Broncos have belief to buck losing trend as Penrith loom

Jesse Arthars says the Broncos still have the belief they can go one better than last year, despite a four-game losing streak that has dropped them outside the top eight.

Currently in 10th spot on the ladder, Brisbane premiership hopes have taken a hit in recent week weeks after conceding 112 points in their past four losses, but Arthars said belief remained high in the group they could not only return the finals, but could claim the premiership, led by mindset of coach Kevin Walters.

“He's always pushing positivity at the club and when you go through a couple of losses like we have, it's not always easy, so I think the number one thing for Kev is he's always pushing that positivity, especially on the younger players and just focusing on our roles, making it simple for the boys,” Arthars said.

“We have just got to go out there (and do) what he's told us and try to return the favour and (do) what he's been telling us in the meetings and our training.

“I do (believe we can win it), so hopefully the rest of the boys do it.

"Kevvie's a winner, he's demonstrated that through when he used to play.

"When he gives us the game plans, we try to follow them as best we can; obviously it doesn't always pan out that way, but I think through his positivity and his leadership as our coach, I think we will go a long way."

Arthars made his return from a broken jaw he suffered in Round 9 in the game against the Warriors last week, where the side showed some spirit against his former club despite going down 32-16 in Auckland.

While they will be facing off against the reigning premiers Penrith this Friday night with their Origin stars back in the side, the team will be without Kotoni Staggs for personal reasons, with Arthars hoping he will be able to play his role in getting them back into the winners circle.

With the opposing Panthers wingers Brian To’o and Sunia Turuva two of the leading backs in the game, the winger was looking forward to the challenge ahead.

“When I was sitting on the sidelines, there was a few injuries happening and that's one frustrating thing when you can't get out there. For me to be available this week and obviously last week, it's going to help and not having Tones there as well," Arthars said. 

“I'm personally glad I'm back to be able to contribute, hopefully to a win.

“Whenever we play Penrith and any of the hard teams in the competition, which is the majority, I think I just want to put my best foot forward.

“I have all the confidence in the world mate, I’m a pretty confident, cruisy fellow.

“Whatever Kevin needs me to do out there, I try to do the best of my ability.

“Obviously they are two quality wingers mate and they obviously got the biscuits over us in the grand final.

“I look forward to those matchups with the better players and that's just what you can base your game off, whether you're performing with the top dogs or not, so I'm looking forward to it.”