Norths’ long awaited first win of the season arrived in round thirteen while GPS, Brothers and Wests’ were also on the winner’s list.

Here are five standout performances from the weekend.

Bernard Nickel – GPS

GPS’ outside centre helped his team move into second place with an impactful performance against Sunnybank.

The No.13 combined nicely with winger Douglas Rayment for his two tries before producing a special individual effort of his own right on half time.

Nickel chased and scooped up his own grubber in behind Sunnybank’s defensive line with two minutes left in the first half in a try that gave GPS plenty of breathing room on the scoreboard. 

Richard Skelton – Wests

Wests’ No.8 produced a commanding performance in his team’s bruising win over Bond.

The Auckland product was physically imposing throughout the contest and stood up in key moments for the Bulldogs.

Skelton’s barnstorming carry near the line set up Wests’ second try in the first half. The powerful athlete scored the final try of the match from a maul to put Wests narrowly ahead before curiously having to kick the ball into the stands to bring about full time. 

Conor O’Regan – Norths

Norths’ scrumhalf was the steady hand his young side needed in their first win of the year against Easts on Saturday.

O’Regan’s weighted delivery gave the Eagle’s the first try of the game and much needed belief.

The No.9 consistently orchestrated attacking opportunities for his team and importantly converted all of his chances in front of the uprights.

Sam Hyne – Brothers 

The beneficiary of the good work inside him, Brothers’ No.14 crossed twice in his side’s comprehensive win over Souths.

Hyne’s first stemmed from a beautiful backline move that went through every set of hands before reaching his wing. 

The speedster showed his ability to read the play in the second half by intercepting a wayward Jakob Morrison pass to sprint fifty metres and score.

Tonga Ma’afu – Norths

Norths’ hooker was as determined as ever in helping his side secure their long awaited first win of the season.

The No.2 consistently held out a pressing Easts’ attack in the first half alongside many of his teammates in a dog hungry defensive display.

Ma’afu reaped the rewards by scoring what was ultimately the match winning try in the 70^th minute to break Norths’ drought.