The Kempsey Cannonballs suffered a heavy 59-5 defeat at the hands of the Port Macquarie Pirates on Saturday but it was always going to be a tough afternoon with six forced changes from their season opener.
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Injuries, suspension and unavailability left Cannonballs coach Carl Thurgood with no option but to make a change to almost half of his side.
"Unfortunately we were again short on numbers which didn't make the situation any easier," Thurgood told the Argus.
"Credit has to go to the guys that played two games on the weekend, just to be able to field the two senior sides.
"The scoreline might not suggest it but the guys never gave up and gave everything they could."
While the Pirates dominated from the start, the Cannonballs' heart and spirit kept them in the contest at the break.
Trailing 21-5, Kempsey started the second half on the front foot but they weren't able to make a dent on the score board.
"We had a few good opportunities early in the second half to get back in the game, but you have to credit their defence," Thurgood said.
"It was well drilled and organised. They went on to dominate the second half."
Thurgood is hopeful the majority of the unavailable players will make a return for this Saturday's home game against the Vikings.
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