sport, local-sport, Mitchell Pearce column, Mitchell Pearce, Connor Watson

We all know the importance of this week and how our desire to want to work for each other in defence has not been anywhere near the standard it should be. But in real a dull month of footy for the club, there has been at least one shining light - Connor Watson. Connor and I go back a bit. The year he debuted at the Roosters [2016], I actually played quite a few games with him in the halves after I'd missed the first 10 weeks of the season. When we initially played together, we just instantly gelled and we had some really good success and formed a good bond that year. We've been mates ever since. I've always loved the way he plays - like he's been fired out of a cannon. There's only ever one speed - full throttle. He's tough and resilient and strong. For his size, he is one of the strongest guys going around in the gym. He's like a little Olympic gymnist with the strength he's got and it's why he has that great ability to bust through tackles because of how quick he is but at the same time how strong he is. He's obviously got good pedigree. I think his dad was a really good, tough bush footballer himself which is probably where Connor gets it from. He is such a talent but in a lot of ways, his biggest hurdle in really establishing himself has been his versatility and ability to play in a number of positions. Coaches like to take advantage of that. He is such a selfless team player that he always puts his club and his teammates ahead of himself when it comes to selections. He's the type of player who puts his hand up to play anywhere you asked him to and that probably hasn't always been to his own benefit. But he has been a great signing for the club. I don't reckon there is a better time to find out the true character of a player than how he reacts when the team is struggling and in real need of a lift. That's why he has stood out for us during this tough period because he just wants to be a real positive influence, make a difference and give everyone a lift, whether it's on the training paddock or in a game. I remember when I first talked about coming up here to Newcastle, he was one of the guys I called along with Aidan [Guerra] and Skiddsy [Shaun Kenny-Dowall], the other two ex-Roosters boys. The chance to play in the halves with Connor again was definitely an attraction knowing he was going to be here as well. But that's probably enough about Connor the footballer. What about Connor the person? Charismatic is a word that springs to mind. He's a fair bit younger than me and probably thinks he is fair bit cooler as well but he is a guy that everyone loves having around the place. I don't think I've ever heard anyone say a bad word about the bloke and he's got this great attitude to everything. He's just good fun to be around. READ MORE: Newcastle Knights One thing I'd say about him, as tough as he plays on the field and the amount of hours he puts into his preparation, it hasn't affected his charming good looks or the time he spends in front of the mirror. I'm not giving away any trade secrets by also revealing he's found the one in Newcastle. When I say the one, I mean the No. 1, as in fullback Kalyn Ponga. They have formed a real good bond and have been house mates for quite some time. I'm not sure if it is Connor keeping Kalyn in line or the other way around but they are a great match. Hopefully, both will be firing on all cylinders on Saturday at Brookvale against Manly. Obviously, the Eagles clash is another huge game for us and we can talk all we want about being resilient and having desire and finding what worked for us during our run of wins. But after talking for weeks about all that, it sounds a little cheap right now. The time for talking is over. While you're with us, did you know The Herald is now offering breaking news alerts, daily email newsletters and more? Keep up-to-date with all the local news - sign up here. IN NEWS TODAY:

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