St George Illawarra Dragons prop Tyson Frizell admits a tough challenge awaits against the Brisbane Broncos at WIN Stadium, Wollongong on Friday.
The Wales international has recently shifted to the front-row having been utilised as an interchange “impact player” last season.
The Corrimal Cougars junior is the first to express his desire to play wherever he is required but is relishing the opportunity of playing against a Broncos outfit keen to avenge last round’s loss to the Sydney Roosters.
“We wanted to start the season in good form and we’ve done that but we’ve got a big test this weekend against the Broncos,” said Frizell.
“There’s a really good vibe around the club, everyone is positive and confident, and we’ll be happy if we keep winning some games.
“A local derby is always like that, we knew from the start it was going to be a tough match.
“I think it is good leading into this week that we had a grinding and tough game so we can take a lot out of the game on the weekend and we’ll keep making improvements.
“We did cop a bit of criticism, especially after our trial form, but we can use that as motivation coming into the season.
“We’re not too worried about what people say, we’re just worried about ourselves and the middle boys are doing their best for the outside backs and the halves and they’re creating a lot of space and a lot of tries.
“You need the forwards to go forward so the backs can come in and finish off those set ups for good tries.
“We’re preparing well for this weekend, but we have played against some good forward packs in the first three rounds.
“I do think that this will be a big test for us, it will be a massive task but we just have to maintain our consistency and keep our structures firm.
“I’m sure they’re going to be fired up after their close loss to the Roosters, so I think it will be a great match.
“The Coach had said he needed me in the middle and I ended up in the front row but I’m really enjoying the role and loving starting up front.
“I don’t know if it will be long term role, but it’s all a learning curve for me so I’ll do my best and do my job and try to keep that spot.”
