After years of disappointment, Wests Tigers fans may just be seeing the emergence of their great new hope in Sunday’s clash with Penrith. Former Australian Schoolboys halfback Jock Madden finally gets his chance in top company after serving a two-year apprenticeship at the club.
And NSW State of Origin coach Brad Fittler is convinced the 21-year-old from Scone is ready to make his mark on the NRL.
“I coached him at NSW under 16 level and he kicked a late pressure goal to win us the game from the sideline,” Fittler said.
“He is a smart kid and a good organiser and I’ll watch how he goes with interest.
“Penrith will be a big test for him, especially as the Tigers have been struggling, but he’ll give it a good crack.”
Fans have been crying out for the youngster to get a run in the top grade but he only gets a go against the Panthers because of a knee injury to the reliable Adam Doueihi.
But with question marks over the future of long-serving number seven Luke Brooks – who will partner Madden in the halves – his performance has massive significance for the Tigers’ future.
The speedy youngster, who played seven minutes off the bench against Newcastle earlier this year, boasts a highly impressive resume.
As well as leading the Australian Schoolboys to England in 2018, he was named NSW SG Ball Player of the Year, Wests Tigers Flegg Cup player of the year and he played for NSWCCC alongside Penrith star Matt Burton.
In 2019 he played in the Under 20s State of Origin match against Queensland, winning man of the match.
Madden has watched from the sideline as young playmakers like Burton, Sam Walker (Roosters), Reece Walsh (Warriors) and Toby Sexton (Titans) have made the grade this year and gained confidence from their achievements.
“I have just loved watching all these young halves getting a go and it has inspired me to train harder and get myself ready if Madge (Tigers coach Michael Maguire) called me in,” Madden told Wide World of Sports.
“It has been a great year for young players stepping up, and it looks like the next generation of players are ready for it.
“That makes me even more hungry to prove I too am up for the challenge.
“I know I have a role to play like everyone else in the team this weekend, but it helps knowing my fellow players and coach have faith in me.”
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