THREE young rugby league stars are on their way to Darwin after being selected in the NSW PSSA side.
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Westdale’s Tyrone Nean, Manilla Central’s Connor Bracken, and Moree East’s Dwayne Smith have all made the cut after impressing at the State Championships in Kingscliff.
The boys did well to show enough to the selectors as an inconsistent North West side drew a tough pool at the championships, finishing in eighth.
North West coach Tim Polson said the three boys deserved their spot after solid performances and was surprised at one or two other omissions.
Centre Connor Bracken was awarded North West’s best after displaying his versatility by playing in the forwards a bit.
“Connor is the X-factor in the side,” Polson said.
“He’s an aggressive style of player who is outstanding in defence.
“He is a textbook tackler.”
NSW teammate Nean is also known for his aggressive style at second row.
Nean is also a good defender who is very quick on his feet, according to the coach.
“His defence is excellent and he was constantly bending the line at the carnival,” Polson said.
Moree player Dwayne Smith usually shares his halves’ role with twin brother Daniel at half back.
Smith showed a great chip and chase game at the carnival and can be very dangerous with ball in hand.
“He is not a traditional five-eighth but always makes things happen on the field,” Polson said.
“His brother Daniel was unlucky not to make it as well.”
The boys will join the rest of the squad in camp at Narrabeen over the school holidays.
They will then travel and play as a side in Darwin at the national championships next term