Angus Crichton reflects on the ups and downs of his first season with the Roosters

It has not all gone to plan for Angus Crichton this year, but as he prepares to play in his first grand final the Roosters backrower wouldn’t change a thing.

Sydney Roosters player Angus Crichton poses for a photograph during a Sydney Roosters NRL Media Opportunity at the SCG in Sydney, Monday, September 30, 2019. (AAP Image/Bianca De Marchi) NO ARCHIVING

• Cotric to mark boyhood hero Morris
• Papalii’s $5k family GF ticket splurge

Angus Crichton says this season has been the most emotional of his career.

He arrived at Bondi as a high-profile off-season recruit from South Sydney as he filled his childhood dream of playing for the Roosters.

But shoulder surgery at the end of last season contributed to a slow start for Crichton, who not only was dumped by the Blues after Origin I, but he lost his starting spot at club level.

“It has been a rollercoaster,” said Crichton, 23.

“A massive learning curve was when I got dropped from Origin and went to the back bench here. That was a massive moment for me. You can stand up or you can sit down.

Live stream the 2019 NRL Holden Women’s Premiership Grand Final Live & On-Demand on KAYO SPORTS. Get your 14 day free trial and start streaming instantly >

It hasn’t all been smooth sailing for Crichton. Photo by Ashley Feder/Getty Images.

“Like all things, it takes time. Coming into a team like this, the style they play and the players they have. It took me time to understand what’s needed of me.

“Because it has taken time and a lot of effort and hard work, it makes it even sweeter when you’re playing well.

“I’m not playing as well as I want to be but I’ll get better.”

Crichton was a Roosters tragic growing up. He was in the crowd to watch the Ricky Stuart-coached Roosters side beat the Warriors in the 2002 grand final before racing to Easts Leagues Club to join the fans trying to catch a glimpse of his heroes.

Unable to get into club because he was under age, Crichton instead watched his uncle go in and he brought the youngster out a signed Craig Fitzgibbon coaster, which became a treasured possession.

Crichton has a shot at winning his first title on Sunday. Photo by Matt King/Getty Images.

Fitzgibbon is now part of the Roosters coaching staff.

Crichton said a few home truths when he was struggling with his form helped turn his season around.

“Through the lows, you have to pull on the ones who are close to you and surround yourself with the right people and make sure you’re in the right headspace,” Crichton said.

“The only thing you can do is fight. You have to be honest with yourself and work hard to keep fighting.

“I was trying as hard as I could. I still am to reach my full potential.

“I wouldn’t change anything this year. I’ve learnt a lot about myself and the game.”