LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
Jake Clifford's journey back to the North Queensland Cowboys has been nothing short of a remarkable homecoming story.
The young halfback, who was initially set to lead the Northern Pride in the finals, has instead found himself in the navy blue jersey of the Cowboys, ready to make his mark in the upcoming elimination final against Newcastle.
Handpicked by coach Todd Payten to fill the shoes of Chad Townsend in Round 24, Clifford has seized the opportunity with both hands and is now poised to play a crucial role in Saturday's do-or-die clash.
Meanwhile, his former teammates in Cairns will be anxiously awaiting their fate as they battle it out for a spot in the grand final.
For the Cairns native, this finals appearance with the Cowboys is a dream come true, marking a full circle moment in his career.
After signing back with the club he grew up supporting and debuted for in 2018, Clifford is eager to prove his worth on the big stage.
Coincidentally, Clifford's return to the Cowboys followed a stint in England and two seasons with none other than this week's opponents, the Knights.
Now, he is back where he belongs, ready to show the rugby league world what he's made of on home turf.