Dragons fullback Darius Boyd has spent hours studying video footage of "the greatest in the game" Jarryd Hayne, as part of his mission to join the NRL's elite this season.
Boyd will take the first step in proving he belongs alongside Hayne and Melbourne superstar Billy Slater when he squares off with the Eels flyer in Friday night's blockbuster season-opener at Parramatta Stadium.
The 22-year-old has produced superb form during St George Illawarra's preseason, having a hand in four of the Dragons' five tries in the 26-all Charity Shield draw with South Sydney.
Full coverage of the Dragons Boyd yesterday declared he would be up to the test against Hayne when the new season kicks off.
"(Hayne is) definitely the greatest in the game at the moment," Boyd said. "It's going to be a big challenge and I'm looking forward to it, being my position, he's one of the guys you've got to watch and just mould your game around and see what you can take out of his game as well."
Hayne scored a famous try where he stepped and swerved past several Dragons defenders on his way to the line in the Eels' qualifying win at WIN Jubilee Oval last year.
It's a magic moment now being used on the NRL's promotional material for the 2010 season.
Boyd only scored two tries for the Dragons last year, but was a vital link man in attack and was a reliable kick returner, making 111 runs from kicks for 1466m.
The Queensland State of Origin representative said he has focused on improving his support play in his second full season in Wollongong - and second year playing fullback.
"Last year I probably lacked a bit of support, I'm just trying to help the forwards out and be more involved around the pack," Boyd said.
The former Brisbane Broncos player, who followed Bennett to the Dragons, said he had watched footage of a number of leading fullbacks, including Hayne, Slater and AFL recruit Karmichael Hunt.
"I have a look at a lot of fullbacks," he said.
"This is my second year at fullback and I'm still learning, I suppose.
"I'm trying to get better and better each week, so I can definitely take things out of (Hayne's) game for sure.
"Definitely Slater as well, and Karmichael, I had a bit to do with him in Brissy and even last year I had a bit of a look at that and take some hints and tips from him."
However, Boyd told Dragons fans not to expect any unpredictable midfield chip kick and gathers that form part of Hayne's impressive arsenal of attacking plays.
"I'm not that skilful," he said.
"But I'll stick to my own game, stick to what works for me, I suppose."
Email a friend