Brisbane v Newcastle
A battle of pride will take place in this match between two teams struggling for form and languishing near the bottom of the ladder. The Broncos will be competitive, as they always are, and be confident to win at Suncorp, as they always are. However, this young team will be inconsistent throughout the season, as well as throughout this match.
And that is just what the doctor ordered for Newcastle to upset the home side. The Knights cannot possibly play as bad as they did last week against the Sharks and will turn up to restore their season, their pride and their for-and-against, which is abominable considering their roster. Kurt Gidley now has 2 games back from injury and will be desperate to build his claims for the upcoming rep season. The Knights band together around him and find a way to win this one.
Man of the Match Prediction: Ben Cross
Tip: Newcastle 25-24
Result: Newcastle 30-22
Man of the Match: Zeb Taia
Parramatta v Canterbury
As far as rivalries go - it does not get any better. As far is this season goes for the Eels and Dogs - it has been a lot better. Firstly on the Dogs, they are suffering from injuries in positions all over the park and will have their depth tested. The Eels? They are definitely building towards something from last week's performance but still give up too much possession. Now that we have completed that analysis, lets just enjoy the footy on Friday night because I dont think form or injury will matter
Canterbury will remember the Eels as the team that destroyed their premiership dream last year and the Eels will never have any love for the Belmore side. It will be on and it will be intense. Kimmorley and Ennis will enjoy the addition of a resurgent Blake Green to their combination and that's enough for me to tip an upset here. However there will be plenty of interest in how tough the Canterbury forwards can be without Ben Hannant. Big test also for Jamal Idris as he faces Timana Tahu in a matchup that promises so much, as does this rivalry once again
Man of the Match Prediction: Michael Ennis
Tip: Canterbury 20-18
Result: Eels 26-10
Man of the Match: Nathan Hindmarsh
NZ Warriors v Canberra
The Warriors have made a few changes to their line-up for this week. A few drastic changes. Most importantly Lance Hohaia moves from five-eighth to fullback and Wade McKinnon back to the bench. Why? Because they were dusted by 40 against the Storm last week? This is no reason for coach Ivan Cleary to panic as the Melbourne Storm were basically playing with 25 men on the field - if you know what I mean. Let's hope the Storm don't go on to crush the confidence of other teams and force players to lose their starting spots. It just wouldn't be right.
Speaking of right, the Raiders will find themselves right out of this game as the home side have been playing well this year despite last weeks debacle. The Warriors have been solid with two upset victories to their name. They are heavy favourites in this one and will be tough to beat. It's a long trip from our nation’s capital for the boys in lime green and this makes it very hard to tip them. The injury ravaged home side will benefit from the Raiders mistakes.
Man of the Match Prediction: Brent Tate
Tip: Warriors 30-20
Result: Canberra 23-16
Man of the Match: David Shillington
Gold Coast v Penrith
2nd plays 3rd on the ladder here in what promises to be a beauty. If Scott Prince plays it will be even better. The Panthers are playing with an aggression not seen since 2003 and this is evident in the play of Michael Jennings. He looks angry for the first time ever! Travis Burns adds to this aggression, but not for the first time - Burns is the mongrel that perhaps this Penrith team needed. Will this be enough to get them home against the Titans at Skilled Park?
Yes. With the Titans coming off a huge Monday night win at Brookvale Oval, they will struggle to match the visitor’s intensity for the full 80 minutes. To be honest, this is all I could think of to separate these two exceptional teams. Panthers by a try with the winner decided late. The battle of the back rowers will be a highlight in this match with some of the best in the business on display.
Man of the Match Prediction: Michael Jennings
Tip: Penrith 27-20
Result: Titans 38-24
Man of the Match: Ashley Harrison
North Queensland v Melbourne
You have to feel for North Queensland in this match. They are a very good chance of losing in a matchup against the best in the NRL; the best team that money can buy; the benchmark. Here's hoping the two points actually get given to someone and the Cowboys can get up. It would be a nice win for a team struggling with consistency this season. However, with the form of Willie Mason and Willie Tonga, there could be big result for them on the cards.
Unfortunately those cards tell me that the Storm have hidden an ace up their sleeve and will be dealing from the bottom of the deck: They will be too strong for the home side. There might be a 'come down' from the emotional high of last week for Melbourne but Craig Bellamy probably won't allow this to happen. Great battle of arguably the two best halfbacks in the competition will see the Storm come home stronger and the Cowboys lose their fourth in a row. Interesting to see how opposition fans react to the visitors.
Man of the Match Prediction: Billy $later
Tip: Melbourne 24-14
Result: Melbourne 34-6
Man of the Match: Ryan Hoffman (butchered about 3 tries - but Greg Alexander knows more than I do)
St George Illawarra v Cronulla
We are predicting plenty of 'niggle' in this game. The Sharks will be revved up to the eyeballs by Ricky Stuart and hoping to cause a massive upset in this local derby. With their impressive performance from last week and the improving form of Tim Smith and John Morris, the Sharks will come into this game with renewed self belief and throw everything they have at the Dragons.
Unfortunately it will all bounce off the home side like a tennis ball on a brick wall. Saints defence has been super impressive this year and we don’t expect that to change anytime soon. The Dragons will have too much discipline in the end to frustrate a valiant Cronulla side. Neville Costigan and Paul Gallen will hopefully run into each other a few times in this match - keep an eye on the ensuing fireworks. Dragons in Wollongong tough to tip against.
Man of the Match Prediction: Jamie Soward
Tip: Dragons 32-10
Result: Dragons 38-0
Man of the Match: Darius Boyd
Wests v Eastern Suburbs
The Roosters have shown promise this year but they are not in the elite classification of NRL teams just yet. A relatively young forward pack sees them slightly inconsistent this year and against the Tigers, they will suffer because of this. Mitchell Pearce is also a huge loss for the Bondi Boys and although he is replaced by another star in Todd Carney, they will struggle without his direction and leadership.
The home side will have this in spades as they are coming off two consecutive losses and are playing their first game of the year at Campbelltown. Both reasons good enough to see them turn up on Sunday afternoon with the right attitude and run away with the two points. The Tigers should be expecting more from a talented forward pack who have struggled in the past fortnight. They must win the ruck and we predict they will through standout performances from Gareth Ellis and Chris Heighington.
Man of the Match Prediction: Robbie Farah
Tip: Tigers 30-22
Result: Roosters 12-8
Man of the Match: Nate Myles
South Sydney v Manly
Match of the Round. This game has two very strong forwards packs, two sets of young and talented halves, and a couple of great coaches. Also, neither team has been hit too badly by injury in recent weeks. This all points towards a cracking game of football and with a dry track at Homebush, anything is possible. Anything except George Piggins and Mal Reilly making an appearance to re-enact some of their famous brawls from the 1970s. Wouldn't that get some people through the gates?
Alas; those days are well behind us now - whoever wins the ruck and completes their sets will win this game, rather than whoever wins the fight. The Rabbits distracted us from some fine form with a terrible second half performance against Parramatta 2 weeks ago but we predict the Bunnies will have something special in store for a Manly squad still hurting from Monday night's loss to the Titans. Souths in a screamer.
Man of the Match Prediction: Dave Taylor
Tip: Souths 30-24
Result: Manly 30-22
Man of the Match: Kieran Foran
See our "Minute by Minute Monday Night" blog - delivered in 'retro' form on Tuesday. For live updates go to http://www.leagueunlimited.com/
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Minute by Minute Monday Night - Round 7
Manly v Gold Coast - Brookvale Oval. Monday April 26, 2010.
1st minute - Kevin Gordon just scored a try that failed to grab the attention of everybody at Brookvale oval. It looked as though the ball was jolted loose from Glenn Stewart and Gordon has run 80m to score. Bizarre. Fans still filing into the stadium seem stunned as they are still thinking about how far away they have just parked. Those of you who have been to Brookvale Oval can sympathise. Titans 6-0.
4th minute - Titans defence looks willing early. They do have the talent to avoid getting blown off the park tonight as huge underdogs. Discipline is the key.
5th minute - Consecutive penalties against the Gold Coast does not bode well for their discipline.
6th minute - Another perfect kick from Trent Hodkinson into the in goal is batted back by Anthony Watmough to the Eagles number 7 who scores. 6-6
10th minute - Journeyman Shane Rodney shows great skill to pick up a grubber kick - a good sign for a side when their forwards turn up to defuse such attacking kicks.
11th minute - Steve Matai knocks the stuffing out of David Mead.
12th minute - This game does not have the same spice to it as last weeks match between the Eagles and Melbourne. 3 reasons for this:
1. These two teams have not yet established a rivalry.
2. The Titans away form is not inspiring
3. Manly and The Gold Coast are under the Salary Cap.
15th minute - Matai rocks Joseph Tomane with a beauty. Manly ball. The Sea Eagles defence has been impressive for many years now. They perhaps should have more silverware to show for it. We all know why they don't.
17th minute - Hodkinson kick is perfectly placed again - poorly defended by the Titans and Matai is over. Manly 12-6.
19th minute - Greg Bird takes a blind side hit up and we notice he hasn’t been seen much in the opening 20. He needs to perform well for the Titans to win, and the Eagles need to perform badly. They do as Ben Farrar drops a bomb to give the visitors a repeat set. The Titans give it right back with their own error and then give away a penalty. John Cartwright must be losing his mind.
21st minute - Kieran Foran gets into the act and drops a perfectly weighted grubber into the Titans in goal to force a drop out. Preston Campbell pulls out a beauty and kicks it 10m to recover possession for his side.
Thought - Is it just me or do touch judges have the easiest job in the world? What do they even do?
26th minute - Manly have all the ball right now. They still lead 12-6 as the Titans defence holds strong.
27th minute - Not strong enough though as weight of possession tells and an impressive sweeping play to the left sees Ben Farrar score. Bad signs now for the Gold Coast unless they start holding the ball. Manly lead 16-6.
30th minute - Sea Eagles lead penalty count 4-0. Can we bet on the next 4 penalties going to the Titans to even it up? I hate that NRL refs are made aware of this.
Laffranchi on report for high shot in front of the posts. Manly take the tap and turn it over on tackle 2. Titans must be the next to score.
32nd minute - rather than scoring next, they turn the ball over again. Their away form is at times Raiders like.
34th minute - A lucky break for the visitors as Preston Campbell charges down a Foran kick and shovels the ball to speedster Kevin Gordon who runs 70m to get his double. Manly 16-12.
38th minute - The Eagles interchange bench is impressive. Kite and Galuvao come onto the field and have been working hard.
Halftime - Manly lead 16-12.
43rd minute - PC has still got it. Makes a 40m bust to signify that the Titans are right in this.
Thought - The Titans might struggle to score points. Without Prince and both starting centres on the field (Tomane has been pulled and replaced by Sam Tagataese), their attack is struggling. They should expect more from William Zillman who showed promise whilst in Canberra but fair to say that he has not yet found his feet north of the Tweed.
50th minute - Speaking of the Titans attack, the Eagles are now under pressure. They show good character with Watmough defusing an attacking kick and then the Eagles go 70 metres from 3 dummy half runs. David Mead then drops a bomb to give Manly a repeat set. Huge momentum swing.
52nd minute - Momentum usually leads to points and does so here as Matai crosses. Good passing that sees the Kiwi international run untouched to the line. Lyon coverts. Manly lead 22-12.
59th minute - Manly defence turns it up a notch with 3 solid hits. 20 to go and the Titans need someone to create points. Bird seems as though he is attracting multiple defenders and Campbell is not very talkative at the moment.
61st minute - A Joseph Tomane sighting. Is he back?
62nd minute - PC smothered by Foran and Watmough. He drops the ball. Manly defence has given the visitors nothing tonight. Both Titans tries have come from broken play.
66th minute - Josh Perry busts the line and runs 40 metres before being chopped down by Will Zillman. One on one fullback tackles are always great to watch: especially when front rowers are doing the running.
69th minute - with 10 to go and a 10 point lead, the Eagles refuse to go into their shells. Coming off their own line they off-load twice and throw a risky inside ball. One of these off-loads was actually a behind-the-back flick pass from Brent Kite. Fantastic.
71st minute - Campbell over!! The Titans stick with it and get a reward. They have made a game out of this. Nathan Friend the destroyer as he draws 3 defenders and pops a beautiful pass inside to his halfback. Manly lead 22-18 and the home crowd is nervous.
73rd minute - The Titans best set of six of the entire match to follow up their try and the Eagles don't help themselves by allowing a Greg Bird bomb to bounce and give the visitors a repeat set.
74th minute - Laffranchi OVER!!! Huge try. Nathan Friend again the reason as he draws the defence close to the try line and pops an amazing ball to the Titans second rower. 22 all with a kick to come. This is an unbelievable score line after watching Manly control the entire match. Presto converts - Titans lead 24-22.
76th minute - Manly recover a short kick off. Here we go! The tempo is now frantic.
78th minute - Eagles attacking the line to create a miracle of their own but the pressure seems too much and they cough up possession. A charge down on the ensuing set gives the Titans another six and surely closes the door on Manly - they need a miracle.
80th minute - Nathan Friend turns up again to stop a possible chip and chase by the home side. He must be Man of the Match. Titans win 24-22.
1st minute - Kevin Gordon just scored a try that failed to grab the attention of everybody at Brookvale oval. It looked as though the ball was jolted loose from Glenn Stewart and Gordon has run 80m to score. Bizarre. Fans still filing into the stadium seem stunned as they are still thinking about how far away they have just parked. Those of you who have been to Brookvale Oval can sympathise. Titans 6-0.
4th minute - Titans defence looks willing early. They do have the talent to avoid getting blown off the park tonight as huge underdogs. Discipline is the key.
5th minute - Consecutive penalties against the Gold Coast does not bode well for their discipline.
6th minute - Another perfect kick from Trent Hodkinson into the in goal is batted back by Anthony Watmough to the Eagles number 7 who scores. 6-6
10th minute - Journeyman Shane Rodney shows great skill to pick up a grubber kick - a good sign for a side when their forwards turn up to defuse such attacking kicks.
11th minute - Steve Matai knocks the stuffing out of David Mead.
12th minute - This game does not have the same spice to it as last weeks match between the Eagles and Melbourne. 3 reasons for this:
1. These two teams have not yet established a rivalry.
2. The Titans away form is not inspiring
3. Manly and The Gold Coast are under the Salary Cap.
15th minute - Matai rocks Joseph Tomane with a beauty. Manly ball. The Sea Eagles defence has been impressive for many years now. They perhaps should have more silverware to show for it. We all know why they don't.
17th minute - Hodkinson kick is perfectly placed again - poorly defended by the Titans and Matai is over. Manly 12-6.
19th minute - Greg Bird takes a blind side hit up and we notice he hasn’t been seen much in the opening 20. He needs to perform well for the Titans to win, and the Eagles need to perform badly. They do as Ben Farrar drops a bomb to give the visitors a repeat set. The Titans give it right back with their own error and then give away a penalty. John Cartwright must be losing his mind.
21st minute - Kieran Foran gets into the act and drops a perfectly weighted grubber into the Titans in goal to force a drop out. Preston Campbell pulls out a beauty and kicks it 10m to recover possession for his side.
Thought - Is it just me or do touch judges have the easiest job in the world? What do they even do?
26th minute - Manly have all the ball right now. They still lead 12-6 as the Titans defence holds strong.
27th minute - Not strong enough though as weight of possession tells and an impressive sweeping play to the left sees Ben Farrar score. Bad signs now for the Gold Coast unless they start holding the ball. Manly lead 16-6.
30th minute - Sea Eagles lead penalty count 4-0. Can we bet on the next 4 penalties going to the Titans to even it up? I hate that NRL refs are made aware of this.
Laffranchi on report for high shot in front of the posts. Manly take the tap and turn it over on tackle 2. Titans must be the next to score.
32nd minute - rather than scoring next, they turn the ball over again. Their away form is at times Raiders like.
34th minute - A lucky break for the visitors as Preston Campbell charges down a Foran kick and shovels the ball to speedster Kevin Gordon who runs 70m to get his double. Manly 16-12.
38th minute - The Eagles interchange bench is impressive. Kite and Galuvao come onto the field and have been working hard.
Halftime - Manly lead 16-12.
43rd minute - PC has still got it. Makes a 40m bust to signify that the Titans are right in this.
Thought - The Titans might struggle to score points. Without Prince and both starting centres on the field (Tomane has been pulled and replaced by Sam Tagataese), their attack is struggling. They should expect more from William Zillman who showed promise whilst in Canberra but fair to say that he has not yet found his feet north of the Tweed.
50th minute - Speaking of the Titans attack, the Eagles are now under pressure. They show good character with Watmough defusing an attacking kick and then the Eagles go 70 metres from 3 dummy half runs. David Mead then drops a bomb to give Manly a repeat set. Huge momentum swing.
52nd minute - Momentum usually leads to points and does so here as Matai crosses. Good passing that sees the Kiwi international run untouched to the line. Lyon coverts. Manly lead 22-12.
59th minute - Manly defence turns it up a notch with 3 solid hits. 20 to go and the Titans need someone to create points. Bird seems as though he is attracting multiple defenders and Campbell is not very talkative at the moment.
