LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
Braden Hamlin-Uele made a triumphant return from injury as the Newtown Jets fell to the Rabbitohs in a hard-fought NSW Cup clash at Accor Stadium over the weekend.
The prop forward, fresh off the sidelines with a knee injury, brought some much-needed muscle to the Jets' pack, showing grit and determination in the face of a 24-12 defeat.
Backed up by the late inclusion of second-rower Billy Burns, who was a last-minute scratching from the Sharks' NRL lineup against the Rabbitohs, the Jets battled bravely but ultimately came up short against their rivals.
Hamlin-Uele, a warrior on the field with his New Zealand and Samoa representative experience, made his presence felt from the get-go with powerful runs and bone-crunching tackles.
His performance undoubtedly sent a message to the Sharks' coaching staff, hinting at a possible return to the top-tier squad and a milestone 100th NRL appearance in the near future.
Meanwhile, Burns added a spark to the Jets' attack, showcasing his skills on the left edge and setting up a crucial try for halfback Niwhai Puru early in the game.
Though Newtown took an early lead, the Rabbitohs fought back and ultimately emerged victorious, proving that in the game of Rugby League, anything can happen on any given day.
Despite the loss, the Jets can take solace in the fighting spirit shown by their players, knowing that they have the resilience and determination to bounce back stronger in the next round.
In the unpredictable world of Rugby League, only the toughest survive, and the Jets are ready to prove they have what it takes to come out on top in the battles to come.