Pirtek Parramatta Eels hooker Matt Keating says he's looking forward to the trip down to Melbourne this weekend to take on the Storm at AAMI Park, despite the big challenge that lies ahead.
"Melbourne are up near the top of the ladder and are always a consistent team, so it's about us, really; doing the little things in training and then performing that in the game," he said.
"That's where we've been lacking a bit, so if we can gain little bits and pieces in that area then it can make a difference."
With two interstate games in a row, Keats says it can be a challenge physically, but it's also got its own rewards.
"I guess it's a little tough, but it's something you have to get used to," he said.
"You've just got to do it, but it's always good to get away and spend some time out of Sydney - so it's good too."
Keats is up against the Storm and Australian hooker, Cameron Smith - who he sees is the benchmark of his position in the NRL.
"He's someone I definitely look up to - he's always a big challenge but I'm looking forward to it."
With a finals spot now out of reach, Keating says the boys are still committed to putting in the effort at training.
"It's about your own performance, individually and as a team - so that's what we concentrate on."
"You're always playing for the joy of footy, so their spirits are still high and everyone is still competing."
"Melbourne are up near the top of the ladder and are always a consistent team, so it's about us, really; doing the little things in training and then performing that in the game," he said.
"That's where we've been lacking a bit, so if we can gain little bits and pieces in that area then it can make a difference."
With two interstate games in a row, Keats says it can be a challenge physically, but it's also got its own rewards.
"I guess it's a little tough, but it's something you have to get used to," he said.
"You've just got to do it, but it's always good to get away and spend some time out of Sydney - so it's good too."
Keats is up against the Storm and Australian hooker, Cameron Smith - who he sees is the benchmark of his position in the NRL.
"He's someone I definitely look up to - he's always a big challenge but I'm looking forward to it."
With a finals spot now out of reach, Keating says the boys are still committed to putting in the effort at training.
"It's about your own performance, individually and as a team - so that's what we concentrate on."
"You're always playing for the joy of footy, so their spirits are still high and everyone is still competing."
