Star centre Chris Lawrence is looking for big year after enjoying first full pre-season

CHRIS Lawrence is one of the biggest earners at Wests Tigers — and he’s ready to finally deliver on the hefty price tag.

TIGERS TRAINING

CHRIS Lawrence is one of the biggest earners at Wests Tigers — and he’s ready to finally deliver on the hefty price tag.

Lawrence had the world at his feet not so long ago, starring in a high-flying Tigers side that challenged for a couple of NRL titles, and even earned an Australian call-up.

But a raft of injuries, most notably a dislocated hip and ongoing ankle problems, have made it difficult for Lawrence to gain any momentum.

Chris Lawrence during a Tigers pre-season training session at Concord Oval. pic Mark Evans

Often he would play through the pain barrier because he didn’t want to disappoint the club.

As new coach Jason Taylor says: “I know he’s played the last couple of years with injuries because he’s wanted to do the right thing for the team, but it hasn’t been the right thing for Chris Lawrence.

“His effort and application to training has been first class, and he’s a real professional.’’

While Tigers fans are excited about young halves Luke Brooks and Mitchell Moses, as well as fullback James Tedesco, 26-year-old Lawrence can again emerge as one of the club’s real stars in the centres.

For starters, this is the first time Lawrence has completed a full pre-season. He also looked sharp when he led the Tigers at the Auckland Nines.

“I think it will be good year for me, and touch wood with injuries, hopefully I can start the year strong and build with each game,’’ Lawrence said. “Being in and out the last few years with injuries, hopefully over a period of games I can really get some confidence back and get my timing back, and everything will fall into place.’’

Lawrence has had a taste of representative honours, but getting the Tigers back into the finals hunt is his only concern.

“Don’t get me wrong, I’d love to play rep footy, but I want to help the Tigers become a top-eight and top-four side again,’’ he said.

Originally published as Star centre Chris Lawrence is looking for big year after enjoying first full pre-season