ELU IMPRESSIVE FOR THE GLADIATORS
IT has not been an ideal start to the season for Mareeba on the field, but beyond the run of results and injuries the Gladiators have suffered is one shining light.
Teenage flyer Hubert Elu has seriously impressed in his few games for the Gladiators in the Cairns District Rugby League, his speed and agility turning rival defences inside out on his way to three tries in as many games for the battling Mareeba side.
His versatility might be his best attribute, with the skilful Elu able to cover just about any position on the field.
It’s been enough to make coach Chris Sheppard sit up and take notice, and might even provide a serious selection headache.
Elu slotted into fullback in the absence of 2021 CDRL rookie of the year Trezman Banjo in the club’s last-start loss to Kangaroos, and looked at home in the No.1 jersey.
“He’s electric,” Sheppard said. “He’s a Mareeba junior who went away for school.
“He came down to training one day when he was on holiday and decided he wanted to stay.
“He can play anywhere … he finds the footy.
“He has those footy instincts, he knows where he to be to make sure he’s getting that ball.”
With the skill to play in any key position, Elu may just be the weapon Sheppard needs when his injury-hit Gladiators build momentum.
Sheppard has always said his team would be better at the end of the season than the start, and in Elu he has found a genuine gun.
The Gladiators will host Atherton Roosters in the CDRL match of the round on Saturday, with three grades of the Tablelands Derby to be shown live by the Cairns Post.
Under-18s kick-off at 3pm, with reserves from 4.30pm and A-grade at 6pm.