Souths halves not concerned by big hits

South Sydney’s diminutive, premiership-winning halves Adam Reynolds and Luke Keary have dismissed suggestions playmakers are being targeted more than ever in the NRL.

North Queensland called for better protection for playmakers after witnessing treatment meted out to Johnathan Thurston by Newcastle on Saturday, when the Test superstar copped several heavy knocks and finished the game unable to see out of one eye.

Knights enforcer Beau Scott pleaded guilty to a grade one dangerous contact charge for one late high shot on Thurston, escaping suspension – an outcome that caused outrage north of the Tweed.

Former great Andrew Johns claimed on Sunday that skilful players were being targeted more than ever.

But the 182cm Keary, who weighs in at 82kg, said he didn’t expect any special treatment from referees.

“If you want to take the ball to the line you have to expect to get hit,” Keary told AAP.

“If you don’t want to get hit, don’t take the ball to the line. It’s rugby league.

“It’s always been that way and will continue to be. You know what to expect. I’ve not been hit any more now than before.

“I haven’t been the victim of any cheap shots and I honestly haven’t seen anyone do it in the NRL.

“Big Sammy Moa at the Roosters got me good at the weekend but it wasn’t anything more than a strong tackle.

“It’s part of the game and as long as you don’t dish out anything illegal or cheap then you have to take it on the chin.”

Reynolds, just a centimetre taller than Keary and three kilos heavier, spent 11 minutes out of the game for a concussion test after being caught accidentally by the knee of Aidan Guerra in Sunday’s win over the Sydney Roosters.

He returned to lead the team to a come-from-behind 34-26 victory.

He echoed the sentiments of his halves partner and said being hit by big forwards was simply an occupational hazard.

“It’s just part of the game for me. We get hit a lot, you get up and you move on,” Reynolds told AAP.

“It’s just what happens when you take on the line but that’s our job and you take one for the team when you have to.

“I try not to worry about it, if you get hit, you get hit. I just worry about my game that’s enough for me to think about.”

Stay up to date with the latest sports news
Follow our social accounts to get exclusive content and all the latest sporting news!