Dufty's Dream Return After 1,421 Days

Matt Dufty made a spectacular return to the NRL after nearly four years, playing a starring role in South Sydney's 30-12 victory over St George Illawarra on Saturday night.

The fullback, who replaced the injured Jye Gray, ran for more than 300 meters and scored a try in a performance that marked his first NRL appearance in 1,421 days.

A Journey Home

Dufty returned to Australia from English club Warrington after a three-and-a-half year stint, a move prompted partly by impending fatherhood. After contacting Rabbitohs assistant coach Ben Hornby, he was signed to a one-year NSW Cup deal.

South Sydney received special dispensation to select him from outside their top-30 squad as a direct replacement for the injured Gray, with coach Wayne Bennett opting not to shift Latrell Mitchell to the fullback position.

"Once you go there, you know it's hard to come back, even if you're killing it. Because the game's getting faster and younger kids are just getting that good."

A Dramatic Day

Dufty's remarkable comeback was almost overshadowed by a family emergency. He revealed that he and his partner were in a hospital emergency room with their newborn daughter on Saturday morning due to a health scare.

"Thank God, she's all good," Dufty said, relieved that the alarm was false.

Facing His Former Club

The match held extra significance as it came against the Dragons, the club where Dufty debuted as a St George junior.

"It was good to do it against the Dragons. I do feel bad for them, I've got a soft spot for the Dragons... It's hard to see a club struggling."

The loss left St George Illawarra still searching for their first win of the 2026 season.

A Newfound Maturity

Dufty attributes his successful return to a more focused approach off the field. He stated he has quit alcohol to concentrate on fatherhood and his career, feeling he has returned "a bit more mature."

He remains philosophical about his future, focusing on performance regardless of the level.

"When you play good footy, if it's in Cup, if it's in grade, good things follow."