Last week’s two-point win over the Melbourne Storm saw the return of one of Manly’s brightest young forwards in Jake Trbojevic.
The Mona Vale local was only on for the final 10 minutes on Saturday night, however installed a much-needed energy into the forward pack when Melbourne was in the ascendancy.
His first tackle sent his opponent flying backwards, which got the fans up on their feet, and he then pounced on a loose ball when the Sea Eagles were back tracking, quelling the Storm attack.
But the modest Trbojevic fessed up that it wasn’t all roses before running out to the loyal Brookvale faithful.
“I was getting pretty nervous there on the bench at the end. There was a lot of nervous energy being only my second game, but it was good to get our there with the boys and play at Brookie again,” Trbojevic said.
“I’m from Manly and I’m Manly through and through, so I’m happy to be at the Club and it’s a great Club to play for.”
The NSW U20s Origin forward, has retained his spot in Geoff Toovey’s side this weekend, with the young prop speaking of the enthusiasm amongst the entire squad ahead of the clash this Friday.
“We’re all positive obviously coming off a good win, so we’re happy with that. I’m looking forward to the game this week against the Bulldogs, everyone’s excited and we’re back at Brookie so hopefully we can get another win and there should be a good crowd down there.”
“They’ve got a massive forward pack, so we’ve got a big test. We did alright against the Storm but hopefully we can back it up against the Bulldogs and get another win.”
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However, Trbojevic’s rise had not come with some hiccups along the way. Last season the front-rower was struck down with two ankle injuries, ruining his chance to build on his sole cameo appearance at the back end of the 2013 season.
“It was a disappointing year [with the injuries] but it’s great to be back out there,” Trbojevic said.
The good new for Manly fans is that the Sea Eagles also have younger brother, Tom Trbojevic. Currently playing fullback in the under 20’s, the young flyer has started the NYC season bagging an amazing seven tries in two matches
Being the elder statesman of the Trbojevic clan though, Jake doesn’t want the young fullback getting ahead of himself, with plenty of time to develop before cracking the big time.
“He’s doing alright,” Trbojevic underplayed with a smile.
“He’s scored a few tries but he’s only young. He’s only just turned 18, so he’s got time. But hopefully he keeps doing well and there could be an opportunity down the track.”
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