Time on the sideline brings new outlook for Pearce
After 12 weeks on the sidelines it's no surprise halfback Mitchell Pearce is eager to get back out on the field.
But the nib Newcastle Knights captain isn't promising miracles.
He just wants to do his job... and do it well.
"I think as a halfback when you have been out for a while, you can have a tendency to feel like you have to come up and do too much," Pearce said.
"I'm a bit older now and I'd like to think I know what a solid game is for me.
"My job for the team is to bring a good kicking game, some direction and the game will pan out however it does, and opportunities will come up."
The 29-year-old is feeling strong and confident heading into the Parramatta Eels clash on Friday.
He's had plenty of time to watch the game from a different perspective.
Pearce hopes that will be an advantage when he runs out at McDonald Jones Stadium.
Project Pearce
"When you have some time out and watch the game, you pick up on little things as a halfback, nothing drastic but it is good to step back sometimes," he said.
Although, the talented halfback admits it's been tough watching on.
"Coming to a new Club and not playing, you feel like you have let everyone down because it is your job. You get brought here and paid to play so it's been disappointing not playing," Pearce added.
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"I've got an opportunity in the next eight weeks to finish strong and do my part for the team.
"We've had some obstacles this year with some injuries, at one period we had six or seven of our starting players out, that's going to hurt any team, but I think the biggest thing is the players have played with desire over the last few months."
The key playmaker indicated their attacking force from the starting siren will be key to toppling the Eels, who themselves have had a rocky season.
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"Teams at the bottom of the ladder tend to start really well, sometimes whether you can last for 80 minutes in that head space determines how the game is going but I know Parramatta will start really well tomorrow," Pearce said.
"They'll be coming up here hungry.
"We've just got to start fast and get our game on and I'm sure it'll be a good contest and hopefully will be a really big crowd."
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