Titans winger Kevin Gordon says he's excited to suit up alongside teammate David Mead in the Country team to take on City following Mead's call-up to replace Josh Dugan for the clash in Dubbo on Sunday afternoon.
Speaking from Country training Gordon, a Sawtell Panthers junior and late inclusion himself after replacing Sharks fullback Michael Gordon on Monday morning, said: "It's good to share it with one of my good mates and a player that I've come through the ranks with... we should combine pretty well together."
While they have gone down similar paths to this point in their careers, having both made their debut in 2009 – only seven games (Gordon 102 games, Mead 95) and one try (Mead 53 tries, Gordon 52) separate their achievements.
A slight hint that the two men may be competing for bragging rights was perhaps dropped by Gordon, although they're not too fussed on it being played out in the public-eye.
"We sort of did back in the day and everyone sort of mentions it and still blows it up a bit. We try to keep the competitions between ourselves but I suppose everyone keeps reminding us," Gordon said.
On a personal note, Gordon is a very happy man knowing that he's off to play in his first Origin representative game, the Philippines international claiming he's "stoked".
"I thought I wasn't in the side and then I got the call up and I'm happy to be here," Gordon said.
"I was really excited. My [Titans] trainer called me up in the morning... and I can't wait.
"I didn't call anyone – I just had my own little private moment of excitement and let it play out."
In an NRL career that has spanned six years so far, the 24-year-old speedster has ticked another box on his way towards possible State of Origin representation for New South Wales.
"It's always been something I always wanted to do and it's been one of my goals and to finally get my chance to play for Country and hopefully I play good enough to play for NSW," Gordon said.
"It's a big opportunity for me to play representative footy, and I can't wait to play."
