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'I'm playing in the middle where I belong' - Emerging Warriors star Bunty Afoa says positional change has helped his 2018 NRL form

May 9, 2018

Afoa has been one of the many quiet achievers during the Warriors run of good form this year.

Emerging Warriors star Bunty Afoa has been one of the many quiet achievers in New Zealand’s run of good form this year in the NRL, with the front rower saying his positional change from last year has helped his game.

Afoa played in the back row last year for the Warriors and said he found it difficult to adjust.

"I was really disappointed in my season last year, I was playing in a position that I don't play, it was new to me at back row," said Afoa.

The 21-year-old is fast making a name for himself in the NRL with his brave hard running style at the defensive line.

"You know I'm playing in the middle where I belong, it's a lot easier but it's more exciting too at the same time."

Afoa said the competition in the team has been a big driving force.

"Mainly for me I was just determined, I was determined to work hard and through a lot of sacrifice that was a massive one for me.

"There was a lot of boys that wanted this opportunity, they are all lining up for positions.

"You only get two props starting and two on the bench, so there are about 12 props that want that position."

The Warriors sit second in the competition ladder, two points behind leaders the Dragons who they beat in round seven 20-12.

Afoa said the compliments from his teammates after each game push him to keep improving his game.

"The boys are giving me raps after the game, they always say that I'm doing my job well," he said.

"You know once I hear that I am doing my job well that puts a smile on my face then I know I have done my job well."

But the Auckland born prop who played for Samoa last year in the Rugby League World Cup says he is not satisfied with where he is at.

"I don't just sit back and say I am happy with that, I look back at my game and see the improvements that I need to do."

The Warriors host the Sydney Roosters this Saturday in Auckland at Mount Smart Stadium.

"The week that is coming up we have got the Roosters you know they have a massive defensive team that are willing to beat us and for me I'm just looking to get my body right and go again."

The Warriors beat the Roosters in round four on March 31 in Sydney 30-6.

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