Two of the NRL’s in-form centres will go head to head at Suncorp Stadium tonight in what could be an early State of Origin audition.
Brisbane’s Kotoni Staggs will line up directly opposite Cronulla’s wrecking ball Siosifa Talakai.
They are both in contention for a NSW Blues debut, and coach Brad Fittler will have a close eye on tonight’s action.
Talakai rocketed into Origin calculations last week when he scored two first-half tries and had three assists against Manly.
“I love Kotoni’s attitude – the moment (Nine’s Andrew Johns) mentioned (the battle with Talakai) he just went ‘yeah I can’t wait’,” Fittler told Wide World of Sports’ Freddy and the Eighth.
“Talakai’s second half, he forced two penalties, got a six-again, saved a try, came up with two big runs. That’s when things are going bad – that’s when you know you’ve got a good player, who is not just a fare weather player.
“His second half was the best in his team by far.
“This battle is going to live up to it. They’re fit, they both look really fit. Tonight will be awesome.”
Fellow legend Andrew Johns can’t wait for this personal battle to kick off round eight.
“All week I’ve been looking forward to seeing Staggs and Talakai go at it,” Johns said.
