Lulia Can't Wait To Face Rogers

Illawarra Mercury

Thursday March 15, 2007

By LUKE KEENAN

ST George Illawarra rookie Keith Lulia is undaunted by the prospect of marking Gold Coast star Mat Rogers at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday.

Dual international Rogers originally signed with the Titans for the 2008 season.

But he subsequently hastened his departure from rugby union, despite the lure of playing for the Wallabies at this year's World Cup in France, and signed on for the franchise's inaugural NRL season.

Rogers played on the wing at Cronulla from 1995-2001 before his stint with the NSW Waratahs and the Wallabies.

While with the Sharks he played five State of Origin matches for Queensland and represented Australia in seven Tests.

But 19-year-old Lulia, who played both Jersey Flegg and Premier League last season, cannot wait to take up the challenge.

"We've studied a bit on Mat Rogers, we sort of know about how he plays because I'll be playing right and we think he might be playing left centre," he said.

"I should go all right.

"It surprised me when I heard that he'll be playing on my side. Mat Rogers has pretty much achieved everything, so coming up against a great player, it should be good."

Former Port Kembla junior Lulia admitted his call-up had come as a surprise, especially given his off-season was seriously hampered due to keyhole shoulder surgery.

"First round, it came as a surprise to me," he said.

"I didn't expect it to be this early in the year, I've been in rehab all the year.

"I was born and bred here in Wollongong. I'm only 19 and here I am partnering Matt Cooper.

"I can't wait. It's the biggest game of my life.

"If I perform in this game hopefully I'll get that spot."

Like fellow rookie Richie Williams, Lulia has never been to Suncorp Stadium.

"I've heard the atmosphere there is massive.

"I'm trying not to think about it too much, not let it get to me and just take it as it comes."

Dragons coach Nathan Brown said injuries to young outside backs Brett Morris and Tom Hewitt had ensured Lulia slotting in at centre and Wes Naiqama moving on to the wing had been the best possible fit.

"Wes is a natural winger and Keith's a natural centre so that just sort of fits the mix of the team best for the first few weeks," he said.

© 2007 Illawarra Mercury

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