Inspiration was all around after Brisbane forward Josh McGuire suffered a season-ending Achilles tendon injury in the Broncos' 44-22 win over Newcastle at Lang Park on Friday night.
McGuire, on crutches, was quickly comforted after the victory by Broncos team-mates Justin Hodges and Darius Boyd, who had both come back from the same injury.
And spirits in the Broncos dressing room were lifted by a surprise visit from ex-Newcastle forward Alex McKinnon, who suffered an on-field spinal injury last year.
But it seemed nothing could soften the blow for Broncos captain Hodges, who feared McGuire's injury might dent the NRL ladder leader's title push.
Broncos coach Wayne Bennett laid the blame for McGuire's injury on the NRL's scheduling of State of Origin, highlighting both Queensland and New South Wales have been hit hard this year.
McGuire put on a brave front after the injury not only cut short his season but also the Maroons' forward's maiden Origin campaign.
The Maroons' team for July 8's Origin decider in Brisbane will be named on Monday.
"A few of the boys have done a few (Achilles) in the past so I am in the best hands - I am excited about getting stuck into rehab," McGuire said.
"It's very disappointing (missing Origin III) but it is also disappointing leaving the (Broncos) boys a front rower down for the rest of the year. That's heartbreaking as well."
Asked if it was also disappointing to miss out on a potential title tilt, McGuire said: "I will be at the club a long time so there is plenty of time to win premierships but I hope the boys get it this year."
Hodges admitted McGuire's injury would impact on the Broncos' season, saying they would feel his absence more than Queensland.
"He's a bigger blow for us here," Hodges said of McGuire.
"He's one of our number one props."
Hodges has belief McGuire will bounce back
Hodges had successfully come back from two Achilles tendon injuries, while Boyd returned in time this year to earn Origin I selection.
"It's devastating for him. It's a big injury," Hodges said.
"But he's a guy who works hard and takes no short cuts - he will be back. I have got back from two and I am a lot older than him. He'll be right."
McGuire appeared on crutches with team-mates on the field after the thumping of the Knights and was quickly consoled by Hodges and Boyd.
"I know what he has to go through," Boyd said.
"It's a tough journey but I am sure he will be ready next year. I spoke to him quickly about the rehab but it will take him a few weeks for it to soak in.
"It's sad but I am sure he will be right."
Meanwhile, Broncos Jordan Kahu and Dale Copley were both cleared of serious injury after leaving the field on Friday night with concussion.
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