by Paul Cook - One of the true gifts of the NRC is seeing a relatively unheralded player come through, grab his opportunity with both hands and run with it for all he’s worth. Being a regular observer of the Intrust Super Shute Shield every season, it’s no real surprise to me to see the likes of Jake Gordon, Irae Simone and Sam Ward shining at the next level. And when it comes to doing the hard yards in the battleground of the breakdown and bending the opposition line, seeing Michael Wells (ex-Brumby now Waratah), Sam Figg (Aussie Sevens) and Jordy Reid (Melbourne Rebels) excelling, is a confirmation of the talents for which they have already been recognised. But when a guy like Western Sydney Rams loose forward Rhys Allen grabs the spotlight, not only does it warm the heart that an ‘older’ player can still get his just desserts for hard work and consistency of performance at club level, it is also a reminder that this third tier competition - blossoming nicely in its third