61st minute - A Joseph Tomane sighting. Is he back?
62nd minute - PC smothered by Foran and Watmough. He drops the ball. Manly defence has given the visitors nothing tonight. Both Titans tries have come from broken play.
66th minute - Josh Perry busts the line and runs 40 metres before being chopped down by Will Zillman. One on one fullback tackles are always great to watch: especially when front rowers are doing the running.
69th minute - with 10 to go and a 10 point lead, the Eagles refuse to go into their shells. Coming off their own line they off-load twice and throw a risky inside ball. One of these off-loads was actually a behind-the-back flick pass from Brent Kite. Fantastic.
71st minute - Campbell over!! The Titans stick with it and get a reward. They have made a game out of this. Nathan Friend the destroyer as he draws 3 defenders and pops a beautiful pass inside to his halfback. Manly lead 22-18 and the home crowd is nervous.
73rd minute - The Titans best set of six of the entire match to follow up their try and the Eagles don't help themselves by allowing a Greg Bird bomb to bounce and give the visitors a repeat set.
74th minute - Laffranchi OVER!!! Huge try. Nathan Friend again the reason as he draws the defence close to the try line and pops an amazing ball to the Titans second rower. 22 all with a kick to come. This is an unbelievable score line after watching Manly control the entire match. Presto converts - Titans lead 24-22.
76th minute - Manly recover a short kick off. Here we go! The tempo is now frantic.
78th minute - Eagles attacking the line to create a miracle of their own but the pressure seems too much and they cough up possession. A charge down on the ensuing set gives the Titans another six and surely closes the door on Manly - they need a miracle.
80th minute - Nathan Friend turns up again to stop a possible chip and chase by the home side. He must be Man of the Match. Titans win 24-22.
Friday, April 23, 2010
The Melbourne Storm and a cascade of pain.
It starts with old men wearing expensive suits who manage money and numbers and bottom lines, but never manage people. It finishes with that money being found in the wrong place, in the wrong pockets and the people suffering. Who exactly is it that suffers? The following come to mind...
Think of a young footballer signed by the storm, nurtured by Craig Bellamy into a star. His life is in Melbourne.. his friends, his job, everything he is proud of. His success, failures, entire life experience linked to one thing; Rugby League. He is successful in this pursuit and forges memories and friendships that last a lifetime. This young man then finds out that the success was a fabrication. The memories are suddenly tainted, the success dissolved, the pride lost. Hopefully for Greg Inglis and others who fit this story line - the friendships last.
Think of an even younger footballer. Still not playing first grade but is touted as a future star of the club. Born and raised in country NSW - he leaves his friends and family behind to start a new life with the Melbourne Storm. Before he is given his shot at 1st grade - he is told that this club has nothing to play for in the near future, and further more is under criminal investigation. His future uncertain and his dreams crushed. Will he ever play in the NRL? For Dane Chisholm's sake, and many other young footballers in the Storm system who fit this story line, I hope they do.
Think of the best of the bunch. Harder to sympathise with ... but still another sufferer. He captains his club, state and country but the club is what matters most. It's his job and he leads this club to 2 premierships. He is then told that these victories were essentially stolen from the mouths of others and not only are they taken from him ... he is told he didn't deserve them in the first place. Cameron Smith was on the path to rugby league immortality but his career will now forever be linked to a crime, where he is the victim.
Think of those who looked at Melbourne with envy and simply wanted what they have. Hungry for success, a struggling Sydney club found its way out of financial ruin and from the depths of the competition ladder to forge its own reputation of toughness, resilience and success. A club that reignited the support of a community and re-established its link to rugby league history. The Manly Sea Eagles would be the victim here ... and more so should be remembered as one of the great teams in recent history... but they won't. Their last game of the season for 3 years in a row was played against the Storm. Two losses and premiership victory to show for it. Should they have been the dynasty? Any other clubs fit this description?
Think of the look on Darren Lockyer's face after Brisbane's 2008 semi final loss to the Storm. The Broncos were attempting to send the icon of their club, Wayne Bennett, out on a high note and were beaten by a last minute try to Greg Inglis. Did they suffer after this loss? Absolutely. Watch this highlights package from Channel 9 of that match...
Have a look at the intensity of the encounter. The urgency of all 35 players, the desperate defence and the controversy, the violence and the emotion plastered all over their faces at the dramatic climax. Look at Lockyer's face... Did someone swindle him out of victory here? Yes. Look at the pain running through his whole body as he stands defeated, despondent and cheated.
Watch the celebration from the Storm players go on around him and join the suffering of so many as you, the fan, try and count the players that should not have been in a Melbourne uniform on this day. That's exactly what I did. We are all now jaded as league followers and will hope for the bitter taste to leave our tongues soon.
Think of the state of the code. League has shat all over itself once again from a great height. The Melbourne Storm scandal differs to that of the Bulldogs drama from 2002. They are not just a team that had won 17 games in a row and were premiership favourites... this is The Team of the Decade and a dynasty to rival that of any in our game. The Storm were the benchmark and multiple grand final winners. They have players respected by children, adults and fellow footballers alike. Rugby League suffers again.
Think of Grand Final day. A special day for all league fans. Watching Melbourne take part in this day for the past 4 years has been a pleasure. We marvelled at their consistency and hated them for being so good. We questioned some of their tactics and cheered their valour at the same time. All for nothing... it was all a sham.
Who is still to suffer? The Melbourne Storm starting 17. What are they playing for after this strange punishment from the NRL? Every game in 2010 is now a waste of time and how would the other clubs approach these games? Storm players aiming for Origin will keep themselves in form and then play the series, but what then? There are predictions that some of them will get suspended intentionally. Others say Craig Bellamy will unite his side to let out their anger on the opposition. Either way this ruling by the NRL boggles the mind and has somehow added to the horror.
When will it end? Not soon... hopefully Grand Final day this year will help create new memories and here's hoping that we don't look at the eventual premiers with a doubtful eye. But how can we trust them? One scumbag in a suit shuffles around some numbers to make himself some money, and the ripple effect has caused the suffering of so many. How many young footballers did we just lose to AFL and union? How many Storm fans did we just lose in Melbourne? How much money has this cost us? How much pride? Watch the above video one more time and see Darren Lockyer being cheated and then try and guess how many others have suffered. Lost count? Me too.
Think of a young footballer signed by the storm, nurtured by Craig Bellamy into a star. His life is in Melbourne.. his friends, his job, everything he is proud of. His success, failures, entire life experience linked to one thing; Rugby League. He is successful in this pursuit and forges memories and friendships that last a lifetime. This young man then finds out that the success was a fabrication. The memories are suddenly tainted, the success dissolved, the pride lost. Hopefully for Greg Inglis and others who fit this story line - the friendships last.
Think of an even younger footballer. Still not playing first grade but is touted as a future star of the club. Born and raised in country NSW - he leaves his friends and family behind to start a new life with the Melbourne Storm. Before he is given his shot at 1st grade - he is told that this club has nothing to play for in the near future, and further more is under criminal investigation. His future uncertain and his dreams crushed. Will he ever play in the NRL? For Dane Chisholm's sake, and many other young footballers in the Storm system who fit this story line, I hope they do.
All his memories tainted.
Think of the best of the bunch. Harder to sympathise with ... but still another sufferer. He captains his club, state and country but the club is what matters most. It's his job and he leads this club to 2 premierships. He is then told that these victories were essentially stolen from the mouths of others and not only are they taken from him ... he is told he didn't deserve them in the first place. Cameron Smith was on the path to rugby league immortality but his career will now forever be linked to a crime, where he is the victim.
Think of those who looked at Melbourne with envy and simply wanted what they have. Hungry for success, a struggling Sydney club found its way out of financial ruin and from the depths of the competition ladder to forge its own reputation of toughness, resilience and success. A club that reignited the support of a community and re-established its link to rugby league history. The Manly Sea Eagles would be the victim here ... and more so should be remembered as one of the great teams in recent history... but they won't. Their last game of the season for 3 years in a row was played against the Storm. Two losses and premiership victory to show for it. Should they have been the dynasty? Any other clubs fit this description?
The best talent money can buy.
Think of the look on Darren Lockyer's face after Brisbane's 2008 semi final loss to the Storm. The Broncos were attempting to send the icon of their club, Wayne Bennett, out on a high note and were beaten by a last minute try to Greg Inglis. Did they suffer after this loss? Absolutely. Watch this highlights package from Channel 9 of that match...
Have a look at the intensity of the encounter. The urgency of all 35 players, the desperate defence and the controversy, the violence and the emotion plastered all over their faces at the dramatic climax. Look at Lockyer's face... Did someone swindle him out of victory here? Yes. Look at the pain running through his whole body as he stands defeated, despondent and cheated.
Watch the celebration from the Storm players go on around him and join the suffering of so many as you, the fan, try and count the players that should not have been in a Melbourne uniform on this day. That's exactly what I did. We are all now jaded as league followers and will hope for the bitter taste to leave our tongues soon.
How many should never have been there?
Think of the state of the code. League has shat all over itself once again from a great height. The Melbourne Storm scandal differs to that of the Bulldogs drama from 2002. They are not just a team that had won 17 games in a row and were premiership favourites... this is The Team of the Decade and a dynasty to rival that of any in our game. The Storm were the benchmark and multiple grand final winners. They have players respected by children, adults and fellow footballers alike. Rugby League suffers again.
Think of Grand Final day. A special day for all league fans. Watching Melbourne take part in this day for the past 4 years has been a pleasure. We marvelled at their consistency and hated them for being so good. We questioned some of their tactics and cheered their valour at the same time. All for nothing... it was all a sham.
Who is still to suffer? The Melbourne Storm starting 17. What are they playing for after this strange punishment from the NRL? Every game in 2010 is now a waste of time and how would the other clubs approach these games? Storm players aiming for Origin will keep themselves in form and then play the series, but what then? There are predictions that some of them will get suspended intentionally. Others say Craig Bellamy will unite his side to let out their anger on the opposition. Either way this ruling by the NRL boggles the mind and has somehow added to the horror.
When will it end? Not soon... hopefully Grand Final day this year will help create new memories and here's hoping that we don't look at the eventual premiers with a doubtful eye. But how can we trust them? One scumbag in a suit shuffles around some numbers to make himself some money, and the ripple effect has caused the suffering of so many. How many young footballers did we just lose to AFL and union? How many Storm fans did we just lose in Melbourne? How much money has this cost us? How much pride? Watch the above video one more time and see Darren Lockyer being cheated and then try and guess how many others have suffered. Lost count? Me too.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Paully's Picks - Round 7
Canterbury v Brisbane
Here's hoping the Broncos turn up for this one. They have been inconsistent this season through injuries and fluctuating individual form. So, in the interests of good footy, we remain hopeful that their young players turn up at ANZ stadium on Friday night rather than rely on Darren Lockyer to pull them out of trouble. The Brisbane captain has tormented the Bulldogs' up-and-in defence in the past and will aim to do so again here. He could be the difference.
However, without Peter Wallace to take some of the attention away from Lockyer, the Broncos will struggle for field position and attacking options. This will encourage the Bulldogs and feed them plenty of quality possession which should be enough to carry them home. Josh Morris v Israel Folau will be a highlight and Ben Teo will be marking Jamal Idris in what should be a thunderous contest. Also, Ben Hannant will be eager to impress his future team mates. Dogs do enough to win against a willing Brisbane team.
Man of the Match Prediction: Luke Patten
Tip: Dogs 24-14
Result: Dogs 36-18
Man of the Match: Jamal Idris
Match Review:
The flick pass from Idris was a beauty. It's good to see young players willing to play their natural game and entertain the crowd. This was a surprising game of football with the Dogs exploding in the second half to score 3 tries in quick succession. All coinciding with Ben Roberts departure from the field. Speaking of which, this match took its toll on the home side as Canterbury lost Hannant, Morris and Roberts through injury. No need to question the results as both teams are under the salary cap.
North Queensland v Parramatta
The Cowboys are well placed to cause an upset here. It is exactly the type of match where historically, a favoured Eels team might fail to perform. Plenty of advantages for the home side as they host a team still struggling to find rhythm in attack and who have been horribly ill-disciplined. To add to the excitement, North Queensland have named Willie Mason and Carl Webb in their starting side.
This would have been impressive about 4 years ago, but time marches on and the injury riddled Cowboys do not have enough points in them to put any fear into the Eels. To win, the home side must grind out a victory through physically bashing the visitors but we think the Eels can overcome this and finish on top through an impressive scrum base and potent interchange bench. Timana Tahu was fantastic last week and will be a joy to watch once again here. This match could signal the return of J. Hayne.
Man of the Match Prediction: Jarryd Hayne
Tip: Eels 24-10
Result: Eels 24-18
Man of the Match: Fui Fui Moi Moi
Match Review:
It has to be said, Parramatta look like they are building towards something. Why? Jarryd Hayne looks to be in 1st gear and so do some of his forwards. The Eels have learnt plenty from last year and are conserving their energy for this years finals. Hayne specifically looks as though he is holding his cards close to the chest and will wait for origin and semi finals to show his hand. The Eels will do enough to make the finals and then hope to lift their form again. One question mark on this theory is the form of Daniel Mortimer. Struggling for consistency and frustrated with his own form, Mortimer could have a negative effect on his teammates if he continues moping around the field like a scolded puppy. No need to question this result as both teams are under the salary cap.
Penrith v Wests
If the Storm and Dragons are the defensive benchmarks of the NRL, here we have consistently the two most exciting attacking teams in the competition. The Tigers definitely did not display this ability in last week's loss to the Bulldogs but new halfback Blake Lazarus may be better for the run to improve his side's creativity. Both teams will turn up here. The visitors look slightly thinner up front compared to a Panthers pack hosting some of the games best and brightest.
Home ground advantage is also huge here as Penrith, brimming with confidence after dropping 40 on the Warriors last week, will over-power a courageous Tigers defence and outlast them in the end. Michael Jennings may well partner Chris Lawrence in the centre's for NSW this year, but they face each other here in a tantalising battle of superstars. Injury concerns for Tigers entire front row.
Man of the Match Prediction: Frank Pritchard
Tip: Panthers 30-18
Result: Panthers 26-18
Man of the Match: Lachlan Coote
Match Review:
Fantastic game of footy. Both teams performed well in this match but the Panthers look like they have a motivation and attitude seldom seen since 2003. Michael Jennings in particular looked aggressive in defence and had a scowl across his face that has never before been seen on the kid. Good sign for the Panthers. Another good sign was the play of Tim Grant. A great front rower with a bright future. No need to question this result as both teams are under the salary cap.
Cronulla v Newcastle
Cronulla, for the first time this season, have named the same line-up in consecutive weeks. Perhaps coach Ricky Stuart has settled on his best possible combinations with limited options (Limited, only according to Stuart). This will help their struggling attack but the Sharks pack must raise their aggression and enthusiasm to stop a potent Knights team. This is their best chance against a Newcastle side with a poor defensive record and question marks over their ability to win away from the Hunter.
However, they have a backline boasting a number of supremely talented footballers and if Jarrod Mullen turns up, the Knights will find the try line often enough to scrape home. We predict he does... and they do. Cronulla will try to push their opponents around to win this one which may cause some niggle, which we love, but will not get the home side a victory. Knights win with a more dangerous three-quarter line and a superior interchange bench.
Man of the Match Prediction: Kurt Gidley
Tip: Newcastle 23-16
Result: Cronulla 26-6
Man of the Match: Paul Gallen
Match Review:
Congratulations to the Sharks on an impressive performance. They completely dominated the Knights in every facet and looked like they were actually enjoying themselves. The confidence could be back at Cronulla which could mena a more frequent visit to the winners circle. Tim Smith is combining well with John Morris and Trent Barret. Snowden and Douglas continue their good form up front. Interesting to note in this match that Cronulla are under the Salary Cap and were able to win. Amazing.
Canberra v South Sydney
Adam Mogg has been named at halfback to start this match. The Raiders must be super confident to throw a former NRL winger/centre into the 7 jersey and so they should be. A Sunday afternoon in Canberra on Anzac Day with rain predicted and temperatures low. It all reads like a nightmare for a young Rabbitohs team whose forward pack might be big enough to cause a mini-upset here, but we predict they don't.
The Raiders forwards look like a collection of monsters from some children's cartoon. They are huge and will not be out muscled in front of their home crowd. The Green Machine will be grunting and bashing their way to victory over a visiting South Sydney squad that will not be prepared for the opening 20 minute onslaught from Campese and co. A highlight will be two very big forward packs colliding in what will turn out to be a beauty in the wet.
Man of the Match Prediction: Alan Tongue
Tip: Canberra 20-18
Result: Souths 26-24
Man of the Match: John Sutton
Match Review:
Reports from our spies in Canberra suggest that it should have been no surprise to see the Raiders fade in the second half of this match. Their weekly training regime consists of at least two mid week benders, usually at the house of one of the players. Well, it's keeping them out of media trouble, which is difficult in the paparazzi capital of the world, but unfortunately it is making them look amatuer on the field. Credit to Souths for come home strong. Did you see Alan Tongue fall off Rhys Wesser as he scored the match winner? Tongue was completely spent and playing injured. Credit to him but unfortunately his troops refuse to follow the example. No need to question this result as both teams are under the salary cap.
