The Brisbane Broncos concluded a challenging NRL season with a notable 34-20 victory over the Bulldogs at Accor Stadium, an uplifting finale for departing superstar Payne Haas. While the win highlighted the team's potential, it underscored the bittersweet moment for retiring captain Adam Reynolds, who watched from the coaches' box due to a calf injury. Having missed a farewell match at Suncorp Stadium last week, Reynolds longed to participate in one final game.
Midway through the second half, when winger Josiah Karapani scored his second try, Reynolds' absence was particularly poignant. Despite the win being only Brisbane's third since their earlier victory against the Bulldogs in April, it was a heartening send-off for Haas, who has played a pivotal role in the club for nine seasons.
Haas scored first and despite being temporarily sidelined for a sin-binning due to ruck penalties, he watched as his teammates took charge. The second half featured tries from Billy Walters, Ben Hunt, Jordan Riki, and more from Karapani, showcasing the team's capabilities despite an otherwise disappointing season, which marked the worst record for any defending premier in 45 years.
"As I move forward, I cherish the lifelong friendships and foundations I've built at the Broncos," Haas reflected on his time with the club. Following the season, nine Broncos will depart, but Reynolds will continue in a coaching role. The club has plans to honor Reynolds during South Sydney's Old Boys Day celebrations, recognizing his contributions during his championship-winning tenure with them in 2014.