Kalyn Ponga isn’t dwelling on a State of Origin loss with Queensland.
His focus is the nib Newcastle Knights.
While people may want to talk about the series being in the balance, the fullback is laser focused on clubland and performing in the red and blue.
It starts at home on Saturday against Brisbane.
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When asked how he overcomes the heartbreak of an Origin loss, Ponga admitted that it was easy to compartmentalise rep and club football.
“That was last week. I’ve got to focus on this week,” Ponga said.
“Just get around my mates, I love being around my mates, just focus on the next thing at hand. That’s what I do.”
His last club game saw Melbourne end the Knights’ six-game winning streak.
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It was a significant loss and one the Knights need to turn around.
“We were poor against the Storm,” he admitted.
“We know what wins footy. We have to go back to that, revert back to that and recreate that and put ourselves in opportunities to win this week.”
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Ponga has overcome a corked leg he picked up in Origin II and is expected to take the field on Saturday night.
“I trained today. Had my first run since the game,” he said.
“It feels pretty good. I’ve been looked after by the physios.
“I should be right by the game. It’s still pretty sure but I’m ticking all the boxes.”
