ManlyBacker
Winging it
TOMORROW will be all about the props at Brookvale Oval. Like cult hero George Rose, who will don Sea Eagles colours for the 100th time, Brent Kite is celebrating his own significant milestone - 250 NRL games.
The Queanbeyan United junior began wearing the maroon and white in 2005 after cutting his teeth at the St George Illawarra Dragons for three seasons.
Signed at the time with an eye on the future, the 31-year-old forward has proven to be an astute buy.
He has won two premierships, a Clive Churchill medal, represented Country Origin, turned out in 10 games for NSW and worn the green and gold on 14 occasions.
Coach Geoff Toovey showered praise on one of his consistent performers.
"Anyone who plays 200 games in the NRL deserves some recognition, so 250 is another level," he said.
"They say props improve as they mature, so imagine if he gets even better. Kitey is a very humble man, he isn't the type of bloke that seeks praise.
"He has been an integral part of the club for a long time and is the ultimate professional.
"I have no doubt he will have another big game against the Eels."
In an added bonus for the Sea Eagles, Parramatta fullback Jarryd Hayne has been ruled out after picking up an injury in Wednesday's Origin decider at Suncorp Stadium.
Luke Burt is tipped to play in the number one jersey with Tigers recruit Jake Mullaney also coming into calculations.
For Toovey's men, Tony Williams will be assessed before kick-off and David Williams should make his return from a nagging hamstring complaint.
http://manly-daily.whereilive.com.au/sport/story/nrl-soaring-kites-250-for-manly/
