.You bet life's good in Manly

Dean Ritchie From: The Daily Telegraph December 15, 2010

BRETT Stewart is back, Steve Matai is ready to come back and the club has a new $1 million sponsor. Life on Sydney's Northern Beaches is looking rosy.

Manly yesterday unveiled their new jumper - through Test centres Matai and Jamie Lyon - with sports betting agency Centrebet emblazoned on the back.

Matai continues to dwell on a seven-match suspension which will not allow him to return until round five next year against Cronulla.

But Matai said his suspension would allow him to be fit and ready to rip in when he returns. But legally, of course.

"It will be definitely be frustrating watching the boys in our first few games," he said.

"We have worked hard in pre-season and can't wait to rip in. Obviously I will be a bit behind [in conditioning], but I just have to make sure I am ready to go when Dessie needs me.

"My rehab is going well and at this stage the shoulder feels good.

"Having the time off could even work in my favour. In previous seasons my shoulder has only been at about 60 per cent, so hopefully I can get it right."

Once back and in-form, Matai expressed a desire to continue his New Zealand Test career.

"After watching the boys in the Four Nations, I am itching to be back in the mix," he said.

"For that to happen I will need to play good footy, week in, week out."


http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/nrl/you-bet-lifes-good-in-manly/story-e6frexnr-1225971355335