Canberra Raiders hooker Tom Starling has hit back at critics targeting young halfback Ethan Sanders, insisting the 22-year-old is not to blame for the team's dismal season.
The Raiders' minor premiership defence has unravelled, leaving them in 14th place and at risk of becoming only the third team in the NRL era to miss the finals after finishing first in the regular season the previous year.
Pressure on Sanders after Fogarty departure
Coach Ricky Stuart handed Sanders the No. 7 jersey after Jamal Fogarty departed for Manly in the off-season. Sanders had played just four top-flight games before this year but silenced critics with a match-winning field goal in the Raiders' 29-28 victory over the Sea Eagles in round one.
However, he has struggled to maintain that form, while former Brisbane player Coby Black impresses in Canberra's NSW Cup side.
“I know it’s probably easy to point a finger at Ethan, but Ethan’s not out there dropping the balls and giving the penalties away. Ethan’s doing a great job for us,” Starling told AAP.
“There are probably comparisons out there, but ... he’s going to be the No. 7 for a long time at the club.
“Everyone’s probably going to be talking about last year. We’re a different team than last year.”
Starling fighting for his own spot
Starling himself is battling to retain the starting hooker role, with Jayden Brailey and Owen Pattie also available. The 28-year-old had started almost every game until round 16, but Stuart noted a drop in his energy and physicality, leading to Pattie starting the past two rounds.
“I personally love waking up battered and bruised. It’s why I play. I love that physicality part of it,” Starling said.
“I’ve done it (been on the bench) before, and Stick (Stuart) said it’s what is best for the team.
“Owen is a great young talent. He’s going to have a long career here at the Raiders, and in the NRL.”
Raiders look to regroup during bye
Canberra have a bye this round, which Starling believes comes at a good time as the side freshens up before a finals run-in where they likely need to win almost every game to make the top eight.
The Raiders expect inspirational prop Josh Papali'i (calf) and second-rower Noah Martin (ankle) to return for their July 11 clash against Canterbury, with Englishman Matty Nicholson available the following week.
