Sunshine Coast coach Sam Mawhinney welcomes an acid test against state league ladder leaders Wynnum.
The Falcons (4-2) host the unbeaten Seagulls (6-0) in Round 7 at Bokarina on Sunday, and the clash represents a perfect opportunity for them to press their claims.
“I think we’re taking steps in the right direction and this game couldn’t come at a better time,” Mawhinney said.
“We’re a third of the way through the season and I think we’re ready for it.
“It’s going to be an interesting contest.”
The Sunshine Coast crushed Mackay 58-10 last weekend, when Wynnum Manly belted Central Capras 50-0.
“We’ve got a really competitive edge to us and we do like testing ourselves,” Mawhinney said
“We come into every game with a high level of expectation and confidence that if we can complete our sets and do the things we train to do, then we can match it with anybody in the competition.”
There are high hopes at the Falcons each season, so Mawhinney gave his side a “pass mark” for their results so far this campaign.
He said they played poorly in losses to Northern Pride and PNG Hunters but showed resolve and ability in their other games, especially with a rallying victory in Souths Logan and a tough win at grave yard Townsville.
“We showed a lot of ticker and mettle to win that game against the Magpies,” Mawhinney
“And the win up in Townsville have us a lot of confidence, and then we were able to put in a more complete performance against Mackay.”
“Confidence and belief are things you can only build through experience,” Mawhinney said.
“After having last year off (due to COVID) it was always going to take us a little while to get combinations down and get rid of the clunkiness.”
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Prop Patrice Siolo has made a considerable impact since joining the team in the off-season.
“He’s been outstanding for us. He gets through a mountain of work and is getting better every game,” Mawhinney said.
Dane Hogan has led by example.
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“He’s really set the standard through the middle. A lot of the less appreciated things like kick pressure and inside pressure. He’s tough as nails and has taken some good carries for us.”
Fellow co-captain Todd Murphy has been “steering the ship well,” while recruits Matt Milson, Paul Ulberg, Will Toloi and BJ Aufaga-Toomaga have contributed well in the backline.
“That’s the key to a successful team, to have everyone contributing,” Mawhinney said.
He hoped a big crowd will converge on Sunshine Coast Stadium to cheer them on against Wynnum.
The game kicks off at 3pm on Saturday, May 15, Sunshine Coast Stadium.
