“I should’ve let him have a few days off”: Walters regrets Walsh selection as fears of a late-season collapse grow

Brisbane Broncos coach Kevin Walters has conceded that he should’ve rested fullback Reece Walsh against the Gold Coast Titans.

Walsh was found guilty by the NRL judiciary for contrary conduct towards referee Chris Butler and will sit out for three matches including State of Origin Game III on July 12.

Walters said Walsh’s expletive outburst was unacceptable irrespective of whether it was directed at teammate Patrick Carrigan or Butler.

The Broncos coach admitted that after an emotional week following Queensland’s Origin series win, Walsh was due for a rest.

“In hindsight I probably shouldn’t have played him against the Titans,” Walters said of Walsh on SEN 1170 Breakfast.

“I should’ve let him have a few days off and wind down from what was a pretty important couple of weeks for him with State of Origin.

“He has got a lot of energy as a player and sometimes that spills over.

“He sometimes doesn’t filter what’s coming out of his mouth but he’s a good young kid and his heart is in the right place.

“It isn’t a regular occurrence and I would like to think that isn’t how he addresses his teammates let alone a referee.

“We are not happy with Reece’s actions on the field because it is unacceptable.

“We will work with him and fix him up in that space.”

The Broncos have been the benchmark of the competition all season but now face a tricky period with the suspension to Walsh and serious injuries to Thomas Flegler and Jordan Riki.

After a surprise loss to the Titans, Walters is conscious of another late-season collapse and is adamant his side has learnt from past mistakes.

“I was disappointed after the game because I just felt like it was a game that was there to win,” Walters continued.

“Our attitude wasn’t where it has been all season and I understand that you can’t be at your best every week.

“Somehow, you just have to find a way to win those types of games because it is a very valuable two points we lost on the weekend.

“Every match is becoming vital (but) these injuries and suspensions come about and we have players that can fill the void.

“We’ve got good depth with our middle forwards.

“It gives some other guys some opportunities.”

The Broncos face the Dolphins at the Gabba on Saturday.