By Joel Gould
New Brisbane playmaker Jock Madden is keeping the pressure on for a starting spot, ready to fire against Penrith in round one of the NRL season if captain Adam Reynolds does not recover from a back complaint.
Coach Kevin Walters said after the Broncos’ 20-18 Pre-Season Challenge win over North Queensland on Saturday that Reynolds appeared on track to play, but former Wests Tigers half Madden is also keeping heat on No.6 Ezra Mam after a strong display in the No.7 jersey.
Jock Madden set up two tries from kicks, defended strongly and communicated well against the Cowboys in his first game for the Broncos.Credit:Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images
Madden set up two tries from kicks, defended strongly and communicated well in his first game for the Broncos.
“The seven is a big job for the Broncos,” Madden said after the win.
“Alfie (Allan Langer), Reyno…they have all played there so I just wanted to go out there and do my job and do what I do best.
“(Reynolds) has been really good. He had a chat to me before the game and he said to just go and have fun and enjoy it.
“He has that confidence in me, so learning from him day in, day out and watching him go about his business as well is really good.”
If Madden does get a call-up to start against Penrith and go up against Nathan Cleary in the round one clash, he said he would ready.
Jason Taumalolo of the Cowboys takes on the Broncos defence in the NRL Trial Match at Sunshine Coast Stadium on Saturday.Credit:Getty
“One hundred per cent I would be,” he said.
“I have done the hard work at training, I have had the experience of playing NRL the last few years so I’m ready to go if required.
“I just have to keep playing good football, keep asking questions and control what I can control.
“Kevvie (Walters) will do his selections for the team and what’s right.”
Madden said Walters had been a huge influence in giving him confidence and driving excellence in his defensive work.
Walters said there was “a lot to like” about Madden’s game on Saturday and provided an update on Reynolds.
“He should be right (for Penrith). He is confident of playing,” Walters said.
“There is another 12 days before that game takes place. I reckon he will be there. He is a good, experienced player too so he won’t play if he is not ready.”
– AAP