St George Illawarra v Eastern Suburbs
The St George Illawarra juggernaut is back on track after last week's impressive performance against the Titans. The only way this Roosters team can stop the Dragons momentum is to beat the living daylights out of Jamie Soward and Darius Boyd and get an early lead. Unfortunately the Roosters don't have it in them. Also - nobody uses this tactic in the NRL anymore which leaves last year's minor premiers with a distinct advantage.
This match will also continue the great rivalry of a now very popular Anzac Day match between these clubs. Traditionally a physical encounter where the aggression lasts for 80 minutes, we predict a similar story here which will no doubt excite the likes of Michael Weyman and Neville Costigan. Saints defence and go-forward will be the difference. Fans are looking forward to this match and it will be interesting to see how Mitchell Pearce and Todd Carney plan to attack the Dragons.
Lest We Forget.
Man of the Match Prediction: Ben Creagh
Tip: Dragons 23-12
Result: Dragons 28-6
Man of the Match: Darius Boyd
Match Review
The Dragons are now officially headed for an end of year disaster. Everything they are doing this year mirrors 2009 almost exactly and they now sit atop the competition ladder after 7 rounds. Fans are getting that creepy sense of history about to repeat itself. More on this later as we still have plenty of time before the pressure starts to mount on the Dragons. Impressive first half from both sides but the Dragons defence too good. No need to question this result as both teams are under the salary cap.
Melbourne v NZ Warriors
The below is what I wrote on Thursday morning - pre salary cap scandal announcement.
A great test for young Warriors halfback James Maloney. James has excelled in his first year across the Tasman after leaving the Storm and his performances have led the Warriors to two away wins already this year. On Sunday, Maloney and his team head to Melbourne to play an angry Storm side who have lost their last two. Making matters worse in what represents a huge danger sign for the visitors; Cameron Smith is filthy at his own form from last week
The Storm have too much firepower in attack to average just 16 points per game in 2010 and although this might be an issue, their defence is rock solid. Keep an eye on Cooper Cronk in this match. Cooper never stops talking on the field and his attitude is reflected in the Storms recent success. This Sunday, his attitude will be to win at any cost and this will filter through to the rest of the team. The Warriors will not go quietly but will find it difficult to score points.
Post scandal - It will be an emotional day to say the least.
More to come on this blog soon - but regarding Sunday's game against the Warriors - the Storm will turn up with tears in their eyes and shock still pulsing through their souls. They wont know what to do. The Warriors will get an early lead as Melbourne players bounce around the park trying to figure out why they exist at all.
Then - they will fight. Not sure how, but they will.
The other alternative is to not turn up at all and forfeit this game. This seemed impossible yesterday - but nothing does today.
Man of the Match Prediction: Cooper Cronk
Tip: draw
Result: Storm 40-6
Man of the Match: Cooper Cronk
Match Review
Well at least we correctly predicted the Man of the Match. Everything else about this encounter was a complete fabrication. The Storm, with a bunch of players who should not be playing, destroyed the Warriors from start to finish. Did the Warriors deserve to suffer this loss? No. Their confidence shaken and their top 8 prospects damaged, they should be seeking to get the two points back from the NRL. The Storm beat them with "too many men on the field" - if you know what I mean. The horror continues.
Manly v Gold Coast
A concern for the Eagles is backing up from last week’s huge victory over the Storm. They were exhausted in that match and although they have a full week between games, it could be telling against a talented Gold Coast side who will be coming off 10 days rest. However, the Titans are struggling to score points with Greg Bird carrying most of the load. He must improve his communication with teammates if the Titans are any chance of a rare away win, and even more rare without captain Scott Prince.
The visitors will explode out of the sheds which will shock the home side from kick off and keep the crowd out of this game. They do a Manly on Manly and lead early, but then begin to fade. The Sea Eagles forwards are the reason they are sitting 3rd on the ladder and will carry them home stronger than the Titans to extend Manly's win streak to 5. It will be close though but Manly's record at Brookvale must be respected.
Man of the Match Prediction: Anthony Watmough
Tip: Manly 21-20
Result: Titans 24-22
Man of the Match: Nathan Friend
Match Review
See our "Minute by Minute Monday Night" blog - delivered in 'retro' form on Tuesday. For live updates go to http://www.leagueunlimited.com/
Here's hoping the Broncos turn up for this one. They have been inconsistent this season through injuries and fluctuating individual form. So, in the interests of good footy, we remain hopeful that their young players turn up at ANZ stadium on Friday night rather than rely on Darren Lockyer to pull them out of trouble. The Brisbane captain has tormented the Bulldogs' up-and-in defence in the past and will aim to do so again here. He could be the difference.
However, without Peter Wallace to take some of the attention away from Lockyer, the Broncos will struggle for field position and attacking options. This will encourage the Bulldogs and feed them plenty of quality possession which should be enough to carry them home. Josh Morris v Israel Folau will be a highlight and Ben Teo will be marking Jamal Idris in what should be a thunderous contest. Also, Ben Hannant will be eager to impress his future team mates. Dogs do enough to win against a willing Brisbane team.
Man of the Match Prediction: Luke Patten
Tip: Dogs 24-14
Result: Dogs 36-18
Man of the Match: Jamal Idris
Match Review:
The flick pass from Idris was a beauty. It's good to see young players willing to play their natural game and entertain the crowd. This was a surprising game of football with the Dogs exploding in the second half to score 3 tries in quick succession. All coinciding with Ben Roberts departure from the field. Speaking of which, this match took its toll on the home side as Canterbury lost Hannant, Morris and Roberts through injury. No need to question the results as both teams are under the salary cap.
North Queensland v Parramatta
The Cowboys are well placed to cause an upset here. It is exactly the type of match where historically, a favoured Eels team might fail to perform. Plenty of advantages for the home side as they host a team still struggling to find rhythm in attack and who have been horribly ill-disciplined. To add to the excitement, North Queensland have named Willie Mason and Carl Webb in their starting side.
This would have been impressive about 4 years ago, but time marches on and the injury riddled Cowboys do not have enough points in them to put any fear into the Eels. To win, the home side must grind out a victory through physically bashing the visitors but we think the Eels can overcome this and finish on top through an impressive scrum base and potent interchange bench. Timana Tahu was fantastic last week and will be a joy to watch once again here. This match could signal the return of J. Hayne.
Man of the Match Prediction: Jarryd Hayne
Tip: Eels 24-10
Result: Eels 24-18
Man of the Match: Fui Fui Moi Moi
Match Review:
It has to be said, Parramatta look like they are building towards something. Why? Jarryd Hayne looks to be in 1st gear and so do some of his forwards. The Eels have learnt plenty from last year and are conserving their energy for this years finals. Hayne specifically looks as though he is holding his cards close to the chest and will wait for origin and semi finals to show his hand. The Eels will do enough to make the finals and then hope to lift their form again. One question mark on this theory is the form of Daniel Mortimer. Struggling for consistency and frustrated with his own form, Mortimer could have a negative effect on his teammates if he continues moping around the field like a scolded puppy. No need to question this result as both teams are under the salary cap.
Penrith v Wests
If the Storm and Dragons are the defensive benchmarks of the NRL, here we have consistently the two most exciting attacking teams in the competition. The Tigers definitely did not display this ability in last week's loss to the Bulldogs but new halfback Blake Lazarus may be better for the run to improve his side's creativity. Both teams will turn up here. The visitors look slightly thinner up front compared to a Panthers pack hosting some of the games best and brightest.
Home ground advantage is also huge here as Penrith, brimming with confidence after dropping 40 on the Warriors last week, will over-power a courageous Tigers defence and outlast them in the end. Michael Jennings may well partner Chris Lawrence in the centre's for NSW this year, but they face each other here in a tantalising battle of superstars. Injury concerns for Tigers entire front row.
Man of the Match Prediction: Frank Pritchard
Tip: Panthers 30-18
Result: Panthers 26-18
Man of the Match: Lachlan Coote
Match Review:
Fantastic game of footy. Both teams performed well in this match but the Panthers look like they have a motivation and attitude seldom seen since 2003. Michael Jennings in particular looked aggressive in defence and had a scowl across his face that has never before been seen on the kid. Good sign for the Panthers. Another good sign was the play of Tim Grant. A great front rower with a bright future. No need to question this result as both teams are under the salary cap.
Cronulla v Newcastle
Cronulla, for the first time this season, have named the same line-up in consecutive weeks. Perhaps coach Ricky Stuart has settled on his best possible combinations with limited options (Limited, only according to Stuart). This will help their struggling attack but the Sharks pack must raise their aggression and enthusiasm to stop a potent Knights team. This is their best chance against a Newcastle side with a poor defensive record and question marks over their ability to win away from the Hunter.
However, they have a backline boasting a number of supremely talented footballers and if Jarrod Mullen turns up, the Knights will find the try line often enough to scrape home. We predict he does... and they do. Cronulla will try to push their opponents around to win this one which may cause some niggle, which we love, but will not get the home side a victory. Knights win with a more dangerous three-quarter line and a superior interchange bench.
Man of the Match Prediction: Kurt Gidley
Tip: Newcastle 23-16
Result: Cronulla 26-6
Man of the Match: Paul Gallen
Match Review:
Congratulations to the Sharks on an impressive performance. They completely dominated the Knights in every facet and looked like they were actually enjoying themselves. The confidence could be back at Cronulla which could mena a more frequent visit to the winners circle. Tim Smith is combining well with John Morris and Trent Barret. Snowden and Douglas continue their good form up front. Interesting to note in this match that Cronulla are under the Salary Cap and were able to win. Amazing.
Canberra v South Sydney
Adam Mogg has been named at halfback to start this match. The Raiders must be super confident to throw a former NRL winger/centre into the 7 jersey and so they should be. A Sunday afternoon in Canberra on Anzac Day with rain predicted and temperatures low. It all reads like a nightmare for a young Rabbitohs team whose forward pack might be big enough to cause a mini-upset here, but we predict they don't.
The Raiders forwards look like a collection of monsters from some children's cartoon. They are huge and will not be out muscled in front of their home crowd. The Green Machine will be grunting and bashing their way to victory over a visiting South Sydney squad that will not be prepared for the opening 20 minute onslaught from Campese and co. A highlight will be two very big forward packs colliding in what will turn out to be a beauty in the wet.
Man of the Match Prediction: Alan Tongue
Tip: Canberra 20-18
Result: Souths 26-24
Man of the Match: John Sutton
Match Review:
Reports from our spies in Canberra suggest that it should have been no surprise to see the Raiders fade in the second half of this match. Their weekly training regime consists of at least two mid week benders, usually at the house of one of the players. Well, it's keeping them out of media trouble, which is difficult in the paparazzi capital of the world, but unfortunately it is making them look amatuer on the field. Credit to Souths for come home strong. Did you see Alan Tongue fall off Rhys Wesser as he scored the match winner? Tongue was completely spent and playing injured. Credit to him but unfortunately his troops refuse to follow the example. No need to question this result as both teams are under the salary cap.
St George Illawarra v Eastern Suburbs
The St George Illawarra juggernaut is back on track after last week's impressive performance against the Titans. The only way this Roosters team can stop the Dragons momentum is to beat the living daylights out of Jamie Soward and Darius Boyd and get an early lead. Unfortunately the Roosters don't have it in them. Also - nobody uses this tactic in the NRL anymore which leaves last year's minor premiers with a distinct advantage.
This match will also continue the great rivalry of a now very popular Anzac Day match between these clubs. Traditionally a physical encounter where the aggression lasts for 80 minutes, we predict a similar story here which will no doubt excite the likes of Michael Weyman and Neville Costigan. Saints defence and go-forward will be the difference. Fans are looking forward to this match and it will be interesting to see how Mitchell Pearce and Todd Carney plan to attack the Dragons.
Lest We Forget.
Man of the Match Prediction: Ben Creagh
Tip: Dragons 23-12
Result: Dragons 28-6
Man of the Match: Darius Boyd
Match Review
The Dragons are now officially headed for an end of year disaster. Everything they are doing this year mirrors 2009 almost exactly and they now sit atop the competition ladder after 7 rounds. Fans are getting that creepy sense of history about to repeat itself. More on this later as we still have plenty of time before the pressure starts to mount on the Dragons. Impressive first half from both sides but the Dragons defence too good. No need to question this result as both teams are under the salary cap.
Melbourne v NZ Warriors
The below is what I wrote on Thursday morning - pre salary cap scandal announcement.
A great test for young Warriors halfback James Maloney. James has excelled in his first year across the Tasman after leaving the Storm and his performances have led the Warriors to two away wins already this year. On Sunday, Maloney and his team head to Melbourne to play an angry Storm side who have lost their last two. Making matters worse in what represents a huge danger sign for the visitors; Cameron Smith is filthy at his own form from last week
The Storm have too much firepower in attack to average just 16 points per game in 2010 and although this might be an issue, their defence is rock solid. Keep an eye on Cooper Cronk in this match. Cooper never stops talking on the field and his attitude is reflected in the Storms recent success. This Sunday, his attitude will be to win at any cost and this will filter through to the rest of the team. The Warriors will not go quietly but will find it difficult to score points.
Post scandal - It will be an emotional day to say the least.
More to come on this blog soon - but regarding Sunday's game against the Warriors - the Storm will turn up with tears in their eyes and shock still pulsing through their souls. They wont know what to do. The Warriors will get an early lead as Melbourne players bounce around the park trying to figure out why they exist at all.
Then - they will fight. Not sure how, but they will.
The other alternative is to not turn up at all and forfeit this game. This seemed impossible yesterday - but nothing does today.
Man of the Match Prediction: Cooper Cronk
Tip: draw
Result: Storm 40-6
Man of the Match: Cooper Cronk
Match Review
Well at least we correctly predicted the Man of the Match. Everything else about this encounter was a complete fabrication. The Storm, with a bunch of players who should not be playing, destroyed the Warriors from start to finish. Did the Warriors deserve to suffer this loss? No. Their confidence shaken and their top 8 prospects damaged, they should be seeking to get the two points back from the NRL. The Storm beat them with "too many men on the field" - if you know what I mean. The horror continues.
Manly v Gold Coast
A concern for the Eagles is backing up from last week’s huge victory over the Storm. They were exhausted in that match and although they have a full week between games, it could be telling against a talented Gold Coast side who will be coming off 10 days rest. However, the Titans are struggling to score points with Greg Bird carrying most of the load. He must improve his communication with teammates if the Titans are any chance of a rare away win, and even more rare without captain Scott Prince.
The visitors will explode out of the sheds which will shock the home side from kick off and keep the crowd out of this game. They do a Manly on Manly and lead early, but then begin to fade. The Sea Eagles forwards are the reason they are sitting 3rd on the ladder and will carry them home stronger than the Titans to extend Manly's win streak to 5. It will be close though but Manly's record at Brookvale must be respected.
Man of the Match Prediction: Anthony Watmough
Tip: Manly 21-20
Result: Titans 24-22
Man of the Match: Nathan Friend
Match Review
See our "Minute by Minute Monday Night" blog - delivered in 'retro' form on Tuesday. For live updates go to http://www.leagueunlimited.com/
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Minute by Minute Monday Night - Round 6
Melbourne v Manly. Etihad Stadium. April 19, 2010
Jamie Buhrer is on debut in place of the suspended Brent Kite. Great name. Ryan Hoffman is back which is huge for the Storm.
3rd minute - The Wrestle rules so far. A much anticipated encounter is not as violent in the open exchanges as we would have hoped. Gone are the days.
4th minute - Glenn Stewart try. Fantastic kick by Liam Foran who has shown some great touches this year. His kick towards the in goal is batted back by skipper Jamie Lyon to Stewart. The Manly halves, as we have said many times lately, are impressive. Eagles 6-0.
6th minute - The Sea Eagles look ready - their defence is the key indicator here and they are aggressive early. This enthusiasm is slightly over-cooked and they give away a penalty. Tough call though. 'Touchies' fault I'm sure.
8th minute - Greg Inglis shows his great strength by pushing off defenders and then finding Cooper Cronk who would have scored if not for Ben Farrar's try saver. Farrar has been impressive of late and is very capably filling the shoes of one of the games great custodians.
10th minute - Manly's attack looks perfectly designed so far as Tony Williams almost scores. Great scrambling by the Storm. Their defence is always a highlight but Manly are making plenty of space.
12th minute - Plenty indeed! Farrar is the destroyer in this case as Storm winger Luke Macdougall comes in field and the Eagles take advantage through prolific try scorer Michael Robertson. Lyon converts to put the visitors ahead 12-0.
15th minute - Melbourne look to be struggling with their direction. They are the Storm though so you know they will come good.
16th minute - Robertson over again for the Eagles as Steve Matai makes a miraculous last pass to beat the Storms right side. This is unbelievable. Manly lead 16-0 after 16 minutes.
