Wakefield youngster Max Jowitt has a ‘glorious opportunity’ to solidify himself as the club’s fullback in the coming weeks.
That’s according to Trinity’s coaching staff who, with Scott Grix set for at least another month on the sidelines injured following shoulder surgery, believe Jowitt has a chance to stamp down a regular place in the side.
The 21-year-old has found opportunities tough to come by since Grix arrived at the club at the beginning of last season – but assistant Michael Monaghan believes Jowitt’s chance to shine has arrived.
“He’s had a few chances this year but when he’s had them, there’s been some changes in the halves that have affected him,” Monaghan said.
“He’ll have a good run of time in that position over the next month at least to cement it.
“It’s a glorious opportunity for him to concentrate on the things he needs to get right, and where he was lacking in his previous games.
“He’ll have some time in the side now and hopefully we’ll see the best of him, because he’s got all the ability. It’s hard as a young kid when you’re in and out of the team to get that consistency, but Chris has spoken to him and told him the chance is there to play for an extended period in that regards.”
Jowitt’s contract is up at the end of this season, and Trinity are open to speaking to the fullback about an extension.
He certainly made a strong start to his bid to nail down the fullback shirt on a regular basis last Friday, including numerous magnificent tackles to help Trinity win 19-6 at Widnes.
And coach Chris Chester said of the fullback’s tackles: “That was fantastic effort. He saved a couple actually; he stopped one on Joe Mellor in the first half too and I was pleased for Max.
“I’ve had a good chat with him and said that we’re going to try him, Milky (Jacob Miller) and Rocky (Ryan Hampshire) for these next three or four weeks and It’s your position if you keep playing well.
“What Max doesn’t want – and it’s probably my fault a bit – is one game in and then another out. I’ve told him he’ll get a run to prove to me that you’re the number one fullback and I thought he was really good.”
