While the rain forecast for Saturday is set to be a factor when the nib Newcastle Knights’ meet the South Sydney Rabbitohs, the Knights are well prepared for the conditions.
Fullback Brendan Elliot says they’ve been training in the wet all week, so are confident and ready for their Round 3 clash.
“It has been wet but everyone is feeling fit so we’re looking forward to the match,” said Elliot.
“We have just got to control the ball and stick to our sets and tighten up a little.”
Despite being on a high from last weekend's thrilling victory against the Gold Coast Titans, the 23-year-old admits there are a few things he can improve on.
“It was one of my first first grade games at fullback, I felt I handled myself pretty well but I have a few things to improve on and I’ll be looking to do that on Saturday,” explained Elliot.
“I did quite a bit of work in the pre-season so I am feeling confident.
“I’ve worked pretty closely with Mick Potter throughout the pre-season and especially the past two weeks and we went over a few things I can improve on and I’ll be looking to do that.”
Elliot is expecting Bunnies halfback Adam Reynolds won’t make it easy in the wet.
“I definitely expect (Adam) Reynolds to put it up a few times for me in the rain and wind,” said Elliot.
“But we did a bit of practice out there today and we practised a few times in the rain, I’ll be confident out there.”
While there’ll be plenty of size up front for both sides, the Knights have a slight weight advantage over the Souths’.
The Knights fullback said he has plenty of faith in the big men up front.
“Our forwards can be very damaging through the middle,” added Elliot.
“I know the Rabbitohs have a few big blokes there too but if our boys can run harder and tackle harder, they’ll give us a fighting chance.
“Us outside backs need to get the work done for the forwards and set a platform for them.
“I think if we stick to our game and our sets, we’ll be alright.”
Elliotis hoping the red and blue support from the stands will be just as good as last week.
“It was electric, the fans were going crazy, it was an unbelievable feeling for me to be out there hearing the Newcastle chant and seeing all the smiling faces out in the crowd,” Elliot said.
“We’re hoping we feel that again.”
Be sure to catch all the footy action at McDonald Jones Stadium on Saturday, gates open at noon, NRL kicks off at 4.30pm.
