When it comes to judging his own performance, Manly Warringah Sea Eagles prop Josh Aloiai knows what his pass mark is.
“Some people are fixated on numbers and the number metrics, and it does play a little bit of a part,’’ Aloiai said.
“When you walk off the field, you can tell whether your involvements in the game added to your team, added to momentum, changed the game at certain times, or inspired your team-mates.
“When I’ve had games like that, then you can say I guess it is a pass, but at the same time, you always want more.”
Twelve months on from arriving as a Sea Eagles player from the Wests Tigers, Aloiai is a very happy man, describing the move to the Northern Beaches as the best decision for himself and his family.
I can definitely say it has been the most challenging 12 months on and off the field
Josh Aloiai
“At the same time, it has been incredibly rewarding in overcoming obstacles and hurdles and having a good support system.
“I’ve become really close to the boys and have got a really good rapport with Des and the coaching staff. I’m just really, really happy.”
The 26-year-old Sea Eagles prop played 16 matches in his first season in the maroon and white jersey as he surpassed 100 NRL games.
A wrist injury suffered in the round eight loss to eventual premiers, Penrith, in Bathurst saw him sidelined for 11 weeks.
He then played eight more games to finish the season with 20 tackle breaks, an average of 124 running metres, 787 post contact metres, and an average 11.6 hit ups per game.
“I was happy with my involvements but at the same time, I have got a lot of room to evolve and I will be doing that this year,’’ Aloiai added.
“I’m feeling really good heading into this season. I have been able to do more of the pre-season this time without being injury plagued.
“I was a little bit sick at the start of pre-season with covid, but I’m feeling fitter than I’ve ever been. I will be ready to go. I’m really excited.”
