`I didn't give you full value' Print E-mail
Written by Daniel   
Sunday, 05 February 2006 10:00


ADAM LUCIUS
03may06

[b]MANLY prop Brent Kite, called in as a back-up to Australia's Test squad, has admitted the Sea Eagles failed to get value for money from him last year. [/b]

A candid Kite says it's a desire to make an impact in 2006 - and a refreshed attitude - that has him on the cusp of national selection 12 months on.


Kite will be 18th man for the Kangaroos as they prepare to take on the Kiwis in Brisbane on Friday night.

It's an indication the towering prop, who played for NSW in 2004, is back in favour with the representative selectors after ``disappearing'' last year.

Kite has been in terrific form for the Sea Eagles, who sit two points off the competition lead after winning five of their last six games.

``I made a conscious decision to ramp things up this year,'' Kite said last night. ``Manly bought me as a representative player and I want to live up to that reputation. I've looked at getting more involved and becoming a little bit more physical.''

Asked if he had let the club down last year, Kite conceded: ``Well, I didn't play rep footy. I didn't have the impact I should have had. This year I want to take on more of a leadership role as one of the senior players.''

The 25-year-old front-rower is benefit ing from a reduced workload between games. He says he's been able to make a greater contribution during games as a result.

``A lot of that can be put down to the training staff at Manly,'' he said.

``I'm feeling a lot fresher mentally and physically and also enjoying my time away from football.''

* Manly centre Steve Matai is today expected to be named New Zealand's 18th man.

Manly fullback Brett Stewart will undergo minor knee surgery this week, ruling him out for at least two matches. Chris Hicks moves to fullback with Paul Stephenson on the wing against Wests Tigers at Leichhardt Oval on Sunday.




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