Brisbane coach Michael Maguire chose to highlight the positives in Reece Walsh’s performance during the Broncos’ win over North Queensland, despite a mixed showing from the No.1.
Walsh was placed on report for a shoulder charge on Cowboys winger Murray Taulagi and committed five errors, but he also set up Jesse Arthars for a try and delivered a crucial 40/20 kick in the first half that led to another.
The Broncos fullback had struggled the previous week as well, making four errors in the loss to Canberra. However, Maguire was more impressed with Walsh’s defensive work in what was a highly physical local derby against the Cowboys.
“We had a strong defensive line, and a lot of that comes from what Reece does at the back. There’s a balance between defence and attack, and I thought Reece was outstanding defensively,” Maguire said.
“The attacking side will come. You could see him rallying the boys. You don’t defend like that without a fullback keeping his troops organised, and I was really pleased with that.”
Despite his errors, Walsh remained heavily involved, making 23 runs for 137 metres against the Cowboys — exactly what Maguire wants to see from him.
“I’ve had players like Reece who go through tough periods in their careers, and those moments help define them and make them better,” Maguire added.
“He might not feel that way now, but I know he’ll come out stronger as he works through this. He’s got great support around him. Reece will be fine.”
Broncos captain Adam Reynolds echoed Maguire’s sentiments as the team prepares for their clash against the Dolphins at Suncorp Stadium on Friday night.
“We keep working hard at our craft in training. Things will turn around, but I thought he was good tonight,” Reynolds said.
“He ran the ball with intent, organised the defence well, and scrambled across to save tries.
“We tend to focus too much on the small mistakes he makes, but there’s a lot of great things he’s doing as well.”
