Paul Rowley has said that he personally is not listening to any outside noise after St Helens’ embarrassing loss to Toulouse Olympique when issuing an update on his players have responded.
Saints lost 46-0 at home to the Olympians and despite missing plenty of first-teamers, their head coach was clear in the fact that some players had simply not applied themselves.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, three days after that shocking defeat, Rowley admitted that his side have been clinical in their assessment of the game.
“We’ve picked the bones out of it,” he admitted.
“We’re honest, brutal where it needs to be, but with a quick turnaround, it’s important that we move quick as well, so whilst reviewing and being honest, it’s important that we leave the room with a good enthusiasm and energy for what’s coming next, because, like I say, it’s a short turnaround.”
There’s been plenty of talk after the game about just how bad St Helens were but Rowley explained that he simply doesn’t hear outside noise but for players, who he admitted may hear it, have to cop it.
“I think it’s one of those things, if you take the pats, then you take the criticism as well,” he said of his players.
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St Helens’ emerging leader amid tough period
As for the response of the players, he explained that ‘actions speak louder than words’ as he called on new leaders to emerge given how many senior figures are out of action.
One man stepping up to the plate is mid-season signing Daniel Suluka-Fifita, as Rowley revealed: “I think Daniel Fifita has come over and proved a really strong leader.
“He doesn’t overplay his hand, but what he says is important. More importantly, I think his actions have been consistent on and off the field. He’s been a joy to coach, so he’s certainly a new leader to the club.”
Offering more on the fact he doesn’t hear outside noise, Rowley explained: “I’m not on any socials, you see. I’m not living in the town as well.
“Where I live, in the circles that I’m in, don’t really talk about rugby, so it’s good for my headspace. It’s as simple as that, really.”
