Cowboys coach Todd Payten believes his team is poised for a late-season surge, aiming to become a significant contender in the finals just days after experiencing what he called the club's "darkest day."
This statement followed the team's staggering 82-12 defeat against the Roosters on home turf last Friday.
In a bid to process the loss, Payten shared that he instructed the players not to retreat home immediately but rather to confront their supporters.
"I asked the players and staff to turn up to the leagues club after the match. It was a late game but it is important that we front up together. We did that, we addressed it and now we move forward," Payten said.
A week later, Payten was all smiles at a post-game press conference following a solid 30-8 victory over the Titans on the Gold Coast.
He took time to reflect on the week's preparations, commending his players for their dedication and the productive training sessions leading up to the Thursday night clash.