Emma Tonegato entered the NRLW season determined to prove she belonged in the competition.
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It seems remarkable given the 27-year-old has won a World Cup with the Jillaroos and Olympic gold with the Australian sevens team.
But after eight years away from rugby league, Tonegato recognised much had changed since she last played the game.
Read more: Dragons face tough bounce-back mission
With the regular season now complete, it's safe to say the fullback has made an instant impact on the NRLW.
Three tries, three try assists and 20 tackle breaks this year have seen Tonegato rocket into NSW State of Origin contention.
The athlete isn't thinking that far ahead, but she no longer has any doubts about whether she belongs in the NRLW.
"It took me a while to get here, but I feel like I'm in the groove of fullback now," Tonegato said. "I'm feeling pretty good about my positioning.
"I think I've gotten better and better every week, the more games I've gotten under my belt."
Tonegato was superb in Saturday's gritty 16-10 win over the Roosters.
The fullback scored one try and prevented numerous others in defence.
One tackle evoked memories of Scott Sattler's famous 2003 grand final effort, Tonegato chasing down Jess Sergis and taking her over the sideline.
"Everyone in rugby league, NRLW, just got their highlights for next year as why you should be playing rugby league," coach Jamie Soward said.
"That was probably one of the best plays I've ever seen, mens or womens.
"She was outstanding today, Emma. It's going to cost us a fair bit to keep her for season two.
"She's the ultimate professional. That play there just typifies Emma and we're very lucky to have her."
Despite the win, the Dragons fell short in their bid to claim the minor premiership after the Broncos thumped the Eels on Sunday.
Needing to win by more than 20 points to leapfrog St George Illawarra, Brisbane defeated Parramatta 38-4.
That means the Dragons will play the Gold Coast, with the Broncos to face the Roosters in Sunday's semi-finals at Leichhardt Oval.
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