Hasler backs Hopoate to cope with Origin
By Ian McCullough, 8 Jun 2011
- Tagged:
- Des Hasler, Manly Sea Eagles, NRL, Ricky Stuart, Rugby League, State Of Origin
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Manly coach Des Hasler is backing Will Hopoate to hold his own in the NSW centres, despite having played in the position twice for the Sea Eagles.
The 19-year-old was the shock inclusion in Ricky Stuart’s Blues squad for the second State of Origin clash next week after just 15 first grade appearances, replacing Michael Jennings who was ruled out with an ankle injury.
Hopoate has played most of this season on the wing as well as filling in at fullback and left centre and Hasler believes this versatility is a huge plus for the youngest player to play for the Blues since Brad Fittler in 1990.
“He was called up for the City-Country game so they had him earmarked and because through circumstances he gets his opportunity and he will do a great job,” said Hasler on Tuesday.
“I think it is great that a player can play a number of positions, and he has done a great job in all three positions.
“I don’t think it matters that he has only played two games at centre, they get well prepared and he will get briefed and will have plenty of good players around him and it is about enjoying the moment and handling the situation.”
Despite Hopoate’s tender years, Hasler has no doubt he possesses the temperament to cope with the pressure cooker situation that is Origin.
“For such a young kid nothing seems to faze him and there is a lot of experience around him in the side,” he said.
“I had a quick chat with him and he knows what it is all about, he is very excited about it and it is a great to see that in a young player.
“But he doesn’t need any words of advice from me, he will be OK.”
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The Crowd Says (6) | Page 1 of Comments
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- Des Hasler, Manly Sea Eagles, NRL, Ricky Stuart, Rugby League, State Of Origin
June 8th 2011 @ 9:57am
Mals said | June 8th 2011 @ 9:57am | Report comment
Go Hoppa Jnr!! He will make the Blues (& Manly) supporters proud next Wednesday night, pure class!
June 8th 2011 @ 10:21am
oikee said | June 8th 2011 @ 10:21am | Report comment
Yes, i will be here Mals to give you comfort after Hoppa completely makes a meal of origin.
Poor little Hoppa, having to go walkabout to get outta Manly, not a bad idea. When he comes back he can sign on for the Broncos.
June 8th 2011 @ 11:10am
Mals said | June 8th 2011 @ 11:10am | Report comment
Hoppa won’t be marking Inglis so that’s a positive. He is class & will go fine. It is the Blues new look forward pack that has got me the most worried.
Oikee you are dreaming mate, there is no way Hoppa will sign with a team based out of Sydney when/if he returns to the NRL. HIs family ties are very strong.
June 8th 2011 @ 11:35am
oikee said | June 8th 2011 @ 11:35am | Report comment
hahaha, his family ties are strong.
Probably waiting for the new tv deal to kick in, then his old man can do a Nasser and negiotate a show me the money comedy deal.
Same as sbw, hunt, falou, all loyal to their families, hehe, the money god.
He will be at the Broncos in 2 years, trust me. We have the cash, if not their, at the second Brisbane team, the Barracooters.
June 8th 2011 @ 12:59pm
Dean - Surry Hills said | June 8th 2011 @ 12:59pm | Report comment
You’re a classic Oikee.
Surely you must realise that when Hoppa Junior serves his time with his mission, he will then be granted a brief interview with God – and the advice he will be given is to play with the Saints !
June 8th 2011 @ 2:19pm
Al from ctown said | June 8th 2011 @ 2:19pm | Report comment
All wrong… He will follow his dads footsteps turning to the tigers, only to be kicked out and return to manly after a digital penetration accident..
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