Fotuaika Hopeful of Queensland State of Origin Recall
Last updated: Jun 14, 2023, 11:39PM | Published: Jun 10, 2023, 1:02AM
Gold Coast prop Moeaki Fotuaika is hoping to follow the form of captain Tino Fa'asuamaleaui to reclaim a spot in the Queensland team ahead of State of Origin Game 2.
Fotuaika is in contention to come into the Maroons line-up after their Game 1 win, where Stats Insider's State of Origin tips gave Queensland a lower chance of winning than NSW.
Fotuaika told AAP that Fa'asumalaeaui has been a source of inspiration for him at the Titans.
"Tino has been (firing) ever since he came to the club, and I thought I didn't really back him up last year with my year. It wasn't too good," Fotuaika said.
"I think this year I have really wanted to be a helping hand for him. He takes a lot on with the leadership and leads with his actions.
"It is motivating for myself seeing that and I want to do the same."
After claiming the opening game of the 2023 series and with a mounting injury toll for NSW, Stats Insider's State of Origin Game 2 prediction favours Queensland to perform well again at Suncorp Stadium.
Fotuaika, who debuted for the Maroons in 2020 and has now played 113 NRL games, believes he is better positioned to produce his State of Origin Game 2 best on the big stage.
"I definitely feel I am a lot better player than I was when playing in Origin the last time," he said.
"I feel like I know a lot more about the game and how to play my role better.
"I would love to get back in that arena. If I get the call, I will do my job for the state.
"I have played over 100 games now, and I know what works for me during the week with my routine."
Fotuaika was one of the Titans' best in the 28-12 win over Wests Tigers in Round 15 where the side kept engaged throughout the entire contest and didn't give their opponents a chance of victory.
"It is just good to see all our hard work pay off," he said.
"We know we can win football games. It is just about playing for 80 minutes, and I thought we did that."
State of Origin Game 2 is on Wednesday, June 21 at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. QLD vs NSW Game 1 was played on May 31.
(Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)
