Few are more qualified to delve into the severity of the scars that State of Origin has inflicted on Mitchell Pearce than Josh Rosenthal. via MichaelChammas
"He puts so much pressure on himself, and that's because he's a perfectionist. But he is not responsible for whether NSW win or lose. These high expectations he once put on himself, they can be dangerous. If they are harnessed in a healthy way it can be successful, but it can also go against you.
"We're talking about a guy whose life was so revolved around rugby league that his general behaviour was 'win and be happy, lose and be unhappy'. To have that as your self-worth is not healthy."But plenty has changed in Pearce's life. He's deeply spiritual, finding comfort in the study of Buddhism. "I spoke to him last night and I know how important this game is to him, but it's not the be-all and end-all," Rosenthal said.
For Pearce, his ability to deal with what may come from Wednesday night's decider will be his biggest challenge since being shown the door by his beloved Roosters last year. "I was concerned with the pressure he had on him, because it's a lot for a young person to cope with. But it's something he dealt with when he came back from Thailand having to face the media and the scrutiny.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
2019 state of origin: Matt Gillett ruled out of Maroons teamMaroons back-rower Matt Gillett has been ruled out of the State of Origin decider, with Ethan Lowe to take his place in the squad.
Read more »
NSW Blues Origin 3 team: David Klemmer set to start with Daniel SaifitiAfter initially being overlooked for Origin III, David Klemmer is set to return to the starting line-up for Wednesday night's series decider. ✏️ via MichaelChammas NRL
Read more »
Game III latest: Tears, cheers on Origin eveStateOfOrigin Game III: Here's your ultimate guide with everything you need to know before tonight's decider. Let us know who you are backing — NSWRL or QLDmaroons.
Read more »
NSW star's reality check for Origin deciderThe Blues might be going into the State of Origin decider as the overwhelming favourites. 9News
Read more »
The Teddy and Turbo Show to come with R rating for Queensland viewersTom Trbojevic and James Tedesco believe their on-field chemistry can somehow get better again after demolishing Queensland through the middle in Origin II.
Read more »