By Alan Nicolea
October 3rd 2008 @ 12:19am
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The Wolf Man ready to howl in Grand Final
Sea Eagles winger David Williams is living a dream that was not even supposed to be realised this season. A man by the name of Michael Bani was in stellar form for Manly and didn’t look like relinquishing his position on the flank anytime soon.
But then on a wet night at Parramatta stadium, Bani injured his neck right on the stroke of halftime against the Eels. He was carried off the field and did not return.
While scans on Bani’s neck showed no long term damage, the Thursday Islander would miss the rest of the 2008 season, allowing Williams to make his debut in round nine for the Sea Eagles against Brisbane at Suncorp stadium.
Coach Des Hasler and club recruitment manager Noel Cleal virtually demanded Williams be named in the first grade side.
And for good reason.
Since the baptism of fire all those weeks ago, Williams has developed into a fine footballer, capable of transforming a game with his speed and determination.
He has played nineteen games this season, not under-performing in any of them, whilst also scoring thirteen tries in the process.
Williams’ effort now sees him participating in his first Grand Final in just his first year of NRL football.
It has been a stellar ride for the 22 year-old who now finds himself becoming an integral part of a Manly arsenal that now breathes points.
Williams has developed a cult following among the league faithful, often labelled the ‘wolf man’ by fans, among them high profile NRL funny man Matthew Johns.
While Williams’ off-field momentum looks to be growing at a rapid rate, on the field, he will be in charge of stopping Storm sensation Israel Folau.
Although he handled ‘the beast’ Vatuvei well enough last week, Williams must repeat the performance in the Premiership decider.
If he does, Williams will be one of a select few to have made their first grade debut and win a Grand Final in the same year, joining the likes of Sonny Bill Williams and Folau.
Now that’s something for Williams and Manly to howl about.
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Skull said | October 3rd 2008 @ 12:37pm | Report comment
Yeah is a real shame for Bani who was making a come back in reserves and going well until he got injured again a couple of weeks ago. Hopefully his career wont be over before it has really started. On the other hand it just goes to show any young players that if you get a chance grab it
oikee said | October 3rd 2008 @ 12:41pm | Report comment
Seen a interveiw also with that Dane Larie guy, lots to look forward to next year, would it be good to maybe see a mohawk next year? Or even big willy growing the mop back. Matai also looks like he pays the hairdresser a bit of cash.
Alan Nicolea said | October 3rd 2008 @ 4:21pm | Report comment
Skull
I think Bani will be fighting for Michael Robertson’s wing positon once he leaves for England. Tony Williams is in the frame aswell.
It was a shame to see Bani get injured, but you can’t blame the wolf man for taking his opportunities i guess.
Alan Nicolea said | October 3rd 2008 @ 4:24pm | Report comment
Oikee
It seems the real personality players need to have the different hairstyles to jump out. Notice all those players are great ones aswell. Diane Laurie in particular has alot to look forward to next season with the Tigers.
Bring on 2009!!!!!!!
The Link said | October 3rd 2008 @ 4:44pm | Report comment
Williams would’ve been close to Rookie of the year behind Sandow. Very consistent and strong, a great find for the Eagles.
Alan, they’re talking up T Williams as a forward at Brookie. Even with Menzies, Bryant and Williamson leaving the forward depth still looks strong for the Sea Eagles in 2009.
But there’s some important business on Sunday first
Alan Nicolea said | October 3rd 2008 @ 6:13pm | Report comment
The link
Yeah, Williams is very capable of playing as a forward. The depth at Manly at the moment will serve the club well for the coming seasons. If they don’t win on Sunday……………………….