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Prodigy’s huge response after axing; ex-Raider resurfaces after three-year exile — Ressies Wrap Heamasi Makasini may have found himself dropped to NSW Cup by coach Benji Marshall, but the young talent has responded emphatically. Watch every game of every round of the NRL Premiership LIVE with no ad-breaks during play on FOX LEAGUE, available on Kayo Sports | New to Kayo? Join now and get your first month for just $1. After being taken out of the NRL side after the Wests Tigers’ Round 22 clash against the Parramatta Eels, where he struggled on both ends of the field, Makasini has taken his opportunity in reserve grade to rebuild his confidence and put his best foot forward. Axed after missing two tackles and only making 65 running metres, the outside back has shown fans exactly why he remains so highly rated by the Tigers. Playing at Lidcombe Oval over the weekend for the Western Suburbs Magpies, he exploded into life, scoring four tries, producing five line-breaks and running for 151 metres from just 15 carries. Although the Magpies were unable to overcome the Dragons and ultimately suffered a 36-24 defeat, Makasini was one of the standout performers on the field. Providing a timely reminder of his attacking ability, he will look to close out the season strongly and continue putting pressure on Marshall for another opportunity in the NRL side. Meanwhile, for the Dragons, veteran Josh Kerr was among the standout performers, crossing for two tries while running for 143 metres and producing two line-breaks. Rookie half Kade Reed also played a starring role, finishing with 12 points, two try assists, 419 kicking metres and a forced drop-out. Former Canberra Raiders centre Brad Morkos was also sighted on the field, nearly three years after walking away from the NRL, marking a surprise return to rugby league. A multi-time international for Lebanon, it was the 23-year-old’s second appearance for the Dragons after making his NSW Cup club debut the week before against the Newtown Jets. Playing on the wing, Morkos finished with 83 running metres, one tackle bust, 21 post-contract metres and seven tackles as he looks to build momentum ahead of the Rugby League World Cup later this year. DOLPHINS BACKLINE DILEMMA The Dolphins may lose Jamayne Isaako and Jake Averillo at the end of the season, but there still isn’t enough room in the club’s backline to fit in both TraiFuller and TevitaNaufahu. The selection squeeze continues to leave the Dolphins facing a difficult decision over which outside backs to prioritise heading into 2027, with both Fuller and Naufahu pushing for regular NRL opportunities. The duo once again showcased their talent in the QLD Cup, starring as the Redcliffe Dolphins annihilated the Perth Bears-affiliated Brisbane Tigers outfit, 46-16. Fuller was particularly impressive, finishing the contest with 234 running metres, two try assists, one line-break, two line-break assists and a try to his name. Meanwhile, Naufahu was equally dominant, racking up a game-high 250 running metres to go with a try and two line-breaks.