Coach Trent Robinson believes Sydney Roosters centre Blake Ferguson is still some way from being back to his best but claims he will be a huge asset to his side later in the NRL season.
Ferguson crossed for two second-half tries in Monday's 20-12 win over Penrith - his first scores for the club in only his third game since ending his exile from the game following his sacking by Canberra in 2013.
"Blake was really good when he got the opportunities, I thought there was a bit more space for him," Robinson said.
"I actually thought our back-rowers had stormers and opened up the game for him.
"Great credit should go to Boyd Cordner and Aidan Guerra, they had really big games."
Ferguson spoke on Sunday about his desire to put his wild ways behind him and, with a child on the way, is fully aware of the consequences that will follow should he mess up off the field again.
Robinson said he's been happy with the 25-year-old's attitude but said he's had to rein in his enthusiasm and desperation to be a match winner.
"He is a little bit better in mindset this week," the coach said.
"He is so keen to play well for us. He's trying so hard to do everything we're asking and we're trying to free him up as well.
"Blake's worked so hard to play for us. (Mitchell) Pearcey and Jimmy (Maloney) gave him a bit more space to suit his style and we got our rewards from that."
Skipper Pearce said Ferguson's slotted in well with the rest of the squad since his arrival and his defensive efforts were more impressive than his two tries.
"I notice him more in defence, he's always there in your ear." he said.
"Everybody knows how good he is in attack but his defence is really good.
"I didn't have much to do with him when we played in Origin as it was a short camp, but he's an infectious personality and he's in for a big year."
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