NRL Round 23: Five standout performers from NSW Cup and QLD Cup
There were many familiar faces in the reserve class over the weekend, including a mid-season recruit who was resplendent in his new colours.
In the QLD Cup action, a talented youngster Todd Payten reminded of his skills, while two veteran NSW Cup players pushed for more top-flight action.
Who excelled in the NSW Cup and QLD Cup this weekend?
Oliver Gildart – North Sydney Bears
Every time a player makes five tries in a match, they inevitably end up on an “outstanding player” list.
In his first game since joining the Roosters mid-season, Oliver Gildart produced a brilliant individual performance for the Bears in a 60-4 win over Newcastle.
The England international crossed five tries, made five linebreaks and ran for 150 meters as North Sydney proved too strong for his opponents and cemented himself in the top-4 of the NSW Cup.
While Gildart is unlikely to make an NRL appearance again this year, he is a solid pick-up for the Roosters should an injury strike and his performance in the reserves only proves it.
Makahesi Makatoa – Parramatta Eels
Makahesi Makatoa has been demoted from the NRL line-up in recent weeks, showing Brad Arthur plenty of reasons to call him aside en route to the finals.
The front rower was in beast mode in the 32-10 win over Souths, running 242 yards and making 27 tackles without missing a shot.
Makatoa also racked up well over 100 post-contact yards — the only player in the match to do so.
Zach Dockar Clay – Canterbury Bulldogs
After playing just 12 minutes in the Bulldogs’ loss to the Warriors on Friday night, Zack Dockar-Clay assisted the NSW Cup and showed Mick Potter why he should show a lot more in the top grade.
The 27-year-old, who played on the lock, was instrumental in Canterbury’s 38-12 win over Blacktown, finishing with 158 yards, three offloads, two line break assists and a try assist.
Dockar-Clay also performed admirably off the ball, making 35 tackles with just one miss.
Kane Bradley – Mackay editor
With just one NRL game to his name despite a two-year deal with the Cowboys, Kane Bradley is continuing his strong season in the QLD Cup for the Cutters.
The forward winger opened the scoring for Mackay with a crazy leap into the corner as they clinched a thrilling 38-34 win over league leaders Burleigh.
Insane attempt by Kane Bradley #intrustsupercup today for @MackayCutters @FOXNRL @nthqldcowboys pic.twitter.com/6YHiWU80Av
— Jake Gifford (@jakegiffo) August 14, 2022
Bradley finished with an impressive 186 yards, two line breaks and a try assist while continuing to push for a first-grade recall under Todd Payten.
Scott Galeano – Tweed Heads Gulls
Perhaps the least known player on this list, Scott Galeano had a day in the QLD Cup for the Seagulls over the weekend.
The winger scored a hat-trick in a big match against Northern Pride to propel his side into the top-8 of the competition.
Galeano also finished with a whopping 241 yards – more than any other player – as well as two line breaks and four tackle breaks.