I’M confident I’ll score them’. That was how Alex Johnston, the PNG Kumul fullback and South Sydney Rabbitohs winger, who has one game left this season, responded to equaling Australia’s National Rugby League (NRL) all-time try-scoring record of 212 set by Ken Irvine, that has stood the test of time since 1973. “Hopefully I will do that against the Roosters next weekend. “They (Roosters) are playing well so if we play the way we can play, I’ll score like three tries. “I’m pretty confident,” said Johnston who has so far scored 110, just two away from equaling Irvine’s 112 tries. He said Irvine’s brother (Peter Irvine) sent him a few messages/emails and wishing him the best of luck. “He just said he can’t wait for me (Johnston) to break the record. “So that’s very nice of them (Irvine family) to reach out to me. “So thankful and I sent a message back to them,” said Johnston. Johnston made these comments while visiting the Hiri West village of Boera along the Motuan coastline on Monday. Johnston was alongside two fellow NRL players, Shaun Lane and Billy Tsikrikas who took part in a school rugby league clinic. His simple advice to the youngsters, was too simply be disciplines, resilient and set goals in both education and rugby league. The Boera rugby league oval was filled with fun and excitement as football development officers from the NRL PNG office set up respective skills stations to give the school children training drills. Johnston further said it was important to give something back to the next generation players. “I’m so happy to be here at Boera and to give back to the community. “I believe there is about nine schools here taking part, so that’s a good thing,” he said, “Just to inspire them, put smiles on their faces and for me to do whatever I can to give back means everything to me. “I love this country (PNG) and I’ll do anything to come here and continue giving back,” added Johnston. The upcoming Pacific Bowl Championship at the end will also be another opportunity for Johnston to don the PNG Kumuls jersey. “I can’t wait. “Last year I was injured so this year, I just can’t wait to be part of the team again and hopefully win a couple of games and win the Pacific Bowl again,” he said. For Johnston the road leading up to PNG’s NRL franchise entry into NRL in 2028 is another opportunity for him to jump on the bandwagon of stars vying to be part of the inaugural side. “I haven’t spoken to any of the other players…but there’s a few guys at Souths (Rabbitohs) that are saying for me to take them as well…but first I need to make sure I’m fit and healthy to be able to be playing in 2028.” Johnston further stated that if he is fit, then hopefully PNG will give him an offer. “As I would love to play for PNG,” he added. Johnston’s advice to youngsters who are passionate about being a NRL player. “It takes a lot of resilience, discipline, and the main thing is to have fun. “If you are playing rugby league and having fun and doing your absolute best…one day you might wear the red and green at the Rabbitohs or you might play for the new PNG team coming up. “Always do your best, be a good person as well and have good attitude,” added Johnston.