Wests Tigers coach Ivan Cleary has revealed the reasons behind his surprise decision to select round-one hero Corey Thompson, saying the winger “epitomises” the NRL club’s values.
Thompson justified Cleary’s call to drop long-time winger David Nofoaluma with a clutch try in their season-opening upset of premiership favourites Sydney Roosters on Saturday.
Playing in his first NRL game in three years, Thompson produced a one-handed putdown in the 78th minute to set up Tuimoala Lolohea’s game-winning conversion from the sideline.
It was later revealed that the former Canterbury flyer had to overcome a severe bout of fatigue that forced him to throw up in the sheds at halftime.
“I was tired in the first half, it was a tough game. It was back and forth, I think it was 2-0 for a long time and we showed what we’re made of,” Thompson said.
“Tui’s a great kicker and I was on the corner saying, ‘Please no extra time’.”
Cleary said Thompson’s effort was just reward for a stellar off-season and trial period following his three-year stint with Widnes in the Super League.
The 27-year-old finished with a game-high four tackle busts and two line breaks to go with three offloads and 118 metres gained with the ball.
“The way he played today is basically the way he started training at the start of November. He’s turned up every day and done well, done well in the trial games,” Cleary said.
“He had one patch today where he just lost concentration when (Cooper) Cronk kicked a 40-20 in that first half, but the good news for him is that the boys backed it up and defended that.
“He paid them back later in the day.”
While the likes of Josh Reynolds, Ben Matulino, Russell Packer and favourite son Benji Marshall garnered most of the attention out of the new signings, Thompson barely rated a blip.
But Cleary gave Thompson one of the ultimate compliments.
“He epitomises what we’re trying to build here. He’s not a huge signing with all due respect to Corey, but we thought it was a great signing and always admired him as a player,” he said.
“He’s turned up, earned his spot and played well again.
Thompson admitted there was pressure to perform in the absence of Nofoaluma, who is believed to have led the team song following the win.
“Nof’s the face of the Wests Tigers. He’s been here, he’s a local and a great player throughout the years. But we’re good mates, it’s all positive,” Thompson said.
“He wished me luck during the game and gave me a big hug after it.”
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