By Nathan Beuman
St George Illawarra Dragons utility Jake Marketo admits he will do whatever it takes against the Newcastle Knights at Hunter Stadium, Newcastle on Saturday.
The Holy Cross Rhinos junior, who rejoined the Dragons after a two-year stint in the Queensland Cup, is poised to make his third first-game appearance for the season and is thankful to Head Coach Paul McGregor for the recent opportunities.
Marketo, 26, believes the line-up named midweek have what it takes to challenge the so far undefeated upcoming opposition on their home soil and is keen to play his part.
“We just have to build off our recent performances and just focus on us,” said Marketo.
“We laid a pretty good platform for ourselves against the Sea Eagles and hopefully we can take that to Newcastle.
“If we take the same attitude, work for each other then I’m pretty sure we can match it with them.
“I was eighteenth man for the first two games, and I finally got a crack after playing for the Illawarra Cutters in round two.
“I got my shot against the Canberra Raiders the following week so now I’m just looking to hold my spot now.
“I can’t thank Mary enough, as well as the other coaches who have given me a second chance.
“I am just looking forward to repaying it with how I’m training and also for the boys and the Club as well.
“It’s good that I can play a couple of positions as it means I can slot in wherever I’m needed..
“Obviously at the moment I’m sticking in the middle, just getting out there and bringing a bit of enthusiasm to the team in the little stints that I have.
“Footy’s footy, I like to come out and have fun, but when it’s time to be serious and train I do just that.”
