As the NRL gears up for another season, uncertainty looms with the introduction of new rules.
Fans along the eastern seaboard are clinging to the mantra: "It's only round one."
In a state of anxiety, supporters of teams like the Eels, Titans, and Broncos are particularly vocal about their concerns.
These fears echo even louder among neutral fans who recall the chaos of the 2021 season, marked by extensive blowouts and relentless set restarts.
Many are wary of a repeat performance that could necessitate a revisitation of rule changes, reminiscent of a prior season when regulations were dialed back.
The fallout from that year left an "unofficial asterisk attached to the try and points-scoring records" that emerged during the tumult.
A lingering hope persists that history will not repeat itself.
Indeed, the phrase "It's only round one" serves as both a reassurance and a reminder that the season has just begun.
With the excitement and unpredictability that accompanies the opening week, fans are left to wonder what developments lie ahead.
As the teams take to the field, everyone watches closely, eager to see how the new rules will affect the game.