After a powerhouse performance for the Wests Tigers, Martin Taupau has spoken about the importance of leading from the front and laying a foundation for his team and his club.
"I've just got to lead the way for the forwards," Taupau said after breaking 11 tackles and scoring two tries against the Rabbitohs on Friday night.
"[I've just got to] lay a foundation for the club and it's just all about the snowball effect so we'll build on the back of a good win now."
Taupau said he and his fellow Tigers drew a line in the sand this week, having not won a match since Round 8 against the Bulldogs.
"It's been pretty difficult for us over the last few weeks," he said.
"As 'JT' [coach Jason Taylor] said, we're just sick of losing. It was a different vibe during the week at training and there was a lot of energy in the warm up so we brought that onto the field and we came away with the win… we just need to build on that."
On a personal note, Taupau shrugged of suggestions that his own form came off the back of his powerhouse performance for the Kiwis in the Anzac Test.
Rather, the big lock said his form has come from his teammates.
"I get a lot of confidence coming to training and playing alongside 'Woodsy' (Aaron Woods), Farah, Luke Brooks, Mitch Moses.
"I get a lot out of that so it's all about being consistent and leading the way for the boys."
"It's all come down to believing in my ability and just sticking to the process with what JT's brought to the table."
After the game Taupau was the talk of the town, particularly as a result of the two ridiculously strong fends leading to tries.
However the most glowing praise came from his Tigers coach Jason Taylor.
"Marty's really stepped back up to the plate and really made a difference in the way we've trained and our attitude and then tonight he led the way.
"He wanted to lead the way tonight before the game and he did that."
