Bronson Xerri has been out of the NRL for more than four years but shone in his return to the game, helping the Bulldogs to a 24-12 win over the Storm at Belmore.
After scoring 13 tries in 22 games for the Sharks, the Bulldogs took him on at the end of 2023 at the conclusion of his doping ban. In his debut for the club, he played 65 minutes in the Dogs win over the Storm.
After his successful debut, Xerri admitted he was more nervous for this game than any other match in his career. “I did the hard yards in those four years so it was good to run out and get amongst it. I enjoyed it,” he said. “The hardest part was getting the rust out. I definitely felt a bit rusty, but I just wanted to get through the game and get some time under my belt. I think the team played well so it’s only up from here.
“I think all the dark times in those four years came back to me (when I scored). It was unreal,” he said. There were a lot of nerves and I was very emotional running out there and seeing my family. As hard as it was and as rusty as I was, I enjoyed it and loved it. That was the most nervous I’ve ever been. I think the team and the coaching staff prepared me as best as I could to come out and play my best. I always knew there would be a bit of rust, but I’m just happy I got through tonight.
“I think if anyone hadn’t played for four years then they would have come out with some nerves and a bit of rust. I’m proud of myself for getting through tonight. I knew it was going to be hard, but I’m proud of myself.”