18th minute - The Sea Eagles pack are completely dominating their opposition. Getting quick play the balls and bending the Storm line.
Thought - Melbourne put in an alcohol ban for their first 3 away games this year and won all three. They lifted this ban at Easter and are now in danger of losing 2 out of 3. I'm just saying.
21st minute - Foran kick again perfect as his bomb comes down in a tough position between opposition winger and fullback and 2 metres out from the try line. He is a talented kid. This one defused by the Storm but referee calls a "blocking" penalty. Whatever. Storm ball but a Cameron Smith error puts more pressure on the home side.
25th minute - Foran kicks to the in-goal but too deep. A rare error.
28th minute - Brett Finch goes to Hoffman in attack twice in two minutes down the left side. The ball fails to get into the hands of GI both times. Not sure if he is looking for it or not. Either way he seems quiet.
30th minute - Bryan Norrie scores his first EVER try in the NRL. See Norrie's career statistics as evidence. A true rugby league journeyman. Manly 16-6.
32nd minute - Melbourne coming strong now. A good inside ball from Finch takes advantage of Manly's defence coming up too quickly. Home crowd now right into this. Dangerous period for Manly before halftime and we will see if they are committed. The Storm can sneak up on you.
33rd minute - They ARE committed. Halfback Trent Hodkinson and Lyon hit Hoffman with a beauty to dislodge the ball. Although Farrar gives it back to the home side through error.
34th minute - GI goes down with what looks like an ankle injury. You can hear a pin drop as he stays down for a few minutes. Gets up and limps off to applause. This is all Storm fans worst nightmare, not to mention QLD. (Brent Tate is a fine replacement though)
35th minute - Storm building pressure, receiving penalties and getting back to back sets.
37th minute - Pressure is relieved as the Mad Pup (Macdougall) cannot hold onto a Cooper Cronk cross field kick. Tough grab though. Manly desperate for halftime now and are content to ruck it out and kick it dead.
39th minute - Manly get a penalty after Watmough knocks down a Cronk chip to Slater. Eagles look as though they have been watching match videos of the Storm all week. They take the two and go to the sheds up 18-6.
Halftime.
44th minute - Mad Pup runs across field and gets flattened by Glenn Stewart. Stewart, Josh Perry and Anthony Watmough playing well this year and all deserve a blue jersey.
47th minute - Foran kick is misdirected and splays into touch. Shows his youth. Watmough crushes Ryan Hinchcliffe to remind me why I was looking forward to this game. The Eagles second rower is an angry footballer and his side's emotional leader. Unfortunately they fail to follow his lead and give away a penalty which hands Melbourne good attacking field position.
49th minute - Storm building pressure now.
50th minute - Pressure relived as a Cronk kick is too big and easily defused by the visitors. NO... Manly give it back from the ensuing set. Storm still down 18-6. Questions must be asked about their recent second half collapses.
52nd minute - Finch reminds us of his origin 2 performance in 2006. Throws a horrible pass to a support player to destroy any momentum built by the Storm. Surprising though as he has been in good form of late.
Thought - With 25 minutes to go, the Storm attack does not look sharp enough to score 3 tries and take the lead in this match. Coupled with a Manly defence that looks to have every move covered, it will take something special from the defending premiers.
55th minute - A Tony Williams tackle almost kills Finch and two consecutive Storm sets end with a whimper. One an easily defused bomb and the other in error. Manly slightly back on top.
Thought - Trent Hodkinson has a big boot, his defense is excellent as is his awareness on the field. He has twice now decided to run the ball rather than throw a hospital pass to covered support. Good young kid.
59th minute - Slater makes a sickening move up the left touch line to get out of his own in goal. Manly still lead 18-6.
64th minute - Melbourne now need 2 tries in 15 minutes. A tough ask.
66th minute - Cooper Cronk's sheer tenacity gets him over the try line. He runs straight and hard against an isolated Watmough close to the line. Smith fails to convert to basically hand the match to Manly. Eagles 18-10.
67th minute - Kick-off return by the Storm sees Lima and Watmough collide to shake the heavens. Watmough comes off second best this time. Wild.
69th minute - Kieran Foran drives another nail in the Storm coffin with a perfect kick to win his side a repeat set.
Thought - This stadium in Melbourne seems so cavernous when it's quiet. The worst atmosphere to watch league is a half-empty circular ground. You feel so far away. Even worse in this case as it is indoors and there is an echo reverberating around the park.
71st minute - 9 mins to go now and Manly lead 18-10. Credit to the Sea Eagles defence, they have been scrambling for what seems like the entire second half. Have looked tired on many ocassions but refuse to buckle.
73rd minute - Finch drifts across field from acting half and throws a good face ball that opens a hole in the Eagles defence - Cooper Cronks gladly accepts, hits the hole and Melbourne score. Manly 18-16.
Thought - It is usually errors that decide the outcome of games like this - where one team leads for most of the game whilst their opposition plays catch-up. Just as I write this Ryan Hoffman loses the ball getting up to play it. Crowd dies.
76th minute - Cameron Smith knocks on from dummy half just as the crowd is destroying my Etihad Stadium theory. They were suddenly very loud. Manly are very tired.
77th minute - Storm have the ball but are stuck in their own 20. It will take a miracle.
78th minute - Fox commentator Warren Smith goes on for ages about a Cameron Smith kick in general play that failed to find touch, he dribbles on about how amazing it has that Smith would not use an attacking kick in this situation and that it was just a kick for field position. Before my head explodes, co-commentator Greg Alexander saves the day and politely explains to Warren that is was obviously an attempt at a 40/20. Hilarious.
80th minute - Storm push too hard and turn it over for the 3rd time in 4 possessions to finish the game. Manly win 18-16. Despite a few errors this was a good game and adds to another chapter in this rivalries short but exciting history.
Tune in next week as Manly feature again. This time hosting the Gold Coast Titans from Brookvale Oval.
Jamie Buhrer is on debut in place of the suspended Brent Kite. Great name. Ryan Hoffman is back which is huge for the Storm.
3rd minute - The Wrestle rules so far. A much anticipated encounter is not as violent in the open exchanges as we would have hoped. Gone are the days.
4th minute - Glenn Stewart try. Fantastic kick by Liam Foran who has shown some great touches this year. His kick towards the in goal is batted back by skipper Jamie Lyon to Stewart. The Manly halves, as we have said many times lately, are impressive. Eagles 6-0.
6th minute - The Sea Eagles look ready - their defence is the key indicator here and they are aggressive early. This enthusiasm is slightly over-cooked and they give away a penalty. Tough call though. 'Touchies' fault I'm sure.
8th minute - Greg Inglis shows his great strength by pushing off defenders and then finding Cooper Cronk who would have scored if not for Ben Farrar's try saver. Farrar has been impressive of late and is very capably filling the shoes of one of the games great custodians.
10th minute - Manly's attack looks perfectly designed so far as Tony Williams almost scores. Great scrambling by the Storm. Their defence is always a highlight but Manly are making plenty of space.
12th minute - Plenty indeed! Farrar is the destroyer in this case as Storm winger Luke Macdougall comes in field and the Eagles take advantage through prolific try scorer Michael Robertson. Lyon converts to put the visitors ahead 12-0.
15th minute - Melbourne look to be struggling with their direction. They are the Storm though so you know they will come good.
16th minute - Robertson over again for the Eagles as Steve Matai makes a miraculous last pass to beat the Storms right side. This is unbelievable. Manly lead 16-0 after 16 minutes.
18th minute - The Sea Eagles pack are completely dominating their opposition. Getting quick play the balls and bending the Storm line.
Thought - Melbourne put in an alcohol ban for their first 3 away games this year and won all three. They lifted this ban at Easter and are now in danger of losing 2 out of 3. I'm just saying.
21st minute - Foran kick again perfect as his bomb comes down in a tough position between opposition winger and fullback and 2 metres out from the try line. He is a talented kid. This one defused by the Storm but referee calls a "blocking" penalty. Whatever. Storm ball but a Cameron Smith error puts more pressure on the home side.
25th minute - Foran kicks to the in-goal but too deep. A rare error.
28th minute - Brett Finch goes to Hoffman in attack twice in two minutes down the left side. The ball fails to get into the hands of GI both times. Not sure if he is looking for it or not. Either way he seems quiet.
30th minute - Bryan Norrie scores his first EVER try in the NRL. See Norrie's career statistics as evidence. A true rugby league journeyman. Manly 16-6.
32nd minute - Melbourne coming strong now. A good inside ball from Finch takes advantage of Manly's defence coming up too quickly. Home crowd now right into this. Dangerous period for Manly before halftime and we will see if they are committed. The Storm can sneak up on you.
33rd minute - They ARE committed. Halfback Trent Hodkinson and Lyon hit Hoffman with a beauty to dislodge the ball. Although Farrar gives it back to the home side through error.
34th minute - GI goes down with what looks like an ankle injury. You can hear a pin drop as he stays down for a few minutes. Gets up and limps off to applause. This is all Storm fans worst nightmare, not to mention QLD. (Brent Tate is a fine replacement though)
35th minute - Storm building pressure, receiving penalties and getting back to back sets.
37th minute - Pressure is relieved as the Mad Pup (Macdougall) cannot hold onto a Cooper Cronk cross field kick. Tough grab though. Manly desperate for halftime now and are content to ruck it out and kick it dead.
39th minute - Manly get a penalty after Watmough knocks down a Cronk chip to Slater. Eagles look as though they have been watching match videos of the Storm all week. They take the two and go to the sheds up 18-6.
Halftime.
44th minute - Mad Pup runs across field and gets flattened by Glenn Stewart. Stewart, Josh Perry and Anthony Watmough playing well this year and all deserve a blue jersey.
47th minute - Foran kick is misdirected and splays into touch. Shows his youth. Watmough crushes Ryan Hinchcliffe to remind me why I was looking forward to this game. The Eagles second rower is an angry footballer and his side's emotional leader. Unfortunately they fail to follow his lead and give away a penalty which hands Melbourne good attacking field position.
49th minute - Storm building pressure now.
50th minute - Pressure relived as a Cronk kick is too big and easily defused by the visitors. NO... Manly give it back from the ensuing set. Storm still down 18-6. Questions must be asked about their recent second half collapses.
52nd minute - Finch reminds us of his origin 2 performance in 2006. Throws a horrible pass to a support player to destroy any momentum built by the Storm. Surprising though as he has been in good form of late.
Thought - With 25 minutes to go, the Storm attack does not look sharp enough to score 3 tries and take the lead in this match. Coupled with a Manly defence that looks to have every move covered, it will take something special from the defending premiers.
55th minute - A Tony Williams tackle almost kills Finch and two consecutive Storm sets end with a whimper. One an easily defused bomb and the other in error. Manly slightly back on top.
Thought - Trent Hodkinson has a big boot, his defense is excellent as is his awareness on the field. He has twice now decided to run the ball rather than throw a hospital pass to covered support. Good young kid.
59th minute - Slater makes a sickening move up the left touch line to get out of his own in goal. Manly still lead 18-6.
64th minute - Melbourne now need 2 tries in 15 minutes. A tough ask.
66th minute - Cooper Cronk's sheer tenacity gets him over the try line. He runs straight and hard against an isolated Watmough close to the line. Smith fails to convert to basically hand the match to Manly. Eagles 18-10.
67th minute - Kick-off return by the Storm sees Lima and Watmough collide to shake the heavens. Watmough comes off second best this time. Wild.
69th minute - Kieran Foran drives another nail in the Storm coffin with a perfect kick to win his side a repeat set.
Thought - This stadium in Melbourne seems so cavernous when it's quiet. The worst atmosphere to watch league is a half-empty circular ground. You feel so far away. Even worse in this case as it is indoors and there is an echo reverberating around the park.
71st minute - 9 mins to go now and Manly lead 18-10. Credit to the Sea Eagles defence, they have been scrambling for what seems like the entire second half. Have looked tired on many ocassions but refuse to buckle.
73rd minute - Finch drifts across field from acting half and throws a good face ball that opens a hole in the Eagles defence - Cooper Cronks gladly accepts, hits the hole and Melbourne score. Manly 18-16.
Thought - It is usually errors that decide the outcome of games like this - where one team leads for most of the game whilst their opposition plays catch-up. Just as I write this Ryan Hoffman loses the ball getting up to play it. Crowd dies.
76th minute - Cameron Smith knocks on from dummy half just as the crowd is destroying my Etihad Stadium theory. They were suddenly very loud. Manly are very tired.
77th minute - Storm have the ball but are stuck in their own 20. It will take a miracle.
78th minute - Fox commentator Warren Smith goes on for ages about a Cameron Smith kick in general play that failed to find touch, he dribbles on about how amazing it has that Smith would not use an attacking kick in this situation and that it was just a kick for field position. Before my head explodes, co-commentator Greg Alexander saves the day and politely explains to Warren that is was obviously an attempt at a 40/20. Hilarious.
80th minute - Storm push too hard and turn it over for the 3rd time in 4 possessions to finish the game. Manly win 18-16. Despite a few errors this was a good game and adds to another chapter in this rivalries short but exciting history.
Tune in next week as Manly feature again. This time hosting the Gold Coast Titans from Brookvale Oval.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Paully's Picks - Round 6
Wests v Canterbury
The Tigers defence has been amazing at times so far this year. Not renowned for this type of discipline and commitment, it's been the reason for their 3 game winning streak which has included recent victories away at Canberra and North Queensland. Impressive. Will this continue without Galloway, Payten and Tim Moltzen? Indeed it will against an under pressure Bulldogs outfit struggling with their go-forward.
At the SFS on Friday night, expect to see the Tigers dominate the ruck with Robbie Farah weaving his magic against a Canterbury side still trying to find intensity and inner 'mongrel'. This is exactly what they are missing. Win or lose, the Dogs haven't looked angry this year. Finally, Chris Lawrence had a field day last week against the Cowboys and will face Jamal Idris this week in a battle of future superstars. Can't wait.
Man of the Match Prediction: Robbie Farah
Tip: Tigers 32-16
Result: Canterbury 24-4
Man of the Match: Andrew Ryan
Match Review:
Just when you think the Dogs don't have it in them anymore, they turn up and dominate with defence. Admittedly, this was not the Tigers best performance of the year and they were missing some of their hard men up front. Michael Ennis seemed to have his best performance of the year, as did Luke Patten. You get the feeling both the Dogs and the Eels are gearing up for their match in two weeks time.
Gold Coast v St George Illawarra
If the Titans are able to get early points in this match, they have the talent to put pressure on a Dragons attack that thrives on opposition errors. Saints are an elite team in this year’s premiership but questions have been asked after their loss to Melbourne if they can handle the pressure of big games.
This is a big game. The Titans will be confident after last week's come-from-behind victory over the reigning premiers and that will carry over to this blockbuster as they match the dragons' traditionally intense opening 20 minutes. Discipline will decide who finishes stronger and this makes it hard to tip against the Dragons. So I won't. Greg Bird was magnificent last week so the visitors will be all over him to nullify the home side's main attacking weapon. Titans get frustrated - Saints win.
Man of the Match Prediction: Dean Young
Tip: Saints 20-18
Result: Saints 19-6
Man of the Match: Darius Boys
Match Review:
Why don't I evet pick Darius Boyd as Man of the Match? The bloke keeps getting points in the Dally M race and I keep ignoring him. Well, no longer! Saints were fantastic in this game and winning at Skilled Park is not easy. Their forwards worked tirelessly to win the ruck and their defence at times was more impressive than the usual Dragons hallmark. Luke Priddis ages gracefully and was great. Jamie Soward is building in confidence every week.
Newcastle v North Queensland
The Newcastle Knights have everything to play for in this game. Their reputation is on the line after losing 4 games in a row including a heartbreaking home loss to Penrith on Easter Monday and being domination by South Sydney last week. Most league pundits are talking about the Bulldogs and Eels’ woes in early 2010 - the Knights should be mentioned in the same disappointing breath.
With a talented 'spine' of De Gois, Dureau, Mullen and returning captain Kurt Gidley, Newcastle will be too strong for the visiting Cowboys who are completely ravaged by injury. Everything they do in attack goes through the missing Payne and Thurston. The Newcastle Knights are not fairdinkum if they lose this game. Also, Willie Mason has traditionally played well in his home town - he should do so again here.
Man of the Match Prediction: Cory Paterson
Tip: Knights 32-12
Result: Knights 36-18
Man of the Match: Issac De Gois
Match Review:
Paterson was the destroyer here as an under-manned and over-matched cowboys outfit were blown off the park early. Tries in the 3rd, 7th, 12th and 20th minutes suggest that the visitors approached this match with less than a confident belief in causing an upset. Their only chance to win was to turn this match into a defensive struggle. Being down 30 points after 40 minutes was probably a sign that this game plan may have failed. Cooper Vuna gets a hat-trick and young cowboy Ray Thompson is learning about 1st grade the hard way. He will be better for it though.
Eastern Suburbs v Canberra
A short turnaround for the Raiders will not help their cause in this match. Neither will the fact that the Roosters were so convincingly beaten last week. Canberra will find their hosts’ attack much more difficult to control than the Eels and this makes the Bondi boys justifiably favoured. The only way Canberra could cause another upset is if they get out to an early lead and hold on.
