Mead eyes season’s first clash

By PARKER TAMBUA
PAPUA New Guinea Kumul and Bronco David Mead says he is looking forward to play his first National Rugby League (NRL) match in three years when Brisbane hosts Paramatta Eels in round one at Suncorp Stadium tomorrow night.
The 32-year old, who was named in coach Kevin Walters’ 17-man starting side, will partner fellow Kumul Xavier Coates on the wing.
“I know Papua New Guineans love rugby league and to have two of their very own Kumuls representatives in the same team is definitely something they will be excited about,” Mead told The National yesterday.
“As for me, I am looking forward to my first game on Friday night.
“It has been a while since I’ve played a game in the NRL, so I am so excited about it.
“When I signed with the Broncos, my first goal was to play in round one.
“I didn’t know if I would (given the number of young outside backs the Broncos have).
“But it has been a great pre-season for me, so I am pleased to be there for the first game.”
This will be Mead’s 160th NRL match and the start of his 10th season in the competition.
The Tubusereia native said earlier that he would be focusing on playing well this year as he was eyeing a new NRL contract at the end of season.
He said he would compete for spots in the team every weekend as the rebuilding club had more than enough talented players.