IT was a tough day at the office for the Port Magpies as they ventured to Coffs Harbour to face the Breakers on Saturday.

Short players, not even enough to have a bench of reserves, the Magpies tried their hardest to match Coffs in the first half.

But ultimately it was to no avail as they succumbed to a full strength Breakers outfit. Captain Craig Dicker was proud of the team for not giving up despite the 141 point loss.

“We were a bit undermanned. It was a really tough day,” he said. “In the first half we played really well, our attacking pressure was really good, but the second half was tough.

“There were some good signs but we just struggled with numbers. Once we get the six or seven blokes back, I think we can get through to the finals and build up to that with a full team.”

He said it is a struggle that will ultimately make the team stronger as they regain some players.