Dejected St Helens coach Daniel Anderson admitted his side under-performed in their shock Grand Final loss to Leeds Rhinos, writes PETER SMITH.
"We were off the pace in the first half," said Anderson, right, who was in charge for the final time.
"We missed a lot of tackles, Leeds got the opportunity to build pressure and they took advantage with a couple of tries.
"In the second half w
e struck back, but every time we looked like we were going to get back in the game Leeds responded very rapidly.
"It's a desperately disappointed dressing room. There were some big plays and the 40-20 kick by Lee Smith was the key play in the whole game, after he had done such a good job harassing and pressuring.
"That was the back-breaker for us."
Rhinos made better use of the wet conditions, but Anderson refused to use the rain as an excuse for his side's defeat.
He said: "That wouldn't be fair on the game or the opposition's abilities.
"They tackled very well and they really nullified Leon Pryce. They broke tackles, they won the ruck and they kicked off the front foot.
"Weather always has a contributing factor, but I don't know if it's the be-all and end-all."
Anderson added: "I can't be anything other than proud of the effort we've put in all year. We have had a very good season and we've come up a fraction short."
The full article contains 249 words and appears in EP Leeds First & County newspaper.
