Fifita’s the big hope in maroon

GOLD Coast teenager David Fifita faces the biggest test of his young career after the Maroons’ injury crisis opened the door for an Origin starting debut and forced coach Kevin Walters to issue an SOS to former Cowboy Ethan Lowe.

In a stunning prelude to tonight’s Origin decider, 20game veteran Matt Gillett was ruled out at yesterday’s captain’s run, causing Walters to pitchfork 19-year-old Fifita into the starting side.

Fifita’s promotion opens the door for South Sydney forward Lowe to make his Origin debut, following a remarkable resurrection from the Intrust Super Cup to an Origin baptism at ANZ Stadium.

Queensland great Billy Moore in February predicted Fifita would play Origin, likening him in style to the “raging bull” Gorden Tallis.

He said he was confident the Broncos teenager would be able to handle the role of replacing Gillett.

“Fififa is ready for this,” Moore said.

“This is one of those moments where we see the rise of someone special.

“So many times an injury opens the door for a kid and they grab it.

“David has shown me he will relish this opportunity.

“He will need support around him from the senior guys, but this could be the making of him.

“I love his dynamic running and offload.

“Fifita’s strength is his second phase. We can’t play straight up and down in the middle of the park and think we can win.

“I look at Fifita’s physicality and what he can do, he is a special athlete. He has to combine that with knowledge.

“This is a massive step in his learning curve but this is his time to shine.”

Lowe, a Goondiwindi junior, was brought into Camp Maroon last Wednesday as 18th man to cover any potential injuries.

THIS IS ONE OF THOSE MOMENTS WHERE WE SEE THE RISE OF SOMEONE SPECIAL BILLY MOORE ON DAVID FIFITA

Moore predicted Lowe would give it his all in his debut at ANZ Stadium tonight.

“Ethan won’t leave anything in the tank,” he said.

“I love it when a veteran gets a chance and Ethan will go berserk when he gets time on the field.”

Prop forward Dylan Napa has also joined Camp Maroon, with the Bulldogs firebrand handed somewhat of a reprieve after initially being dropped following the Game Two loss in Perth. Walters yesterday said all three players were in contention after Gillett’s late withdrawal.