Former Penrith league legend Brad Fittler thinks struggling halfback Luke Walsh is the right man to guide the Panthers to glory, but admitted there’s two young halves prospects hot on his tail.
Speaking exclusively to the Western Weekender about Walsh, Fittler said while the number seven struggled big-time in Penrith’s recent 30–16 loss to the Warriors, he should be full of confidence considering the club has showed him a lot of faith.
“The disappointing thing on the Monday night was Luke’s biggest asset, his kicking game, and that was a bit of a shame,” he said.
“But Luke’s got no reason to feel threatened because earlier this year he signed a new three year deal, which should give him an awful lot of confidence. I hope that he’ll be back to his best as soon as this week against the Titans.”
But Walsh may have some hot competition on his hands with rising Panthers halves Harry Siejka and Blake Austin lurking behind-the scenes.
“Harry’s a good player, I watched him in that Under 20’s State of Origin game last month and he did really well,” Fittler said.
“The big thing they’re talking about at Penrith these days is culture, so if you’ve got those two young kids (Siejka and Austin) coming through with a really good strong culture, then they’re sure going to be good leaders and good people to steer around the club in the future.”
