KEVVIE’S CENTRES OF ATTENTION
DYNAMITE Brisbane youngster Tesi Niu and Englishman Herbie Farnworth have trained at centre ahead of Kevin Walters’ first game in charge against Wynnum Manly next month.
The Broncos will play their first trial match of 2021 against Intrust Super Cup team Wynnum Manly Seagulls at Kitchener Park on February 19.
The trial team has yet to be selected, but 13-on-13 drills at Red Hill since pre-season resumed on January 4 are an early indication of Walters’ plans. With strike centre Kotoni Staggs still sidelined by a knee injury, the centre spots are one of the key areas Walters needs to fill.
Farnworth and Niu rotated between both right and left centre during Tuesday’s training run, with pre-season recruit David Mead filling occasionally.
Niu has been earmarked as a future NRL star, playing six games (two off the bench and four at fullback) for the Broncos during his debut season in 2020.
However, the 19-year-old starred at centre for the Queensland Under-18s Origin side in 2019, scoring two tries against New South Wales.
Former Brisbane captain Corey Parker is confident Niu will be a regular in the starting 17 this season.
“He played centre for Queensland Under-18s and he filled that role pretty well,” Parker said.
“He’s an electric player and he only needs to touch the ball to create something. He’ll be in the team for sure.”
Farnworth returned to Red Hill this week for the first time since leaving quarantine after spending Christmas with his family in the UK. The 21-year-old played 19 games last season, primarily at centre or on the wing, and is looking to retain his spot.
Walters confirmed Farnworth was in contention for Round 1 despite his late start to training.
“He’s very impressive,” Walters said.
“The Queensland sun may have got to him for a bit but he’s in great shape.
“It will be good for him to get some work and volume with the team.”