LAS VEGAS: The Panthers’ unexpected hero in Vegas has confessed he was filled with fear when he was beckoned from the sidelines after a mere three minutes.
Stylish utility back Daine Laurie entered the fray unsure whether he’d even see game time – yet he wound up scoring two stunning tries that swung the match in favour of his team against a courageous Cronulla.
However, when Laurie was called upon to substitute for the concussed winger Casey McLean in the early minutes, he felt quite anxious.
Panthers player Daine Laurie. Getty
“I can play virtually any position in the backline, but stepping onto the wing made me quite anxious,” Laurie shared with Wide World of Sports.
“I had been on the wing a few times last year, and it didn’t go well.
“I made a few mistakes that ended up costing us, which impacted my confidence. I prefer to play fullback, centre, or in the halves—anywhere but the wing—but at the end of the day, you do what you must for your team.”
Catch the 2025 NRL premiership live and free on Nine and 9Now.
In addition to his two tries, Laurie excelled with two line breaks – more than any other player on the field during the closely contested match – and garnered high praise from coach Ivan Cleary.
“He did an outstanding job when he came on,” Cleary remarked.
“Playing as the No.14 is a tough gig – but he’s capable of filling any role in the backline and made some crucial plays for us.”
As for McLean, he was shaken up but is recovering nicely after taking a significant blow to the head.
“He’s not too bad,” Cleary added.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
Fanpage: SportArena.com.au.
LiveScore – Live Sports Results & Odds.
