Ezra Mam said he’s blocking out the boos and staying laser-focused on Brisbane’s premiership charge, despite continued backlash from rival fans following his return to the NRL.
The 22-year-old five-eighth missed the start of the season after being suspended over drug-driving charges. Since his return, Mam has been met with loud jeers from opposition crowds every time he touches the ball.
But instead of biting back, the rising Broncos star responded with calm and perspective in his first official press conference since the incident.
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“Every fan is gonna have their opinion and I can only do what I can do, which is play good footy,” Mam told reporters on Tuesday. “I'm sure with time people will change the way that they feel, and if they don't, I can't really control that… I'm not really taking notice of that.”
‘That’s just footy’: Mam takes mature stance on crowd criticism
“That's just footy and fans are what makes the game very entertaining,” Mam added. “Hopefully, people can realise that I'm trying to play some good footy and their opinions might change over time. I couldn't really tell you.”
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Mam has made a strong return to the field, recording 10 try assists in just eight games this season. His presence has sparked a more dynamic Broncos attack during a rollercoaster campaign under Michael Maguire.
He also addressed the end of his long-standing rift with Spencer Leniu, stemming from a racial vilification incident in Las Vegas. The pair resolved their differences after a post-Origin handshake in game two. “I'm grateful for him coming up to me,” Mam said. “As time goes on, you don't want to hold grudges.”
Mam will again don the No.6 jumper when the Broncos face South Sydney on Friday night.