Pearce looking like something special
April 28th 2008 04:58
Mitchell Pearce earns a just reward after a great start to 2008
My best wishes go to young Roosters half-back Mitchell Pearce.
After being chosen to play for City this friday night against Country, the stage is now set for him to perform against some of the league's best players.
At just the tender age of 19, many league fans believe that this opportunity will either break or make him as a player. This is indeed Pearce's chance to show his quality.
On the field the young man has been outstanding for the Tri-colours. He has shown maturity beyond his years in real pressure situations, none more evident than his performance against the Bulldogs.
In what was billed as the biggest club game of the century, Pearce handled the situation like any other casual NRL match. He displayed all the characteristics of his father and former Balmain legend Wayne Pearce, which was one of composure and commitment.
In the end he scored a magnificent try and consistently applied pressure to his opponents on the back of a great kicking game.
Despite the Roosters having lost their last two games, Pearce has done enough in my eyes to warrant selection in the first representative game of the season.
His combination alongside Braith Anasta has also influenced the selectors to go with the young maestro.
They have arguably been the form pair of the competiton and there is an outside chance that these two could form the scrum-base pairing for NSW in this years Origin series.
If City Vs Country lives up to its billing as an Origin trial and Mitchell Pearce has an outstanding game, what will the selectors do?
At some stage the young Roosters half will get his opportunity in a Sky Blue jersey. Would it be better to cast him in Rugby League's pinnacle event at such a young age?
With the attitude and character Pearce brings to the table, It is unlikely that he would be fased by the occasion.
Under coach Brad Fittler, Pearce has developed a confidence about him that really does inspire the next generation.
He has shown maturity beyond his years and looks set to follow in his father's footsteps.
Whether it be this year or the next, Mitchell Pearce looks destined to be one Rugby League's most prosperous players.
Like Folau and Inglis before him, Pearce looks set to drive fans to football stadiums alike. In ten years this man could very well be the greatest halfback our game has ever produced.
Maybe when we celebrate Rugby League's 200th anniversary, Pearce's name will forever be etched alongside some of the greatest players to have played the game.
But for now patience is a virtue. Pearce should seize the moment he has now and freeze it and own it.
Good luck to you son.
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