Time to Reflect: Cowboys Coach Todd Payten’s Ultimatum Following Unexpected Defeat

Todd Payten, the coach of the Cowboys, has issued an ultimatum to his players following the club’s dismal season opener against Manly.

The North Queensland team was comprehensively outmatched at Brookvale Oval, with the Sea Eagles scoring three tries within the first 10 minutes of the match.

The rout continued, with Manly emerging victorious with a final score of 42-12.

In his post-match comments, Payten expressed disappointment regarding the preparation of certain players leading into their first game of the season.

“I mentioned that some individuals were not up to the mark,” he remarked during the press conference when asked about his final message to the squad.

“I encouraged them to reflect on their preparation, both physically and mentally. I also posed a question that didn’t require an immediate response, but we’ll discuss it further tomorrow.

“I simply advised them to come back ready to work hard, keep our heads down, and maintain our unity.”

Payten refrained from discussing the nature of that question, indicating it would be part of their review.

Statistically, the Cowboys’ first half was grim. Manly controlled possession, leaving North Queensland struggling to mount any attacking plays.

At one point in the opening half, the Cowboys had completed 142 tackles compared to Manly’s 54.

“Those figures are unbelievable,” Greg Alexander commented during the Fox League broadcast.

Payten attributed the struggles to his team’s lack of discipline.

“We committed some silly penalties, and for the first 30 minutes, possession was 70 per cent to them and 30 per cent to us,” he said.

“By half-time, we had made 100 more tackles … we struggled to find any rhythm or apply any pressure.”

The Cowboys are scheduled to face the Sharks next week in Townsville on Saturday.