There were no standout moments in Darius Boyd's long-awaited Brisbane NRL comeback.
But Wayne Bennett had no complaints.
The Brisbane master coach admitted there was nothing to write home about after Boyd's return from a pre-season Achilles injury in their tense 8-5 NRL win over Penrith on Friday night.
And Bennett wouldn't have had it any other way.
Boyd was tipped to emerge in the Queensland team selection mix ahead of May 27's State of Origin opener in Sydney upon his return.
But Boyd was simply solid in his first game in Broncos colours in almost seven years - and first overall in 10 months - despite capping a remarkable recovery.
While Broncos fans would have walked away hardly raving about Boyd's much-hyped return from a five month Achilles injury, Bennett more than liked what he saw from the fullback.
"He did what good pros do - he was safe, he didn't try to star, he just wanted to get some confidence, get back out on the footy field," he said of Boyd who racked up 76m from 11 runs.
"What we saw is not what we will see in four to six weeks' time.
"He started in a great manner and that is what I am pleased about.
"He hasn't come here full of errors and making plays that didn't work and losing confidence."
The 27-year-old Boyd has made greater strides off the field since returning to the club that launched his career way back in 2006.
The once surly talent has addressed his personal demons as indicated by his new found affection for the media.
And Boyd was again at ease with reporters following his return match, even agreeing to replace captain Justin Hodges and sit alongside Bennett at the post-match press conference.
"It's good to be back with the boys and enjoying a win," Boyd said.
"I have been nervous the first eight weeks to be honest.
"But I was really excited as well - I couldn't wait to get back out on the field."
Boyd's return wasn't the only thing that reminded Bennett of his Broncos of old.
Brisbane dug deep in a gripping clash before playmaker Ben Hunt chanced his arm instead of potting a field goal, setting up Corey Oates' 80th minute match winning try.
"These games come down to one big play - that was the difference," Bennett said.
"And we didn't give up. That has always been a trait of the Broncos and I am pleased it hasn't left the place."
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