Stints at lock in bush footy for Temora have given Zac Lomax all the confidence he needs to spend time in the middle while acting as St George Illawarra’s NRL bench utility.
A contender for a spot in the centres or wing in the pre-season, Lomax has had to settle for a bench utility role while Matt Dufty fills in for Gareth Widdop at fullback.
Known mostly as an outside back, Lomax played in the middle in his seven minutes on the field in the Dragons’ golden point win over Newcastle on Sunday.
And unless injury hits the Dragons in their spine or out wide, it’s a role Lomax is likely to continue playing when on the field.
“Coming from being a Temora boy and growing up back home I played a little bit more on the ball,” Lomax said while at a Dragons school visit to promote their healthy living initiative.
“I played a bit more at lock and fullback.
“So I’m comfortable to play in the middle if that is where I’m needed to play.
“Obviously I’m more comfortable at fullback and centre, but I can go on and make the tackles and cart the ball forward if need be.”
Widely regarded as one of the most exciting up-and-coming talents in the NRL, it’s no surprise Lomax is still eyeing off a starting role in the backline.
He deputised in the centres in last year’s finals series for an injured Euan Aitken, before missing out on retaining the right centre role from the Scottish representative.
But with the utility bench role now seemingly his, Lomax admits the push for a full-time starting role is almost more difficult with limited time on the field each weekend.
“Obviously its hard, but you’ve just got to bide your time and be patient,” Lomax said.
“I’ve got a role to do for the team and that is as a utility player off the bench. Mary (coach Paul McGregor) wants me coming on and doing whatever that is.
“He spoke to me and said ‘just get ready to play whenever and go on at whatever stage there is during the game, and whatever circumstances it is’.
“If I’ve got to play 10-minute stints and that’s all I’ve got to do for he team I’m happy to do that.”
