Peter Mata'utia to step up during State of Origin period

Peter Mata'utia has spent the year plugging gaps for Paul McGregor, so he is confident about providing cover for Josh Dugan and maintaining St George Illawarra's early-season momentum through the demanding State of Origin period.

Mata'utia has filled in at fullback, wing and in the centres at different stages from just six appearances in 2015.

He began the year in the NSW Cup and was called up to replace the injured Dugan in round two, then recalled in round six when Jason Nightingale withdrew during the warm-up.

Since then he has made it almost impossible for coach McGregor to drop him.

He was awarded a centres spot last week ahead of Dylan Farrell, and has been named in the same position for this week's "derby" clash with Cronulla.

But it is at fullback where he may prove most valuable in the coming weeks, as the Dragons nurse Dugan's ankle problems while he juggles Dragons and NSW duties, starting with the Origin series opener on Wednesday night.

Mata'utia says the competition for spots in the backline is a healthy sign for the club.

"I play every week like I'm playing for a spot," Mata'utia said. "That's the good thing about our team, everyone's playing good at the moment and whoever comes in will do the job.

"We all understand it, we don't take it to heart or anything.

"Dyl [Farrell] and I are really good mates, it was disappointing he didn't get picked last week."

Mata'utia joined the Dragons from Newcastle last year but only managed nine first-grade appearances in 2014.

He is on track to better that this year.

While he has been named at centre for Sunday's game at Kogarah, there is a chance he could switch to fullback depending on how Dugan recovers from State of Origin.

As a genuine utility player, Mata'utia says he is happy to play whatever role is thrown at him.

"I just like to be in the team," he said.

"I haven't played many NRL games, so I'm happy to grab a spot and do my best.

"Whoever he [McGregor] does chuck at the back will do the job, definitely."

Mata'utia is preparing to line up directly opposite good mate Gerard Beale, who left Wollongong to link with the Sharks this year.

The pair have remained friends and the Dragons centre is keen to catch up with Beale post-game.

Young Sharks talent Jack Bird will also take on his former club.

"They're playing pretty good too, especially Birdy," Mata'utia said.