Norths showed glimpses of a side that can challenge for a mid table spot throughout 2021 but struggled to win key moments in tight matches on too many occasions this season.

Pat Byron’s side finished the year disappointed, but have plenty to build on heading in to the 2022 season.

Overview with Pat Byron:

“It was quite a frustrating season in the end. We were there or thereabouts in so many games in the first round but just couldn’t find a way to win,” Byron told Rugby News.

“We also had a massive injury toll throughout the season so we were rarely able to get our best team on the park together at the same time. 

“It was a great learning opportunity for some guys that did get to play more than they probably expected to and although we’re frustrated that we weren’t able to get more wins, there were still a lot of positives to take out of the season. 

“We had a few weeks where we had some scores put on us by some of the better teams, but aside from those games, we had a number of games in the first round that we could have won. As a team, we need to get better at closing out games, particularly when we’re leading with 10-15 minutes to go. 

“When we were playing well, we were able to control the ball and limit our errors. I think that was the main thing. Unfortunately we couldn’t consistently put together 80 minute performances and the two times that we were able to do that, we beat Souths. 

“We need to do that much more consistently though.”

What needs to happen at the club between now and round one next year? 

“Without stating the obvious, we need to get better in all parts of our game. There wasn’t a particularly area this year that we did outstandingly well and although there was a lot of improvement and promise in parts of our game, we didn’t have a standout area of our game. 

“The top sides all have one part of their game that they rely pretty heavily on. We need to find what that is for us. 

“To do that, you’ve got to build a gameplan based on the players that you’ve got available. Unfortunately for us this year, we struggled to keep the same team on field from week to week. 

“We want to build a style of play that suits our playing group and consistently picking the players you want in the positions you want makes it easier to find that style of play.”

Is there a player that you think might have a breakout season next year? 

“We had a number of good young players that came in and did really well this year and we think they can all continue to develop. 

“I thought our No.8 Will Rogers played really well for us this year. He had a great season. 

“I thought what Connor O’Regan did for us at halfback after he came into the side in round five was pretty special. He was rewarded with selection in the QLD U19s and he’ll be a year older next season. 

“In the backs Vilakesa Raboiliku was one of the finds of the season but struggled with injuries through the middle of the season. 

“All three of those players were knew to the club this year and did really well and we’re excited to watch them continue to develop next season.”

What do you hope that we’re talking about at this point next year? 

“If all goes to plan, I hope we’re talking about Norths playing finals footy for the first time in a long time,” Byron said.

“That’s a really big goal for the club and that’s what we’re all working towards.”