While NZ Warriors are enjoying their best season in years, not all of the players are content with their contributions to the cause.
While the likes of Shaun Johnson, Addin Fonua-Blake, Wayde Egan and Adam Pompey are among those enjoying career-best form in a season that sees the Warriors third on the ladder, interchange forward Josh Curran concedes he's not been up to par.
After proving himself to be a player of immense potential since signing for the Warriors in 2019, this season could be considered a backwards step.
Admittedly, the 24-year-old's current season tally of 17 appearances is only one shy of his most for a single campaign, set last year.
But while he's played in 17 games, only four of them have been starts.
Off-season signings Jackson Ford and Marata Niukore have proven indispensable to coach Andrew Webster, forcing Curran onto the interchange bench.
On Friday, Curran will again come off the bench, named in the No.17 jersey to face Manly Sea Eagles at Go Media Stadium Mt Smart.
And while Curran is understandably frustrated at losing his place as a starter, he doesn't shy away from his responsibilities in helping the Warriors return to the NRL finals for the first time since 2018.
"For me personally, it's kind of been a letdown season," Curran admitted. "I've got a new role this year, coming off the bench.
"I've just got to bring the impact. I'm just trying to take everything with both hands, and when I come on the field, try to lead the boys and change the game.
"It's kind of been a letdown, but I've just been trying to do what I can on the field."
But while many would be frustrated at being in Curran's position, the man himself is completely understanding of the situation.
The form of Niukore and Ford, as well as the likes of Mitchell Barnett who have moved out of position to start ahead of Curran.
However, with the NRL being so tight in the race for top eight spots, strength in depth will tell at the pointy end of the season.
And even through the disappointment, Curran is determined to take his chance when - not if - it comes.
"We've got really good players," he continued. "It's a good thing to have competition in every position.
"Like I said, I've got to take everything with both hands when I get on the field. I've got to do what I can, and leave everything out there."
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