Cotter, welcome back to big show
INJURY to Reece Robson has presented an opportunity for Reuben Cotter to make his mark in the NRL, and hopefully secure a contract beyond this year.
The 21-year-old hooker earned his first start in the No.9 jersey last week after stringing together some impressive efforts off the bench throughout the season.
Now, with five games left in 2020, he has the chance to cement himself as a key figure in the Cowboys squad.
It has been a rough road to the NRL for the Sarina product, with back-to-back knee reconstructions derailing the early stages of his career.
But, now fit and firing, Cotter has caught the eye of the North Queensland coaching staff for his ethic and dedication to get back on the park, and he hopes that drive will bestow him another extended stay with the club.
“I’ll leave that (contract talk) to my manager, I’m just worrying about the opportunity I’ve got at the moment,” Cotter said.
“Getting to start last week was a first for me, so that was exciting, and I’m just looking to finish these last five games in that starting role.
“It’s unfortunate for Robbo. Obviously he’s a good player and been doing some good stuff for us.
“(But) it gives me a chance to cement a spot going into these next few games, and next year, so I’m stoked about the opportunity.”
The Cowboys will look to put an end to an eight-game losing streak on Saturday against Cronulla, a team Cotter says has many similarities to his own.
Each has plenty of big bodies in the forward pack, and both have speed to burn in the outside backs.
Cotter says the battle will be won in the energy brought to the field from the first whistle.
His story is one of perseverance, his constant struggle with ACL injuries making him getting to 10 NRL games all the sweeter.
And in 2015 premiershipwinning rake Jake Granville, he has the perfect mentor to guide him to the top of his game.
While 31-year-old Granville has been in and out of the team throughout the campaign, his knowledge of the game has been paramount off the field in getting the best out of his younger teammates.
Without the Intrust Super Cup to fall back on and refine his craft, Cotter has been leaning on every piece of wisdom the veteran has handed down to him.
“He’s an experienced hooker and been around for a while. He’s sharp out of nine, so all those attacking things throughout the week I try and pick his brain (about), and he helps us with that sort of stuff,” Cotter said.
“The NRL is a bigger step from Qcup level, and we haven’t had Qcup this year, so it’s been helpful that he’s been there to provide his information and what he’s been able to do throughout his career. With how things have been at the moment, we’re all looking at ways to try and be a better team.
“I think worrying about your individual role is probably the most important thing for us in these next few games.
“And if everyone does that well, it gives us the best chance at getting some joy there in the next few weeks.”