MUSWELLBROOK resident Trevor Parkinson is cock-a-hoop at the moment.
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And, the town’s number one Sydney Roosters fan hopes there’ll be more to crow about after the NRL club stormed home to claim the minor premiership.
He’s even obtained the services of “Freddy” – a 1.5m high, 2m long and 30kg chook, which has attracted plenty of attention around the neighbourhood – to cheer on the Tricolours during the upcoming play-off series.
“It’s my pride and joy now,” Mr Parkinson said.
“I told my daughter-in-law I’d love a big rooster for a birthday present.
“Lo and behold, Freddy – named after club great and current NSW coach Brad Fittler – arrived from Wollongong soon after.
“A lot of people are stopping out the front of my place and taking photos of him.
“It’s great [to see all the interest].
“Plus, what spurs me on is the fact my neighbour supports the Broncos.”
Mr Parkinson, a member of the NRL organisation’s leagues and supporters’ clubs from day one, has barracked for the Roosters since the early 1960s.
His admiration did not stop there either.
“I loved it when they had players like Arthur Beetson, Ron Coote, Ian Schubert, Russell Fairfax, John Brass and Kevin Hastings – but, there are too many to name,” he said.
“The 1975 grand final, when they beat St George 38-0, was a good memory, too.
“I even enjoyed the 2013 decider, a 26-18 victory over Manly, which saw us claim our 13th title.
“Unfortunately, we’ve finished number one four times [at the end of the home and away rounds] in the past six seasons, but only won a solitary crown.
“I’m hoping 2018 is a different story.”
Mr Parkinson’s “quietly confident” the Roosters can go all the way, especially with Cooper Cronk marshaling the troops.
“Even though we lost four guys to Newcastle, I believe we’re a lot stronger than previous years,” he said.
“We needed experience – and we have that this season.
“Cooper’s success [for Melbourne, Queensland and Australia] gives us an edge.
“He brings the finishing touches we’ve lacked in the past.
“What’s pleasing is the number of new signings in 2018.
“They required time to gel – and I think they finally clicked about four weeks ago.
“The players have also worked on their discipline.
“I can’t speak highly enough of their coach Trent Robinson – he’s done a terrific job.
“Although five teams can realistically win the premiership, I’m predicting a Roosters-Rabbitohs finale.”