By Mary Maidiotis
St George Illawarra Dragons centre Euan Aitken admits there is a newfound confidence within the team ranks ahead of the fixture against the New Zealand Warriors at Westpac Stadium, Wellington on Saturday.
The Red V will begin a two-week camp in which they will play two away games in Wellington and Brisbane before returning to Wollongong in round 24.
Aitken, 20, believes the time away together will improve the squad’s bond which will consequently translate into good results on the field.
“The feeling within the playing group has improved now that we have the win, it was a good win against the Knights and it was definitely what we needed, it will do our confidence a world of good,” said Aitken.
“We’re going to have to bond over the upcoming couple of weeks, we’re travelling to Wellington and then Brisbane and I think if we train together well, the results will reflect that.
“The more time we spend together, the closer we are going to get, so this is going to be a good two weeks away.
“The Warriors have some real good centres in Konrad Hurrell and Solomone Kata so it’s going to be a good challenge and I’m always up for that, I can’t wait for this weekend.”
Dragons prop Leeson Ah Mau admits that facing the Warriors at home will be a daunting challenge but one the Red V are working extra hard for in preparation.
The Otahuhu Leopards junior is content with his recent performances and aims to continue executing his role as required.
“I’ve just been focused on playing my role within the team and doing whatever is required of me,” said Ah Mau.
“We’re concentrating on this week in New Zealand and working hard at training in preparation for this weekend’s game.
“It was good to get the win against the Knights because the confidence is back and everyone’s pretty happy.
“The Warriors are going to be tough and with them at home, it’s going to be a big challenge for us but all the boys are up for it and we’ll work hard this week to make sure we’re ready.”
