The Sydney Cricket Ground is exactly where Drew Hutchison wants to be as the Roosters return to test themselves against a formidable Panthers outfit.
After coming away with the two competition points against the Parramatta Eels in Magic Round and completing back-to-back wins in Queensland for the second time this season, the Tricolours will host the reigning Premiers back at the SCG on Saturday night.
Hutchison: "It's a Test We're Looking Forward To"
The popular utility says that his side is looking forward to the challenge of taking on the Panthers head-on as they strive to continue their impressive recent form.
“It’s definitely exciting," said Hutchison.
“We spoke after the game about this being the sort of big game that we want to be playing well in.
“We watched it together and they played really well. It’s going to be a big test for us on Saturday but it’s one we’re looking forward to.
“Anyone can beat anyone on their day and they haven’t lost many games in the past two years so it’s something we’re going to look to nullify this week.
“We just want to keep improving as a team and work towards this weekend as a big game.”
The way they stuck in during the competition and get the win against the Dragons was pretty impressive.I know all the boys are proud of them and we’re pretty proud of them as a Club as well.
Drew Hutchison On the 2021 NRLW Premiership
While the Red, White and Blue will be without Victor Radley for the Panthers clash, Hutchison was confident in the side's ability to adapt around the absence of their enforcer - and was open to a shift at the back of the scrum should Head Coach Trent Robinson call him into the role.
“He’s pretty clear with how he (Robinson) wants me to play,” he said.
“It’s simple; I just need to go in, go hard and do what the team needs at the time. It’s something that I’ve grown to enjoy.
“I haven’t really spoken a great deal about it, but I’ll be open for anything. It is sad to see injuries like that but I think he (Radley) knows it won’t be a long-term injury.
Tedesco: "We Have To Go Again This Week"
"He’s pretty keen to get back out there and have a big run home but it’s just another chance for someone to stand up and take that role.
“I want to be getting better each week and I’ll be working hard this week at it.”
After three weeks away from the hallowed ground, the self-professed cricket fanatic is excited to be back to take the field on Saturday night.
He has even more reason to look forward to the occasion as the Club celebrates the 2021 NRLW Premiers, who be honoured with a lap of honour before the match.
“It’s massive," he said.
“It’s pretty eerie when you walk out there to play. I’m a really big cricket fan so it means a lot to play there.
“That game (the Grand Final) was pretty cool to watch. The way they stuck in during the competition and get the win against the Dragons was pretty impressive.
"I know all the boys are proud of them and we’re pretty proud of them as a Club as well."
