Wests Tigers prop Matt Groat is very much looking forward to locking horns with Queensland in the inaugural Toyota U20s State of Origin match at Penrith on Saturday, April 21.
Groat today became the ‘face’ of the Toyota U20's Origin match where he was on hand for the announcement of the NSW team. He will be joined in the Blues side by Wests Tigers half-back Jacob Miller.
The tough young prop is adamant there will be plenty of feeling in the match at Centrebet Stadium.
“I was over the moon when I was told I made the team. There is obviously a lot of pride in the NSW jumper,’’ Groat said.
“Every time you put on the NSW jersey, be it in the U16s or U18, it is a great honour.
“There is always a strong rivalry with Queensland at any level and it will be no different on Saturday. Growing up in NSW, you are bred to hate Queenslanders and to take pride in the NSW jersey.
“I think the U20s Origin match is a great concept as it rewards players in form in the NYC competition and is a chance for them to show what they are capable of at a representative level.”
Groat said he would feel right at home with Miller barking the orders at half-back.
“Jacob is a very aggressive half-back and a very good organiser. He demands respect on the field and he gets it,’’ Groat added.
“I’m sure he will be pumped for the game.”
Wests Tigers City Origin prop Aaron Woods said his young front row partner had worked hard over summer on his game.
“Groaty is really focused this year. He was living off the adrenalin and was just happy to be in first grade when he came into the team midway through last year,’’ Woods said.
“There has been a massive change in him and he has been doing a lot of extra work at training.
“Matt is a very good talker on the field. Being in the front row is not easy as you have got all of the big boys coming at you. He is always pushing up in the line and working with you, so it makes your job a lot easier.
“I’m sure he will do NSW proud.”
Game Day Details:
Date: Saturday, April 21
Venue: Centrebet Stadium, Penrith
NSWRL Harold Matthews - Week 2 Final: 3:35pm
NSWRL SG Ball Cup - Week 2 Final: 5:20pm
Toyota U/20's State of Origin: 7:30pm
Tickets:
Available through ProTicket - $10 (adults); $5 (junior – 4-15yrs); $25 (family)
Please Note: Ticketed Club Members will be able to gain access to this match for free. Junior Pass Card Holders who have activated their cards will also be able to gain free entry to this game.
Online: www.proticket.com.au
Phone: 1300 12 10 12
Outlet: ProTicket Outlets
