Matt Dufty has ambitions to make the famous Red V No.1 his own.
And it's hard to see anyone taking it off him after starring in St George Illawarra's first hit-out of 2018.
Dufty was nothing short of electric as he racked up 200 metres, made two linebreaks and generally created headaches all night for Hull FC in the Dragons' 24-18 victory in a pre-season friendly on Saturday night.
After breaking into first grade at the back end of last year, he looked bigger, faster and more dynamic in his first game of 2018.
He revealed he had put on four kilos of muscle over the summer; however, it hadn't affected his pace. In fact, he said he believed he had gotten faster.
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"Coming from last year, I just wanted to come and really attack this year and make that spot my own," Dufty said.
Leading into the pre-season, he was touted as the leading contender to take over the No.1 jumper following Josh Dugan's move to Cronulla.
Youngster Zac Lomax and utility Kurt Mann were mentioned as other possibilities. However, Dufty blew them out of the water against Hull FC.
It would take something major in next week's Charity Shield against South Sydney in Mudgee to rob him of the chance to wear the No.1 in round one.
"I've set up a good opportunity but I've got next week to go," Dufty said.
"It's really up to Mary (coach Paul McGregor), what he wants to do for round one."
After seven NRL appearances, Dufty said he was feeling at home in the top flight and ready to become a regular first-grader in 2018.
"Every game I get out there, I'm growing and I'm feeling more comfortable," he said.
"Hopefully this year I can keep it and play a long season."
