The WA Reds paid the price of too many dropped balls and penalties in their game against the Cronulla Sharks going down in the end 44 to 6.

In a season where the Perth side is building, they will need to learn quickly how to play the more experienced and stronger line ups. The Sydney based sides have shown in the last two weeks they have got a greater depth in the forwards and the benefit of a longer build up to the season than the Reds, but there are no excuses.

Coach Andrew Korn is happy with the development, but was critical of the some of the structure in the Reds game.

“The boys played too wide today, and need to develop a more direct game. Part of this is dependent on the strength of our forwards being able to push through the lines, but we are behind the eight ball a bit in this department. We also had trouble with our halves not being able to get into the game.”

Winger Jared Young scored in the first half for the Reds with the conversion licked by Adam Quinlan. Front rower Justin Lemalu playing his first game after and early season injury was the best player.

A couple of changes may be made next week in an effort to keep the team fresh on its third successive road trip. The WA Reds will take on Parramatta at Cabramatta.

The Reds are using their first season in the SG Ball competition to establish a strong national culture and believe there is upside to their future. As the team plays more games together, they will improve the knowledge of other teams, and the level they need to aspire will also grow.

They still expect to put a couple of wins on the board, but believe the experience is a more important aspect to their inaugural season.