They won't. The Roosters strength and major advantage in this game is Mitchell Pearce. He will guide his forwards around the park to open enough gaps in the Raiders defence for Todd Carney and an experienced backline to take advantage. The Raiders will use their size to intimidate the smaller Roosters pack but won't have the legs to capitalise. Todd Carney and Phil Graham playing against their old club will be interesting.
Man of the Match Prediction: Mitchell Pearce
Tip: Roosters 28-18
Result: Roosters 36-6
Man of the Match: Nate Myles
Match Review:
This result made me a lot more comfortable about tipping the Rabbits in Sunday's match against the Eels. If you follow the way I've drifted... The Raiders proved that they have not changed their 'away game' reputation by succumbing meekly to the Roosters and proving that last weeks defeat over the Eels was more due to the struggles out west. Having said all that - it could be the fact that the Raiders were playing the second consecutive away game and were following up from a Monday night. Either way - my tipping sucks.
NZ Warriors v Penrith
No better way to get your Rugby League fix than with a midday game from Mt Smart Stadium. For those of you with pay TV, get comfortable and tune in for the magnificent one-eyed commentary that comes with every Warriors home game. Let’s not forget the actual footy as this game will be a knockout. Literally in this case as the Panthers starting forward pack is at full strength with Trent Waterhouse, Frank Pritchard and Luke Lewis all named in the run on squad with Lewis moving to lock.
At any other time this alone would be enough to tip them, but this is not any other time. The New Zealand Warriors are playing fantastic football this year led by inspirational number 7 James Maloney and his halves partner Lance Hohaia. It takes a team with plenty of mental toughness to cross the Tasman and come back with two points. The Panthers are not yet that team.
Man of the Match Prediction: Wade McKinnon
Tip: Warriors 24-18
Result: Panthers 40-12
Man of the Match: Kevin Kingston
Match Review:
The Panthers ARE that team!! How many times can I be wrong in one weekend? How many times will Parramatta rue the loss of Kevin Kingston this year? How many times will Luke Lewis prove himself to be one of the best footallers in 1st grade? How many questions can I ask in one paragraph that is intended to be a match review? No more apparently. Penrith were PISTOL PETE'S LOCK OF THE WEEK on this blog and he is now working on 6 straight correct locks. An amazing feat if you look at the list of Pete's tips on our home page.
Brisbane v Cronulla
More changes to the Broncos outfit this week means more confusion on the field. Players returning from injury and suspension, coupled with Coach Ivan Henjak dropping his two starting props to the bench, will see their cohesion suffer. It also seems he has given up on his young fullback Corey Norman. Tough call. It's no wonder Darren Lockyer wants to enjoy another tilt at origin this year. He deserves better than to struggle through a re-building phase with the club he has given so much to.
The Sharks, on the other hand, haven't been giving much of anything. Whilst their forward pack looks impressive on paper and remains intact, Coach Ricky Stuart has again made changes to his backline as Albert Kelly is replaced by Nathan Stapleton at fullback. By his own admission, Stuart is opting for defence over attack with this change and with Captain Trent Barrett struggling to inspire the side; the Sharks will not have enough points in them to cause an upset.
Man of the Match Prediction: Andrew McCullough
Tip: Brisbane 14-10
Result: Brisbane 44-16
Man of the Match: Matt Gillett
Match Review:
The return of Israel Folau and a number of other speedy outside backs heralded the return of the Brisbane Broncos to the winners circle. It should also signal the near end of Ricky Stuart's coaching career if history has taught us anything. Peter Wallace had a field day with a struggling Sharks defensive structure and Darren Lockyer must have been reminded of how easy it can be after his struggles of late. Playing at home, in the sun, against a team struggling to play an worthwhile football. Play on Black Prince!
Parramatta v South Sydney
You don't need another person telling you that the Eels are struggling this year and that they will eventually come good. The bigger problem at Parramatta is the way they are losing. They trailed for 80 minutes at home against the Raiders, failed to score a point against Cronulla, and were out-muscled by the Tigers. Last week, their attack looked slightly more interesting with the changes made by Daniel Anderson, but it failed to create enough points.
This week, they are up against a team with momentum. The Rabbitohs are on a roll and are performing as a unit in both attack and defence. They also have something in their squad this year that we haven’t seen at Redfern in a long time - belief. Souths have a confidence in their ability and are up against a team with none. Isaac Luke will make the Eels pay for this and Souths might have a few points in them here.
Man of the Match Prediction: Sam Burgess
Tip: Souths 36-12
Result: Eels 22-8
Man of the Match: Tim Mannah
Match Review: (Written by guest columnist P. Ritcho)
As is becoming an annual event, Souths have once again saved their worst game of the year for Parramatta. It was a game marred by poor handling, poor options and poor refereeing. In the end it was a desperate Eels side who lifted their game long enough to get the points over a disappointing Bunnies side. An ispirational 10 minutes from Timana Tahu and Luke Burt provided the scoring punch early in the second half and despite the Eels still looking poor with the ball, they had enough to outlast Souths who were crippled by numerous errors. Young Justin Horo and Tahu were standouts for the Eels whilst Sam Burgess was tireless for the Bunnies on both sides of the ball. Still plenty of question marks over both teams' halves.
Melbourne v Manly
This rivalry is based on very recent history which will make the matchup more brutal than other traditional 'rivalries' in the NRL. The Storm lost last week and are playing at home which make them more aggressive from the outset. However, the Eagles respond well to aggression and have an impressive attack to counteract the fact that Melbourne have won all of their games this year by scoring only 20 points or less.
This will be a magnificent tactical battle, as much as it will be a battle of will. Manly's impressive young halves pairing of Trent Hodkinson and Kieran Foran will test the Storm defence but we have to lean towards the home side and defending premiers. Billy Slater in particular will be tested but will pass with flying colours. The visitors will want to atone for a poor performance in their last meeting with the Storm but experience is telling in this match and the Storm have it in spades.
Man of the Match Prediction: Billy Slater
Tip: Melbourne 20-16
Result: Manly 18-16
Man of the Match: Kieran Foran
Match Review:
See our "Minute by Minute Monday Night" blog - delivered in 'retro' form on Tuesday. For live updates go to http://www.leagueunlimited.com/
The Tigers defence has been amazing at times so far this year. Not renowned for this type of discipline and commitment, it's been the reason for their 3 game winning streak which has included recent victories away at Canberra and North Queensland. Impressive. Will this continue without Galloway, Payten and Tim Moltzen? Indeed it will against an under pressure Bulldogs outfit struggling with their go-forward.
At the SFS on Friday night, expect to see the Tigers dominate the ruck with Robbie Farah weaving his magic against a Canterbury side still trying to find intensity and inner 'mongrel'. This is exactly what they are missing. Win or lose, the Dogs haven't looked angry this year. Finally, Chris Lawrence had a field day last week against the Cowboys and will face Jamal Idris this week in a battle of future superstars. Can't wait.
Man of the Match Prediction: Robbie Farah
Tip: Tigers 32-16
Result: Canterbury 24-4
Man of the Match: Andrew Ryan
Match Review:
Just when you think the Dogs don't have it in them anymore, they turn up and dominate with defence. Admittedly, this was not the Tigers best performance of the year and they were missing some of their hard men up front. Michael Ennis seemed to have his best performance of the year, as did Luke Patten. You get the feeling both the Dogs and the Eels are gearing up for their match in two weeks time.
Gold Coast v St George Illawarra
If the Titans are able to get early points in this match, they have the talent to put pressure on a Dragons attack that thrives on opposition errors. Saints are an elite team in this year’s premiership but questions have been asked after their loss to Melbourne if they can handle the pressure of big games.
This is a big game. The Titans will be confident after last week's come-from-behind victory over the reigning premiers and that will carry over to this blockbuster as they match the dragons' traditionally intense opening 20 minutes. Discipline will decide who finishes stronger and this makes it hard to tip against the Dragons. So I won't. Greg Bird was magnificent last week so the visitors will be all over him to nullify the home side's main attacking weapon. Titans get frustrated - Saints win.
Man of the Match Prediction: Dean Young
Tip: Saints 20-18
Result: Saints 19-6
Man of the Match: Darius Boys
Match Review:
Why don't I evet pick Darius Boyd as Man of the Match? The bloke keeps getting points in the Dally M race and I keep ignoring him. Well, no longer! Saints were fantastic in this game and winning at Skilled Park is not easy. Their forwards worked tirelessly to win the ruck and their defence at times was more impressive than the usual Dragons hallmark. Luke Priddis ages gracefully and was great. Jamie Soward is building in confidence every week.
Newcastle v North Queensland
The Newcastle Knights have everything to play for in this game. Their reputation is on the line after losing 4 games in a row including a heartbreaking home loss to Penrith on Easter Monday and being domination by South Sydney last week. Most league pundits are talking about the Bulldogs and Eels’ woes in early 2010 - the Knights should be mentioned in the same disappointing breath.
With a talented 'spine' of De Gois, Dureau, Mullen and returning captain Kurt Gidley, Newcastle will be too strong for the visiting Cowboys who are completely ravaged by injury. Everything they do in attack goes through the missing Payne and Thurston. The Newcastle Knights are not fairdinkum if they lose this game. Also, Willie Mason has traditionally played well in his home town - he should do so again here.
Man of the Match Prediction: Cory Paterson
Tip: Knights 32-12
Result: Knights 36-18
Man of the Match: Issac De Gois
Match Review:
Paterson was the destroyer here as an under-manned and over-matched cowboys outfit were blown off the park early. Tries in the 3rd, 7th, 12th and 20th minutes suggest that the visitors approached this match with less than a confident belief in causing an upset. Their only chance to win was to turn this match into a defensive struggle. Being down 30 points after 40 minutes was probably a sign that this game plan may have failed. Cooper Vuna gets a hat-trick and young cowboy Ray Thompson is learning about 1st grade the hard way. He will be better for it though.
Eastern Suburbs v Canberra
A short turnaround for the Raiders will not help their cause in this match. Neither will the fact that the Roosters were so convincingly beaten last week. Canberra will find their hosts’ attack much more difficult to control than the Eels and this makes the Bondi boys justifiably favoured. The only way Canberra could cause another upset is if they get out to an early lead and hold on.
They won't. The Roosters strength and major advantage in this game is Mitchell Pearce. He will guide his forwards around the park to open enough gaps in the Raiders defence for Todd Carney and an experienced backline to take advantage. The Raiders will use their size to intimidate the smaller Roosters pack but won't have the legs to capitalise. Todd Carney and Phil Graham playing against their old club will be interesting.
Man of the Match Prediction: Mitchell Pearce
Tip: Roosters 28-18
Result: Roosters 36-6
Man of the Match: Nate Myles
Match Review:
This result made me a lot more comfortable about tipping the Rabbits in Sunday's match against the Eels. If you follow the way I've drifted... The Raiders proved that they have not changed their 'away game' reputation by succumbing meekly to the Roosters and proving that last weeks defeat over the Eels was more due to the struggles out west. Having said all that - it could be the fact that the Raiders were playing the second consecutive away game and were following up from a Monday night. Either way - my tipping sucks.
NZ Warriors v Penrith
No better way to get your Rugby League fix than with a midday game from Mt Smart Stadium. For those of you with pay TV, get comfortable and tune in for the magnificent one-eyed commentary that comes with every Warriors home game. Let’s not forget the actual footy as this game will be a knockout. Literally in this case as the Panthers starting forward pack is at full strength with Trent Waterhouse, Frank Pritchard and Luke Lewis all named in the run on squad with Lewis moving to lock.
At any other time this alone would be enough to tip them, but this is not any other time. The New Zealand Warriors are playing fantastic football this year led by inspirational number 7 James Maloney and his halves partner Lance Hohaia. It takes a team with plenty of mental toughness to cross the Tasman and come back with two points. The Panthers are not yet that team.
Man of the Match Prediction: Wade McKinnon
Tip: Warriors 24-18
Result: Panthers 40-12
Man of the Match: Kevin Kingston
Match Review:
The Panthers ARE that team!! How many times can I be wrong in one weekend? How many times will Parramatta rue the loss of Kevin Kingston this year? How many times will Luke Lewis prove himself to be one of the best footallers in 1st grade? How many questions can I ask in one paragraph that is intended to be a match review? No more apparently. Penrith were PISTOL PETE'S LOCK OF THE WEEK on this blog and he is now working on 6 straight correct locks. An amazing feat if you look at the list of Pete's tips on our home page.
Brisbane v Cronulla
More changes to the Broncos outfit this week means more confusion on the field. Players returning from injury and suspension, coupled with Coach Ivan Henjak dropping his two starting props to the bench, will see their cohesion suffer. It also seems he has given up on his young fullback Corey Norman. Tough call. It's no wonder Darren Lockyer wants to enjoy another tilt at origin this year. He deserves better than to struggle through a re-building phase with the club he has given so much to.
The Sharks, on the other hand, haven't been giving much of anything. Whilst their forward pack looks impressive on paper and remains intact, Coach Ricky Stuart has again made changes to his backline as Albert Kelly is replaced by Nathan Stapleton at fullback. By his own admission, Stuart is opting for defence over attack with this change and with Captain Trent Barrett struggling to inspire the side; the Sharks will not have enough points in them to cause an upset.
Man of the Match Prediction: Andrew McCullough
Tip: Brisbane 14-10
Result: Brisbane 44-16
Man of the Match: Matt Gillett
Match Review:
The return of Israel Folau and a number of other speedy outside backs heralded the return of the Brisbane Broncos to the winners circle. It should also signal the near end of Ricky Stuart's coaching career if history has taught us anything. Peter Wallace had a field day with a struggling Sharks defensive structure and Darren Lockyer must have been reminded of how easy it can be after his struggles of late. Playing at home, in the sun, against a team struggling to play an worthwhile football. Play on Black Prince!
Parramatta v South Sydney
You don't need another person telling you that the Eels are struggling this year and that they will eventually come good. The bigger problem at Parramatta is the way they are losing. They trailed for 80 minutes at home against the Raiders, failed to score a point against Cronulla, and were out-muscled by the Tigers. Last week, their attack looked slightly more interesting with the changes made by Daniel Anderson, but it failed to create enough points.
This week, they are up against a team with momentum. The Rabbitohs are on a roll and are performing as a unit in both attack and defence. They also have something in their squad this year that we haven’t seen at Redfern in a long time - belief. Souths have a confidence in their ability and are up against a team with none. Isaac Luke will make the Eels pay for this and Souths might have a few points in them here.
Man of the Match Prediction: Sam Burgess
Tip: Souths 36-12
Result: Eels 22-8
Man of the Match: Tim Mannah
Match Review: (Written by guest columnist P. Ritcho)
As is becoming an annual event, Souths have once again saved their worst game of the year for Parramatta. It was a game marred by poor handling, poor options and poor refereeing. In the end it was a desperate Eels side who lifted their game long enough to get the points over a disappointing Bunnies side. An ispirational 10 minutes from Timana Tahu and Luke Burt provided the scoring punch early in the second half and despite the Eels still looking poor with the ball, they had enough to outlast Souths who were crippled by numerous errors. Young Justin Horo and Tahu were standouts for the Eels whilst Sam Burgess was tireless for the Bunnies on both sides of the ball. Still plenty of question marks over both teams' halves.
Melbourne v Manly
This rivalry is based on very recent history which will make the matchup more brutal than other traditional 'rivalries' in the NRL. The Storm lost last week and are playing at home which make them more aggressive from the outset. However, the Eagles respond well to aggression and have an impressive attack to counteract the fact that Melbourne have won all of their games this year by scoring only 20 points or less.
This will be a magnificent tactical battle, as much as it will be a battle of will. Manly's impressive young halves pairing of Trent Hodkinson and Kieran Foran will test the Storm defence but we have to lean towards the home side and defending premiers. Billy Slater in particular will be tested but will pass with flying colours. The visitors will want to atone for a poor performance in their last meeting with the Storm but experience is telling in this match and the Storm have it in spades.
Man of the Match Prediction: Billy Slater
Tip: Melbourne 20-16
Result: Manly 18-16
Man of the Match: Kieran Foran
Match Review:
See our "Minute by Minute Monday Night" blog - delivered in 'retro' form on Tuesday. For live updates go to http://www.leagueunlimited.com/
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Ricky Stuart and his Cronulla Sharks.
Apart from a round 4 victory over the Eels, the early stages of 2010 have been a struggle for the Cronulla Sharks and it appears that coach Ricky Stuart is making matters worse by living in fear of losing his job, rather than trying to take pressure off his players and ensure they maintain their confidence.
How many more times can Ricky Stuart mention that players in his squad are not of '1st grade calibre' before they start to believe it? Is it just me or does this seem slightly counter-productive as a motivational tool? Recent press conferences have Ricky using statements like, ‘they are just kids who are not up to first grade standard, but we've had to put them in before they are ready'. I'm paraphrasing of course, but this has been the message that Coach Stuart seems intent on imparting to the media.
This message will be received by the players and will do three things to a football team...
