Nick Meaney says he’s feeling the effects of two games in just four days, but has relished the opportunity to represent New South Wales in the Under 20s Origin clash against Queensland in Brisbane last week.
“I'm very sore and pretty tired, but I’ll deal with it,” Meaney laughed.
The 19-year-old was picked at fullback, and played an integral part in the side’s historic 30-16 victory over the Maroons to extend the Blues' unbeaten streak to six.
“It was a lot different to playing Reserve Grade," Meaney said.
"It was less physical but a lot faster pace, so it tested my fitness.
“It's obviously pretty difficult to get combinations in such a short period of time, but I was happy with my carries and defensively was pretty good.”
In a breakout year Meaney, who was also selected for the NSW Residents squad last month, says he’s gained valuable experience from his time in camp.
“Being around those high-quality coaches like Danny Buderus and also Matt King was there as well,” he said.
“We learnt a lot off him, how to prepare for games such as Origins, general games and your attitude towards games.
“It was good to have Danny Buderus as coach, especially because there were no other Knights boys in the team, it was good to have that familiar background to be around in camp.”
There wasn't much time to celebrate the Origin win on Wednesday night though, as Meaney was straight back home to prepare for Reserve Grade’s clash against the New Zealand Warriors.
The Knights surprised the second placed visitors in an 18-all draw at Cessnock Sports Ground.
“It was a good performance, they’re a good team,” Meaney commented.
“We will take the draw and hopefully get the win next weekend.”
For Round 14, the ISP Knights will have their second encounter with the Newtown Jets.
“We played Newtown quite early in the season and got a good win down there, so hopefully we can do the same at Cessnock on the weekend," Meaney concluded.
