Tyrone won’t give up his spot without a fight

TYRONE Peachey looks set to retain his centre spot for Penrith ahead of next week’s opening game against St George Illawarra.

Tyrone Peachey. Picture. Brett Costello

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TYRONE Peachey looks set to retain his centre spot for Penrith ahead of next week’s opening game against St George Illawarra.

Peachey filled in at centre last year after Peta Hiku and Dean Whare went done with season-ending knee injuries, but his form was that good that he’s set to beat one of the two internationals and claim a starting spot.

Peachey had never played centre before Penrith coach Anthony Griffin gave the utility a chance in the last half of 2016, and he’s not ready to let go of the jersey.

“I’m aiming to play in the centres. I really like it out there and I think it showed in my game,” he said.

Tyrone Peachey of the Panthers is tackled during the NRL Trial match between the Penrith Panthers and Parramatta Eels at Pepper Stadium. Picture: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)

Griffin said it was up Hiku and Whare to “get past” Peachey in the race for a starting spot, suggesting he’s going to be the first centre picked after what’s been a fantastic off-season including a starring performance in Penrith’s trial win over Parramatta.

“I’ve really tried to work on my fitness this year and I feel really good,” Peachey said.

“I’m trying to improve my defence and passing game.”

The 25-year-old is as fit as he’s ever been heading into round one of a season and has an uncanny ability to shrug off the first defender whenever he runs the ball.

Despite weighing less than 95kg, he’s one of the most damaging ball runners in the Penrith side, but he’s not sure why.

“Maybe I’ve just got a tight jersey on. I don’t think I’m that strong,” he said.