LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Brisbane Broncos player Patrick Carrigan has suggested that Reece Walsh's recent injury may have been a blessing in disguise, allowing the fullback to refresh and refocus after a lackluster start to the NRL season.
With Walsh sidelined for 4-6 weeks with a knee injury, teammate Selwyn Cobbo is set to step in as fullback for the upcoming game against the Bulldogs.
Despite concerns about Cobbo's larger build potentially affecting his performance at fullback, Carrigan is confident in his abilities, citing his previous standout performance in Magic Round last year.
Cobbo's versatility has seen him play in the number one jersey before, but his consistency in that position has been questioned.
However, Carrigan remains optimistic about his teammate's capabilities, stating, "He has done a job for us before...I have got all the confidence in him that he can do the job again."
Cobbo's size has raised doubts among some observers about his suitability for the faster pace of the modern game as a fullback.
The prevailing belief is that the increased speed of play in the NRL has made it more challenging for players with a larger frame to excel in the position.
Despite these concerns, Carrigan's endorsement of Cobbo's abilities suggests that the Broncos have faith in their young player to rise to the occasion.
As Cobbo prepares to face the Bulldogs' kicking game on Thursday night, his performance will be closely scrutinized as he aims to prove his critics wrong and make a strong impression in the fullback role.
The upcoming match will provide a test of Cobbo's adaptability and skill in a key position, with his teammates rallying behind him as he takes on this new challenge.