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Warriors hooker Alehana Mara - Source: Photosport -
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Young Warriors hooker Alehana Mara isn't concerned about the prospect of facing an emotionally charged Eels side tonight.
The 20-year-old, who has been impressive in his first two NRL games, told tvnz.co.nz the Warriors will be looking to finish the regular season on a high.
Much hype has come around the emotion behind Parramatta in their final game of 2010, in what will serve as a farewell for veteran Nathan Cayless.
Mara knows they will run out with a bit of extra zip but is looking to fight fire with fire.
"They've got a lot to play for but it's just another game. Just because they've got a lot of emotion doesn't mean we don't," he said.
"You can feel it in training. Every little thing we do, everyone's just there and that brothership just keeps growing.
"We're coming right at the perfect time."
Meanwhile, the youngster looms as a huge threat for the Eels and will come off the bench with energy and aggression at dummy half.
He is having a breakout end to the season which makes him an exciting prospect for next season.
Mara never expected his rise to come so swiftly in top grade football, but is certainly enjoying the fact that his hard work is paying off.
"I feel like I'm going ok, I must be if I'm still playing. He's [Ivan Cleary] got a lot of faith in me at the moment so I have to keep that up.
"I didn't even think I'd get a shot this year and now going into my third game I don't know what to say really.
"Straight from day one I've learnt a lot from Aaron [Heremaia] and Hendo [Ian Henderson].
"Not just on the field but off the field too - just how to act and that sort of thing. They've been god mentors for me."
Tonight's game kicks off at 7:30pm (NZ time) in Sydney.
