LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Jason Taumalolo responded to criticism from Matthew Johns regarding his decision to play in reserve grade, stating that it was his own choice and one that he believes was necessary for his return to peak performance.
Following off-season foot surgery, Taumalolo made his NRL comeback with the Cowboys last Friday, impressively racking up 150 metres in 46 minutes of play.
However, instead of immediately returning to first grade, Taumalolo opted to gain match fitness with Mackay in the Queensland Cup.
Johns had expressed his disapproval of Taumalolo playing in reserve grade, arguing that a player of his caliber and experience should not have to prove himself in lower grades.
According to Johns, Taumalolo's presence and leadership alone would have made a difference in first grade, even if he was only capable of playing limited minutes.
However, Taumalolo stood by his decision, emphasizing the importance of gradually building up his fitness and form after surgery.
In response to Johns' criticism, Taumalolo defended his choice to play in reserve grade, asserting that it was a strategic decision aimed at getting himself back to full strength for NRL competition.
Taumalolo's performance upon his return to the Cowboys demonstrated his readiness to compete at the highest level, showcasing his value even after a stint in a lower tier of competition.
As Taumalolo continues to make strides in his recovery and return to form, his dedication to his own development and preparation is evident, proving that sometimes unconventional methods can lead to successful outcomes.