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Dragons' sigh of relief

Dragons' sigh of relief

09/12/2011 07:32:12 AM

Some players couldn't bear to look, others sat glued to the television while the rest just waited for the text message telling them whether to dress for Mad Monday or training.

For 24 hours the Dragons' 2011 season was on freeze frame as they waited the outcome of the remaining finals games in week one following their loss to Wests Tigers on Friday night.

But one by one the results fell Saints' way.

Brisbane knocked over the Warriors and then Manly guaranteed the Dragons' resurrection with a big win over North Queensland.

It's left Wayne Bennett's facing an elimination semi-final against the Broncos in Brisbane, but that massive challenge is a lot more palatable than the alternative.

"We were left to our own devices over the weekend so I spent my time with the family but I was walking around a little bit lost," utility player Nathan Fien admitted on Monday.

"I didn't know what to do as I hadn't been in that spot before but a few of the other boys had and come out the other side bundled out."

"We needed the footy gods to smile on us and fortunately we've been given a second chance."

"It's probably not the most ideal of circumstances to head into week two but there's a better feeling around camp."

"We've now got that opportunity to press on and what better place to play than at Suncorp Stadium."

Forward Jon Green spent Saturday night at a friend's party, unsure whether to reach for a VB or a Diet Coke.

By 10.30 he had his answer.

"We didn't know what to expect. We just had to wait. There's not much else you can do," Green said.

"Obviously we're pretty lucky to still be here but now that we are we've got to make the most of the second chance."

Having coming close to elimination and survived, Fien believes the Dragons will relish the opportunity to keep their title defence going at Brisbane's expense.

"While it was a nervous wait our confidence is there regarding what we can do in the competition," he said.

"It'll be a packed house (at Suncorp) and we're looking forward to bouncing back and hopefully doing the job."

"I'll be doing my best just like the other 16 blokes who run out for the Dragons."

"We have to go out there and play our own game and if we do the result will take care of itself."

 
Photograph Copyright : Getty Images

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