1. Destroy their confidence
2. Destroy their confidence
and finally
3. Destroy their confidence
It's hard enough for young players to come into first grade through a losing culture, but to then have a coach talk about them this way, under the guise of protecting them, must be completely disheartening. An example can be found in a Sydney Morning Herald article after the side's round 5 loss to Manly, in response to a question about Albert Kelly, Stuart says, ''He's a very young boy, probably not up to first-grade standard at the moment, but nor are a lot of the [other] options I have to play there".
He goes on to say, ''I think fullback is his position at the moment, and he's my best option". Not the most inspirational speech of all time. "Albert, there is nobody else to play fullback so you have to do it". Is this how he announced to an up-and-coming footballer that he was about to start in 1st grade? Is this what Ricky said during Albert's jersey presentation ceremony?
Not content with savaging his young fullback, he moves on to Nathan Stapleton and talks about the option of playing him at fullback, "''I could play Stapo there, but I don't get that instinctive ability in attack. Sure, I might have Stapo there and he'd be able to catch bombs, but we need some instinctive ability in attack" Apparently, Stapleton should now be aware that he has limited attacking ability and young Kelly would have no doubt that he can't catch a bomb.
It is one thing to be honest in front of the media and perhaps understandable if a coach refuses to sugar-coat any of his remarks but these comments are effectively shattering the confidence he claims to be trying to build. It's actually quite remarkable. Ricky Stuart, as a man who has coached for club, state and country, should know better about how to man-manage and how to instil confidence in his young players. Instead he sells them out by basically saying that the losses are not his fault, the performances of the players are not his responsibility and that he is forced to put these players in first grade because there is nobody better!!!
Wouldn't a more fruitful option here be to convince young footballers that playing first grade is a reward for years of hard work and sacrifice, that because they are good enough - the get picked, and maybe even suggest to them that you have complete faith in them to do the job you ask? Call me crazy, but isn't Ricky Stuart doing the complete opposite of this by saying what he is saying?
To make matters worse, this is a view shared by the club at board level. After their round 4 win over the Eels, the Sharks were heard to pronounce that they have now joined other clubs with a 1 and 3 win-loss record, even though these other clubs have better playing rosters. As if to admit that Cronulla do not have the 'cattle' to compete, so other clubs should be embarrassed by a Sharks victory?
Winning breeds confidence and confidence breeds winning. The Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks will have neither if this same attitude continues as part of their culture. Their playing roster is no worse than some other NRL teams; they have two of the best young props in NSW and other players with representative and semi final experience in a number of positions. The problem is that nobody believes in them. Is Ricky Stuart aware that his players look up to him and rely on him for inspiration and motivation? Or is he just trying to get a few more years out of his contract before moving to England? Either way, Sharks players and fans deserve better from the man in charge of their football team.
How many more times can Ricky Stuart mention that players in his squad are not of '1st grade calibre' before they start to believe it? Is it just me or does this seem slightly counter-productive as a motivational tool? Recent press conferences have Ricky using statements like, ‘they are just kids who are not up to first grade standard, but we've had to put them in before they are ready'. I'm paraphrasing of course, but this has been the message that Coach Stuart seems intent on imparting to the media.
This message will be received by the players and will do three things to a football team...
1. Destroy their confidence
2. Destroy their confidence
and finally
3. Destroy their confidence
The Brains Trust of Sharks football.
It's hard enough for young players to come into first grade through a losing culture, but to then have a coach talk about them this way, under the guise of protecting them, must be completely disheartening. An example can be found in a Sydney Morning Herald article after the side's round 5 loss to Manly, in response to a question about Albert Kelly, Stuart says, ''He's a very young boy, probably not up to first-grade standard at the moment, but nor are a lot of the [other] options I have to play there".
He goes on to say, ''I think fullback is his position at the moment, and he's my best option". Not the most inspirational speech of all time. "Albert, there is nobody else to play fullback so you have to do it". Is this how he announced to an up-and-coming footballer that he was about to start in 1st grade? Is this what Ricky said during Albert's jersey presentation ceremony?
Not content with savaging his young fullback, he moves on to Nathan Stapleton and talks about the option of playing him at fullback, "''I could play Stapo there, but I don't get that instinctive ability in attack. Sure, I might have Stapo there and he'd be able to catch bombs, but we need some instinctive ability in attack" Apparently, Stapleton should now be aware that he has limited attacking ability and young Kelly would have no doubt that he can't catch a bomb.
"Is there anyone else who can play fullback?"
It is one thing to be honest in front of the media and perhaps understandable if a coach refuses to sugar-coat any of his remarks but these comments are effectively shattering the confidence he claims to be trying to build. It's actually quite remarkable. Ricky Stuart, as a man who has coached for club, state and country, should know better about how to man-manage and how to instil confidence in his young players. Instead he sells them out by basically saying that the losses are not his fault, the performances of the players are not his responsibility and that he is forced to put these players in first grade because there is nobody better!!!
Wouldn't a more fruitful option here be to convince young footballers that playing first grade is a reward for years of hard work and sacrifice, that because they are good enough - the get picked, and maybe even suggest to them that you have complete faith in them to do the job you ask? Call me crazy, but isn't Ricky Stuart doing the complete opposite of this by saying what he is saying?
To make matters worse, this is a view shared by the club at board level. After their round 4 win over the Eels, the Sharks were heard to pronounce that they have now joined other clubs with a 1 and 3 win-loss record, even though these other clubs have better playing rosters. As if to admit that Cronulla do not have the 'cattle' to compete, so other clubs should be embarrassed by a Sharks victory?
Winning breeds confidence and confidence breeds winning. The Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks will have neither if this same attitude continues as part of their culture. Their playing roster is no worse than some other NRL teams; they have two of the best young props in NSW and other players with representative and semi final experience in a number of positions. The problem is that nobody believes in them. Is Ricky Stuart aware that his players look up to him and rely on him for inspiration and motivation? Or is he just trying to get a few more years out of his contract before moving to England? Either way, Sharks players and fans deserve better from the man in charge of their football team.
Minute by Minute Monday Night - Round 5
Parramatta Eels v Canberra Raiders - Parramatta Stadium. April 12, 2010.
2nd minute - Feleti Mateo gives away a penalty. How can this be the very first thing you do during a game?
3rd minute - Daniel Mortimer smartly cleans up a dangerous in-goal kick from the Raiders. Terry Campese doing a lot of talking to teammates early in this one. Mortimer and Campese should be doing more of this (respectively) at the back end of games.
4th minute - Bronson Harrison loses momentum for his team with a turnover. Eels get a penalty and suddenly the good start and mounting pressure applied by the Raiders is undone. Good footballers try to make up for errors like this - let's see what Harrison does.
7th minute - A Joel Reddy bust up the right side ends in a pushed pass and turnover.
8th minute - The Canberra Raiders give some credibility to our match preview and turn possession back over to the Eels. The Eels fans are now right into this match. They are obviously desperate for a good performance and as mentioned by Pistol Pete in his lock of the week; they might voice their displeasure if the poor performances continue this evening.
10th minute - Wonderful left to right cut out pass from Campese as the Raiders look more likely to build pressure in these early stages. The Eels, on the other hand, look distracted as they have for much of the season.
12th minute - Shaun Fensom, the Raiders newest 'workhorse' back rower, is over for first points. Funny thing about Parra - they have all the big names on their roster... but if you are willing to "outwork" them, as Fensom is doing so far, you can usually cause problems. Raiders 6-0.
14th minute - The all important 'follow up' set of six is a good one. The Raiders go 80 metres.
16th minute - Great sequence with the Raiders almost scoring through Croker and the Eels responding with a mid-field bust from their own try line after great ball movement. They then get a penalty and fail to find touch. Laurie Daley completes the amateur hour display with some dubious commentary. I might hit the mute button.
Another penalty, this time to the Raiders, as we get a close up view of Daniel Vidot's haircut for the evening. (red tips?) Interesting. Another penalty to the Eels restricts the flow of this game.
22nd minute - Eels take advantage of field position as Tahu absolutely abuses Joel Thompson with a fantastic right foot step and fend and puts Luke Burt over for the Eels. Raiders 6-4.
27th minute - Vidot and his fiery tips accept a perfectly placed kick by Raiders halfback Josh McCrone. Vidot over in the corner and Campese converts a beauty. Raiders 12-4.
According to this Blogs match preview - the Raiders will not score any more points in this match. Seems I am mistaken once again.
30th minute - How on earth did Daniel Vidot not score from another perfect attacking kick? Desperate Eels defence, that's how. Interesting to note that we have not been able to describe the Eels defence this way so far this season. They reap the rewards and receive a penalty. Eels on the attack.
32nd minute - What a spin move!! Mortimer floats a nice face ball across the Raiders defensive line to Mateo who catches and spins around a helpless Josh McCrone and puts Burt over in the corner. Luke converts his own try and the Raiders now lead 12-10.
36th minute. Joel Thompson looked as though he was trying to pick a fight with Jarryd Hayne in the Indigenous All Stars match earlier in 2010. Perhaps he has the last word in this one man rivalry after making a break down the Eels left side, selling about 32 dummies, and then stepping inside Hayne to score.
Interesting to note about this try - it it 4 minutes before halftime, Thompson is not known as a dangerous centre, and he runs 30 metres in field after the initial bust to beat Jarryd Hayne with no cover defence from the Eels coming across, AND it's the last tackle. These are all signs of a lack of professional attitude from the home side.
Halftime.
41st minute - Parramatta's first act of this second half (similar to the first half) is to give away a penalty. They need a spark as the Raiders forwards seem more motivated to win the ruck and are falling forward with each tackle and dominating the middle of the field. Is this the Eels problem this year? A soft middle?
43rd minute - Kris Keating provides that spark and earns his team a repeat set after a great chase from Justin Horo.
46th minute - Daniel Mortimer now impresses with a cleverly placed grubber and the Eels have back to back sets. Great Collision from the ensuing drop-out return as Tim Mannah bounces off Trevor Thurling. Awesome.
47th minute - Building pressure is so important. The Raiders fail to collect a loose ball and Parramatta score the luckiest try in Rugby League history. However, you make your own luck at this level. Raiders now lead 18-14.
50th minute - The Eels fail to maintain this pressure and Trevor Thurling busts the defensive line wide open from his own half. McCrone grubbers beautifully for himself from the next ruck to score a fantastic try. Jarryd Hayne has looked off his game 3 times in this match - compared to his usually impressive form at the back, this comes as a shock - he is human. Campo converts and the Raiders pull away again, 24-14.
Thought - 25 minutes to go and the Eels are struggling, it must be said. They are in danger of losing to the Sharks and the Raiders in consecutive weeks.
56th minute - Parra realise the urgency of the situation and throw everything at the visitors. They are in attack mode and Tahu looks most likely once again. It's now frantic as Joel Reddy throws an elbow to the face of Terry Campese whilst trying to force the pace. A penalty against the home side is given and destroys their momentum. Poor kick to end the next Raiders set as they fail to capitalise.
59th minute - The Raiders now smell the blood and run riot in attack but it is slightly out of control (campo?). They run it on the last and relinquish possession.
Thought - This is the same period of time in the Raiders v Brisbane match where Terry Campese was struggling to control possession for his side. Let's see how he handles himself here. Raiders still lead 24-14.
61st minute - Timana Tahu makes a big play for the Eels and steals possession. He still seems most likely to make something happen.
63rd minute - Hayne chip kicks to Dugan who cannot control the ball and gives the Eels a great chance to peg back some points and set up a big finish. They don't. A poor kick ends the next set of six and the Raiders are now content to run down the clock and play percentage football.
67th minute - The Eels slow to get back from a Raiders kick and look bunched. They turn it over from a forward pass. Tough call though on replay but the future looks dark and gloomy for the home side.
70th minute - The Raiders look certain to score through Croker in the left corner but Ben Smith makes one of the defensive plays of the season so far and makes a miraculous try saving tackle. Ben's teammates reward him for this effort by knocking-on early in the ensuing set. You can hear a pin drop at Parra Stadium.
Fans are aware it’s almost impossible for the Eels to win from here.
72nd minute - Campese has his kick charged down and the Eels are awarded a penalty to get them within scoring range. They are taking hit ups at the try line with 'one out' plays. No structure.
73rd minute - Josh Dugan pushes an in-goal grubber kick dead to save a certain Ben Smith try. Raiders drop out and still lead 24-14.
75th minute – The referees call back a Hayne forward pass as Des Hasler pops a blood vessel somewhere in the Northern Beaches. Game over for Parramatta as the Raiders defy their reputation and win away. In fact they led impressively from start to finish.
76th minute - Eels have given up and are taking one out hit ups. Understandable.
Thought - PISTOL PETE'S LOCK OF THE WEEK is now 5 from 5 including tipping against the Eels as heavy favourites two weeks in a row. He is on fire.
80th minute - Parra having a crack at something in attack but it's all over and Pistol Pete's other prediction comes true. You can hear BOO's coming from the home crowd. Raiders win 24-14.
See you next week for the blockbuster between Manly and Melbourne from the Storm's new home stadium.
2nd minute - Feleti Mateo gives away a penalty. How can this be the very first thing you do during a game?
3rd minute - Daniel Mortimer smartly cleans up a dangerous in-goal kick from the Raiders. Terry Campese doing a lot of talking to teammates early in this one. Mortimer and Campese should be doing more of this (respectively) at the back end of games.
4th minute - Bronson Harrison loses momentum for his team with a turnover. Eels get a penalty and suddenly the good start and mounting pressure applied by the Raiders is undone. Good footballers try to make up for errors like this - let's see what Harrison does.
7th minute - A Joel Reddy bust up the right side ends in a pushed pass and turnover.
8th minute - The Canberra Raiders give some credibility to our match preview and turn possession back over to the Eels. The Eels fans are now right into this match. They are obviously desperate for a good performance and as mentioned by Pistol Pete in his lock of the week; they might voice their displeasure if the poor performances continue this evening.
10th minute - Wonderful left to right cut out pass from Campese as the Raiders look more likely to build pressure in these early stages. The Eels, on the other hand, look distracted as they have for much of the season.
12th minute - Shaun Fensom, the Raiders newest 'workhorse' back rower, is over for first points. Funny thing about Parra - they have all the big names on their roster... but if you are willing to "outwork" them, as Fensom is doing so far, you can usually cause problems. Raiders 6-0.
14th minute - The all important 'follow up' set of six is a good one. The Raiders go 80 metres.
16th minute - Great sequence with the Raiders almost scoring through Croker and the Eels responding with a mid-field bust from their own try line after great ball movement. They then get a penalty and fail to find touch. Laurie Daley completes the amateur hour display with some dubious commentary. I might hit the mute button.
Another penalty, this time to the Raiders, as we get a close up view of Daniel Vidot's haircut for the evening. (red tips?) Interesting. Another penalty to the Eels restricts the flow of this game.
22nd minute - Eels take advantage of field position as Tahu absolutely abuses Joel Thompson with a fantastic right foot step and fend and puts Luke Burt over for the Eels. Raiders 6-4.
27th minute - Vidot and his fiery tips accept a perfectly placed kick by Raiders halfback Josh McCrone. Vidot over in the corner and Campese converts a beauty. Raiders 12-4.
According to this Blogs match preview - the Raiders will not score any more points in this match. Seems I am mistaken once again.
30th minute - How on earth did Daniel Vidot not score from another perfect attacking kick? Desperate Eels defence, that's how. Interesting to note that we have not been able to describe the Eels defence this way so far this season. They reap the rewards and receive a penalty. Eels on the attack.
32nd minute - What a spin move!! Mortimer floats a nice face ball across the Raiders defensive line to Mateo who catches and spins around a helpless Josh McCrone and puts Burt over in the corner. Luke converts his own try and the Raiders now lead 12-10.
36th minute. Joel Thompson looked as though he was trying to pick a fight with Jarryd Hayne in the Indigenous All Stars match earlier in 2010. Perhaps he has the last word in this one man rivalry after making a break down the Eels left side, selling about 32 dummies, and then stepping inside Hayne to score.
Interesting to note about this try - it it 4 minutes before halftime, Thompson is not known as a dangerous centre, and he runs 30 metres in field after the initial bust to beat Jarryd Hayne with no cover defence from the Eels coming across, AND it's the last tackle. These are all signs of a lack of professional attitude from the home side.
Halftime.
41st minute - Parramatta's first act of this second half (similar to the first half) is to give away a penalty. They need a spark as the Raiders forwards seem more motivated to win the ruck and are falling forward with each tackle and dominating the middle of the field. Is this the Eels problem this year? A soft middle?
43rd minute - Kris Keating provides that spark and earns his team a repeat set after a great chase from Justin Horo.
46th minute - Daniel Mortimer now impresses with a cleverly placed grubber and the Eels have back to back sets. Great Collision from the ensuing drop-out return as Tim Mannah bounces off Trevor Thurling. Awesome.
47th minute - Building pressure is so important. The Raiders fail to collect a loose ball and Parramatta score the luckiest try in Rugby League history. However, you make your own luck at this level. Raiders now lead 18-14.
