SHEFFIELD EAGLES coach Craig Lingard admitted a play-off elimination final at Barrow was “a step too far” for his players – but told them to take pride in their approach and achievements this season.
With a new squad influx ahead of the campaign but a string of injuries during it – experienced pivot Jordan Abdull was forced to withdraw during the warm-up in Cumbria due to a hamstring issue in the latest example – Sheffield finished seventh.
Lingard’s visiting former side Batley were beaten 25-18 in the first phase of the play-offs, but a 26-10 loss at the Speed Competitions Stadium ended the Eagles’ involvement.
“We looked what we were – a bit stretched and a bit tired,” reflected Lingard, who is now continuing plans for his third year in charge.
“Losing Jordan late in the build-up to Barrow meant Lennie Ellis had to step in and play alongside Kai Morgan, and that’s hardly a tried combination.
“Jordan is a key player for us with his organisation, and without that experienced hand to guide us, we lacked a bit of direction and looked a little lost at times.
“Then we lost (winger) Billy Walkley during the game, and he’s one who for the good of the team has been playing when he probably shouldn’t.
“We’ve had middles playing longer minutes than we would have liked because we have been down on numbers, and efforts like that sum up the attitude of this group.
“They’ve pulled together, looked after one another and pushed on, but the Barrow trip was just a step too far. Obviously we would have liked to go further, but it wasn’t to be.
“But the boys have coped with a lot and should be proud of themselves.”