Albert set to beef up pack for Fiji clash

By PARKER TAMBUA

KUMULS forward Wellington Albert says he is eager to put his body on the line against Fiji in Christchurch, New Zealand, tomorrow (3.20pm kick-off, Papua New Guinea time).
The Leeds Rhinos forward, who has played five tests for the Kumuls, said he was unfazed by the prospect of facing the National Rugby League-dominated Batis outfit.
He said the PNG pack had enough experience and size to match the Viliame Kikau-led Fijian forward pack.
“We have some big bodies like Moses (Meninga), big Maki (Enoch) and my younger brother Stanton,” said Albert, who is 194cm tall and weighs 113kg.
“We have enough experience playing at test level.
“With the inclusion of captain Rhyse (Martin) and Nixon (Putt), I am confident we can contain Fiji.
“I can’t wait to run out onto the field in the red, black and gold jersey once again and put my body on the line for my country.”
The 25-year-old said despite playing only a handful of games for the Rhinos in the English Super League this season, he was satisfied with his time at Betfred Championship outfit Featherstone Rovers.
“I’m happy with my performances this season,” Albert said.
“We (Rovers) went all the way to the grand final and lost to Toronto Wolpack who have gained promotion to the English Super League.
“That experience was a plus for me. I look forward to bringing some muscle and aggression into the Kumuls forward pack.”
Albert said after the test against the visiting British Lions next Saturday, he would knuckle down for a long pre-season with the Rhinos.
The former SP Hunter said he was aiming to start as a regular for the English tier-one club.