The NRL wanted to show the world what rugby league is all about and the Manly Sea Eagles and South Sydney Rabbitohs delivered just that.
Manly defeated South Sydney at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, lead by a stunning performance by Luke Brooks in his debut game for the Sea Eagles.
The playmaker finished with a try, 102 run metres and a linebreak assist, combining nicely with his new teammates in Sin City.
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Speaking to Fox League after the full-time whistle, Brooks admitted his time in the maroon jumper couldn't have gone any better – outside of one moment.
"I dropped one over the line, so I had to make up for it," he said with a smile.
"It's crazy – to be able to come here and make my club debut where the Super Bowl was, it's a pinch yourself moment."
His performance earned plenty of praise from the experts, with Braith Anasta speaking highly of his work alongside star duo Tom Trbojevic and Daly Cherry-Evans.
"If we had any question marks over Luke Brooks, they have been answered," Braith Anasta said in commentary for Fox League.
"He looks rejuvenated and refreshed. His combination with DCE (Daly Cherry-Evans) and Tom Trbojevic, which is the most important thing.
"They couldn't have asked for a better start."
In the 76th minute Brooks pierced the gap close to the line to seal the result.
He had earlier dropped the ball just short of the tryline but all was forgotten as he put together a strong showing and sent the Manly fans into raptures.
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"He no longer has the burden of expectations … he has shone tonight for his new club," Dan Ginnane said in commentary for Fox League.
"There is a freedom that is so obvious to see — he looks like he is at home."
Manly skipper Daly Cherry-Evans paid tribute to the club debutant post-game.
"I'm really happy for him, he's worked so hard in the pre-season," he told Fox League.
"We've been roommates this week and it's been great to get to know each other and start playing. Hopefully the best is yet to come, but he was outstanding tonight."
Latrell Mitchell had some wonderful moments for the Bunnies earlier in the clash, but threw an intercept to Jason Saab just before half-time.
Souths took the lead back early in the second-half, but a number of costly errors inside their own half of the field allowed the Sea Eagles to capitalise and earn the two points.
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