St George Illawarra Dragons fullback Adam Quinlan is keen for a challenging match against the Brisbane Broncos at WIN Stadium, Wollongong on Friday.
The Culburra Dolphins junior says despite the imminent return of NSW representative fullback Josh Dugan, he will do the best job for the team in the custodian’s role.
Quinlan also praised the influence five-eighth Gareth Widdop has had in the middle of the park since his arrival during the off-season.
“We’re really looking forward to the challenge this week, it’s great to be three from three so far, but we’ll treat this like any other game,” said Quinlan.
“Brisbane have got a lot of quality players out there, Barba is one and Hunt is another, so we’ll have to be on our game come Friday.
“I’m really enjoying being out there with the team, I’m unsure when Josh will be back, if it’s this week that will be great for the team, if not then I will be looking to do the best job I can for the team.
“We just need to start hard and fast and combat their game and take control.
“Gaz has been outstanding throughout the last few games and no doubt his form will better each week.
“He’s a great mentor, he’s easy to approach and he has a lot of skill.
“It will be great to be back in Wollongong for the match this week in front of a big home crowd.
“We certainly need to up our game a bit, we’re confident in ourselves and in our ability and hopefully come away with a victory.
Dragons centre Gerard Beale echoed Quinlan’s sentiments concerning the efforts of Widdop.
“Gaz has obviously added quite a bit of spark to the team, he’s a great player and he’s given me a lot of tips,” said Beale.
“He is very composed during the game, and I think that has helped us this year as previously we would rush the ball when we were at the line.
“I’m really looking forward to the challenge against the Broncos, hopefully we can come out with the win.
“I’m eager to come up against Josh Hoffman and Alex Glen, if I can get one up on them, I’ll be laughing.
“Obviously Josh is a very talented player, he can slot in anywhere and play well and we need to work on controlling the game and not giving him too much space.
“It will be awesome to get back to Wollongong, it’s our first home game back here and we’re ready to run out in front of all our Red V fans.
“I’m really looking forward to getting back out there and so are the boys and hopefully we’ll see a packed WIN Stadium.”
