Under-fire Boyd ’not losing sleep’
BRONCOS captain Darius Boyd has come out swinging at his critics, hitting back at savage attacks on his defence and leadership and insisting he won’t be forced into an early retirement.
As he prepares for Brisbane’s Magic Round clash against Manly on Friday night, Boyd says he is not mired in a form slump and has every intention of honouring his four-year, $3 million Broncos contract.
Boyd has been subjected to the most stinging critiques of his 13-year career this season, with Queensland Origin legend Paul Vautin labelling his defence “abysmal” after Brisbane’s 36-4 loss to the Roosters last month.
Boyd, who turns 32 in July, is off-contract at the end of 2021. There are fears Boyd’s body is already beginning to break down after achilles and hamstring injuries have eroded the speed that made him Queensland and Australia’s first-choice fullback just two years ago.
But when asked if he plans to see out his contract, the Broncos skipper was unequivocal.
“Yes definitely,” said Boyd, who plays his 301st NRL game against the Sea Eagles at Suncorp Stadium.
“I don’t know what the outside noise is saying, but my body is really good and my form, I’m pretty happy with it.
“I spoke to ‘Seibs’ (Broncos coach Anthony Seibold) yesterday and he’s happy with how I’m performing.
“I know if we win some games the critics will go away. I can be better and I’m not saying I don’t have to put my hand up and be better, because I know I do, especially as a captain, but I’m not losing sleep over my performances.”