Saturday, July 30, 2005

Joe Paopao -- post-game thoughts after 21-16 Renegades win over Saskatchewan

"It's really tough to play here at Taylor Field. For us, we needed to get started winning on the road. In the fashion we did it, with our defence, we got the win. Our guys did it with composure."

Question: What was the difference after the half?

Paopao: "We did a survey (at the break). We knew our 3rd quarter is probably our strongest quarter to date. In the second half we had 25-30 plays and we wanted to have our tough plays in there. We knew they would be tough and physical. Our defence came in with tough turnovers, especially before the half. Pat Woodcock made a tough hit and after a hit (from Saskatchewan defensive back) Omarr Morgan. This was a great win for this team and the whole organization."

Question: What is the status of the middle linebacker position moving forward?

Paopao: "We are still looking for a middle linebacker. Jason (Kralt) did an outstanding job doing most of our (special) teams and defensive snaps. That is half the battle. Ultimately you have to make plays. We have to continue to look at it. Our personnel department is trying to look at different middle linebackers. The first thing we have to look at is ask ourselves 'do we have them in house to get it done?' We are going up against Hamilton (next), which is a pivotal game for us and we have to be ready."

Question: Is this the most athletic group you have had yet defensively?

Paopao: "Yes. We wanted to improve team speed. A player like Anthony Collier, with him, we are running the field better. Particularly (on Friday night) when Kenton Keith (took handoffs), we minimized their runs. The fact is we have better team speed, particularly on defence."

"When you are playing to win in a close game, it's about making plays and that came at a lot of different areas. It equates to a win. They came together toward the back end. We have a lot of work ahead of us. We've had a tough schedule the first six games. Still got to get back and get to work.

Question: How about the offensive line tonight?

Paopao: "We don't have our timing down yet. They have a great defensive box. Once we settled down, with plays in 2nd half, we got to pound ball and move the sticks, making first downs. For us it's about not how we win, but that we do win. For our offensive line to play through things, it gives them confidence. (Newcomer) Freddie (Moore) did a heck of a job and his guy didn't put pressure on us."