WAGGA Tigers coach Murray Stephenson says the team must rise to the challenge after their credentials as a Riverina League heavyweight took a hit when "shown up big time" by Mangoplah-Cookardinia United-Eastlakes last week.
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Stephenson was caught off guard by the dominance of the Goannas' 72-point win, and said some of the Tigers' effort indicators were lacking in the round two wake-up call.
The Tigers have the bye this weekend, and the good news is Stephenson is optimistic of taking his place against Griffith the following week after failing to play the fourth quarter with a groin complaint.
MCUE put their stamp on the game early with five of the first six goals.
"It was a disappointing night, there's no other way to put it. It was a big game and we flopped," he said.
"Our inside 50 forward pressure and inability to keep it in there (was lacking), and around the centre bounce.
"(There was) a lack of physicality around the ball early in the game, which includes missed tackles and we conceded stoppages coming out the front of it, not the back."
Stephenson, who kicked two of the Tigers' three goals, initially feared he had suffered a more serious injury but has his fingers crossed he will take his place against the Swans, and a handful of other key players may also return.
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"I'll see our medicos this afternoon (Tuesday) but overall it's pulled up better than expected. I'm pretty optimistic about it and think I'm a chance," he said.
"When I was a bit younger I had groin issues, and the concern always is with a history of injuries in that area, but my gut feel is I'll be right for Griffith.
"(Ruckman) Tom Osmotherly (shoulder) is a big chance of being back, and potentially Hamish Gilmore (Giants Academy).
"The week off will give a couple of sore bosy a chance to freshen up, but after a performance like that it's in your gut for two weeks and you don't get a chance to redeem yourself until you play a game."
The Tigers fielded six debutants in the round one win over Leeton-Whitton, but Stephenson said that can't be blamed for their big ANZAC Day eve loss.
"Personnel isn't an excuse. I went into the game confident we could get the job done and we got shown up big time.
"We now know what we're chasing."
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