Bronco Xavier Willison at heart of fight to overcome concerning trend

“But that’s our role, to come on and make a difference. [Willison] has been massive for us this year … I think he’s going to make a big difference for us.

“He’s a big body, he’s been massive in defence for us, and he just makes an impact when he comes on. Xavier’s still so young, he’s only played a handful of games, so he’s only going to get better.

“Hopefully, he can keep improving and show what he can do.”

But Brisbane’s return to the winner’s circle will depend on how they handle a Rabbitohs outfit – spearheaded by a resurgent Latrell Mitchell – potentially without two key men.

Fullback Reece Walsh remains sidelined (concussion), while veteran winger Corey Oates is in serious doubt after leaving training early cursing his own luckless injury run.

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The former Maroons flyer copped a knock to his knee against the Sharks and left Tuesday’s session at Red Hill cutting a sombre, frustrated figure after physical concerns cruelled his 2023 campaign.

Josiah Karapani has been named at 18th man as cover for Oates, but it is Walsh’s replacement, Tristan Sailor, who will be most eager to reverse an uncharacteristic performance on Saturday night.

The 25-year-old has been praised for the way he has filled the Walsh void, but came up with three unforced errors – two of which led directly to Sharks’ tries.

Admittedly, it was Sailor’s first game back from an ankle injury, returning two weeks ahead of schedule, but the man himself denied rustiness was at the heart of his performance.

“I did some things that I wouldn’t usually do. I was very angry at myself because it was unforced, and I usually pride myself on not doing that,” he said.

“I couldn’t really put my finger on what it was. The ankle was a bit sore on the weekend – it was my first surgery and stuff like that, but we rehabbed it really well.

“I was pretty devastated getting injured, and it was my first major injury. The goal was around the Warriors game … I must be a super healer.

“I love taking opportunities, and I feel like this weekend’s a very good opportunity to do that again against some great opposition.”