Taylor joined the Raiders on a train-on deal during the pre-season and supplemented his income with pub work arranged by coach Ricky Stuart.

The 28-year-old shed nine kilograms and was subsequently given a one-year NRL contract.

The former Brisbane, South Sydney and Titans player has the backing of his team mates with Paulo declaring Taylor’s intimidation factor as key.

"Everyone’s based our team around the intimidation side of things and with Dave coming in I’m sure that brings a lot of power coming off the bench," he said.

Paulo, now in his second year in the Australian Capital following three seasons at the Eels, said he was fired up to take on Wests’ big men including NSW and Kangaroos enforcer Aaron Woods.

“I try and test myself no matter who’s in front of me,” Paulo said.

“Obviously (Woods) is a test front rower, soon to be the leader of the Aussie pack. It will be a good challenge for me and Shannon.”