Kuli released amidNorth Queensland wants a quick start against St George Illawarra, so they’ll send big second-rower Kulikefu Finefeuiaki Cowboys and Dolphins contract dispute
North Queensland wants a quick start against St George Illawarra, so they’ll send big second-rower Kulikefu Finefeuiaki on a seek and destroy mission.
The explosive off-contract 20-year-old will start Saturday’s game at Kogarah due to a syndesmosis injury to usual starter Heilum Luki.
The Cowboys rallied from a 12-0 hole to defeat Newcastle 21-20 last week, following a disastrous start described by prop Jordan McLean as “one of the worst starts I have been involved with” in attack.
Finefeuiaki’s intensity and physicality will be important in overcoming the Dragons.
Finefeuiaki is in high demand, with Wayne Bennett’s Dolphins looking to sign him for next year. Cowboys CEO Jeff Reibel has made it obvious that the team will do all in its power to keep him.
Bennett acknowledged that the Ipswich State High product visited the Dolphins’ facility last week.
“He is an explosive young player on the way up, with a lot of ability,” Bennett told ESPN.
“We just have to wait and watch what he does.
“There is a big opportunity because we have balance in our cap and money to spend on quality players.”
Murray Taulagi, a Cowboys winger, also has harsh words for Finefeuiaki.
“Kuli has matured over the last couple of years he has been here,” he went on to say.
“He is a hard runner who enjoys the physical aspect of the game. You can tell he’s become a crowd favorite. I’m just glad that he’s on our side. I do not want to try to tackle him.”
McLean has also been impressed.
“Kuli just takes his opportunities with both hands,” that’s what he said.
“The excitement he brings to the game when he comes off the bench is great, so it’s wonderful for him to get a chance to start. He will have that opportunity, hopefully for the next.
Reibel said recently that both Finefeuiaki and Luki were long-term projects for the Cowboys.
“They have bought firmly into our system in North Queensland and want to be part of that,” he said.
“We will continue talking to their management and make sure we get the best outcome.”
