Scott Drinkwater has recently shared how advice from Queensland Maroons coach Billy Slater has been a game-changer for him, making him one of the most formidable fullbacks in the NRL. This revelation comes as Drinkwater and the North Queensland Cowboys prepare for their elimination final against the Cronulla Sharks. Drinkwater’s exceptional performance this season includes an impressive 35 line-break assists, the highest in the NRL, and 28 try assists, just behind St George Illawarra’s Ben Hunt. This standout year is a testament to the transformative impact of Slater’s guidance.
During his time with the Melbourne Storm, Drinkwater learned invaluable lessons from Slater, who emphasized the importance of seizing opportunities when in possession of the ball. Slater’s advice was clear: when not defending, fullbacks should focus on attacking and pushing the play forward. “Billy always encouraged us to be proactive and take the initiative when we had the ball,” Drinkwater recounted after a crucial win over Newcastle. This approach has significantly shaped Drinkwater’s play style, allowing him to excel in his role with the Cowboys.
Despite being one of the smaller fullbacks at 91kg, Drinkwater has leveraged his strengths in playmaking rather than physicality. He credits his quick decision-making skills, honed through years of touch football and oztag, for his success on the field. Drinkwater explains that while he may not have the physical attributes of some of his peers, his ability to read the game and react instinctively has been crucial to his performance. His style is driven more by instinct and understanding of the game rather than deliberate selflessness.
Looking ahead, the Cowboys face the daunting challenge of winning three consecutive finals in Sydney to secure the title. Nevertheless, their recent form has been promising, with victories in four of their last five games in Sydney. The team’s strong performance and resilience suggest they could potentially face the Storm in the grand final, where Slater’s earlier advice to Drinkwater might come back to influence his former club.
As the Cowboys prepare for their next game against the Sharks, Drinkwater remains focused on immediate challenges rather than future scenarios. He acknowledges the tough task ahead, particularly given the Sharks’ recent loss and their likely determination to bounce back strongly. Drinkwater emphasizes the importance of staying grounded and concentrating on each game as it comes, trusting in their preparation and the process to give themselves the best chance at victory.