Bulldogs playmaker Kieran Foran shows why he is not a spent force
No player came into this season under more pressure than Kieran Foran. But since returning from injury, Foran is showing his desire to make a difference.
Kieran Foran has had his troubles in recent years, but one thing he continues to show is that he is a fighter.
On huge money at Canterbury and signed by former coach Des Hasler, there wasn’t a player under more pressure coming into this season than the 28-year-old.
This was always going to be his make-or-break year.
But after overcoming a syndesmosis injury he suffered in round three that was expected to keep him out for three months, Foran has returned with a desire to make a difference.
After missing rounds four to eight, Foran returned in the 22-10 loss to Newcastle but was outstanding in last weekend’s 22-16 comeback win over Gold Coast.
The former Kiwi international put on a masterclass, setting up three tries, and his influence on young halves partner Jack Cogger is only going to be a positive for the Bulldogs.
Foran has also indicated he has not ruled out representing New Zealand if he was to be selected for the upcoming Test against Tonga on June 22.
This is going to be a cracking match on the eve of State of Origin II, when Tonga will also be boosted by Tevita Pangai Jr’s decision to turn his back on NSW.
Foran has not represented the Kiwis since the Anzac Test in 2017 but with Shaun Johnson still out injured (hamstring), you just never know what could happen in the coming weeks. Johnson is expected back for Cronulla’s round 13 game against Parramatta but hamstrings are funny things.
If Johnson struggles, Foran would be a pretty handy back-up for Kiwi coach Michael Maguire.
And Foran has the perfect chance to show he can still aim up against the best opposition when the Bulldogs take on Melbourne at Belmore this Sunday.
If you remember back to round four, the Bulldogs gave the Storm one hell of a fright without Foran before going down 18-16 after Rhyse Martin’s kick to tie the match in the final minute sailed wide.
While most of the focus this weekend is going to be on State of Origin selection, watching Foran go head-to-head with Cameron Munster should be fun.
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