Latrell Mitchell has given Manly an ominous warning in the lead-up to Sunday’s big Vegas showdown, declaring he is preparing for the game of his life.
Mitchell has played in grand finals and State of Origins – but sees this trailblazing game in the USA as a whole new level.
“It’s Vegas baby – the most happening city in the world – look at all these lights,” he beamed as we chatted on the famous Vegas Strip.
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“This is the entertainment capital of the world and I can’t wait. What a thing to add to your resume – playing here!
“The build-up has been superb – everyone is embracing it and I’m ready for the game of my life.
“It’s going to be huge – what a way to start the season – and the boys are all pumped.”
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But Mitchell admits to a touch of homesickness despite his excitement, with his partner Brielle Mercy giving birth to the couple’s first son recently.
“I miss the family and at the end of the day I’m an Aussie country boy,” he said.
“But we are all in the same boat – we will enjoy ourselves while we are here – get the job done and then go home to our loved ones.”
The players head to train at Allegiant Stadium – which hosted the recent Super Bowl – on Friday (AEDT) and Mitchell is eager to test the shorter field.
“They say it is world class and training on it will help get my bearings,” he said.
“We have been training with the shorter dimensions and they don’t worry me… but the wingers might not get as many tries as they are used to,” he added with a laugh.