50th minute - The Eels fail to maintain this pressure and Trevor Thurling busts the defensive line wide open from his own half. McCrone grubbers beautifully for himself from the next ruck to score a fantastic try. Jarryd Hayne has looked off his game 3 times in this match - compared to his usually impressive form at the back, this comes as a shock - he is human. Campo converts and the Raiders pull away again, 24-14.
Thought - 25 minutes to go and the Eels are struggling, it must be said. They are in danger of losing to the Sharks and the Raiders in consecutive weeks.
56th minute - Parra realise the urgency of the situation and throw everything at the visitors. They are in attack mode and Tahu looks most likely once again. It's now frantic as Joel Reddy throws an elbow to the face of Terry Campese whilst trying to force the pace. A penalty against the home side is given and destroys their momentum. Poor kick to end the next Raiders set as they fail to capitalise.
59th minute - The Raiders now smell the blood and run riot in attack but it is slightly out of control (campo?). They run it on the last and relinquish possession.
Thought - This is the same period of time in the Raiders v Brisbane match where Terry Campese was struggling to control possession for his side. Let's see how he handles himself here. Raiders still lead 24-14.
61st minute - Timana Tahu makes a big play for the Eels and steals possession. He still seems most likely to make something happen.
63rd minute - Hayne chip kicks to Dugan who cannot control the ball and gives the Eels a great chance to peg back some points and set up a big finish. They don't. A poor kick ends the next set of six and the Raiders are now content to run down the clock and play percentage football.
67th minute - The Eels slow to get back from a Raiders kick and look bunched. They turn it over from a forward pass. Tough call though on replay but the future looks dark and gloomy for the home side.
70th minute - The Raiders look certain to score through Croker in the left corner but Ben Smith makes one of the defensive plays of the season so far and makes a miraculous try saving tackle. Ben's teammates reward him for this effort by knocking-on early in the ensuing set. You can hear a pin drop at Parra Stadium.
Fans are aware it’s almost impossible for the Eels to win from here.
72nd minute - Campese has his kick charged down and the Eels are awarded a penalty to get them within scoring range. They are taking hit ups at the try line with 'one out' plays. No structure.
73rd minute - Josh Dugan pushes an in-goal grubber kick dead to save a certain Ben Smith try. Raiders drop out and still lead 24-14.
75th minute – The referees call back a Hayne forward pass as Des Hasler pops a blood vessel somewhere in the Northern Beaches. Game over for Parramatta as the Raiders defy their reputation and win away. In fact they led impressively from start to finish.
76th minute - Eels have given up and are taking one out hit ups. Understandable.
Thought - PISTOL PETE'S LOCK OF THE WEEK is now 5 from 5 including tipping against the Eels as heavy favourites two weeks in a row. He is on fire.
80th minute - Parra having a crack at something in attack but it's all over and Pistol Pete's other prediction comes true. You can hear BOO's coming from the home crowd. Raiders win 24-14.
See you next week for the blockbuster between Manly and Melbourne from the Storm's new home stadium.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Paully's Picks - Round 5
St George Illawarra v Brisbane
How times have changed. In recent years, this has been a much anticipated clash and has never left fans disappointed. In season 2010, the Broncos suddenly have the appearance of a football team fighting to stay competitive. The depth of talent in the Broncos system is being stretched at the moment with a backline that reads like a QLD cup side. A bigger problem for the Broncos is their engine room with Lagi Setu getting a start this week after some inconsistent play of late.
The Dragons are sure to take advantage of this and will use their suffocating style of play to remove any chance of an upset. Saints to run away with it through pointing their attack towards an inexperienced Brisbane backline. Jamie Soward will no doubt be testing the Broncos back three for 80 minutes with his kicking and passing game. This game would have also seen Ben Creagh v Justin Hodges round 2 - but alas we must hope these two origin combatants meet again in the future.
Man of the Match Prediction: Jamie Soward
Tip: Dragons 28-8
Result: Dragons 34-16
Man of the Match: Darius Boyd
Match Review:
Brisbane were out-gunned, out-matched and out-played. From kick-off right through to full time, this match was simply a vehicle for the young Broncos to gain some experience so that one day they might return the favour. Only a handful of questions were answered in this game. Will Sam Thaiday and Ben Creagh beat the crap out of each other in this year's origin series?... Yes.
Do these young Broncos have a future in the NRL? Absolutely. They looked enthusiastic and excitingly raw. A great base to work from if Ivan Henjak gets enough time with them. Finally, have the Dragons improved enough from last year to suggest they can win big games at the end of this season? Jury is still out.
Gold Coast v Melbourne
What a game this would have been if Scott Prince were playing?!? The Titans play with plenty of pride and with the return of Anthony Laffranchi, will be competitive. Greg Bird will also need to see a lot more possession to the point where Preston Campbell and William Zillman take a lesser role in attack. This is the only way they can score enough points to win.
Unfortunately they won't. As talented a line up as the home side has, they will struggle to find holes in the Storm's defensive line. A hard fought battle early on with Melbourne scoring points against an ill-disciplined Titans team before and after halftime. The visiting Storm will show up with a near impregnable defense and a star in Greg Inglis that has yet to shine this year. The mere mention of this will no doubt make him want to run all over the Titans back line and he probably will.
Man of the Match Prediction: Greg Inglis
Tip: Melbourne 23-10
Result: Titans 20-16
Man of the Match: Nathan Friend
Match Review:
Greg Bird is the real deal. The type of player that seems to have more time to work his magic than other players on the field. He is patient and calculated and after seeing him catch that bomb and flick the ball from right to left under two Storm defenders in one motion, I was convinced he is back. What a pass! Against a team with such solid defensive structure as the Storm, and a 12 point lead, the 2nd half looked grim for the Titans. However, with Anthony Laffranchi playing his best football for two years and Nathan Friend handling himself so well against the codes best hooker in Cameron Smith, the Titans were magnificent and too strong for Melbourne. Please note - horrible refereeing decisions are not discussed on this blog. It's no fun.
South Sydney v Newcastle
The much talked about Rabbitohs forward pack has found some form and this will make for good viewing. Even more interesting about this match is the fact that the Knights forwards won't be the pushovers that the Bulldogs pack was last week. It will be tough going in the middle for both teams and once again, the winner of the ruck will find more space for their backs; particularly in this game with 4 very talented halves on display.
South Sydney seems to be hitting their stride and will also be hitting harder to come away with the win. Isaac Luke will be the difference as his creativity will add to the 'home' side's attack. Look for Ben Lowe to continue his impressive form of late and for the collisions between Ben Cross and the entire Souths pack to shake the very foundations of Bluetongue Stadium. For fans attending this game, also keep an eye out for John Singleton v Russel Crowe in the members bar.
Man of the Match Prediction: Sam Burgess
Tip: South Sydney 26-22
Result: South Sydney 28-10
Man of the Match: Isaac Luke
Match Review:
The Knights are now in trouble. An injured halfback and a 4 game losing streak will have them desperate in their next game. Jarrod Mullen has not been able to perform well in consecutive weeks. He has the ability to dominate a game of football but something is missing. I have not yet figured out what it is.
Souths, on the other hand, have nothing missing. A super impressive performance on Saturday night led by Isaac Luke and a 31 tackle, 16 hit up effort from Sam Burgess. The Rabbitohs are playing calm, confident and have not yet hit their peak. Must make mention of an offload by Cory Paterson early in this game to put Daniel Tolar over. A left hand, wrap-around pass with 3 defenders on him. Magnificent.
North Queensland v Wests
Somebody get a message to Neil Henry to PLEASE start Anthony Watts in place of Aaron Payne. Not for any other reason than hopefully a repeat performance from two 'old school' hookers in Watts and Tigers captain Robbie Farah. Who can forget their fiery meeting at Leichardt oval in round 19 last year? Watts threw a couple of right hands in the direction of Robbie's face, only to feel the wrath of his opposite number with 3 or 4 well placed left uppercuts. Magnificent. They will definitely come face to face at some point in this encounter.
Moving on, if history has taught us anything, it would be that these two teams love to score points. Saturday night at Dairy Farmers Stadium will be a screamer. Benji Marshall will put together another 5 star performance and the Tigers improved discipline will be the difference. You get the feeling this game will be decided by who has possession last. Finally, as we mentioned last week, keep any eye on Cowboys five eighth Ray Thompson. His speed will be an asset against the Tigers, who give their opposition plenty of room to move.
Man of the Match Prediction: Robbie Farah
Tip: Tigers 32-28
Result: Tigers 23-16
Man of the Match: Robbie Farah
Match Review:
This game represented the heartbreaking saga that is Rugby League. Thurston injured, Aaron Payne injured, Tim Moltzen out for the season.... just horrific. The Tigers superior talent and discipline were the difference in this game as the Cowboys fought bravely and threw everything they could at an impressive Tigers defence.
The 2010 Wests Tigers seem to have a class about them where they can dominate field position and the ruck with more conservative tactics, but still scoring some amazing tries. Robbie Farah is the complete package this year, and Benji Marshall seems like a true leader of his club. The Cowboys are about to suffer through one of those periods that will truly test the culture of a football team. Let's see how they respond.
Canterbury v NZ Warriors
This game is the complete opposite in style to the other 7.30pm game on Saturday night between the Tigers and the Cowboys. If you are watching Canterbury v New Zealand on Pay TV, make it the 9.30 option because we might be in for a less than impressive game of football. The Bulldogs are famous for an uncompromising forward pack, which they don't have this year; and a committed defensive structure, which seems to need a little more work.
With injuries striking down both sides, we will lean towards the home team with a lot to prove. The Bulldogs performance last week has led to coach Kevin Moore speaking with each player individually. Perhaps they also need a 'players only meeting'. It is round 5 now and the NRL hasn't had one of these yet this season. We must be due. Kimmorley and Ennis the difference as the Dogs scrape home. Josh Morris v Brent Tate a highlight.
Man of the Match Prediction: Ben Hannant
Tip: Bulldogs 30-24
Result: Warriors 30-24
Man of the Match: Lewis Brown
Match Review:
A fantastic game of footy leaves me with more egg on my face. This was a beauty thanks to the Warriors playing without fear and using shifts in momentum to confuse the Bulldogs defence and score 5 times as many points as they did the previous week. James Maloney has come from nowhere to shock most pundits this year. He is patient and aggressive and shows a wisdom beyong his years. Brett Kimmorley, on the other hand, missed a match winning field goal attempt and Ben Roberts spent most of the second half on the bench. This was the difference in the game as the Warriors halves seemed to have more direction and determination over the 80 minutes. A brave performance by Manu Vatuvei to get himself on the field on one leg. No doubt an inspiration to his teammates.
Manly v Cronulla
The Sea Eagles are finally playing at Brookvale Oval which makes it nearly impossible to tip against them here. It will be a long drive for Sharks fans but worth the trip simply because we expect fireworks in this game. Two very intense coaches will have their teams wired and ready to go for this one. The Sharks will have a renewed sense of confidence after last week's victory and will be more willing to take risks in attack after training with a new halfback for another week.
Against Manly's defense, it may not make a difference as the Eagles impressive young halves and the creativity of Glenn Stewart will be too much for the Sharks. A good battle of NSW origin hopefuls in the front row with Josh Perry taking on two young upstarts in Kade Snowden and Luke Douglas. Fantastic. Finally, let's hope Adam Cuthbertson is allowed to play at least 5 minutes against his old club; I'm sure he'll want to have a huge one and deserves to get on the field.
Man of the Match Prediction: Jamie Lyon
Tip: Manly 26-12
Result: Manly 40-12
Man of the Match: Jamie Lyon
Match Review:
There are not enough words to desribe the performances of Eagles' halves pairing Trent Hodkinson and Kieran Foran. But here are a few of them. Controlled, Confident, Classy, Skilful, Patient, Fast and Fantastic. Hodkinson, 21, seems to understand the balance needed from a halfback in when to kick, pass and run and combines this with the abililty to do all three well. Foran, 19, is not trying to score from every play. This patience from a youngster is impressive and credit must go to Manly's coaching staff for showing faith in these kids. Credit must also go, as it should, to their forwards. The Sea Eagles pack is laying the perfect foundation for their halves and backing it up with their customary bruising defense. Special mention to Ben Farrar who has Manly fans almost forgetting the name of their injured custodian. Next week, however, will be the true test.
Penrith v Eastern Suburbs
This game features some of the most exciting young footballers in the NRL today, plus the old stager himself, Petero Civoniceva. Watching Petero apply his trade as one of the greatest front rowers of a generation is a treat for all passionate football fans and there are none more passionate than those at the foot of the Blue Mountains. They will provide the backdrop for the Panthers home ground advantage on Sunday afternoon.
Unfortunately it won't be enough to stop a resurgent Roosters outfit whose forwards are playing above themselves (as has often been the case with teams coached by Brian Smith). Anthony Minichiello and Sam Perrett lead the NRL in dummy half runs which goes some way to explaining why their forwards are fresh and playing so well at the back-end of games. They do so again in this match as Mitchell Pearce guides a classy backline to victory. Also, tune in to see the likes of Todd Carney and Michel Jennings in open space on a Sunday afternoon out west. Conditions suit.
Man of the Match Prediction: Nate Myles
Tip: Roosters 28-26
Result: Panthers 28-6
Man of the Match: Luke Lewis
Match Review:
Luke Lewis and Petero Civoniceva deserve full credit for everything good that is happening at Penrith this season. Still in it's infancy, the Panthers 2010 premiership tilt seemed to be a little shaky, but coming so close against Melbourne, followed by last week's miracle in Newcastle and finally, a total demolition of the Roosters, it's obvious that there senior players are having an influence. Sunday's victory over their Eastern Suburbs rivals was convincing and almost too easy. The only question now is if they can win in difficult circumstances. It's all well and good to turn up at home with the sun shining, in front of your family and friends.... but the Panthers will truly be tested in the coming 3 rounds when they head to NZ, come home to face the Tigers and then travel north to Skilled Park. We will know more after this.
Parramatta v Canberra
Jeff Robson and Daniel Mortimer seem to be stuck in a deep, dirty, sticky heap of very thick mud. Metaphorically speaking of course. The Eels halves don't seem to be getting their forwards motivated in the right way, and don't seem to be giving consistent, quality ball to their star studded back line. Their performances have also been riddled with errors and this puts their defense (which hasn't been quite as horrendous as their attack) under more pressure.
Will this happen again on Monday night? You bet it will. However on this occasion the Eels find a way to scrape home and grind their way to an ugly win, which they will happily accept. The Canberra Raiders come with a warning label that you dare not ignore. Before they make it to Sydney on Monday, they will pass through the Federal Highway and lose the ability to tackle - the team bus then rolls over the Hume Highway as 5th tackle options fall out of the exhaust - then on to the M7 as each toll booth costs them a batch of discipline until finally they hit the M4 on the way to Parramatta Stadium and walk into the dressing room with nothing left but a lime green hope in hell of victory.
Man of the Match Prediction: Nathan Hindmarsh
Tip: Parramatta 18-12
Result: Raiders 24-14
Man of the Match: Josh Dugan
Match Review:
See our "Minute by Minute Monday Night" blog - delivered in 'retro' form on Tuesday. For live updates go to http://www.leagueunlimited.com/
How times have changed. In recent years, this has been a much anticipated clash and has never left fans disappointed. In season 2010, the Broncos suddenly have the appearance of a football team fighting to stay competitive. The depth of talent in the Broncos system is being stretched at the moment with a backline that reads like a QLD cup side. A bigger problem for the Broncos is their engine room with Lagi Setu getting a start this week after some inconsistent play of late.
The Dragons are sure to take advantage of this and will use their suffocating style of play to remove any chance of an upset. Saints to run away with it through pointing their attack towards an inexperienced Brisbane backline. Jamie Soward will no doubt be testing the Broncos back three for 80 minutes with his kicking and passing game. This game would have also seen Ben Creagh v Justin Hodges round 2 - but alas we must hope these two origin combatants meet again in the future.
Man of the Match Prediction: Jamie Soward
Tip: Dragons 28-8
Result: Dragons 34-16
Man of the Match: Darius Boyd
Match Review:
Brisbane were out-gunned, out-matched and out-played. From kick-off right through to full time, this match was simply a vehicle for the young Broncos to gain some experience so that one day they might return the favour. Only a handful of questions were answered in this game. Will Sam Thaiday and Ben Creagh beat the crap out of each other in this year's origin series?... Yes.
Do these young Broncos have a future in the NRL? Absolutely. They looked enthusiastic and excitingly raw. A great base to work from if Ivan Henjak gets enough time with them. Finally, have the Dragons improved enough from last year to suggest they can win big games at the end of this season? Jury is still out.
Gold Coast v Melbourne
What a game this would have been if Scott Prince were playing?!? The Titans play with plenty of pride and with the return of Anthony Laffranchi, will be competitive. Greg Bird will also need to see a lot more possession to the point where Preston Campbell and William Zillman take a lesser role in attack. This is the only way they can score enough points to win.
