Lewis Brown set to tackle new goals

PENRITH Panthers recruit Lewis Brown wants to shake off the utility tag placed on him as he aims to secure a starting position in the second row.

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PENRITH Panthers recruit Lewis Brown wants to shake off the utility tag placed on him as he aims to secure a starting position in the second row.

Brown, 26, was used in several positions at the New Zealand Warriors before agreeing to join former coach Ivan Cleary at the Panthers.

With a fortnight remaining before the NRL season starts, Brown has admitted there were two reasons for him wanting to join Penrith.

"Ivan was the one who gave me my shot in the NRL at the Warriors and I have always said he was the coach who can get the best out of me," Brown said.

"I feel comfortable around him, he is a good mate off the field as well.

"He was also the one that transformed me into the back row from playing hooker," Brown said.

"The other reason I came across is because I needed a change of scenery after feeling like I got a bit stale."

The New Zealand international is also pleased to have fitted in at the Panthers so easily.

"It is really good to come to training with a bunch of humble and edown-to-earth boys. We have come together really well at the club," he said.

"It is a pretty well-balanced team with experienced and younger players.

"I am confident in our chances this season."

CAREER STATS

• Debut: New Zealand Warriors v St George-Illawarra Dragons in 2009

• Scored 19 tries in 84 appearances for the Warriors until 2012

• Has made five appearances for New Zealand since 2011