A hat-trick from skipper Jarome Luai has not only silenced his critics but helped Wests Tigers farewell Leichhardt Oval in the best way possible with a come-from-behind 36-28 win over Gold Coast.
Since Luai announced last month he would be joining the PNG Chiefs in 2028, his team's fortunes have waned, causing some to say his departure decision had become a distraction.
But his three four-pointers on Sunday including two in the final 10 minutes proved crucial, especially as the nearly 18,000-strong crowd were in a farewell party mood.
Leichhardt Oval has been home to Balmain and then Wests Tigers games since 1934. But it is closing for major renovations over the next 18 months before the NRL team returns in 2028.
