Mead ready for position

By PARKER TAMBUA
PAPUA New Guinea international David Mead is ready to fill in as the Brisbane Broncos fullback in the new National Rugby League (NRL) season with Tesi Niu unavailable for six weeks due to a hamstring strain.
The 33-year-old has been named as a reserve for tomorrow night’s trial game against North Queensland Cowboys at BB Print Stadium in Mackay (8pm kick-off).
Mead played at fullback against Gold Coast in last weekend’s opening trial match which ended in a 26-26 draw.
“Tesi has been training great,” the Central man said.
“But unfortunately, he hurt himself during training prior to our trial game against the Titans.
“He is going through rehabilitation, so hopefully he returns soon.
“There are few of us who have been training at fullback.
“Coach Kevin Walters will decide on who makes the team for our round-one game against the South Sydney Rabbitohs in few weeks.
“If I do get picked, I will always give my best.”
The Broncos will host their season opener on March 11 at Suncorp Stadium (7:05pm kick-off).
Mead said he was looking forward to the clash against Cowboys.
“I am excited to face the Cowboys,” he said.
“The rest of squad are all excited to take the field again.”
Meanwhile, Mead said Broncos recruit Adam Reynolds’ experience would be key to their top-eight push in the upcoming season.
“Adam didn’t play last week because the coach wanted him to rest after a big pre-season,” he said.
“He came back earlier than expected and has been training hard this week.
“Definitely, his experience and game management will be great for the team and the young halves who are still learning the game.”