The amazing revival of Ben Rogers' career continued yesterday when he was chosen ahead of rival St George Illawarra playmaker Jamie Soward for Friday night's NRL blockbuster against the Roosters.
Cast aside by South Sydney earlier this season, the 23-year-old five-eighth has helped foster the Dragons' stunning form in recent weeks since replacing Soward when he was sidelined with a back injury.
However, with Soward fit, coach Nathan Brown has elected to continue with Rogers playing outside halfback Ben Hornby.
"We are happy with our last couple of weeks, especially in attack," Brown said.
"But the Roosters are a quality side and we still need to improve in certain areas."
Rogers was offered a lifeline by St George Illawarra in mid-season before signing a two-year deal with Newcastle for next year.
While Soward was named on an extended interchange bench for the showdown with the Roosters at the Sydney Football Stadium, fullback Brett Morris - who has recovered from a shoulder injury - missed out completely.
Brown kept Jason Nightingale at fullback, with dual international Wendell Sailor holding his spot on the wing after a three-try haul against Parramatta on Saturday night.
Brisbane-bound second-rower Lagi Setu was selected to start for the Dragons, with Beau Scott part of the six-man interchange.
Meanwhile, St George Illawarra's National Youth Cup under 20 captain Matt Mundine was yesterday selected in the inaugural competition's team of the year.
The lock forward, a cousin of boxer and former Dragons player Anthony Mundine, was named on the bench, edged out of a starting position by Canberra Raiders star Shaun Fensom.
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