LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Angus Crichton isn't about to change his game plan just to target Nathan Cleary, declaring "It's always my job to run at halfbacks." The Roosters star is gearing up to test Cleary's injured shoulder in the upcoming game.
Panthers coach Ivan Cleary is confident his son is fully fit and won't need any pain-numbing injections come game day.
However, the real test will come when Crichton repeatedly aims for Cleary's left shoulder during the match.
After missing three games due to a lingering shoulder injury, Nathan Cleary is set to make his return for the Penrith side in the qualifying final.
The Panthers will be counting on their star halfback to add some spark to their attack after a lacklustre performance last week.
While Cleary has been put through the paces in training, facing off against the NSW Cup forwards, nothing can truly prepare him for the onslaught he will face on the field.
With the Roosters likely to target his injury, Cleary will need to stand strong in defense.
Despite being known as one of the most ferocious back-rowers in the game, Crichton is not willing to abandon the team's game plan just to focus on Cleary.
He acknowledges the importance of testing the young halfback but also respects Cleary's defensive prowess.
Drawing on historical references, Crichton remains wary of the mistakes made by others in similar situations.
He recalls how NSW failed to target Johnathan Thurston's injured shoulder in a past Origin game and how the Storm unsuccessfully tried to exploit a wounded Cooper Cronk in a crucial match.
With these lessons in mind, Crichton is focused on playing his best game while keeping Cleary on his toes.