Burton to bring back some bite
A FOCUSED Matt Burton says he’s ready for the intense spotlight of steering the Bulldogs, claiming a desire to run his own team is why he left Penrith.
Ahead of one the most anticipated performances by a Bulldogs team in years, Burton will make his club debut on Sunday for a newlook Canterbury side aiming to restore the faith of fed-up fans who have experienced just six wins from the past two seasons.
Producing an unrivalled shopping spree of talent over the off-season, major Canterbury recruits including Josh Tevita Pangai, Vaughan, Dufty, Brent Naden and Braidon Burns will face the Cowboys on Sunday. But there’s no more important signing for head coach Trent Barrett, than 21-year-old Burton.
After three NRL seasons at Penrith, that ended with a 2021 premiership ring at centre, Burton is the focal point for the Bulldogs attack at five-eighth.
The boy from Dubbo knows, with pressure on both his club and coach to advance out of the cellar of the NRL table, the spotlight will be on him like never before.
“I know that 100 per cent,” the softly spoke Burton said.
“There’s always going to be that pressure, playing in the halves, but I’ve just got to focus on my game and keep getting better.
“I wanted to make this move. To help run a team.
“When I made the call to sign with the club, I was in doubt of playing first grade in the halves, sitting behind Jarome (Luai) and Nathan (Cleary) at Penrith.
“I didn’t really see centre as a spot for me. It was a good experience, but I see myself as a half and that’s why I took up the opportunity here.’’
Burton will play alongside halfback Jake Averillo, who he himself, has been the subject of conjecture as to his ability to wear the No.7.
NRL 360 host Braith Anasta, a former Bulldogs playmaker, has stated his belief that Kyle Flanagan, with his organisational skills and kicking game, would be a better fit alongside Burton.
MIKAELE Ravalawa crossed for three tries as St George Illawarra won its opening match 28-16 against the NZ Warriors on the Sunshine Coast on Saturday.