diff --git a/miner.lua b/miner.lua
index 093e7ef..43079f9 100644
--- a/miner.lua
+++ b/miner.lua
@@ -30,7 +30,7 @@ local function mine_n(count, place_torches)
 
         -- place a torch every 11 blocks to keep the tunnel lit
         if i % 11 == 0 and place_torches then
-            torch.place_torch(sides.west)
+            torch.place_torch(sides.right)
         end
     end
     return mined
@@ -67,7 +67,7 @@ local function mine(scan_depth)
 
         -- place a torch every 11 blocks to keep the tunnel lit
         if moved_rows % 11 == 0 then
-            torch.place_torch(sides.north)
+            torch.place_torch(sides.left)
         end
 
         if mine_n(1, false) ~= 1 then
@@ -75,7 +75,6 @@ local function mine(scan_depth)
             break
         end
         moved_rows = moved_rows + 1
-
     end
 
     -- go back to start
diff --git a/torch.lua b/torch.lua
index 29f4cd7..dce1e8f 100644
--- a/torch.lua
+++ b/torch.lua
@@ -10,7 +10,9 @@ local function place_torch(side)
 
     if stack.name == "minecraft:torch" then
         robot.select(1)
-        robot.placeUp(side)
+        if not robot.placeUp(side) then
+            print('Failed to place torch')
+        end
     else
         print('Out of torches')
     end