Four big moments from NRL trials, and one we could see in Cairns

The NRL pre-season is about player fitness, combinations, and finalising coaching strategies for the new season. They also provide a glimpse at new players at their new clubs.

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The NRL pre-season is about player fitness, combinations, and finalising coaching strategies for the new season.

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They also provide a glimpse at new players at their new clubs.

Here’s four trial match moments from the past four seasons plus one we could see in 2020.

QUEENSLAND NRL DERBY LOCKED IN FOR CAIRNS

Kalyn Ponga scores during the NRL trial game between the Broncos and the Cowboys at Salter Oval, Bundaberg. Pics Adam Head

2016: Ponga’s first run as a cowboy

The Cowboys and Broncos met a soaking Salter Oval at Bundaberg, and Kalyn Ponga was the star despite the Broncos running amok in a 48-26 win at the Rum City.

Ponga showcased his trademark step, speed and vision in a sensational outing for the Cowboys.

He’s since gone on to move to Newcastle and play for Queensland and Australia.

Cowboys Ben Hampton in his first game, a trial, for the Cowboys at Mackay. Picture: Zak Simmonds

2017: Far North duo make club debuts

Enari Tuala and Ben Hampton’s first games came in separate trials in two states.

Mareeba junior Hampton arrived after four years at Melbourne and went on to play 26 games on North Queensland’s way to the grand final (a loss against his former club), while it was a good look at Cairns-born Tuala in his first NRL season.

Tuala officially debuted later that year.

Cowboys players left in the dark during a power outage at Barlow Park, Cairns. PICTURE: STEWART McLEAN

2018: Lights out for Clifford’s Cowboys

Tully-born Jake Clifford made his first appearance for the Cowboys in an unforgettable trial loss to the Tigers at Barlow Park.

He scored a try in a game stopped for an hour after an unfortunate power outage.

Thomas Flegler played his way into a start for the Broncos in a trial game win against Wynnum-Manly. (AAP Image/Dan Peled) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY

2019: Flegler plays his way into a start

Two years, two Tully boys starring in trials.

This time it was Thomas Flegler, who proved he was ready for the NRL with a powerhouse display for the Broncos.

He went on to make 23 NRL appearances.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - AUGUST 08: Valentine Holmes #39 of the New York Jets makes a catch in the fourth quarter against the New York Giants during a preseason matchup at MetLife Stadium on August 08, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Elsa/Getty Images/AFP

2020: Could this be Valentine’s day?

All signs are pointing to a return to Townsville for Valentine Holmes, and if he does sign on the dotted line the February 22 trial at Barlow Park could be the first time he plays for the Cowboys.

Originally published as Four big moments from NRL trials, and one we could see in Cairns