Kenty’s Man of the Moment – Josh Dugan – St George Dragons

Josh Dugan runs out for his 150th game on Saturday afternoon against Newcastle. It is a significant milestone for a player who occasionally found trouble early in his career and once ran the risk of failing to fulfil that enormous potential.

In a small irony, though, Dugan will run out in the No 3 jersey instead of his favoured No 1.

Dugan’s preference to play fullback became a story earlier this year when he campaigned to the Dragons’ retention committee for much of the early season to be considered as a fullback and therefore paid as a fullback, who earn considerably more than centres in most clubs’ rosters. The Dragons did not agree and he eventually signed with Cronulla for next season.

Coach Paul McGregor stayed out of that debate at the time, but was left with little choice after the injury to Euan Aitken and the superb debut last week of Matt Dufty.

Dufty has been retained at fullback and Dugan switched to right centre.

While slightly disappointing for Dugan it is worth remembering he is the NSW and Australian right centre and a proven match-winner from the right side of the field.

By Paul Kent

Image: NRL Imagery