The Wests Tigers and Dolphins closed their pre-seasons with encouraging wins on Friday night while the Penrith Panthers and New Zealand Warriors finished with defeats.
All four teams revealed both strengths and frailties during the Leichhardt double-header that will shape selection debates in the coming days.
Cleary's high shot emerged as a talking point after a heavy collision that raised questions about discipline and timing in the playmakers' game.
Makasini's role also drew attention as his minutes and positioning suggested he could either start or provide impact from the bench.
The Panthers will need to address cohesion across their spine after a performance that lacked the usual fluency.
The Warriors' finish was similarly patchy and their defensive patterns invited scrutiny ahead of Round 1.
The Tigers leave Leichhardt with confidence and a useful rhythm, albeit with the luxury of a Round 1 bye to fine-tune combinations.
The Dolphins showed promising structures and depth that could make them a dark horse once the regular season begins.
Coaches now face selection headaches as fringe players push for spots and established names seek to cement roles.
Fans can expect answers to several of these questions as teams intensify preparations and finalise their squads.