Darius Boyd lifts the lid on Reece Walsh act that NRL fans don't see

Former Broncos winger Darius Boyd has come out and praised young star Reece Walsh for his professionalism and dedication behind the scenes. Walsh has arguably become the biggest superstar in the NRL having taken the game by storm with the Broncos in a phenomenal season.

The 21-year-old has scored nine tries, provided 25 try assists and produced 19 linebreaks so far in 2023. Having been catapulted into the Maroons team, Walsh is set to play in his maiden grand final against the Panthers.

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And Boyd, a former Broncos star who works with Kevvie Walters to coach the outside backs, has revealed to fans Walsh's attitude behind the scenes that has helped him become the best fullback in 2023. "If we've got a video meeting at 8am he will come in at 7.30am to see extra clips," Boyd said of the 21-year-old.

"Walshy is a perfectionist, which we know is not achievable, but that leads you to excellence. It is his work ethic, attention to detail and thirst to be better that are second-to-none. That is so exciting for me to be involved with."

And Walsh has been full of praise for Boyd, who was also present to help him when he was a youngster. "I am very grateful to Darbs. I wouldn't be here doing what I am doing without him," Walsh said.

"Having him close each week and getting tips off him and picking his brain as much as I can … he has been massive. I wouldn't say just this year either. Darbs came to sessions when I was at the EPD (elite player development squad) here in juniors and was teaching us three-on-twos and summing up situations."

In a scary realisation for rival clubs, Boyd said Walsh is still learning at fullback and there is plenty more to come for the 21-year-old. "You have to be realistic and understand that while you want perfection you are not going to get it right all the time on and off the field," Boyd said. "Walshy is still learning that and hopefully myself and the coaching staff can help him in that sense and fast-track him."

Reece Walsh and Broncos in training scare

On Tuesday, there were concerns during a session with Walsh, Adam Reynolds and Herbie Farnworth all receiving treatment at training. The most serious issue appears to revolve around Farnworth, with the star centre leaving training early and not returning. The English international emerged with strapping on his upper leg for what appears to be a hamstring or quad issue.

"He said, 'I'll be right', in his accent," Forward Kobe Hetherington said after the session. "He's a tough bugger. He'll be right to go." However, Walsh is certain to play against the Panthers and was resolute about the Broncos' chances against a team going for three-straight premiership titles.

"We don't fear them. We know the brand of footy we can play," he said. "We are going to give them the respect that they have earnt, but we will play our footy."

with AAP

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