Dyldam Parramatta Eels winger Bevan French is relishing his opportunity in the NRL, making the most of his first grade call up after a string of injuries to the Blue and Gold gifted the young footballer with his Eels debut in Round 12 against the Newcastle Knights.
French burst onto the scene in the 2016 NRL Auckland Nines, crossing for eight tries in the tournament, however the 20 year old did not expect such an early call up to the top grade.
“It has been very exciting for me, and after the Nines, I wasn’t really expecting to get the call up this year but it’s been unlucky for a few other players but fortunate for me,” French said.
“We have had a few injuries and I’m glad I got the call up but now I’m just trying to make the most of my opportunity.”
However French’s start in the NRL has come with a prolific try strike rate, crossing for 9 four pointers in his opening six games.
Whilst unexpected and a new experience, French has been loving the support from the Blue and Gold.
“The attention is a bit of a new experience but I love it here,” French said.
“The supporters here at Parramatta are the best supporters we have and I love playing in front of the fans here.”
“The extra attention they give me, it is a new experience for me, but I cant complain, I don’t mind it.”
Whilst playing on the wing in his six appearances so far, French, who is still currently eligible to play in the Holden Cup competition, has loved every moment thus far.
“Personally, I think fullback is my preferred position but I am loving my time on the wing at the moment,” French said.
“I enjoy learning each week, it’s the first time I have played on the wing since I made my debut, but I am enjoying the experience and I love learning each week.”
“I have been in the 20s for a few years, and everyone talked about it being another step up from that, and it’s definitely lived up to the expectations.” French added.
“It is a lot more fast, a lot more physical and a lot more professional. It’s very tough but I’m loving it at the moment.:
“Defensively, it is a bit tough to read during the game, especially how fast the game is but I am loving the experience and am loving learning.”
“It has been a tough recently over the last few weeks, we have had people out of position with some of our forwards playing out there, and it’s been tough but I’m loving the experience out there.”
