Unassuming Sitili Tupouniua making big impression with Roosters in short space of time

He’s the forgotten man among all the Latrell Mitchell field-goal hype but Sitili Tupouniua’s unassuming influence doesn’t go unnoticed by those who matter at Roosters HQ.

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He’s the forgotten man among all the Latrell Mitchell field-goal hype but Sitili Tupouniua’s unassuming influence doesn’t go unnoticed by those who matter at Roosters HQ.

Just ask coach Trent Robinson.

While Robinson has justifiably spent the week praising Mitchell for his freakish 40-metre effort to sink Melbourne, he also knows the play wouldn’t have happened if it wasn’t for Tupouniua’s efforts in the lead-up.

Sitili Tupouniua made a big impression against the Storm last weekend.

The Auckland-born back-rower produced a barnstorming run to give the Roosters perfect field position to set up for their match-winning play.

Earlier, he forced a Melbourne error when the Storm was within field-goal range with just three minutes remaining.

Robinson believes both plays prove 21-year-old Tupouniua’s worth as a player.

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“I think he should have played 15 to 20 NRL games by now,” Robinson said.

“He has had to work hard to get into that position and he delivered.

“We ended up on the 10 metres prior to his last run, so for Sitili to make the run that he did (was big).

“He also knocked the ball loose underneath the posts when they (Melbourne) had a chance to set up for a field goal.

Sitili Tupouniua played a big role in Latrell Mitchell’s winning field goal.

“That was really pleasing for a second gamer.”

Roosters legend Brad Fittler declared during Channel Nine’s commentary that the club was “nervous” about retaining off-contract Tupouniua.

Robinson swiftly denied this notion when asked about the Tricolours’ intentions of keeping the New Zealander.

“You don’t get nervous about that stuff,” he said.

“These guys have come through our development system. We’ve worked hard on recruiting them and we’ve worked hard to develop them.

“We want them to continue that way.”

Tupouniua has another chance to impress when he comes off the bench in the traditional Anzac Day clash against St George Illawarra at the SCG.