http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/northern-beaches/nyc-youngsters-looking-to-cap-off-big-year-with-premiership/story-fngr8iii-1227550990950
NYC youngsters looking to cap off big year with premiership
September 30, 2015 4:26pm
Andrew Prentice
Manly Daily
Domestic bliss: Hugh Pratt and Luke Garner (maroon shorts) hang out at home.
LUKE Garner and Hugh Pratt have developed a serious bromance since moving to Sydney.
The pair, who will look to play major roles in Manly’s NYC under-20 grand final this Sunday, also spend plenty of time together away from the paddock. They share a flat in Dee Why and work alongside one another.
Bruising backrower Garner arrived at the club from the Gold Coast, while crafty hooker and deadly goalkicker Pratt is from Northern Rivers, around the corner from Byron Bay.
Both have played Holden Cup for the Sea Eagles the past two seasons and would love a premiership on their blossoming rugby league resumes.
Standing in their way are minor premiers Penrith, who belted Manly 44-24 in a major semi-final a few weeks ago.
Both weren’t concerned at that result, declaring they are quietly confident ahead of the decider at Homebush.
“We are happy to be the underdogs,” Pratt said.
“It is vital we don’t panic, and we need our big guys to match the Panthers boys up the middle.
“This is why we play footy, to be in a position to win titles, and it will be a great occasion this weekend in front of a big crowd with family and friends cheering us on.”
Manly's under-20s players Hugh Pratt (right) and Luke Garner hang out at home.
But life isn’t all about footy for these two easygoing blokes.
When quizzed about Pratt’s most annoying habit, Garner was quick to playfully offer his thoughts.
“He loves the sound of his own voice. Hugh never shuts up,” 20-year-old Garner said.
After biting his tongue for a few seconds, Pratt, 19, pointed out what drives him up the wall about Garner.
“Luke’s phone may as well be glued to his ear, he is on it non-stop,” he said.
“He also rates himself in the kitchen as a great cook but I reckon I have him covered easily.”
Both players are off contract this year and are fully aware plenty of scouts from rival NRL clubs will be watching intently.
“Ideally we would both love to stay at Manly but we have left it in the hands of our managers,” Garner said.
“Hopefully we can do our jobs on the field and get the right result.”
The game is live on Channel 9/Foxtel from 1.30pm.