Vodafone Fiji Bati winger Akuila Uate believes his humble beginning back in Fiji has motivated him to continue fighting for a spot in the NRL and never gave up for his family.
Uate has been the NRL’s bargain buy of the season — a five‑star signing for AUS$180,000.
Manly are only paying 37 per cent of Uate’s contract in 2017 with the remaining AUS$300,000 on his tab being picked up by his former club, the Newcastle Knights.
The former NSW State of Origin winger was demoted to the reserve grade for Newcastle last year when he was approached and signed by Manly.
He has showed a great comeback scoring 11 tries in 16 games, making 59 tackle busts and averaging 107 running metres a match.
The 29-year-old is expected to be part of the Vodafone Fiji Bati team to the Rugby World Cup.
He will be playing for the Sea Eagles when they face the Dragons at 4pm Sunday.
Meanwhile the Roosters will host the Knights at 8 tonight.
Source: Daily Telegraph
