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Humbled last week by Canberra’s pack, enforcer Payne Haas led the way for Brisbane’s forwards in their derby win over the Cowboys, saying an honesty session helped the team to right their wrongs.
Haas was instrumental in Brisbane’s victory, claiming the Carl Webb Medal as player of the match after notching 23 runs for 210 metres and scoring a remarkable try for a front rower, cutting in him and stepping through some tired defence to sprint into space and dive over next to the uprights.
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Payne Haas Try
“Obviously it was pretty poor from us last week and we were pretty honest with each other … (we) probably let each other down last week against the Raiders and were pretty flat to be honest, so we just wanted to come out with a bit of energy and just get the dub, that's all that matters is getting the two points,” Haas said.
“We were a bit clunky tonight as a team as a whole and obviously I wanted to bounce back and just get the two points from last week as well, but we're still building, still early days and we just take it week by week.”
On his own performance, the NSW Blues prop said it was an honour to win the medal named after a legend of both Queensland clubs, even though he was a rival he “hated” when he wore a Maroons jersey.
“It means a lot to both clubs and to receive that award, it’s an honour and privilege,” Haas said.
“He's on our strength leaderboard in the gym, so he's around our club and he's a legend and he’ll forever live in everyone’s minds in both clubs.
“He was a menace to New South Wales, I hated him at State of Origin time, but he was such a great player.”
Before the game, front row partner Pat Carrigan had lauded Haas for his determination and discipline as he observes Ramadan this month, following a strict fast – including water – from dawn until sunset through until the end of March.
However, Haas was quick to dismiss any praise for the way he has been able to balance his faith and his football.
“It's not (tough) honestly, I spoke about this plenty of times, there's so many other people in this world who struggle to find food and water during this time and I'm blessed I can get food and water whenever I want to, so no, it's not hard,” Haas said.
“I think it's hard at the start, but honestly, I keep on thinking back to kids (in developing) countries, it's hard for them to get water and food … I'm pretty grateful for the life I live and I get it pretty easy to compared to most people.”
Next week, the Broncos will be back at Suncorp Stadium, but this time as the away team when they face the Dolphins in the Battle for Brisbane.
Quickly becoming one of the biggest clashes in rugby league, Haas was looking forward to atoning for their last meeting where the Dolphins secured their first win over their cross-town rivals, posting a 40-6 win in Round 26 last year.
“Obviously that wasn’t ideal, but that's last year, I’m looking to this year,” Haas said.
“(They are) probably one of the best games I've been a part of, to be honest.
“I remember in 2023 when we first had it and I remember when Kotoni [Staggs] went down, scored the winning try and it was just the stadium was rumbling, so it's honestly an honour to be a part of and just can't wait to be there.”
Match: Dolphins v Broncos
Round 4 -
home Team
Dolphins
15th Position
away Team
Broncos
3rd Position
Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
Match broadcasters:
- WatchNRL
