Perese has \"beast mode\" up sleeve: Kerevi

Wed, Feb 7, 2018, 11:01 AM
Sam Phillips
by Sam Phillips
Reds superstar Samu Kerevi can't wait for the Tens this weekend as it represents the end of a long pre-season. The centre will lead the side at the tournament at Suncorp and has had words with his boss about pulling on the boots.

Samu Kerevi can't wait to see Izaia Perese unleash "beast mode" as the Reds rev up their preparations for the Brisbane Tens.

Kerevi, Perese and Fijian flyer Filipo Daugunu will be the enterprising outside backs that could set the Suncorp Stadium crowd alight come Friday, when the Tens take hold of Brisbane.

Kerevi will captain the Reds and he has high hopes for their campaign this weekend.

"Izzy has the switch he can put on and he can just go beast mode," Kerevi said.

"Filipo has amazing feet, he's been training well for us and he played exceptionally well for (Queensland) Country so I am excited to see him out there.Izaia Perese is set to light up the Tens. Photo: Getty Images"They're real quick - at training they have been turning on the gas."

Australian rugby fans have had a taste of Perese's electric feet but it's Daugunu remains somewhat of a mystery, given his exposure at the elite level remains limited.

"The first time I saw (Daugunu) he was playing for Wests, against Souths, in a trial match and straight away I said 'Who's that guy?'

"He scored three tries game, kicked a goal and for me, I'm just happy he's on my side.

"He will be amazing for the Tens, I know that."

The Reds haven't named a wildcard in line with the other Australian franchises and that's testament to Thorn's dislike for frills.Filipo Daugunu is set for a big year. Photo: Getty Images"Speaking to Thorny, I think he just wants to give opportunity for all the boys to play," Kerevi said.

"We've got a great, young side coming through and we have some exciting players here for the Tens.

"We want to win but we also want to get the cobwebs out."

After a preseason packed with gruelling sessions under Thorn's observant eye, Kerevi looked at the tournament as a reward, of sorts.

"It's been a long preseason so we are ready to start playing footy," he said.

"I just really want the young guys to express themselves and enjoy playing footy.

"It's the reward we get after a long couple weeks of preseason."

The Brisbane Tens kick off at Suncorp Stadium on Friday, February 9. Buy tickets here.

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