‘Love to play Origin’: visions of Inglis drive Toia
Joel Gould |
Sydney Roosters’ explosive centre Robert Toia wants to follow in the footsteps of Greg Inglis and play for Queensland after being mentored by Joseph Manu.
It is a wonderful goal and grounding for any 20-year-old to have.
Toia had the best match in his nine-game NRL career in the 36-26 win over the Dolphins on Friday night.
Two tries showcased his body swerve and deadly right-foot step. A sublime Matt Gidley-style flick sent winger Mark Nawaqanitawase over. Power, precision and defensive clout feature in his game.
After two ACL ruptures, the former Nudgee College rugby union star and Redcliffe Dolphins junior is showing the rare skills he once showcased as a youth.
State of Origin representation for the Maroons appears closer on the horizon.
“I would love to play Origin,” the former Queensland under-19 representative said.
“Firstly I have to play good footy for the club week-in, week-out. I just remember watching GI (Inglis) and Will Chambers (in Origin).
“GI was a good one for me, just how dominant he was. It didn’t matter who was in front of him, he was just able to create havoc. I never watched him live but on TV and highlights clips … all the time.”
The Roosters swooped on Toia when he was in his early teens, despite interest from Brisbane. He was mentored by club great and former star centre Manu.
“It is mainly just the little things. You would think it’s the flashy things, but it was mainly the little stuff Joey did in defence that was what I took,” Toia said.
“Obviously everyone saw how good he was with the ball, but it was what he was able to do on the other hand that surprised me. I take a bit of that.”
The Roosters stuck with New Zealand-born Toia through an early injury nightmare.
“I am just grateful for the opportunity first and foremost,” he said.
“Tonight went well, but I give credit to the boys for having belief in me and trust in me to give me the ball.
“Injuries have been tough, but the reassurance from the club has just been second to none. They have backed me every step of the way.
“There have been a lot of ACLs in the club. You could probably name five to seven players. All of them have had a say. I have probably leaned more towards (centre) Billy Smith. Billy helped me a lot. (The Dolphins) helped me throughout the juniors, but I am just grateful for where I am right now.”
Roosters coach Trent Robinson said Toia had shown maturity early in his career.
“He knows what the foundation of his game is and what the rewards are off the back of it – he is very clear on that,” Robinson said.
“I talk about the foundation, but he has been doing that since he walked in. He has set that up and has been really patient waiting for when the opportunities come.
“He has respected the process of becoming an NRL player … and you have a game like you saw tonight.”
AAP
