Pat Byron heads into his second year at the helm of Norths in 2022, and the long-term stalwart coach of Premier Rugby is hoping for an improved year after the team struggled to stay in matches for the full 80-minutes last year.
On their day, Norths showed they could compete with some of the competition’s top teams and towards the back end of the year, the team showed resilience to bounce back and secure wins after trailing on the scoreboard.
This year the club has several new recruits and will field a new look team in Round 1.
We spoke with Byron before the Eagles opening clash with Souths.
“Last year we showed that we were good enough to beat a lot of teams, but we need to produce full 80-minute performances,” said Byron.
“We struggled to do that last year and it hurt us throughout the season. The main thing we’re looking for is continuity. We’ve been working hard on fitness which will help us to stay in matches.
“We have a new group with a lot of new faces this year and we’ve been trying to bring everyone together and ensure everyone understands their roles on the field.”
“Our big focus this year is improving our defence and ensuring we have a consistent set piece to attack from.”
Gio Laufiso – Wellington Yvahn Alssworth – Noosa Dolphins Pelesio Aho – Auckland Lucas Puts – Manawatu AJ Woulf – Eastwood Harry Langbridge – Noosa Dolphins Joseph Veramu – Southern Districts Jack Peoples – Easts Tigers Rugby League
Kieran Prendergast – UQ Brad Kuhn – UQ Harry Fox – Japan Callum McDonald – Japan Paulo Leleisiuao – Randwick
Jack Peoples
“Jack has come over from Easts Tigers in the Q Cup. He has something about him, has looked good in trials and will play inside centre for us.”
Jake Pappin – Easts
"Jake Pappin has headed over to Easts and will line up at flyhalf, I’m interested to see how he goes. I coached him in Brisbane U19s and this will be his first full year in Senior Rugby. “
