NZ Warriors coach Andrew Webster singled out makeshift fullback Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, who answered an SOS to wear the No.1 jersey in Sunday's 14-0 defeat to Sydney Roosters.
Amid an injury crisis that saw Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad ruled out by the NRL's concussion protocols after last week's loss to Melbourne Storm, the Warriors were hit again as replacement Taine Tuaupiki went down with an ankle injury during the week.
And with no other fullbacks available, Watene-Zelezniak switched from the wing at short notice, playing there for the second time in the space of two games.
In 80 minutes, Watene-Zelezniak made 159 metres - 43 of those being post-contact - to go with two tackle breaks.
In defence, Watene-Zelezniak also caught seven kicks put up by the Roosters, and made five tackles without missing on a night where conditions wrought havoc with both sides.
Speaking post-match, coach Webster heralded the winger's efforts, despite being part of a side that failed to score a point for the first time in 2023.
"He was great," said Webster. "Dal tries his backside off.
"He was full of energy, he covered things up. He was trying to be everywhere for us.
"He's a competitor, we're grateful to have [him. When Taine went down also during the week, we're just grateful to have Dal there.
"He jumped in and had a crack."
Nicoll-Klokstad is expected to return next weekend, when the Warriors face reigning premiers Penrith Panthers as part of the NRL's Magic round in Brisbane.
Should he remain unavailable along with Tuaupiki, Watene-Zelezniak would likely keep his spot at fullback against his former club.
Watene-Zelezniak started his career against the Panthers, playing over 100 games for the club before leaving to join Canterbury Bulldogs in 2020.
