Walker keeping heat on Kumul

PAPUA New Guinea international Lachlan Lam will start the upcoming National Rugby League season at halfback for the Sydney Roosters but another second-generation playmaker in Sam Walker is keeping the heat on, according to captain Jake Friend.
The son of club and PNG legend Adrian Lam impressed last season when given an opportunity in the No.7 jersey in round 13 when Kyle Flanagan was dropped, helping the side to a win over the Dragons.
However, he lasted just 28 minutes of his second game before a syndesmosis injury ruled him out for most rest of the season.
Now Lam has Walker, the son of former Broncos and Souths playmaker Ben, breathing down his neck.
The more experienced Drew Hutchison and former Warrior Adam Keighran are also in the mix.
“Lammy went really well in his few games last year and unfortunately got injured,” Friend said.
“At this stage, he’s the first option, but I’d say Sammy Walker is right there on his heels. Drew Hutchison too.
“Luke Keary’s been playing with a lot of them and they’ve all been rolling in and out, it’s been really good.
“It’s good to see them all coming along the way they are, especially Lammy and Sam Walker.
“Drew’s a bit older than them but Sam Walker, it’s been tough for a lot of the boys who haven’t played last year.
“But they’ve really stepped in and gone hard in the pre-season after a long year of training and no games.
“It’s good to see those guys having a crack.
“I think they’re all looking forward to the trials and a bit of footy.”
The Roosters kick off their season against Manly at the Sydney Cricket Ground on March 13. – NRL