From Couriermail.com.au
Travis Meyn
The Courier-Mail
March 28, 2014 11:00PM
BRAD Takairangi has opened up about his Titans axing and revealed it was the wake-up call he needed after taking his position for granted last year.
Takairangi made a successful return to the NRL in Sunday’s win over Canberra after being overlooked for the opening two rounds in favour of recruits Maurice Blair and Brad Tighe.
His dumping came after playing 18 games last year and he couldn’t land a spot despite the defection of Jamal Idris to Penrith.
The former Rooster admitted he didn’t take his demotion well, turning in a below-par performance for Burleigh in the Intrust Super Cup before realising what he needed to do to earn an NRL reprieve.
Blair’s defensive problems saw Takairangi earn a recall against the Raiders and the 24-year-old said he was determined to stay in first grade.
“I was pretty disappointed at the start of the year but I’m back in there now,” he said.
“The first week (at Burleigh) I struggled a bit mentally.
“The second week I was back into the swing of things and I’m just grateful I’ve got another opportunity.
“I know I can’t take it for granted anymore. You just can’t afford to take anything for granted.
“Last year there wasn’t as much competition as there is this year.
“It’s all done and dusted now and I’m back in and that’s all that matters.”
Takairangi joined the Titans last year as Sydney offloaded players to make room for Sonny-Bill Williams and Michael Jennings on their way to winning the premiership.
The Titans have an option to extend the Cook Islands international’s contract beyond this year and Takairangi said he had to prove he was worth it.
“As long as I’m playing well it will look after itself,” he said.
“I’ve got my spot back and the first thing is to keep training hard and ripping in.
“I’m definitely feeling more comfortable than I did this time last year.
“I know my role now and I definitely feel more comfortable.”
Takairangi is battling a minor ankle complaint but should be fit to face the Cowboys on Monday night at Cbus Super Stadium.
He’ll oppose ex-Roosters teammate Kane Linnett, one of the NRL’s most underrated centres, and said it wouldn’t be an easy night.
“He’s a good player. He’s strong and very quick.”