The Western Clydesdales star tipped to be next NRL prospect

The Western Clydesdales secured a historic first home Hostplus Cup win and they have a man tipped to catch the eye of NRL scouts to thank for it. Find out who the side’s next big thing is and other talking pointers from the Ipswich Jets clash here.

Melino Fineanganofo for Clydesdales. Picture: Nev Madsen.

Following the Western Clydesdales first ever home victory and their first home win of the season, we take a look at the five talking points from their Round 7 matchup against the Ipswich Jets.

NRL PROSPECT

In just six games, Melino Fineanganofo, 24, has stamped himself as one of Queensland Rugby League’s top talents and put the NRL on notice.

The former under-20s Warriors player, who took a break from footy last year, has been one of the Clydesdales this season.

The centre was spectacular against the Ipswich Jets recording three try assists, 166 running metres, five tackle busts and an offload.

Mileno Fineanganofo vs Ipswich Jets. Picture: Nev Madsen.

His Jets’ performance in tandem with how he has been tracking through the season has captain Darryn Schonig expecting him to get a NRL call up soon.

“He won’t be here for long, they’d (NRL side) be silly not to pick him up the way he is going,” Schonig said.

Leading the competition in tackle breaks, Fineanganofo’s game can be best described as Justin Olam like.

His brute strength and low centre of gravity make him a defensive line’s nightmare as he is a slippery player that’s nearly impossible to take to ground.

If hasn’t already caught the eye of NRL scouts – there is no doubt he will be on their radars soon.

MAGICAL MITCH

Winger Mitchell Watson rocketed to the top of the cup try scorer list with a five-try haul against the Jets.

Watson, 23, took his tally to nine tries from six games with a performance any winger would envy.

Mitchell Watson on his way to score the third of his five tries for Clydesdales. Picture: Nev Madsen.

With a first half hat-trick and scoring his fifth on the stroke of full-time, the Warwick product dazzled with his speed, finishing ability and sheer desire to win.

LETHAL LEFT EDGE

Coach Jason Alchin has got his left edge firing on all cylinders in the last three games.

The addition of Brock Diment at fullback for the last three games has resulted in a tidal wave of points on the left edge.

Diment has quickly found his feet and has already developed great chemistry with both Melino Fineanganofo and Mitchell Watson.

The left side alone combined for six tries and four try assists against the Jets.

HOME WIN

Western Clydesdales players post try celebration. Picture: Nev Madsen.

In a huge confidence booster, the Clydesdales recorded their first Hostplus Cup home win and their first home win of the 2023 season.

After a 42-day stech without a home game, the Clydesdales didn’t let their emotions hinder them, proving to their faithful supporters that they are capable of winning and can put on a good show.

SCORING THE HARD WAY

The Clydesdales have 30 tries to their name but few of them have been ‘easy’.

Against the Jets they bottled a litany of fifth tackle plays in scoring positions, only to capitalise off Ipswich errors or produce incredible individual efforts.

It’s is definitely not an area of great concern yet but it is an area they need to tidy up before facing the top sides where scoring chances are far more scarce.