Shaun Johnson. Photo / Sarah Ivey
Still finding his feet in top-flight league, Shaun Johnson tomorrow gets the chance to test himself against Kiwis superstar Benji Marshall.
"You don't get to play against Benji often," said Johnson. "He's a dude I grew up watching and obviously his skill-set is second to none. It is just going
to be a massive buzz and hopefully I'll do my best."
Johnson's development may have appeared painfully slow to some fans but the Warriors' caution with their top play-making prospect has one key supporter - Johnson himself.
"Obviously I wanted to play NRL; that was the goal of mine," he said. "But I think the club has been really good in terms of not putting me in too early. I can easily say to you that last year I wasn't ready."
Instead of breaking into the NRL ranks as many hoped he would, Johnson finished last year guiding the U20 side to the Toyota Cup title.
This year, after a delay from a pre-season back injury, the 20-year-old's development has been accelerated through feeder club Auckland Vulcans. The NSW Cup is no place for the faint-hearted and Johnson believes he has emerged ready for the rigours of the NRL.
"I feel a lot better in terms of knowing what is going to come physically and all that sort of thing [tomorrow]."
His debut in the Sydney rain last week against the Roosters was solid rather than spectacular but Johnson should reveal more of his undoubted attacking flair if conditions allow against the Tigers tomorrow.
With Brett Seymour expected to be fit as early as next week, Johnson needs a big performance to retain his place in the side. Whether that happens or not, he knows he has made a major breakthrough.
"I am just stoked I've played a game now. I've got it out of the way and I am looking at moving forward now."
Coach Ivan Cleary was happy with Johnson's opening effort.
"It was obviously the hardest game he has ever played ... and in the last 20 minutes he was there doing his best to try to influence the result. That was a great sign."
