Containing Taumalolo major task in Townsville showdown

Warriors playmaker Blake Green believes North Queensland powerhouse Jason Taumalolo poses a greater threat in the middle despite his renowned ability to wreak havoc out wide.

Cowboys coach Paul Green has persisted in using the Auckland-born superstar closer to the action, despite many critics believing his size, power, footwork and ball skills are better utilised two passes wide of the ruck.

Ahead of tonight’s NRL showdown in Townsville, Green rubbished theories that the Kiwi-turned-Tongan international would be easier to contain in his battering ram role in the centre of the field.

“He’s a tough fella to stop it doesn’t matter where it is,” said Green.

“I’ve heard that they’re using him as a battering ram but he’s also got great footwork in the middle of the field and he can generate speed there.

“Rarely does he get up to play the ball and everyone is set, he’s normally left a few people on the ground and the numbers in the defensive line are out and people are scattered,” Green said yesterday.

Last year’s grand finalists are struggling in 14th spot on the ladder, but Taumalolo is still setting the standard for forwards across the NRL.

The 25-year-old lock bends the line better than any other player, with a competition-high 997 post-contact metres so far this season.

He is also second behind Roosters wing Blake Ferguson in run metres (2369) and all runs (240), while he is equal fourth for tackle busts with 66.

The Warriors head to 1300Smiles Stadium looking to build on last week’s impressive 34-14 win over Manly and are searching for back-toback victories for the first time since their round five 22-12 win over the Cowboys in Auckland.

Their hopes of finding consistency and consolidating their spot in the top four will hinge largely on their ability to limit Taumalolo’s impact and stifle his combinations with Cowboys halfback Johnathan Thurston and fullback Michael Morgan.

“When he carries the ball in the middle with some support around