LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
NSW forward Stefano Utoikamanu has defended his selection in the Blues squad despite criticism regarding his performance and the omission of Terrell May and Keaon Koloamatangi.
Head coach Laurie Daley has named an unchanged side for the upcoming game, despite calls for adjustments to the forward pack after the team's defeat to Queensland in Game 2.
Utoikamanu's selection raised eyebrows, as both May and Koloamatangi have consistently posted better stats in club play.
In Game 2, Utoikamanu played 27 minutes off the bench, running for 41 metres and making 22 tackles.
However, he was involved in a play where he impeded a Queensland defender, leading to a missed try opportunity for NSW.
In a recent match against the Sharks, Utoikamanu improved slightly, running for 60 metres and completing 21 tackles.
Following the disappointing Game 2 loss, many have urged for his replacement with a front-rower capable of providing more impact.
Yet, Daley has opted to stick with the same squad, continuing to overlook May and Koloamatangi.
In light of the criticism, Utoikamanu staunchly defended his performance, saying, "I felt like I didn't really do too much wrong, I felt like it was pretty hard to kind of go on in the game when everything was kind of going against us.
It was pretty hard when I came on, but that's not an excuse."