Locky backs embattled Barnes
Phil Lutton | March 6, 2008
Locky backs embattled Barnes - rugbyheaven07.com.au

Wallabies flyhalf Berrick Barnes has been given a desperately needed vote of confidence from cross-town league compatriot Darren Lockyer, with the Broncos superstar warning to ease the weight of expectation on the talented youngster.

Queensland Reds playmaker Barnes, 21, watched his star soar when he was a surprise stand-out for Australia in the Rugby World Cup in France, showing poise beyond his years in four appearances, including the quarter-final against England.

His bold efforts had many annointing him the natural successor to longterm Wallaby flyhalf Stephen Larkham, who quit the international game after a knee injury ruined his French campaign.

After a promising season opener for the Reds, Barnes has struggled to impose himself on games. As a result, he has been leapfrogged by Western Force spark Matt Giteau in the queue for the Wallaby jumper.

Barnes has a rock-solid defensive technique but his tendency to drift in and out of matches has lead to criticism for failing to take control when his side needs him most.

While his confidence droops and the vultures are begin to circle, Barnes has found a backer in former Broncos team-mate Lockyer, recently voted one of the 100 greatest rugby league players of all time.

Barnes, an Ipswich Grammar product who hails from Kingaroy, was Lockyer's team-mate when he played nine games for the Broncos before linking with the Reds in 2006.

When asked if seizing a game by the throat was a more difficult task then commentators made it sound, Lockyer shook his head and laughed, replying: "100 per cent."

He said the ability to dictate the pace and structure of a game at elite level was a skill most 21-year-olds were years away from acquiring.

"He's only 21. He's got some experience but for you to be out there taking control of your team, you probably have to have four or five years experience at the top level," the Australian captain said.

"He's had a couple of years now but I think it's a bit harsh to expect a 21-year-old to be the man."

Lockyer endured similar critiques when he made the transition from fullback to five-eighth, before riding out the adjustment period to claim his place as one of the game's very best.

He said the fact the struggling Reds had undergone such turmoil made the central role of a playmaker even more challenging.

"He's a wonderful talent and obviously the Reds are going through a transition stage. That's difficult when the playing roster gets changed around a bit," Lockyer said.

"But I know he's a good talent with a great attitude so that will keep him in good stead.

"It would have been great to hold onto Berrick. He did well in the World Cup but there's a bit of tension over there at the Reds at the moment."

The Reds have made seven changes for tomorrow night's match against the Stormers at Suncorp Stadium tomorrow night.