Mitchell Pearce knows a thing or two about media and fan scrutiny so it’s little surprise the Newcastle half has come to the defence of embattled St George Illawarra playmaker Ben Hunt who returned to form last weekend against Brisbane.

Despite eliminating the Broncos, Pearce admits the Dragons will do it a lot tougher against South Sydney without Gareth Widdop.

“…If Benny Hunt kicks well and the team completes, and he runs the ball, I still think they’ll have enough points in them if they can get over the advantage line in the middle,” Pearce told NRL.com.

“I was actually talking to Benny after the game last week and I’ve been in a similar position in my career, being a halfback you’ve got to expect that.

“He shouldn’t be doubting himself at all, he’s a great player, he’s played a lot of big games, and until round 10 or 11 he was the best player in the game.”

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