Maitland Blacks coach Matt Thomas admits it was a "frank" talk.
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He was referring to the video session and "big discussion" with his team at training this week following last Saturday's 40-7 shellacking against Merewether Carlton.
As far as videos go, it was hard going - more Schindler's List than Blazing Saddles, put it that way. The sort of thing you only want to see once.
And while to some it was a performance that would cast a shadow over his team's premiership credentials, Thomas isn't having any of it.
To him, the performance isn't the issue - it's all about the response it triggers.
"I knew there was a performance like that coming at some stage ... I just didn't know when," said. "Every team is going to have a day like that when nothing goes right. This was one of those games.
I knew there was a performance like that coming at some stage ... I just didn't know when
"At the same time there's no denying that we were completely out-enthused, completely outplayed.
"I was hoping we could get one more strong performance from the guys before this weekend, which is the bye. But unfortunately we fell one game short."
To be fair to the players, the thing that can't be overlooked is the fact that the game came on the back of a string of gutsy wins, mostly undermanned, where the squad had shown true tenacity and spirit.
A down match was inevitable - although the scoreline was a surprise.
The next test doesn't get much easier either.
They're away to Nelson Bay who have their backs against the wall and desperately need a win to stay in finals contention. On top of that, it's the Bay's Old Boys day, as well as sponsor's day.
And they're without lock Travis Brooke and tight-head prop Harry Chapman who will be trialling for the Country sides.
"It's all about us being accountable for our actions," Thomas said. "It may be football, but we're trying to produce good men too. You're accountable for your actions in every day life, and so you are with the Blacks.
"Nelson Bay will be a big challenge, but I want to see a response. If they respond the way I hope, the Merewether game could be the best thing that has happened to us.
"Put it this way, I'd rather have that game now than in the finals."