Sonny days ahead as Broncos ‘X’ marks spot on the edge
Joel Gould |
Broncos giant Xavier Willison has a new role in the forward pack and it is fitting that it’s in the same position as his idol Sonny Bill Williams.
Dual-international Williams was one of the most damaging back-rowers of the modern game and was pivotal in Canterbury’s title win in 2004 and the Sydney Roosters’ in 2013.
In between he carved out a stellar career in rugby union for the All Blacks and in Super Rugby..
Willison, known simply as X, is a natural middle forward but due to a shortage of back-rowers with illness and injury coach Michael Maguire has given him a starting role.
The 22-year-old scored the opening try in Thursday night’s 42-18 win over ladder leaders Canterbury and had a powerhouse match against an elite pack.
In an 80-minute display, Willison ran for 155m and made 20 tackles with none missed.
“I grew up watching union myself, coming from Hamilton in New Zealand as a Chiefs boy,” Willison said.
“Sonny Bill played for the Chiefs and I liked how he switched codes and he was in the second-row too.
“I was happy to watch his game and learn off him and now I get to play my game.
“He was just tough, he was always putting good defence on and I tried to build my game around that.
“I haven’t met him. I think he’s pretty close with Payne (Haas) but I I’d love to meet him.
“He was my idol growing up.”
Willison, who once dreamed of being an All Black, was scouted by Broncos recruitment chief Simon Scanlan on a trip to Rotorua while he was playing for Wai-Coa-Bay Stallions in what was his first game of rugby league.
On Thursday night, the 199cm giant got the better of in-form Bulldogs back-rower Jacob Preston to race past him for the first try, running a nice line off an Adam Reynolds pass.
He says he’s taken to the back row, and wants to stay as a starter.
“I’m enjoying it a lot more,” he said.
“It’s a starting position, so always happy for that. I’m just trying to do my job.
“We watched some clips and I just had to get my timing a bit better running off (Reynolds).
“I had to do some extras with him after training to get my timing because he likes to play with real tempo.
“It’s back row, so I’m still learning everything I need to implement.”
AAP
