Widdop eyes five-eighth spot

Gareth Widdop has vowed to keep performing at his best, after starring at five-eighth during Melbourne’s 24-4 win over Canberra.

Widdop, 21, gave coach Craig Bellamy a timely reminder of his footballing abilities in the match, controlling much of the play and creating a score for centre Chase Stanley.

An England international at fullback, Widdop has struggled for appearances due to the presence of Queensland and Australia flyer Billy Slater.

But with Brett Finch‘s off season move to Wigan opening up the number six spot, Widdop now has an opportunity to establish himself alongside halfback Cooper Cronk.

But Halifax-born Widdop is not counting on anything yet and wants to concentrate on his performances.

“We’ve got quite a few good young halves so I’ll just take it as it comes,” said Widdop.

“I was happy with the way I played last night but in the end it’s up to the coaches who they decide to pick.

“But I’ll just keep working week in week out to be the best player I can be.”

“There are still things I need to work on but with Cooper not being there being the dominant half I had to take a bit more control which I enjoyed.”

The Storm’s final trial match of the pre-season is against Brisbane next Saturday.