Planten makes most of call-up to Heelers
THE biggest game of Mitch Planten’s career couldn’t have come at a better time – three days after the best performance of his career.
On Wednesday night, the late-blooming forward was handed his first Queensland Country Heelers starting jersey, playing North Canterbury from New Zealand at Ballymore Stadium.
Planten often plays in the second-row but this opportunity came at No.8 after Steven Finigan (hamstring) and John Southern (shoulder) succumbed to injury.
The 29-year-old Gold Coaster grabbed the chance with both hands, delivering a man of the match display to spearhead a 22-18 Heelers victory over their Kiwi opponents.
“I was very proud to be a part of that,” Planten said. “It was my first run-on for the Country boys so I’m stoked especially to get the win.”
It followed their 57-27 loss to a Queensland Premier Rugby President’s XV, where their higher grade opponents’ superior fitness proved decisive.
Planten, who would have been selected for his debut Heelers tour last year if not for a date clash with a booked overseas holiday, now has perennial rivals NSW Country in his sights.
The interstate battle will take place in Newcastle tonight, with Queensland the reigning champions after a 29-27 win last year.
“Mate, it’s massive for all of us and it’s massive for me,” Planten said of the looming contest.
“This is the one we have been concentrating on.
“It will be the biggest game of my career.
“I just can’t wait to get out there and mix it at that level. I love playing at that level; it’s really quality rugby … it’s going to be very tough, very physical.”
Planten is all but certain to retain the No.8 jumper but the Palm Beach Currumbin footballer said he will need to start well “to not get the hook” with other good backrow options in the squad.
The Heelers have been in Newcastle since Thursday and were previously in camp at the YMCA Camp Warrawee north of Brisbane.
Gold Coast District rugby will also be played this weekend, with Planten’s Alleygators facing Bond Pirates.
“They’re such a young side and there’s so much potential there and I think Robbo, (coach) Ryan Roberts, is really starting to get the best out of them,” he said of the Alleygators.
Elsewhere, Coolangatta Tweed play Coomera, Gold Coast Eagles host Surfers Paradise and Helensvale square off with Colleges.