R League: Crusaders are made to work for win

Jun 25 2007 by Simon Kendal-Williams, South Wales Echo

JOHN Dixon admitted his side didn’t have it all their own way against Workington Town at the Brewery Field.

The Crusaders’ head coach said: “To be fair to them, they refused to go away.”

The former Brisbane Broncos coach was frustrated by his team’s inability to put daylight between themselves and their opponents.

“Towards the end of the first half we failed to convert a couple of opportunities which might have made a real difference,” said Dixon.

“When we were behind at 6-2, the important thing was to come out and remain composed and maintain our discipline.

“Workington scored at the start of the second half, but I was very pleased by the response from our senior players.

“They stood up and led the team so well.”

Asked why the Crusaders were suddenly able to score three tries in six minutes, Dixon replied:

“After they made it 6-6, we just made sure we held onto the ball.

“We converted the possession into pressure, and then the pressure into points.”