It looks like you may be using adblocking software to view this site.
Many features on the site, such as video playback, may not work properly when using adblocking software.
Please whitelist our domain or disable your adblocker to access all features and videos.
Playmaker Brad Schneider is determined to hit the jackpot in Las Vegas as the race to replace Jarome Luai as the Panthers five-eighth comes down to the wire.
The NSW and Samoan star's off-season departure has left a major void in Ivan Cleary's side, with a host of emerging playmakers spending the summer vying for the chance to step into the role.
Schneider has become the forgotten man in the contest, with new recruit Blaize Talagi and Jack Cole seemingly the leading contenders, while Daine Laurie and Trent Toelau have also had their names thrown around.
While the squad flew out to Vegas on Thursday, Toelau remained at home and will line up for Penrith in Friday's Witzer Pre-Season Challenge clash with Manly at Leichhardt Oval.
Schneider is typically a primary playmaker in the No.7 jumper, however is confident he has the skillset to slot into the five-eighth role and play alongside a ball-dominant half such as Cleary.
It looks like you may be using adblocking software to view this site.
Many features on the site, such as video playback, may not work properly when using adblocking software.
Please whitelist our domain or disable your adblocker to access all features and videos.
Brad Schneider Try
It's a level of versatility that could prove crucial in Las Vegas, given the superstar halfback underwent off-season shoulder surgery and will enter the clash with the Sharks without a pre-season game under his belt.
"I can play six," Schneider said. "I can play any position, I see myself fitting in both positions.
"I always want to be in the 17 no matter what but it's great for the game to go over to Vegas and hopefully I'll get a go."
The reigning premiers will bring the curtain down on a four-game extravaganza at Allegiant Stadium, the clash with Cronulla a repeat of last year's preliminary final and set to provide a climax for a stunning day of rugby league.
Match: Panthers v Sharks
Round 1 -
home Team
Panthers
6th Position
away Team
Sharks
12th Position
Venue: Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas
While Schneider is eager to step into the five-eighth role, Talagi appears to have his nose in front at this stage.
The off-season recruit has impressed over the summer and is viewed by many as a future star. At just 19 years of age, he won't even be old enough to drink when he lands in the USA.
Should the teenager line up at five-eighth, he will form one of the youngest left edges in the competition.
18-year-old Casey McLean looks set to have first crack at the centre position, with 21-year-old Paul Alamoti on the wing. Back-rower Isaiah Papali'i will bring some much-needed experience to the unit and act as Talagi's bodyguard.
Schneider has been impressed with Talagi's performances during his first pre-season at the Panthers and said the competition for the No.6 jumper has brought the best out of all of the club's halves.
It looks like you may be using adblocking software to view this site.
Many features on the site, such as video playback, may not work properly when using adblocking software.
Please whitelist our domain or disable your adblocker to access all features and videos.
Woods joins WWE Monday Night Raw broadcast on Netflix
"There's a few of us going for it but it's been a healthy competition," Schneider said. "Everyone that's in the mix is training really well so whoever gets it will have earned it.
"Whenever you've got healthy competition like that it betters everyone, makes everyone hungry and gets the best out of you."
Whether he lines up at five-eighth or not, Schneider is still likely to find himself in the 17 for the clash at Allegiant Stadium.
The playmaker's versatility has seen him fill the bench utility role regularly since joining the Panthers last year and he has provided a steady hand when called upon in the halves or at hooker.
It looks like you may be using adblocking software to view this site.
Many features on the site, such as video playback, may not work properly when using adblocking software.
Please whitelist our domain or disable your adblocker to access all features and videos.
NRL X Daytona 500
While he has also completed stints in Canberra and Hull KR in the UK Super League, Schneider only turned 24 on Saturday and his best football is still in front of him.
Cleary might have an iron grip on the Panthers' halfback role but Schneider praised his teammate for helping to elevate his game.
"He's got a lot of footy smarts so anywhere you need little tips, he always helps out," Schneider said.
