Both Derby and Namo played for the Todd Payten-coached side in their first ever National Rugby League (NRL) trial match against Dolphins on Sunday in Cairns.
Derby starred in his side’s 22-22 draw, scoring a double. The duo topped the highest run meters in the game with Derby the highest at 285 meters with Namo running second with 202 meters.
“We played together in the test against Fiji last year, but I didn’t fully get the chance to become close with him (Namo),” said Derby, whose mum is from Busamang in Morobe.
“I guess we are at the same club now so that has changed and I’m starting to build a closer relationship with Sylvester.
“He’s a hard worker with and without the ball. I’ve seen him progress a lot in preseason and I know he’s going to have a big year ahead of him.”
Derby said it was unreal for him to play in front his family who were Cairns residents. The 20-year-old admitted that he needed to improve his game.
“Definitely if I could fix up some of my positional play for catching and other things would help my game a lot more,” Derby said.
“Also getting involved a bit more as I felt I had a lot more left in the tank. In saying, that the cramps in the second half didn’t really help.
“As a rookie, my goal is to play in the NRL but I guess all I can do for that to come through is keep on improving my craft week in and week out, and keep ticking boxes in Hostplus Cup and hopefully things will fall into place.”
Meanwhile, Derby embraced the challenge against PNG players in the Dolphins outfit – Rodrick Tai, Judah Rimbu, Sherwin Tanabi and Jeremiah Simbiken.
“Yes I definitely enjoyed the challenge against my brothers, and I know I’ll be seeing them on the field later on this year.
“Regarding my future with the Kumuls, if given the opportunity then yes I welcome it with open arms.
“It would be an honour to put that jersey on again,” Derby said.
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News source - www.thenational.com.pg
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