Sua Fa’alogo has always been a player that draws the eye when he has the ball in his hand. With his pace, goose step and youthful enthusiasm, the 23-year-old’s potential is obvious.
Now, after having been “outstanding” in recent weeks, coach Craig Bellamy believes he could go to the very top.
“He was great (tonight), but the last six weeks he’s been outstanding for us, not only his work rate but also some of his big plays,” Bellamy said post-match.
“He has come a long way in a short amount of time, Sua.
"As long as he can keep his head on his shoulders, he’s going to be a good player for a long time.”
Fa’alogo gained 325 metres in the Storm’s 18-4 win over the Roosters on Saturday.
His performance included three line breaks and seven tackle breaks, as well as consistently being able to nullify the Roosters’ aerial threats.
However, it was one of his three tackles that demonstrated just how much he has improved this season.
Late in the second half – with the game in the balance – winger Cody Ramsey looked destined to score a try in the corner. Enter Fa’alogo.
The decisive try saving tackle from the smallest man on the pitch was, in his words, the most satisfying part of the performance.
A superb try saver
“If that was last year, I definitely wouldn’t make that tackle,” the Samoa international said.
“My work this year is mostly defensive. That’s what I’ve been working on the whole week, to be honest.
“The try saver is a big play for the boys. That’s more satisfying than a try.”
Fa’alogo credits his improvement this season to the coaching staff.
“It’s obviously great hearing that from the coach,” Fa’alogo said, when asked about Bellamy’s praise.
“I always try to try to ask questions, try to go up to him and ask him what I need to work on, and he will tell me.
"Without him, I wouldn't be as good. He always encouraged me for what I need to work on. Full credit to him.”
With the Storm facing an uphill battle to make the eight this season, Fa’alogo said the win will give them immense confidence going forward.
“Getting that win tonight gives the boys confidence and joy, and hopefully we can go from here and get the win next week.”
Match: Storm v Knights
Round 14 -
home Team
Storm
12th Position
away Team
Knights
4th Position
Venue: AAMI Park, Melbourne
Match broadcasters:
- WatchNRL
