NRL 2018: Handy Mann happy to reprise utility role for Dragons

The former Melbourne centre played every position in the Dragons back-line at various stages of the 2017 season, featuring in 21 of his side’s 24 games.

His best form undoubtedly came as a foil for skipper Gareth Widdop in the halves, with his finish to the season enough to earn a two-year contract extension.

Having played most of his junior football in the No. 6, Mann said he was keen to take the opportunity.

“I managed to string a few games together there last year in the halves and it’s a position I like playing,” Mann said.

“I got an opportunity to play there at the start of the year with Gaz being out with a medial [ligament injury] and they were probably some of my better games.

“Mary [coach Paul McGregor] showed a lot of faith in me in giving me that start in the halves. I had to fill big shoes with Gaz early on.

“That was the first game I’d played in the halves at NRL level so I felt obliged to repay him. I knew when I got that chance again I wanted to try and nail it.

“I was really enjoying my footy and as a result of that I was playing good as well.”

It was a strong finish to an at times frustrating season as he shifted around the park but Mann said he’s happy to reprise the role in 2018 if required.

“[Utility value] is a good thing but it can be a bit of an achilles heel,” he said.

“It is a bit frustrating at times but it’s something I’ve got to do for the team because I can do it. There’s not many other people in our team that can so that’s my role and I’m happy to do it.

“It gets me picked every week because I can play anywhere but I like playing in the halves, I like playing fullback.

“You always want to opportunity to play consistently in those positions so when I get my opportunity again hopefully I can grab it.”

New arrival Ben Hunt is a lock to partner Widdop in the halves this season, making a halves start unlikely, but Mann will come in to consideration for the No.1 jumper left vacant by the departed Josh Dugan.

Young-gun Matt Dufty has the inside running having finished 2017 at fullback but Mann said he’ll certainly put his hand up should the chance arise. 

It would be a chance to go full circle having played the first two games of the 2016 season, his first with the club, at the back.

“That’s something I’ve spoken to Mary about, I’ve told him I wouldn’t mind having a go there and see what comes of it,” Mann said.

“He’s pretty keen to have a look at me there so I’m sure through the trial period I’ll get a chance there at some stage and we’ll see what happens.”