‘Be Benji’ is Bennett’s simple ploy

WAYNE Bennett has urged Benji Marshall to back his instincts as the playmaker braces for a showdown with Penrith teen sensation Nathan Cleary tonight at Suncorp Stadium.

The scratching of champion fullback Darius Boyd yesterday has placed extra responsibility on Marshall and Kodi Nikorima to be effective.

The 19-year-old Cleary is being hailed the next Johnathan Thurston but Bennett is confident Marshall can counter the Penrith star by channelling the natural skill that won him a premiership at Wests Tigers in 2005.

“I just want him to be Benji, not someone else,” he said.

“I thought our last-play kicks were pretty good (last week), so I hope Benji just plays what is in front of him and enjoys his footy.

“Whatever you see in Benji, that’s what I want to see.”

After dropping Nikorima late last week, Bennett insists the pint-sized utility will start at fullback tonight.