Old mates clashing at Suncorp

HE’S the Brisbane product ready to show what his former NRL club is missing out on.

After impressing against South Sydney, prop Lindsay Collins has been named to make just the third start of his career when the Sydney Roosters face the Broncos at Suncorp Stadium tonight.

He’ll do so against a bunch of former teammates he grew up with, including Jamayne Isaako and Patrick Carrigan.

Collins also counts suspended Brisbane forward Tevita

Pangai Jr as an ex-colleague, as well as Jaydn

Su’a, Gehemat Shibasaki and Keegan Hipgrave.

Roosters coach Trent Robinson remembers what appealed most about Collins prior to luring him from Brisbane to Bondi three years ago.

“I remember watching Lindsay in under-20s for Brisbane,” Robinson said.

“He was energetic, but there was a real balance ... he’s got lots of power but he can play long minutes, so he’s very quick, and he’s very fit.”

It’s a common trait in the Collins’ bloodlines, with grandfather Lionel a renowned speedster who played 11 Tests for the Kangaroos between 1968-74.

“He’s got some great old photos he’s shown me (of his) grandfather. The balance between speed and fitness is quite unique, and he’s got it,” Robinson said.

Collins (pictured), 24, was one of the Roosters’ best in last week’s win over the Rabbitohs, carrying the ball for 128m and making 24 tackles.

“I often get a lot of comments that people like the way that Lindsay plays the game ... you can see the development from him from last year to this year,” Robinson said.