From Melbourne to the Sunshine Coast to Newtown and back again, Daniel Atkinson could scarcely have dreamed of a better return to AAMI Park.
Having made his NRL debut for the Storm alongside Nicho Hynes, Jahrome Hughes and Ryan Papenhuyzen in Round 25 of the 2021 season, Atkinson was back in Melbourne on Saturday night to help sink his old club with a composed display in just his fifth career game.
Stepping in at the 11th hour for the injured Hynes, 23-year-old Atkinson racked up 12 runs, 17 kicks, 19 tackles, four conversions and a field goal that broke an 18-18 deadlock with six minutes to play
Three years after that lone game for the Storm, Atkinson was back to steer the Sharks to their first win at AAMI Park since 2018, and he was lapping up every moment of the 25-18 victory.
“All the boys picked up everything [with Nicho out] and we just got on each others' backs, said 'we got this', and yeah, I think we showed a bit of heart," he said.
Storm v Sharks – Round 10, 2024
“I’m buzzing obviously. Coming back to where I made my debut and everything – it’s just funny how it works in the end.”
Having masterminded a memorable win without his star playmaker, Sharks coach Craig Fiztgibbon was full of praise for the man who filled the void.
“Stuff dreams are made of for Atko,” he said. “He’s everything as a teammate… he turns up every day, big smile on his face. The boys are so happy for him in there.
“Just a real competitor, but also to show the poise tonight to be able to kick the ball the way he did, defend the way he did, take his chances and kick that field goal. It was a real big night for Atko, a special performance.”
Siosifa Talakai Try
Handed the responsibility of trying to edge his team ahead in the closing stages, Atkinson called on all the experience he has gained with the Sunshine Coast Falcons, Newtown Jets and Italy at the World Cup in 2022.
His shot sailed straight and true from 20 metres out to make it 19-18 before a Siosifa Talakai try from the kick-off iced the Sharks' eighth win of the season.
“It was a close your eyes and hope moment,” he laughed. “It was a pretty special moment. It’s a bit surreal. A bit like, 'this is happening'. It’s a pinch yourself moment."
For Storm halfback Tyran Wishart, who also stood tall filling in for a gun playmaker in Hughes, it was a bittersweet moment watching his old roommate steal the limelight.
“Atkinson is a great player, a good mate of mine, too,” Wishart said post-game.“I knew he was going to take that opportunity, and he did. It’s good to see him doing well – but not after a loss!”