Flying flanks

After witnessing Kevin Naiqama’s lightening quick speed down the wing for the red and blue last season, Knights‘ Members and supporters started asking, who is quicker Naiqama or the Knight’s other Fijian flyer Aku Uate?

Last week the wingers were put to the test during the 40-metre sprint at training and Naiqama was crowned the fastest player at the Club after slightly edging out Uate by only a couple of milliseconds.

“There wasn’t much in it but I think all the speed work and leg weights have been working for us,” Naiqama told Knights TV.

“We are really close off the field as well and are there for each other.

“When I am struggling Aku is always helps me out and I do the same for him.”

Uate said he was proud of Naiqama’s achievements last season and hopes to see him in the first grade again this year.

“He showed everyone that he can play first grade and I think Wayne (Bennett) was really impressed with Kevie’s performance last year,” Uate added.

“Trials are coming up soon and hopefully Wayne will give him another chance this year."

Naiqama played nine NRL games last season and said it is important that he builds on his performance in 2013.

“Bettering my performance is what motivates me at training every day,” he said.

“One of the tests Wayne put to me was to have a bigger pre-season than I did last year so that is what has been in my mind.

“Trials are coming up so I just want to put my best foot forward but I am not looking too far ahead and am just taking it week by week.

“I know Jimmy (James McManus) and Aku are ahead of me and I think it is good having three quality wingers in the team and keeps us all on our toes.”