Widnes Vikings hooker Matty Fozard says he is benefitting from his role of not being needed to play 80 minutes every week this season.
Fozard has enjoyed a slightly more interchangeable role at times this season, following the signing of Jordan Johnstone from Hull FC ahead of the 2023 campaign.
The 28-year-old has featured in almost every game for Widnes so far, starting in nine of their 11 matches. However, Johnstone’s inclusion in the team has meant there have been times where Fozard could be withdrawn, rather than playing full matches.
He says he is enjoying his rugby at the moment, and his role within the 2023 squad.
BUY NOW: Half-season tickets
“It’s been brilliant,” he said. “Last week, I came off the pitch after 30 minutes, and I’d never felt so fresh in all my life. I said, ‘Oh my God, I could carry on here’!
“But JJ [Jordan Johnstone] is brilliant – the more time we can get him on the pitch, the better we are as a team. He just needs to stop getting head knocks, stop getting injured and help my job.
“We worked well together [against Barrow Raiders], him at loose forward and me at nine.
“We both have the same vision of what we want in the game as we both play nine.
“Less 80 minutes is better on my body, but I don’t mind doing it anyway if needed to be called upon.”
Last year, Fozard’s Wales national team coach, John Kear, joined the Vikings as head coach, and the hooker says he has enjoyed working with him on a more regular basis.
Kear gave Fozard his international debut back in 2014, while he was still at St Helens. He has since made 12 appearances for the Dragons, featuring in two Rugby League World Cups during that time.
Fozard believes Kear’s style of play suits his own strengths.
“I’ve had John all my career. When he was appointed, I was quite happy because I know how he works and he knew how I work.
“It’s just a lot of effort-based rugby and hard work, and I think that’s something I pride myself on.
JOIN US: 2023 Summer Bash
“John always encourages me to kick the ball as much as I can, you know, and the half-backs now are encouraging me more to get out and do that for the team.
“I think the forward pack deserve a lot of credit when we’ve got the ball, but also the back five as well. I think our yardage has been absolutely fantastic.
“Them carrying the ball and getting me fast play-the-balls is only making me better as a player. If we can keep doing that, then I think this year is going to be really successful.”
Visit our online club shop to buy the latest Vikings merchandise!
