Tiger beats tumour to chase shot at big time

MATT Eisenhuth has beaten a tumour in his leg to make a triumphant return to the NRL, now he’ll put aside plans of becoming a firefighter to earn a contract extension with the Wests Tigers.

Eisenhuth ended three years of uncertainty and frustration last Saturday night when he made his NRL debut with the Tigers.

The former Parramatta and Penrith lower grader didn’t get the win in his maiden top grade match, but it mattered little in the end.

After overcoming two shoulder reconstructions and the discovery of a benign tumour in his leg, which came with doctors’ warnings he’d never don the boots again, Eisenhuth was just grateful to be playing.

It’s why the 24-year-old will place his firefighter aspirations on hold to secure a new deal and extend his footy career with the Tigers.

“I’ve always wanted to join the fire brigade – that would be the dream, but it’s awfully competitive and hard to get into,” Eisenhuth said.

“I’m currently studying a part-time fire safety and building course at TAFE, but now I’m back playing footy that’s what I want to chase.

“I’ve got a contract for this year (with the Tigers), but I want to continue playing.

“There is plenty I can work on and that is what I’ll be doing to hopefully cement a spot.

“I guess if I play well, the rest will take care of itself.”

If Eisenhuth’s debut against the Sharks is any indication, he is every chance of picking up a new deal with the Tigers. The rangy replacement forward ran for 193 running metres and made 22 tackles in 52 minutes.