Dylan Walker insists he has nothing to prove as he eyes another crack at Queensland in State of Origin II.
Walker's selection bore the brunt of criticism following the NSW Blues' lacklustre effort in their Origin I loss, after he played just nine minutes off the bench and had little impact in his interstate debut.
A controversial choice by coach Laurie Daley for the series opener, the Manly utility was retained for game two when the NSW side was named on Monday night.
Walker showed what he is capable of in Manly's loss to Penrith on Sunday, as he steered the Sea Eagles to a commanding 24-4 lead before they were run down late in the game.
"I don't really think I have a point to prove," Walker said.
"I'm my own harshest critic and people can say what they want to say after Origin I, but that's totally their opinions.
"After Origin one I wanted to start playing well again. It comes back to training, putting all that extra time and effort into it."
Daley spoke to Walker after game one and indicated he had faith in him to do the job in game two.
"He just said, 'head up'," Walker said.
"He was keen to keep the same 17 and from our point of view it was a great defensive effort from the boys.
"But we were scoreless in the second half. We have to be more clinical in those games.
"I just came back to club footy to enjoy it and (Sunday) was a step in the right direction, but it was pretty upsetting that we lost."
Walker hoped to get more opportunity in Brisbane next week.
"I was trying to make an impact, but it's pretty hard to do it in 10 minutes," he said.
"People can point the finger and blame me, but I look at it as a challenge.
"I really enjoyed my time there.
"It was an awesome feeling and a great experience I never want to forget."
Share
