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Willie Poching laments poor first quarter from Wakefield Trinity as they lose close game against Catalans

It was a case of so close yet so far for Wakefield as they were edged 24-22 by Catalans Dragons but Trinity Head Coach Willie Poching was proud of his side’s efforts down in France.

The visitors were vast underdogs heading into the match and had quite a few casualties heading into the match. So, many predicted a long night for the West Yorkshire side.

But it proved otherwise as Wakefield gave the highly fancied Catalans a close shave, with Sam Tomkins’ earlier penalty goal, in the end, proving to be the match winner.

“There is a massive element of pride. The lads dug themselves out of a hole there,” Poching said.

“There is some disappointment that we gave such a quality team a leg up. The first 20 minutes was a real factor in the result.

“We just could not get ourselves any yardage at the start of the game and we had minimal good ball for the whole game. First half, we had two sets down near their try line and scored two tries off the back of them.

“We took a lot of heart from that at half time. We had a good discussion about trying to work our way into those positions in the second half.

“They were a big strong physical team but we still need to have a look at the first 20 minutes.

“I am proud of the way we fought out of it. It was disappointing to lose but we will still take some heart out of it, by getting back to within just two points.”

Two defeats from two for Wakefield but it could have easily been a different story as they did miss several chances to stun their hosts.

Though new signing Tom Lineham eventually scored a 90 metre effort on the final siren, the flyer went close a couple of times earlier during the game that proved to be crucial in the end.

Reflecting on those missed opportunities, Poching said “It was close. Tom Lineham lost his grip on one effort. He went close a couple of times. I am really pleased we were creating those opportunities.

“We were able to turn defensive efforts into those opportunities. Teams like Catalans and St Helens, they do not give you much, you have to work hard to get those chances through your own defensive efforts and it is really pleasing to see.”

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