Darren Fearn is adamant that Northumbria University’s disappointing end to the season will not cast a dark cloud over their exceptional campaign.
Northumbria, who have been at the centre of a number of BUCS Super Rugby upsets this season - failed to fire on all cyclinders against Cardiff in their last 16 knockout tie.
“I was really disappointed after the game,” said Fearn. “It wasn’t the way I wanted to finish the season to say the least but it’s done now.
“I was more disappointed because I felt like the lads probably didn’t do themselves justice - they’ve had a cracking season and it was a poor way to finish.
“It doesn’t reflect the bigger picture overall because it’s been a massively successful season on the field and off it.
“Cardiff deserved to win. We weren’t mature enough in what we did and we had players more than capable of winning the game.
“It was evident to me as a coach that missing a few players who are leaders in the team was an issue.
“Don’t get me wrong - some of the lads put in great performances. Other lads maybe need to take a look at themselves and take it as a wake-up call.
“As a group we can’t rely on individuals to drive us forward. There were some cracking players out there for us but it was just that leadership that was missing.
“From the coaches’ perspective we’re questioning ourselves. This isn’t all about the players on the pitch. It’s the whole programme and we’ve got to all be a little better moving forward.”
The 30-27 loss to Cardiff wasn’t a fair reflection of Northumbria’s season which has been a great example of what perseverance and hard work can do.
“The boys have fronted up unbelievably throughout the season and that’s why it was so disappointing because they didn’t do themselves justice,” added Fearn.
“We won’t dwell on the Cardiff defeat. We’re better than that performance and we all know that.
“The team has been unbelievable this year. We’ve got a lot of first years and I’m immensely proud of them - they’re a great group of lads.”
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