Broncos’ Walsh will relish Tedesco showdown: Walters

Joel Gould | July 26, 2023

Brisbane fullback Reece Walsh has a history of relishing one-on-one duels with big-name opponents and coach Kevin Walters says his battle with James Tedesco will be no different.

Walsh and Sydney Roosters fullback Tedesco will have their third head-to-head battle of the season when the Broncos host the Roosters at the Gabba on Thursday night.

It is a master and apprentice confrontation in one respect with Australia, NSW and Roosters captain and dual-premiership winner Tedesco up against 21-year-old whiz Walsh.

Queensland No.1 Walsh got the points against Blues counterpart Tedesco in the opening two games of the State of Origin series.

Tedesco had one of his best games of the season in last week’s 36-18 win over Gold Coast while Walsh was electric in the 36-20 thumping of South Sydney.

The Broncos’ 24-20 win over Newcastle in round 15 featured a classic duel between Walsh and Knights custodian Kalyn Ponga. They embraced each other after the game following masterclass displays from each.

“Talking individuals, I know it’s a team sport, but you like to match yourself against the best and that’s what Reece is doing,” Walters said.

“It’s a great challenge for him to be at his best. We will need every bit of Walshy’s skills against the Roosters.”

Roosters coach Trent Robinson said the duo were drawcards who played with a certain flair that demanded attention.

“That position (of fullback) especially is why a lot of people watch the game. They get excited,” Robinson said.

“There is a freedom that comes with the fullback role and it is no different with those two players. They get freedom to play both sides of the ball and through the ruck. They get freedom to chance their hand at different times as well.”

Walters said he was looking forward to watching Walsh enjoy that freedom.

“It excites me seeing Reece play and in open field, I’m not sure about seeing James Tedesco in open field,” Walters grinned.

“Reece brings that energy to the team. We saw it last week, so he just needs to be good and make sure we get our defensive roles right with Reece.

“He has to get the numbers right and make sure we are filling up our short sides and then the attack side of it comes natural for him. He has been good for us in that space.”