LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Full throttle: Rookie Papalii embracing every opportunity
Eels rookie Joash Papalii experienced a whirlwind of emotions during his team's 22-20 victory over the Broncos last night.
In his first full match as fullback since debuting with the club in Round 12, Papalii faced a tense moment in the final minute when he fumbled a kick from Gehamat Shibasaki.
This error seemed to open the door for Reece Walsh to score a last-minute try that would secure a win for the Broncos.
However, the potential game-winning try was ultimately ruled offside by the Bunker, allowing Papalii-who was initially distraught-to celebrate a hard-fought win.
This match also marked the return of halfback Mitch Moses, whose kicking prowess made an immediate positive impact.
Papalii expressed excitement to play alongside the representative halfback for the first time.
As part of coach Jason Ryles' future plans for the club, Papalii, the nephew of NRL legend Josh Papalii, has brought a refreshing energy to the team and is navigating a promising start to his NRL career.