PORTLAND is making a habit of silencing the naysayers – and that’s just how Jay Moody likes it.
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The 21-year-old is leading a forward line brimming with confidence following two consecutive one-point triumphs.
Portland – widely touted as a wooden spoon contender in the off-season – could defy odds to sit 3-0 if it can defeat Hamilton Kangaroos on Anzac Day.
“Over the last few years we’ve probably lacked that belief that we can finish off those close games,” Moody told The Standard.
“It’s still a young team that we have but we’ll get some serious belief out of those two wins. Hopefully it can hush some of the critics we’ve had.
“We had a lot of people – even Portland people – saying and thinking we were done and that we were in for another tough year. Hopefully we can keep hushing them.”
Moody said the Tigers’ forwards were flourishing with coach Luke Crane back from a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament.
Moody, who works in the education sector, said the Tigers’ new-look forward line was causing headaches for opposition.
“It’s been great, one of the real positives from this season so far,” he said.
“It’s amazing having Craney back in, he’s a class act as everyone knows. He adds real leadership for us down there.
“But we’ve brought in some height and depth in Aaron Shepherd and a few other guys and while they’re all pretty much under 21, they’re giving teams some real headaches.
“It frees myself and Craney up. It’s working well at the moment and we’re just hoping we all can stay injury-free.”
The former VFL-listed forward with North Ballarat Roosters said the chance to play on ANZAC Day was “a privilege”.
“There’s a bit of a rivalry there between us and Hamilton (Kangaroos) now, so it’s quite exciting to play here,” Moody said.
“It’s quite a short turnaround but once you get yourself up for it, you’re ready to go.”