Thursday 11 August 2016 20:28, UK
By his own admission, it has been a difficult season for Atelea Vea but just as St Helens have started to turn the corner, the Tongan international believes he is doing the same.
Saints are arguably the form side in Super League as they made it six straight wins with victory away to Warrington in the opening game of the Super 8s, keeping them in the hunt for a place in the top four.
Few could have predicted that back in June when they lost to Catalan Dragons to leave themselves seemingly out of contention.
But they have been able to turn things around and Vea, one of those to struggle during that difficult run, is also coming back into form ahead of a crucial match against the Dragons on Friday night, live on Sky Sports 2 HD.
"It's probably the first time that I've been like this with my form for an extended period," said Vea.
"But I feel like I am coming out the other end of it. The team has turned the corner as well and I have jumped on board.
"The run has given us a real confidence boost and for us the aim is to reach the semi-final and play in these big games.
"The good thing at Saints is there is a lot of competition from the young guys coming through. That means that if you have an off-week or two there is someone there to take your place.
"We have the pressure to keep performing and feed off each other. That helped us turn things around."
Leaders Hull FC slipped up against sixth-place Castleford Tigers last time out but that shock will spur the team into action for Thursday's clash at Widnes Vikings according to forward Josh Bowden.
Tonga internationals Mahe Fonua and Fetuli Talanoa, alongside prop Liam Watts, return to boost a squad that holds top spot by a single point over Warrington.
"It's absolutely massive for us," admitted Bowden. "We know we need a few wins to get a place in the top four secured, which is what we're hoping to achieve.
"We've got a short turnaround, playing on Thursday night. It's come around quickly but I'm sure we'll be ready for it."
