RUGBY LEAGUE
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Dragons utility Peter Mata'utia has become accustomed to being prepared for anything.
On Monday he is ready to fill the void of representative fullback Josh Dugan and maintain the Dragons hot streak, chasing a seventh consecutive win when they face premiers Souths.
Mata'utia has built a career on being prepared to take any opportunity in the top grade, but admits two games in 24 hours was a stretch.
That was the task he was set after Jason Nightingale's foot injury in the warm-up to the Dragons' round six match with the Bulldogs thrust him back into the top grade barely 24 hours after playing 80 minutes for the Illawarra Cutters the day before.
Now an injury to star fullback Josh Dugan has opened the door for a return to his favoured custodian role for the Dragons' Monday night clash with the Rabbitohs.
"I'm used to it, being called into teams really late or doing just that 18th man thing," Mata'utia said.
"I haven't really cemented a spot yet, so I am used to it." Replacing a player of Dugan's quality is a tall order and Mata'utia said it would be foolish for him to try to replicate the Blues Origin star's game.
"Duges is a superstar and if anyone tries to be like him it's a big task," Mata'utia said.
"I can only be the best I can be and the boys know what I can give ... I really rate my passing game at the back and I know I'm a good talker."
Scans on Monday cleared Dugan of any serious damage to the knee he injured in his Test debut on Sunday. He is being monitored through the week and may be a late inclusion.
Mata'utia said he will then gladly step aside.
"He deserves every chance to get himself right this week," Mata'utia said.
"I'm just humbled to get a game this week whether Duges is back or not. I just want to play."
With Nightingale still carrying the same foot injury that paved the way for his top grade return, a late return from Dugan might not spell an automatic return to the NSW Cup for Mata'utia. Eto Nabuli also missed the Dragons' win over the Roosters in round eight, leaving McGregor with a welcome selection headache.
"It's a good place to be at as a coach when the players are really challenging each other to make the 17 when you're winning games of footy," McGregor said.