After an impressive showing for the Roosters coming from the bench in Round 2, Poasa Faamausili is raring to go again on Friday night against the Parramatta Eels.
Poasa has been in the Roosters squad since he was a teenager, even starting for the Roosters Holden Cup squad when they won the 2016 Grand Final.
Known for his hard work and strong work ethic, Poasa has been preparing to return to the first grade arena since making his long-awaited debut last season against the Gold Coast Titans.
When asked about his second first grade appearance last week, it was experience that counted the most for the young prop forward.
“The main thing for me was gaining the experience and getting some minutes under my belt,” Poasa said of his return to first grade.
“I’ll be better for the run.
“I actually didn’t know I was playing until the day before the game, so that week I just went about things business as usual.
“I never worry about anything outside of that, just needed to focus on my game.”
We also spoke to Poasa after his debut last season and he told the story of his excitement when he found out he was going to play NRL for the first time.
He recalled being in the car when he got the phone call from Trent Robinson, punching his fists in the air and screaming “Finally!” in what sounded like a truly joyous ride home.
When asked if his reaction was the same this time around, the tone had changed.
“I was happy, but I was much more calm this time.
“I’m just happy to get the opportunity again and I know that I’ll be better this week than I was last week.
“The coaches just want me to be myself, because that’s what works in the team.
“That’s the goal this week, to improve my movement and to be myself.”
Fellow forward Siosiua Taukeiaho had nothing but praise for the young forward and was excited for Poasa when he found out he would take to the field again this week.
Taukeiaho has watched Poasa come through the lower grades at the Roosters and was pleased to see him not only play his second game, but to perform at a high level.
“I thought he was strong when he was on the field,” Taukeiaho said of Poasa’s return to first grade.
“Po’s a tough and physical player and he definitely showed what he was capable of.
“I think he definitely deserves another go at it this week.
“He always turns up, and if he goes out there again on Friday I know he’ll give his best.”
