THE old master halfback Brett Kimmorley will arrive at Brookvale Oval on Sunday determined not to allow rookie Sea Eagles playmaker Trent Hodkinson to get one over him before they team up at Belmore next season.

Kimmorley, who made his NRL debut for the Knights way back in July 1995, will end his stellar career when he confronts Hodkinson in a vital round-26 NRL clash.

It’s a must-win game for the home team, with star back-rower Anthony Watmough to ignore an ankle injury and play.

Prop Josh Perry will also take the field, returning from injury after a month on the sidelines with a kneecap complaint.

The Sea Eagles need a win to ensure their place in the top eight, a position they have enjoyed over the past six seasons.

But none of that matters for Kimmorley, who is convinced Hodkinson can produce more at Belmore next season when he comes under his wing.

“I think we can get a lot more out of him as a ball player,” Kimmorley told The Manly Daily.

“He’s a good defender and I thought he was one of the best players for City in the City/Country Origin match this year.

“He’s also got a good kicking game and is starting to run a bit more. It’s good that Trent is joining the club but everyone knows we are playing for our own clubs now and our own pride.

“I’m looking forward to seeing how we can make him better at the start of next year.”

Manly assistant coach Geoff Toovey said Hodkinson will stand up for himself against the venerable Bulldog.

“Trent’s been really stable for us this year,” Toovey said.

“Brett Kimmorley has got plenty of experience and knowledge and he’s obviously a good player and will pass that on to Trent next year.

“We are hoping at this stage, youth will outweigh experience on Sunday.”

But “Noddy” Kimmorley cannot be discounted.

Any player who has played 20 Tests for their country and nine times for the Blues deserves respect.

“He was their best player on Monday night (against the Panthers),” ex-NSW half Greg Alexander said.

“I reckon some players might think he saved his best for that last home game.

“But there’s still one to go and Noddy is still a great competitor. He will be out there giving it his best again.”

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