Wellington Lions' star back Ben Lam admits he's a totally different rugby player from when he plied his trade for Auckland three years ago, with the speedster looking to get one up over his former side tomorrow night.
Auckland are set to take on Wellington at Westpac Stadium, with the winner possibly moving into second place pending on points for and against on the Mitre 10 Cup premiership ladder.
Lam, 27, says he struggled to tackle challenges like injuries and setbacks early on is his rugby career.
"During those years I was real young and sort of when you are young and things don't go your way you tend to shy away from challenges," said Lam.
"I think being here (Wellington) I have matured a bit more, I've had things go a bit my way which has been helpful.
"I have been injury free which has been the best for me. But I am pretty comfortable now with where I am and I feel like it's going real well."
Lam said the key for the outside backs will be to shift the ball early, executing plays and get the jump on their rivals on attack in tomorrow's NPC clash.
"For us it is about getting our hands on the ball so we can work around the rucks and get in early when we can.
"Spread the ball when we can and these guys under pressure tomorrow."
Both teams are coming off losses with Auckland going down to Otago 36-21 last Friday and Wellington losing to table toppers Tasman 28-22 on Saturday.
Lam plays wing and fullback for the Wellington Lions.
Wellington face Taranaki next Thursday in their final round robin match in New Plymouth at Yarrow Stadium.
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