Lote Tuqiri showed what can happen when the oldest player in the NRL winds back the clock, after producing a masterful performance for South Sydney on Friday night.
It’s been a lean few years on and off the field for the former dual-international, who at the height of his powers was the most sought after athlete across Australia’s two rugby codes.
But Tuqiri, just 14 days shy of his 35th birthday, saved one of the most memorable moments of his career for one of the biggest matches in Rabbitohs history, as they carved up Manly 40-24 at Allianz Stadium.
Leaping like Israel Folau, popping offloads like Sonny Bill and ball-playing like Johnathan Thurston, Tuqiri showed all the skills to propel Souths to the commanding 22-0 halftime lead which could launch them towards a first premiership since 1971.
Tuqiri struggled to keep up to pace in his early chances in 2014 and spent time in reserve grade after he was thrown a lifeline by Souths this year following just four games for Wests Tigers last season and his early exit from Irish rugby club Leinster in the wake of an off-field scandal.
But since shaving his famous locks a few weeks ago, Tuqiri has done a reverse-Sampson and regained his powers.
Tuqiri humiliated opposite number Jorge Taufua on a sorry night for the Sea Eagles winger, who earlier this year was being touted for State of Origin honours.
Following a bad night under the high ball last week against North Queensland, Taufua was peppered again by the boot of Souths’ halfback Adam Reynolds and the terrifying shadow cast by a rejuvenated Tuqiri.
The highlight came in the 27th minute when Tuqiri flew high over Taufua in the right-hand corner to crash down in a breathtaking piece of athleticism for a man weighing more than 100kg.
He also sent Greg Inglis on a 70 metre charge downfield with a choice offload and centre Dylan Walker haring through a gap with a pin-point pass.
All this from a man who appeared finished as an NRL player midway through this season.
Souths coach Michael Maguire was desperate for wingers, with Bryson Goodwin and Nathan Merritt out of form.
Tuqiri has finally answered the call and his experience as a 2000 premiership winner with Brisbane and countless State of Origin, Kangaroos and Wallabies appearances makes him a valuable asset for a Bunnies team with plenty of momentum.
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