We've had a lot of focus on our juniors so far this off season so I thought it's time to put your money where your mouth is. Comment below which junior is going to have a breakout year in 2019 and why.
Here's the list to choose from. Selection criteria is based on if they debuted in 2018 or are yet to debut.
Reed Mahoney
Much has already been written about our livewire rake. After debuting against the North Queensland Cowboys last year and more than holding his own in the middle, he appears to be the front runner for the 2019 hooking role over the injury-prone Kaysa Pritchard. 2019 will be a real test for the young man as he embarks on his first full season in the NRL.
Marata Niukore
He emerged from the fire of what was a disaster of a season, establishing himself in the top 17 while also making an appearance in the starting side. Whilst not a full junior, having been poached from the Warriors, Niukore spent two years in the Parramatta system before making his debut last year. A hard ball-runner with neat footwork and an offload while also being a more than reliable defender means he could be putting pressure on incumbent starting backrowers Tepai Moeroa and Manu Ma'u.
Ray Stone
Debuting right at the end of the 2018 season, Stone has long been earmarked as a future NRL star and was highly regarded in junior circles. While still growing into his body, Stone is known for his bone-crunching defence, with a work rate likened to that of Eels warhorse and legend, Nathan Hindmarsh. He may not be in the top 17 initially but he'll likely be spotted in the NRL when the inevitable injuries hit.
Oregon Kaufusi
The impressive teenager may only be 19 but he already has two first grade games under his belt after injuries forced his selection late last year. An Under20s Origin player, Kaufusi will start the year in Wentworthville in all likelihood but will no doubt be an option for Brad Arthur should any of his front line props go down.
Jaeman Salmon
A hugely talented half that was poached from the Shire, Salmon made his debut last year and was shifted between the centres and his preferred five-eighth position. It appears he will be starting the season in the centres where his size and pace will look to be utilised. His experience in the halves could also be invaluable should injuries strike.
Dylan Brown
Where to start for the hugely talented youngster? A real long term project for the Eels given he was selected as a 16 year old to the junior system, it appears his NRL debut is not a question of "if" but "when". A genuine threat with the ball in hand, he's also a very good organiser and if his 2018 NSW cup stats are anything to go by, one of the best defensive halves coming through the grades.
Stefano Utoikamanu
The big man's name was plastered everywhere following his match-winning performance for NSW in the Under20s State of Origin match which featured a barnstorming try at the death, he's tipped to be vying for a spot on the bench. Whilst only 18, Utoikamanu has already made his NSW Cup debut, and will be one to watch this season.
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For me, Reed Mahoney shapes as the player most likely to have a big 2019. He got a taste of first grade last season and even ended up in the starting side. For a player that young and in such a key position, he more than looked ready for the NRL. Much of the Eels' season will hinge on his performances and so far he's passed the test. The only question mark on him will be if he can sustain his performances over the full season and avoid injuries.
Comments
On a serious note, I'm tipping young Luke Burt to be Fergo's wing partner. He's a pretty good goall kicker too. Also, I reckon we should blood young Jamie Lyon. He'll represent NSW/Australia 1 day. He can kick goals too, & can play centre & 5/8th. Perfect replacement for M.Jennings when he retires. We've just gotta make sure another club, such as Manly etc, don't poach him off us.
With an improved pack and go foward supplied by Fergo and Paulo, I expect niukore could be the best junior especially playing off the bench and being used on the edge. He has had a taste of first grade so expect him to improve from what was a solid start to his career. As long as the halves pairing work together more cohesively then last year, and we have better attacking structures I see Niukure causing damage on edge as we didn't really get see good attacking plays from him in a poor team effort which limited his opportunities.
I would want to see him on same edge as Fergo though as defences will probably stay a little wider to cover the threat he offers over Gennings.
Mahoney and / or Brown.
Timmy Mannah.
Yep.
The bloke has been one of our best for years which says a great deal about the rest of our squad.
I think Mahoney will have a good season.
Pangai Junior
Sivo may surprise too.
Another great piece Super.
Mahoney is not a bad call - as he appeared to handle his taste of NRL with aplomb. I'd like as many as possible; all of them hopefully including Sivo.
Hopefully, 2019, on the back of exciting juniors marks the start of a new and successful era.
I think kaufusi is in for a big year. Need him to thrive.
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