The conclusion of the regular season in the NRL was marked by Round 27, leaving only eight teams vying for glory in the finals.
While the off-season looms on the horizon, there's still excitement surrounding the matches ahead.
This past weekend not only determined the minor premiership but also set the stage for an action-packed finals series, providing motivation for teams looking forward.
Reflecting on the latest developments, here are key takeaways from the weekend's NRL matches.
Cameron Munster's future is in flux as he prepares to enter the transfer market, having turned down a contract extension from Melbourne. Speculation surrounds his potential return to the Broncos, though the financial offers he might receive are unlikely to match prior expectations.
Coby Black's debut left a significant mark, arguably the best seen in recent memory. His performance has raised the stakes for Ethan Sanders as the halfback position for the next season comes into focus.
Interestingly, Broncos' decision to release Black to Canberra may prompt further scrutiny of their recruitment strategy, especially with talent like Jonah Pezet joining the ranks next season.
The decision to move the Sharks' final to Allianz Stadium was a strategic move, ending the era of suburban ground finals. This shift signifies a larger trend, signaling less reliance on traditional venues such as Penrith Park and Brookvale.
Critics argue that the NRL leadership should clarify their intentions about these venue changes. Fans deserve transparency regarding the necessity of hosting finals in larger stadiums instead of smaller, established locations.