Fotuaika measuring up to big task ahead
TITANS young gun Moeaki Fotuaika says he’s more confident playing in the NRL after coming up against arguably the best forward pack in the league.
The 19-year-old front-rower was given a baptism by fire when he came face-to-face with the Cowboys “Big Three” in Matt Scott, Jason Taumalolo and Jordan McLean on the Sunshine Coast at the weekend.
His solid defensive effort was a standout in the Titans’ 22-16 loss and further proof the hard-hitting forward is ready to play in the NRL each week.
The 185cm, 107kg rising star is hoping for another shot to prove himself in a trial against Brisbane at Cbus Super Stadium on Saturday.
Fotuaika said his focus for the year was now on consistently making the starting squad each week.
“Having the 16 NRL games last year has given me a lot of confidence to come into this year,” he said.
“Even with (Saturday night’s) game as well, it’s given me a lot of confidence going up against those boys (Scott, Taumalolo, McLean). They’re probably one of the best forward packs in the game.
“Last year was just getting my first game of NRL but this year it’s just trying to get named in that 17 every week and trying to play consistent footy throughout the year.”
Fotuaika is rated highly by coach Garth Brennan who has challenged the Tongan teen to step it up a notch this year.