BENNETT SOUNDS ALARM
WAYNE Bennett, the Broncos supercoach who turned James Roberts into an Origin player, says the NSW rookie’s speed could blow the Maroons off the park in Origin I tonight.
Broncos flyer Roberts will complete a remarkable career resurrection when he makes his Origin debut for the Blues against Queensland in the series opener at the MCG.
Four years ago, Roberts was on the brink of the NRL scrapheap after being sacked by the Panthers for an off- field incident, the second time he’d had his contract torn up after being shown the door by South Sydney.
Now Roberts is wearing a sky- blue jumper, with Bennett crediting Brisbane’s patience, two stints in a Thailand rehab clinic and the birth of Roberts’ second child a fortnight ago for his revival.
When Roberts walked out on the Titans three seasons ago after a contract bungle, Bennett knew he would cop criticism for signing him, but believed the risk of backing “The Jet” was worth the reward.
“I just wanted him to realise his potential,” Bennett said. “He has God- given stuff you can’t coach – speed and footwork.
“But I just wanted him to take responsibility and ownership for his actions and he’s done that, it’s a credit to him.
“I’ve seen a change in him because of his kids. He doesn’t want his children to face the same consequences he did in his life.”
A fortnight ago, Roberts effectively sealed his NSW selection when he destroyed the Roosters with a 70m solo try that inspired Brisbane’s 28- 22 come- from- behind victory.
Roberts now faces the biggest test of his career marking Greg Inglis, the former Souths teammate who set up his first ever NRL try, but Bennett warned Queensland to be wary of his match- winning brilliance.
“James can do it to any side,” Bennett said.
“We all saw it a few weeks ago against the Roosters.
“The game was tight and there wasn’t much in it and he scored a try that is probably the best individual effort I’ve ever seen.”