Dragons
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Dragons utility Kyle Stanley is adamant off-field issues surrounding the Samoan Test side will have a galvanising effect, ahead of their opening Four Nations clash with England on Saturday.
Samoa was rocked on Sunday by the arrest of Cowboys centre Tautau Moga who was one of eight people arrested following a brawl at a Brisbane night club.
Wests Tigers back-rower Sauaso Sue and veteran Bulldogs forward Reni Maitua are also subject to the NRL integrity unit’s investigation into the incident that saw the trio stood down for the match against England.
Stanley, who was named at halfback in Matt Parish’s side for the match on Tuesday, said the drama has steeled Samoa ahead of their Four Nations opener.
‘‘As bad as it sounds that sort of stuff does bring you together,’’ Stanley said.
‘‘We came together the day that we found out about it and Matty Parish just said ‘what’s done is done’ and that we have to remember what we’re here for in Brisbane.
‘‘A few of the senior blokes spoke up about it as well. We took it on board put but it’s in the past and we have to move on.
‘‘We’ve really come together and we’ve all got each other’s back and the coaching staff had the boy’s who got in troubles back and it’s brought us closer together.
‘‘It’s unfortunate that it’s had to happen like that but it has and we’ve got to move forward.’’
Stanley endured another injury riddled year in 2014 - though he avoided the serious knee injuries that have plagued his young career - but finished strongly with the Dragons to earn a starting spot in the club’s final match.
He’s shifted between the back-row and hooker at NRL level but will return to his favoured halves position for Samoa on Sunday, where he’ll be partnered by veteran journey-men Ben Roberts.
‘‘I’ve always preferred to play in the halves. I love getting my hands on the ball and running the ball so it is sort of a homecoming for me,’ Stanley said.
‘‘I get to play three games, hopefully four, against the best opposition so I can’t wait.
‘‘Benny’s obviously been in the game a lot longer than me and he’s taken the reins.
‘‘He’ll be calling the shots and I’ll just be doing what I do and play footy.
‘‘We’ve never played together before and I’m really excited about the fact that we’re playing together.’’
Off contract this year, the tournament will provide Stanley with a valuable chance to show his wares with his future at the Dragons, along with a host of others, unclear.
‘‘I’m not too sure what I’m doing next year I just leave that to my manager,’’ Stanley said.
‘‘It’s a tough one. Everyone knows the club’s over the cap so they’re working that out.
‘‘We’ve been in contact so he’s just trying to fit me in to the place that suits me best.’’