Ex-Cronulla utility Atkinson has not lived up to his billing as the Dragons' key acquisition for 2026 and was benched following last week's disappointing loss to Gold Coast. "Lyhkan will be five-eighth next week because of that performance he put in tonight," said Dragons coach Dean Young. Former Cronulla utility Atkinson is contracted through 2028 but his task to become a regular starter will only become more difficult next season. Nikorima, who set up a try in Friday's game, welcomed the chance to compete with Atkinson and the other halves for opportunities. The Dragons look set to claim their first wooden spoon as a joint venture this year and will take a 2-17 record into round 23.