Jamayne Isaako has revealed he discovered his goal-kicking last year after a change in technique that occurred as a result of the new rules that were introduced.
The Broncos winger was speaking at a promotion for the NRL's Magic Round when the topic of his goal kicking came up. He stated that his fear of being fined for taking too long in taking goal kicks was the catalyst in changing his technique, which has seen him missing conversions.
Goal kickers have 80 seconds to kick for goal once a try has been awarded, and the potential for fines is there if the kickers take longer than their designated time.
The 22-year-old's conversion rate is 70.6 per cent in 2019, as opposed to his 2018 form, where it was sitting at 83.
Isaako conceded that it had been affecting his kicking, but is trying to rectify for it by reverting back to his strengths.
"My technique changed a bit this year with the new rule that came in," Isaako toldย NRL Media.ย
"It sort of mucked up my processes a wee bit so I have gone back to how I was kicking the ball last year. I think the main thing is sticking to what I know best.
"Now you donโt have much time as a kicker. That is what I was worried about in those early rounds. I was rushing it a wee bit and hoping for the best. The last couple of rounds I went back to what I did last year and it is working for me better.โ
The 2018 NRL rookie of the year has been everything in his power to ensure he returns to the striking form that made him such a force to be reckoned with last season.
"I have still been doing kicking on my off days. I have been going down to Carina Leagues stadium with Mick De Vere and did a couple of kicking sessions with him. I go to West End, at Davies Park, and do a bit of my own stuff in the background," he said.
"I think being able to get that extra work in is going to go a long way towards helping me.
"I am definitely not where I want to be and where I was playing last year, but it is only early rounds and I am still trying to find my feet. Hopefully within the next couple of weeks, and as the season goes on, I will find form again,โ Isaako said.
While it has been a disappointing start for the Broncos in 2019, Isaako remains optimistic that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
"It has been a tough few weeks for the boys and the club not being able to string a win together but I think collectively as a team we are heading in the right direction."
Isaako and Brisbane will be hoping to return to winning ways on Sunday afternoon against Canberra.