Steve Matai spoke to the media yesterday ahead of Friday’s clash against the Bulldogs. Skivy was optimistic of a win against the Canterbury-Bankstown side and said that the main focus for the team will be to put in an 80th minute performance.
“Our intent was there in defence on the weekend, but we had a small lapse their in ten minutes and they put three tries on us in ten minutes. We can’t do that against quality sides and hopefully we wont against the Bulldogs.”
“As a team we want to put in an 80 minute performance and it’s something we have been working on as a team this week and hopefully we can put it right on Friday.”
The New Zealand international leapt to the defence of coach Geoff Toovey who has been under criticism lately but believes it’s the responsibility of the players to grind out the results.
“The coach has the support of all the players here, he's done a great job in the past and i'm sure he will continue to do a great job.”
"For myself and for Manly we are not used to sitting at the bottom of the ladder, we are the only ones who can turn it around. If we can work hard and build some momentum I’m sure we can do this.”
Matai is pleased with the return of Captain Jamie Lyon for Friday’s clash and praised the contribution of some of the clubs older players.
“We have definitely missed the leadership roles of killer and Brett. We always try to lead with our actions, the Captain's a prime example of that. Hopefully we can get a few of the older boys back in the next coming weeks."
