LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Isaah Yeo is feeling for Dylan Edwards, who has been ruled out of the State of Origin series opener due to a quad injury.
The Penrith fullback was set to make his debut for the Blues, but now his dreams have been dashed just days before the big game.
Yeo, a stalwart for NSW, is grateful to have James Tedesco ready to step in and fill the void left by Edwards.
"Dylan was chomping at the bit to represent the Blues, but unfortunately, he won't get that chance this time around," Yeo lamented.
"It's a tough blow for him, especially after all the hard work he's put in to get to this point.
But he's still here with us, keeping the energy up and supporting the team."
Despite the setback, there is hope that Edwards will recover in time for game two in Melbourne.
Yeo knows how much this opportunity meant to his teammate and feels for him deeply.
"He was so close to achieving his dream, only to have it snatched away at the last minute," Yeo said.
"But we're lucky to have someone like Ted to step in and make a seamless transition."
Known for his humility and hard work, Edwards is taking the setback in stride, but Yeo can see the disappointment in his eyes.
"Dylan is a quiet achiever, but his passion for the game is undeniable," Yeo observed.
"He was putting in the extra yards at training, trying to do everything right, and it's heartbreaking to see him miss out like this."
As the Blues rally together in preparation for the series opener, Yeo and his teammates are determined to make the most of the situation.
With Tedesco leading the charge, they are ready to face whatever challenges come their way on the field.