‘Tough to take’: How Kini roared back from criticism
Joel Gould |
Gold Coast’s dynamic fullback Keano Kini is a rare talent who does not lack confidence nor the ability to self reflect.
It is why the 22-year-old New Zealand international was able to bounce back from underwhelming form to destroy Parramatta in a 52-12 massacre.
The pocket rocket made four line breaks, had three try assists and ran for a stunning 265m.
Next stop is the in-form Warriors on Saturday in Auckland where Kini will play his first game for the Titans in his homeland.
Kini grew up idolising Warriors sensation Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and his performance against the Eels had the man known as “RTS” written all over it with his step, weave and explosion through non-existent gaps.
It came after his form was questioned, but he was his own harshest critic.
“It is probably the first time I have gone through a bit of a period of my form not being to my best and to my standards,” he said.
“So it was a little bit tough to take. I try to not pay attention to that sort of stuff but with social media nowadays it is pretty hard.
“I encourage any young person who is going through it to focus on themselves and not pay that stuff too much attention.”
Kini, who missed most of last season with a neck injury after a breakout 2024, said his focus was solely on earning the respect of his teammates and reaching the high standards he sets for himself.
“I thought I wasn’t playing up to that standard,” he said.
“I think the confidence thing has been blown out of proportion because I don’t lack confidence in myself. I knew I could play better.
“I still have a lot to learn and I still don’t think I have played to my potential yet.
“I just knew I had to put a decent performance in for the boys. That is my main priority … (not) letting down my teammates. So long as I have their respect.”
Kini is one of the game’s best runners of the football and is working on the ball-playing aspect of his game so vital for elite fullbacks.
He said the try assists will come when he does what he does best.
“That’s my old game of involvement, high energy and bounce around the park,” he said.
It’s a modus operandi straight out of the RTS playbook.
“A lot of New Zealand kids grew up watching Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and he is a role model on and off the field. I love the way he plays,” Kini said.
“I am looking forward to going back to my homeland and playing in Auckland in front of my family and friends. It is my first time playing there so I am pretty keen.”
AAP