.

"But, surprisingly, it was in the second half that we started to make more mistakes and gave away penalties."

By claiming maximum points last week Underbank are six points behind first placed Warrington Wizards.

In terms of looking to close that gap, the Australian said his team need to play smarter rugby.

"The self-belief is there to go on a run but we need to get smarter," added Perrin.

"This is something which we have to do if we are to compete with the likes of the Bramleys and Warringtons of the league.

"We're making silly mistakes, but they are faults which can be easily rectified so I don't feel it is a major problem at the moment."

Tomorrow's match will be the last for Australian duo Matt Reis and Peter Adam, who are to return home.

Back-rower Reis is a member of the Canberra Raiders Under 20s squad and he has been recalled ahead of their national campaign.

And his good friend, half-back Adam (right) has decided to go back with him.

"They have been fantastic for us and I know they will prove a big loss," said Perrin, who will again continue as Adam's half-back partner.

"We want to give them a good send-off by coming up with a big match-winning performance.

"I'm sure we'll be able to do just that."

Underbank: Price; Booth, Senior, Hirst, Rawalai; Adam, Perrin; Tarazi, Edwards, Lofthouse, Leach, Vinaka, Reis. Subs: Hirst, Charlesworth, Greenwood, Jackson.