Stewart in the mix
Jason Avedissian
http://manlydaily.com.au/sport.html
25 April 2008
MANLY second rower Glenn Stewart needs the game of his life tomorrow night against the Bulldogs to bolt into the Country Origin squad on Sunday night.
The 24-year-old is on a short-list of back-rowers vying for selection for the annual clash with City next month.
Country Rugby League boss Terry Quinn told The Manly Daily Stewart needs a special performance against the Bulldogs at Brookvale Oval tomorrow night to get the nod.
"He's definitely a contender and is on our (short) list," Quinn said.
"Selectors tend to look at overall form, not just one game, so he's definitely in the mix."
Sea Eagles winger Michael Robertson is also locked in a battle against Joel Monaghan and Anthony Quinn for a Country berth.
The 25-year-old Manly winger needs to maintain his great touch to snare his maiden representative jumper.
Country assistant coach Paul McGregor said Robertson has impressed with his feats and is a contender.
"He can find the try line," the former NSW and Australian centre said. "Every match I watch, he stands out."
Stewart this week revealed an off-season spent recuperating from ankle surgery was behind his slow start to 2008.
But the young forward rocked back into contention with a strong effort over the Eels last Friday night.
"I didn't have the best pre-season, there was certain things out of my hands but I'm not making any excuses," Stewart said. "I had a couple of niggling injuries but I'm sort of getting on the other side of that now and looking upwards.
"I'm feeling fitter and my ankle's getting better with every game."
Robertson said he was aware of speculation over his possible selection for Country but was not getting carried away.
The Sea Eagles expect winger Michael Bani (neck) to play in tomorrow evening's round seven clash with the Bulldogs at Brookvale Oval.
