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NRL Rookie contestant Chris Hyde during the fireman's challenge in Episode 7.

Episode seven saw yet another double cut and we now only have six NRL Rookies remaining! This means less than half of the boys are left and with only a few weeks to go the mind can't help but try to guess who the final three players left standing at the live final will be.

It just goes to show, one week you can be captain and the next you could be sent packing – which was the case for Elias Power.

While a committed player with plenty of heart, his inability to take on feedback and do his role for the team was the backrower's undoing. This certainly ruffled the feathers of a few in the playing group.

Peter Lee on the other hand is very quiet, humble and proved to be a more liked character amongst the rookies. However, unfortunately Freddy believed he didn't possess the self-confidence that is crucial to succeed at the highest level.

For Peter, talent was never an issue and we saw that when he terrorised the Melbourne Storm Holden Cup team at AAMI Park. Although it definitely felt as though his confidence was growing after stepping into the ring with former world boxing champ, Danny Green.

But was there enough time to mold the Fijian Flyer into an NRL Player? Mark Geyer believed so, but both Freddy and Lammy did not agree.

While both Freddy and Lammy are big fans of Peter, Lammy was so vocal about his views to keep Jordan that he was even willing to walk out if the youngster got cut! That really built the tension when the last spot came down to Peter or Jordan.

But now that we are down to the nitty-gritty, there is no doubt special bonds between the rookies and coaching staff have developed, as well as between the players themselves.

A poor performance is not just about worrying whether or not they will be going home, but disappointment creeps in because they know they have let their teammates and coaches down.

One guy who ensured he would most importantly not let himself down was Royden. After finishing second in four Captain's Challenges, sooner or later he knew something had to give.

It was great to see him win it in a challenge that hit very close to home.  Royden rose above the ashes – extinguishing all his past demons after a fire engulfed his house aged 16.

Gary-John was another Kiwi who stepped up this week after a few games of patchy form put him in the firing line.

He led from the front with strong carries and bruising defence and even crossed over for his first try. Perhaps the visit from Cronulla Sharks duo, Paul Gallen and Jack Bird, was the inspiration he needed.

Back in 'The Shed', Chris said Gary-John is the favourite to win the competition now - a massive wrap for the frontrower but again, the coaches had mixed views.

Does Gary-John have what it takes to play NRL? At 27 is he too old? We will soon find out as we get closer to unveiling The NRL Rookie.

Head to NRLROOKIE.COM to watch full catch up episodes of the NRL Rookie as well as online exclusive extras.

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AUSTRALIAN BROADCAST DETAILS:

Each episode will air five times during the week on free to air television across the Nine Network:

• PREMIERE – Tuesday – GO! 7.30PM (SYD/MEL/BRIS)

• ENCORE 1 - Wednesday - CH9 10.30PM (SYD/BRIS) 

• ENCORE 2 - Saturday - CH9 1PM (BRIS)

• ENCORE 3 - Sunday - CH9 2.30PM (SYD) 

• ENCORE 4 - Monday - GO! 11.30PM (SYD/MEL/BRIS/ADE/PER)

Please note: these time may vary from week to week so be sure to check your local guides.  

Acknowledgement of Country

National Rugby League respects and honours the Traditional Custodians of the land and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the stories, traditions and living cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on the lands we meet, gather and play on.

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