Centre Kerrod Holland discusses the loss of Will Hopoate and what impact it has on the Bulldogs line-up.
Will Hopoate will miss the next three Sunday games for the club as he observes the Christian Sabbath.
Hopoate has found a new lease of life playing fullback under Coach Des Hasler and his bright start to the season has delivered great results on a personal level.
With five players’ player awards, 27 tackles breaks, six tries, six try saves, an average of 17 runs for 143 metres per game and only two errors for the season, replacing Hopoate will be tough, but Holland believes the side is more than capable of filling the void.
"As a team it's going to hurt us a little bit," said Holland.
"Hop's been outstanding with his form this year and it's something that we've just got to pick up.
"Personally, he's talk on the field is massive, especially for me as a young fella, but Sammy Perrett will drop back there and provide the talk that will be missing from Hoppa."
Holland has formed a great combination on the right side for the Bulldogs over the last few weeks with Perrett and while it is disappointing to lose his winger, focusing on his job was his priority, but he also could not thank Perrett enough for his influence on his game.
"He has been great for me."
"He has been playing so well and it makes my job a hell of a lot easier, but I just go out there and do my job and Sammy will do his job for the team.
"He talks to me a lot during the game and before it as well.
"He has been a big influence on me and helped me out a lot."
