Stung by two losses in a week to NBL bogey team Perth, Hawks coach Rob Beveridge revealed the squad spoke openly on Tuesday about their NBL short-comings.

The discussion then sparked a bruising training run, designed to set a new standard and turn the Hawks into a title contender.

“It was a brutal, truthful appraisal,” Beveridge said.

“Then we had a really good hit-out which got very narky, the intensity level certainly went up, it was the kick up the arse they needed.

“We were extremely fatigued in Perth, but it’s the mental side of the game you have to deal with if you want to be a serious play-off contender.”

The Hawks have dealt with key early-season injuries to guards Rhys Martin, Kevin Lisch and Tyson Demos and heavy travel schedule.

Facing an important stretch of seven of their next nine games at home, Beveridge said the second-half capitulation in the 91-62 loss to Perth was the final straw.

“We don’t want to offer any excuses whatsoever and that’s why it was important to have an honest evaluation,” he said.

Beveridge admitted the Hawks players are also still seething after letting a last quarter lead slip against the Wildcats at home.

“Absolutely, 100 per cent we blew it,” he said.

“We screwed up, we should be four and three and it has left a bitter taste in our mouths, but they also did an outstanding job against Townsville. I don’t think people appreciate what a good win on the road it was.”

Beveridge said Lisch is only now regaining full fitness, after recovering from a knee injury.

Cairns have also faced a busy schedule away from home, slumping to a 90-67 loss in New Zealand, before responding with a thrilling 104-101 victory in Adelaide.

Markel Sparks hit a clutch three-pointer on the buzzer to sink the 36ers.

Beveridge is conscious of the series result against Cairns, believing the Hawks could be fighting it out with Taipans for finals action.

Cairns won the first round showdown 79-74 in north Queensland.

“Every series is important, so we’ve really got to bring an attitude which will help us win it against Cairns.”

Demos remains in doubt with a knee problem and Beveridge refuses to rush him back.

“It’s touch and go, he’ll have a medical assessment (on Thursday),” Beveridge said. “He’s doing all the work off the court and 100 per cent he wants to play, but we won’t try and push it.

“If he doesn’t play Friday, he’ll play Wednesday (against Perth).”

NBL

Round five

Friday (7.30pm)

ILLAWARRA HAWKS v CAIRNS TAIPANS

WIN Entertainment Centre

TV: Live on Fox Sports News