The Mole: Raw conversation with Benji Marshall that reignited David Nofoaluma
If anyone knew how to get enigmatic Tigers winger David Nofoaluma's career back on track, it was Benji Marshall.
Benji played alongside Nofoaluma for three years in Tiger town and knows exactly what makes the speedster tick.
So when Nofoaluma lost his way in the early rounds of the new season, Benji - the assistant to Tigers coach Tim Sheens - stepped in.
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"Things weren't going the way I wanted," Nofoaluma told Wide World of Sports.
"I wasn't playing up to my standard, I got dropped … I had a foot injury that held me back, as well.
"And the team was struggling to get a win so it was tough for everyone.
"I decided to have a talk with Benji because he knows my game - he was a teammate for three years.
David Nofoaluma (left) and Benji Marshall as Wests Tigers teammates in 2019. Getty Images
"He knows when I'm at my best and what I have to do to get back there.
"He helped me get my focus and belief back. He basically told me, 'Be the player I know you can be', and helped me regain my confidence.
"The win over Penrith was massive for us and hopefully a turning point for the rest of the season.
"It felt great to beat such a quality team and it really worked wonders for my self belief - and I think a lot of other guys too.
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"We had been coming close a few times but not winning and that can get to you if you let it."
The stunning upset win over the premiers proved a landmark for Nofoaluma. He scored his 100th NRL try and showed glimpses of the old dash he displayed regularly playing outside Marshall in days gone by.
"It was a great effort all around and we have a good mix now of some old heads and young guys starting their careers," he said.
"We can hopefully string a few wins together now, starting with the Dragons in Magic Round, and work our way up the ladder."
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