The NSW Cup returned this weekend, with fans treated to an exciting opening round of reserve grade action.
As we do every week at Sporting News, we've highlighted the standout performers from the past weekend.
Note: the Queensland Cup begins this coming weekend.
Tom Opacic - Parramatta Eels
Arguably the player of the week, Opacic scored four tries in the Eels' dominant 34-6 win over the Dragons.
The 27-year-old scored the opening two tries of the game, before adding two more in the second half.
He was a constant attacking threat and didn't appear to run out of steam.
Opacic made a number of first-grade appearances for the Eels last season, with this week's NSW Cup performance sure to make Brad Arthur consider his options in the centre position.
Mitch Rein - Parramatta Eels
Rein was pivotal to the Eels' big victory this week, keeping the game flowing from the hooker position.
He was important defensively, too, making 41 tackles, which was the equal-most in the game.
Although Reed Mahoney is Parramatta's first-choice hooker, Rein is certainly a strong backup option.
The veteran - who last played for the Gold Coast Titans - also scored a try early in the second half.
Xavier Savage - Canberra Raiders
Despite his team's 36-22 loss to the Newtown Jets, Xavier Savage was exciting as usual.
Only 19-years-old, the Canberra Raiders fullback is loaded with talent, showing flashes of brilliance in the NSW Cup this week.
He scored two tries - one in each half - and put his electric speed on display in his 188 running metres.
Savage made two errors during the game, but at his age, he is still a major prospect.
Soni Luke - Penrith Panthers
Luke was another hooker that stood out this week, guiding the Panthers to a 24-4 win over the Blacktown Sea Eagles.
His 40 tackles were the most on-ground, and he also scored a try for good measure.
The 26-year-old is viewed as Apisai Koroisau's potential replacement when he departs next season, and this match was a great audition.
Daniel Suluka-Fifita - North Sydney Bears
Suluka-Fifita's 174 running metres in only 61 minutes of playing time earns him a spot on this list.
The 22-year-old put on a powerhouse display in his team's win over the Knights.
His strength and consistency were extremely impressive, notching up 60 post-contact metres.
