Slater impressed as Val homes in on top job

BILLY Slater has declared Valentine Holmes a genuine contender for his Australia No.1 jumper as the Sharks ace plots to end the Storm champion’s glittering career tomorrow night.

Slater and Holmes will wage one of the most gripping backline duels of the season when the fullbacks collide in the preliminary final at AAMI Park.

Slater has played 30 Tests in the No.1 jumper but his decision to retire at season’s end has opened the door for fresh blood in the Kangaroos slot.

Australia coach Mal Meninga has backed James Tedesco for their October 13 Test against New Zealand but Storm great Slater says Holmes is a bona fide threat.

Holmes, who has represented Queensland and Australia as a winger, can make an ominous statement by outpointing Slater tomorrow night.