“The ¾ time address was that we just need to play harder and smarter for longer, we did that to ¾ time and then probably let ourselves down a little bit in the last quarter and I don’t think the 52 point result reflected the total match,” McKenna said.
The recent surge in form across the playing list was a hot topic during McKenna’s time on the panel, with all agreeing there is much better times to come for the Gold Coasters.
When asked if the GC SUNS were on track in regards to their development:
“We knew how tough the first two seasons were going to be, the average age, the average games, we knew this year was going to be a step forward and we are clearly delivering on that, and again we are excited for the second half of the season and we have got to play out this year, but next year, you look at our average ages and average games and all of a sudden we are competing with all of the other sides.”
McKenna also embraced the Club’s 20-ONE-3 strategic vision when challenged on whether he thought the time line was too short.
“Once all the Jaeger O’Meara’s and the David Swallow's and these sorts of players step up to Gary and the level that he is setting, it’s going to become more realistic, whether that’s two years or three years but it’s going to happen sooner rather than later.”
“That’s our target, that’s our goal, I think every business, every club, every player sets out to achieve goals and not everyone meets their goals, but that’s our mantra, that’s what we are out to achieve and I think we are on the right path.”
The Coach was also quick to defend the Club’s supporters when questioned on the inroads AFL was making on the Gold Coast and across South East Queensland, suggesting that team success would compliment the fantastic work being done off field and in the community and drive attendances.
“I love football, I am a realist we just need to continue to win, I can’t fault our fans, I can’t fault AFL on the Gold Coast.”
“The experience has been fantastic for the fans outside the field, we haven’t delivered on field, we understand that, so when we start winning, the experiences they have had in the stadium, around the stadium and in the community, that one fan will bring back two of his friends and so I am confident that the 20,000 members we will wipe that target really quickly.”
Campbell Browns retirement plans at years end could also be shelved should the former Premiership player continue his rich vein of form throughout the remainder of the 2012 season with McKenna saying Brown had been a great addition to the team since his return from a six week suspension.
“Well in his present form, yeah he is going really well, but that’s a decision he has to make and we have to make but in present form you cant argue about that.”
