Bulldogs hooker Reed Mahoney has responded to recent criticism, admitting being labelled a grub isn’t on his mind when he steps onto the field.
The 26-year-old found himself in hot water in round four after a tackle on Cronulla utility Daniel Atkinson, but managed to escape suspension for the incident.
Mahoney copped plenty of scrutiny from ex-players, fans and journalists after the tackle, but silenced some of the critics with a starring role in Canterbury’s win over Newcastle on Sunday.
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Speaking to media on Tuesday morning, the niggly dummy-half said he was motivated to quieten the noise with his actions for the ladder-leading Bulldogs.
Reed Mahoney is ragdolled after his high shot on Daniel Atkinson. Fox League
“There was a lot of stuff last week on that,” Mahoney said.
“The thing that motivated me was going out there and performing well on the weekend and getting a win for our side.
“I have discussions with the coach. I’m never gonna take away my passion and love for the game. As soon as I get across the line, I do anything to win.
“I’ll say now, if I had my time over, I could have done that (tackle on Atkinson) a little bit better. I’ve been really disciplined this year, but I probably could have handled that tackle a little bit better.
“I guess that’s sort of how I train and how I play – lead the line speed and be that energiser person around the ruck. I’m willing to do anything it takes to win footy games.”
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Mahoney is one of the game’s best No.9s and has been knocking on the door for Queensland State of Origin selection for a number of years, dating back to his time with Parramatta.
However, the constant knock and grub label has always followed Mahoney, which many have claimed could be the major factor holding him back from rep football.
Reed Mahoney. NRL Imagery
When quizzed about how he handles the unwanted tag, Mahoney said those in his own inner circle are who he looks to guide his on-field foundation around.
“Honestly, it doesn’t really bother me,” he said.
“I’m really comfortable with the people that I have close to me – my family, my friends, my coach and my teammates. If other people outside want to say that, they are willing to do that, but I’m really happy with how I am in my own life and it doesn’t really bother me.
“People are entitled to their opinion, but within these four walls, they don’t believe it.”
Mahoney’s attack dog style has been a net positive for the Belmore-based outfit, who remain undefeated after five rounds heading into a bye.
The crafty hooker believes his passionate style lifts those around him.
Reed Mahoney speaks to media after round five. Nine
“The game is played at 100 miles an hour and I’m the most passionate person in the team and I would do anything it takes to win,” Mahoney said.
“There’s been times when I have crossed the line and it’s something I am still improving on, but it’s nothing personal against anyone.
“I’m working hard on my discipline and I would do anything for this team.
“If you don’t go out there and play hard football and be passionate, you get yourself hurt. It’s the most physical game in the world and I’m not the biggest bloke on the field.
“I play with my heart on my sleeve and that’s how I play the game.”
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