Unfortunately they won't. As talented a line up as the home side has, they will struggle to find holes in the Storm's defensive line. A hard fought battle early on with Melbourne scoring points against an ill-disciplined Titans team before and after halftime. The visiting Storm will show up with a near impregnable defense and a star in Greg Inglis that has yet to shine this year. The mere mention of this will no doubt make him want to run all over the Titans back line and he probably will.
Man of the Match Prediction: Greg Inglis
Tip: Melbourne 23-10
Result: Titans 20-16
Man of the Match: Nathan Friend
Match Review:
Greg Bird is the real deal. The type of player that seems to have more time to work his magic than other players on the field. He is patient and calculated and after seeing him catch that bomb and flick the ball from right to left under two Storm defenders in one motion, I was convinced he is back. What a pass! Against a team with such solid defensive structure as the Storm, and a 12 point lead, the 2nd half looked grim for the Titans. However, with Anthony Laffranchi playing his best football for two years and Nathan Friend handling himself so well against the codes best hooker in Cameron Smith, the Titans were magnificent and too strong for Melbourne. Please note - horrible refereeing decisions are not discussed on this blog. It's no fun.
South Sydney v Newcastle
The much talked about Rabbitohs forward pack has found some form and this will make for good viewing. Even more interesting about this match is the fact that the Knights forwards won't be the pushovers that the Bulldogs pack was last week. It will be tough going in the middle for both teams and once again, the winner of the ruck will find more space for their backs; particularly in this game with 4 very talented halves on display.
South Sydney seems to be hitting their stride and will also be hitting harder to come away with the win. Isaac Luke will be the difference as his creativity will add to the 'home' side's attack. Look for Ben Lowe to continue his impressive form of late and for the collisions between Ben Cross and the entire Souths pack to shake the very foundations of Bluetongue Stadium. For fans attending this game, also keep an eye out for John Singleton v Russel Crowe in the members bar.
Man of the Match Prediction: Sam Burgess
Tip: South Sydney 26-22
Result: South Sydney 28-10
Man of the Match: Isaac Luke
Match Review:
The Knights are now in trouble. An injured halfback and a 4 game losing streak will have them desperate in their next game. Jarrod Mullen has not been able to perform well in consecutive weeks. He has the ability to dominate a game of football but something is missing. I have not yet figured out what it is.
Souths, on the other hand, have nothing missing. A super impressive performance on Saturday night led by Isaac Luke and a 31 tackle, 16 hit up effort from Sam Burgess. The Rabbitohs are playing calm, confident and have not yet hit their peak. Must make mention of an offload by Cory Paterson early in this game to put Daniel Tolar over. A left hand, wrap-around pass with 3 defenders on him. Magnificent.
North Queensland v Wests
Somebody get a message to Neil Henry to PLEASE start Anthony Watts in place of Aaron Payne. Not for any other reason than hopefully a repeat performance from two 'old school' hookers in Watts and Tigers captain Robbie Farah. Who can forget their fiery meeting at Leichardt oval in round 19 last year? Watts threw a couple of right hands in the direction of Robbie's face, only to feel the wrath of his opposite number with 3 or 4 well placed left uppercuts. Magnificent. They will definitely come face to face at some point in this encounter.
Moving on, if history has taught us anything, it would be that these two teams love to score points. Saturday night at Dairy Farmers Stadium will be a screamer. Benji Marshall will put together another 5 star performance and the Tigers improved discipline will be the difference. You get the feeling this game will be decided by who has possession last. Finally, as we mentioned last week, keep any eye on Cowboys five eighth Ray Thompson. His speed will be an asset against the Tigers, who give their opposition plenty of room to move.
Man of the Match Prediction: Robbie Farah
Tip: Tigers 32-28
Result: Tigers 23-16
Man of the Match: Robbie Farah
Match Review:
This game represented the heartbreaking saga that is Rugby League. Thurston injured, Aaron Payne injured, Tim Moltzen out for the season.... just horrific. The Tigers superior talent and discipline were the difference in this game as the Cowboys fought bravely and threw everything they could at an impressive Tigers defence.
The 2010 Wests Tigers seem to have a class about them where they can dominate field position and the ruck with more conservative tactics, but still scoring some amazing tries. Robbie Farah is the complete package this year, and Benji Marshall seems like a true leader of his club. The Cowboys are about to suffer through one of those periods that will truly test the culture of a football team. Let's see how they respond.
Canterbury v NZ Warriors
This game is the complete opposite in style to the other 7.30pm game on Saturday night between the Tigers and the Cowboys. If you are watching Canterbury v New Zealand on Pay TV, make it the 9.30 option because we might be in for a less than impressive game of football. The Bulldogs are famous for an uncompromising forward pack, which they don't have this year; and a committed defensive structure, which seems to need a little more work.
With injuries striking down both sides, we will lean towards the home team with a lot to prove. The Bulldogs performance last week has led to coach Kevin Moore speaking with each player individually. Perhaps they also need a 'players only meeting'. It is round 5 now and the NRL hasn't had one of these yet this season. We must be due. Kimmorley and Ennis the difference as the Dogs scrape home. Josh Morris v Brent Tate a highlight.
Man of the Match Prediction: Ben Hannant
Tip: Bulldogs 30-24
Result: Warriors 30-24
Man of the Match: Lewis Brown
Match Review:
A fantastic game of footy leaves me with more egg on my face. This was a beauty thanks to the Warriors playing without fear and using shifts in momentum to confuse the Bulldogs defence and score 5 times as many points as they did the previous week. James Maloney has come from nowhere to shock most pundits this year. He is patient and aggressive and shows a wisdom beyong his years. Brett Kimmorley, on the other hand, missed a match winning field goal attempt and Ben Roberts spent most of the second half on the bench. This was the difference in the game as the Warriors halves seemed to have more direction and determination over the 80 minutes. A brave performance by Manu Vatuvei to get himself on the field on one leg. No doubt an inspiration to his teammates.
Manly v Cronulla
The Sea Eagles are finally playing at Brookvale Oval which makes it nearly impossible to tip against them here. It will be a long drive for Sharks fans but worth the trip simply because we expect fireworks in this game. Two very intense coaches will have their teams wired and ready to go for this one. The Sharks will have a renewed sense of confidence after last week's victory and will be more willing to take risks in attack after training with a new halfback for another week.
Against Manly's defense, it may not make a difference as the Eagles impressive young halves and the creativity of Glenn Stewart will be too much for the Sharks. A good battle of NSW origin hopefuls in the front row with Josh Perry taking on two young upstarts in Kade Snowden and Luke Douglas. Fantastic. Finally, let's hope Adam Cuthbertson is allowed to play at least 5 minutes against his old club; I'm sure he'll want to have a huge one and deserves to get on the field.
Man of the Match Prediction: Jamie Lyon
Tip: Manly 26-12
Result: Manly 40-12
Man of the Match: Jamie Lyon
Match Review:
There are not enough words to desribe the performances of Eagles' halves pairing Trent Hodkinson and Kieran Foran. But here are a few of them. Controlled, Confident, Classy, Skilful, Patient, Fast and Fantastic. Hodkinson, 21, seems to understand the balance needed from a halfback in when to kick, pass and run and combines this with the abililty to do all three well. Foran, 19, is not trying to score from every play. This patience from a youngster is impressive and credit must go to Manly's coaching staff for showing faith in these kids. Credit must also go, as it should, to their forwards. The Sea Eagles pack is laying the perfect foundation for their halves and backing it up with their customary bruising defense. Special mention to Ben Farrar who has Manly fans almost forgetting the name of their injured custodian. Next week, however, will be the true test.
Penrith v Eastern Suburbs
This game features some of the most exciting young footballers in the NRL today, plus the old stager himself, Petero Civoniceva. Watching Petero apply his trade as one of the greatest front rowers of a generation is a treat for all passionate football fans and there are none more passionate than those at the foot of the Blue Mountains. They will provide the backdrop for the Panthers home ground advantage on Sunday afternoon.
Unfortunately it won't be enough to stop a resurgent Roosters outfit whose forwards are playing above themselves (as has often been the case with teams coached by Brian Smith). Anthony Minichiello and Sam Perrett lead the NRL in dummy half runs which goes some way to explaining why their forwards are fresh and playing so well at the back-end of games. They do so again in this match as Mitchell Pearce guides a classy backline to victory. Also, tune in to see the likes of Todd Carney and Michel Jennings in open space on a Sunday afternoon out west. Conditions suit.
Man of the Match Prediction: Nate Myles
Tip: Roosters 28-26
Result: Panthers 28-6
Man of the Match: Luke Lewis
Match Review:
Luke Lewis and Petero Civoniceva deserve full credit for everything good that is happening at Penrith this season. Still in it's infancy, the Panthers 2010 premiership tilt seemed to be a little shaky, but coming so close against Melbourne, followed by last week's miracle in Newcastle and finally, a total demolition of the Roosters, it's obvious that there senior players are having an influence. Sunday's victory over their Eastern Suburbs rivals was convincing and almost too easy. The only question now is if they can win in difficult circumstances. It's all well and good to turn up at home with the sun shining, in front of your family and friends.... but the Panthers will truly be tested in the coming 3 rounds when they head to NZ, come home to face the Tigers and then travel north to Skilled Park. We will know more after this.
Parramatta v Canberra
Jeff Robson and Daniel Mortimer seem to be stuck in a deep, dirty, sticky heap of very thick mud. Metaphorically speaking of course. The Eels halves don't seem to be getting their forwards motivated in the right way, and don't seem to be giving consistent, quality ball to their star studded back line. Their performances have also been riddled with errors and this puts their defense (which hasn't been quite as horrendous as their attack) under more pressure.
Will this happen again on Monday night? You bet it will. However on this occasion the Eels find a way to scrape home and grind their way to an ugly win, which they will happily accept. The Canberra Raiders come with a warning label that you dare not ignore. Before they make it to Sydney on Monday, they will pass through the Federal Highway and lose the ability to tackle - the team bus then rolls over the Hume Highway as 5th tackle options fall out of the exhaust - then on to the M7 as each toll booth costs them a batch of discipline until finally they hit the M4 on the way to Parramatta Stadium and walk into the dressing room with nothing left but a lime green hope in hell of victory.
Man of the Match Prediction: Nathan Hindmarsh
Tip: Parramatta 18-12
Result: Raiders 24-14
Man of the Match: Josh Dugan
Match Review:
See our "Minute by Minute Monday Night" blog - delivered in 'retro' form on Tuesday. For live updates go to http://www.leagueunlimited.com/
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Paully's Picks - Round 4
Melbourne v St George Illawarra
Game of the season at this early stage. The two best defensive teams in the competition so it will be uncompromising, aggressive, close and if we are lucky - slightly violent. These teams do have a history of 'restless' behaviour: so let's hope Billy Slater and Jason Nightingale run into each other a few times, and perhaps Jeremy Smith can incite an altercation against his old club??
All the fun aside, Cooper Cronk will make a huge difference to the Storm, as he did last week, and will ignite their attack. His combination with Smith and Slater against a frigid Dragons defense will be like watching a heavyweight title fight without the corrupt officialdom. Ducking, weaving, jabbing, and trying different combinations to punch a hole in the opposition - it will be super entertaining. The Dragons defense holds out and they score enough points through Ben Creagh and an ever improving backline to win a close one.
Man of the Match Prediction: Jeremy Smith
Tip: Saints 19-18
Result: Melbourne 17-4
Man of the Match: Billy Slater
Match Review:
The Dragons have shown once again that their attack might need some fine tuning. The Storm, on the other hand, have shown that they truly are the standard by which all other clubs must be measured against. When you play against the mighty red army from the south, prepare to be smothered. Literally and figuratively. They will suffocate your attack with committed defense. No players on the Storm will ever leave a teammate stranded on a defensive assignment. They will run their attack at your weakest point and will not do this obviously. It will be a measured attack, pointed and delivered at the perfect moment. Just like Cooper Cronk has been doing for two weeks now and on this occasion, did so in the form of that magnificent inside ball to Billy Slater. It was aimed at a tired Dragons defense and that is something we have not been able to say so far this year.
Eastern Suburbs v Brisbane
The Broncos defense was in disarray last week but have a very good opportunity to find redemption here against a Roosters team whose defense was just as bad. However, let's avoid clichés and assume that both teams are not "only as good as their last game". They are in fact much better and will both turn up on Friday night at the SFS. Sam Thaiday in particular will have a lot to prove coming off last week.
The only difference will be that the Roosters have most of their roster still intact whilst the Broncos have a multitude of positional changes. This will be telling when the Bondi boys start controlling the ball through the impressive Mitchell Pearce and then capitalise on the scoreboard through Todd Carney as they attack the visitors’ experimental centre and wing combinations. Darren Lockyer will give all he can (as always) to stop the Broncos losing 3 in a row, but he just won't be able to do it alone.
Man of the Match Prediction: Mitchell Pearce
Tip: Roosters 25-12
Result: Roosters 25-6
Man of the Match: Todd Carney
Match Review:
The Broncos are in a hole; with injury and ball control being the two shovels that will dig them even deeper. As predicted, Brisbane's defense on the left and right corridors was never going to be able to stop such attacking weapons as Phil Graham and Shaun Kenny-Dowall. A very physical opening 15 minutes suggested the visitors might be able to grind out a victory if they maintained possession long enough for Darren Lockyer to craft out points. Unfortunately this commitment from the Broncos did not last. They turned the ball over and the Roosters capitalised by running right through the aforementioned defensive weaknesses.
Cronulla v Parramatta
The Eels are abominable in attack so far this year. However you get the feeling it’s no cause for concern for them or their fans. This confidence will either be their undoing or bring them home with a wet sail as it did last year. There will be no in-between for Parramatta. Speaking of in-between, the Sharks find themselves stuck in between the wood and the spoon. They are in desperate need of 2 points for the sake of the club, the fans and the Shire in general. They need something positive to happen. Could that something be Tim Smith?
No. His combination with Trent Barrett might be a positive, his tactical knowledge of some of the Eels players might be a positive, but the final result will be in the negative for Tim and his new team. Why? Jarryd Hayne, that's why. If the Eels fullback was not playing in this game, one might be tempted to tip an upset. However, he is playing, he will destroy the Sharks and it will be a site to behold. There are no other reasons to tune into a 5.30 game from Shark Park and you shouldn't need one.
Man of the Match Prediction: J. Hayne
Tip: Eels 24-0
Result: Cronulla 11-0
Man of the Match: Paul Gallen
Match Review:
This game of football actually made me laugh. I was receiving text messages from friends about how the first half was "40 minutes of my life I will never get back". Parramatta has played so horribly this season that it actually makes me look forward to their next match - Why? Two reasons...
1. You know they will turn up one day, and with such potential, I don't want to miss out when they do.
2. It is exactly how they played last year, to the point where some rugby league writers seem to be recycling the same opinion articles about how bad the Eels are. Hilarious.
Credit to the Sharks for delivering an inspirational performance. They have the troops to be a quality football team, unfortunately the design of their attack looks as though it's come from a touch football game at training, 17 years ago.
North Qld v Gold Coast
Cowboys coach Neil Henry has named Ray Thompson to partner Thurston in the halves. This will be good for the up-and-coming Thompson and even better for North Qld in the long run. Thurston has been crying out for some help in attack and the Grant Rovelli experiment ended with a whimper last week. So now seems the perfect time to blood a new five eighth: at home against a Gold Coast team that loses potency and direction without captain Scott Prince.
However, the Titans have enough depth to cover this loss with William Zillman coming into the starting squad and a forward pack that is healthy, talented and aggressive in defense. Judging from the way he destroyed the Raiders last week, Greg Bird is finding some form and will be too much for the Cowboys whose home ground does not bring the same advantages it once did. Keep an eye on Thompson though, the kid is talented.
Man of the Match Prediction: Greg Bird
Tip: Titans 18-14
Result: Cowboys 32-18
Man of the Match: Willie Tonga
Match Review:
A very frustrating game to watch, especially if you had taken a risk and put money on the Titans. Hypothetically I mean.
The Cowboys did put together some impressive plays in attack, and defended well against a reserve grade offense, but credit cannot be given entirely to the home side for this victory. The Titans were horrible. Their attack was so poor without Scott Prince and Anthony Laffranchi that at one stage during this game you wondered if they were going to complete another set of six. Greg Bird must have begged his coach to switch Mark Minichiello to the opposite side of the field. The Titans second rower coughed up so much possession in this game that one could be forgiven for thinking that he was doing it on purpose to destroy this blog's multi!!! I did feel sympathy for Mark, but not a lot.
Interesting to note in this game that the Titan's reaction to their first try seemed like they did not care at all. For a visiting team, without their two best players and with a reputation of having poor away form, I would have expected some sort of emotional response to beginning the match so well. Nothing. A sign, I thought, that perhaps they lack confidence and self belief.
NZ Warriors v Manly
Two teams very difficult to gauge; so we will start with the forward packs. Manly by a nose. The Eagles are an experienced outfit who will not suffer the same affliction as other teams when playing across the Tasman. They won't go missing, so this means fireworks in the middle and an exciting game to watch. Steve Matai and Kieran Foran will be revved up in their home country and the latter's halves partner, Trent Hodkinson, has shown maturity beyond his years .This might be enough to cover the Warriors, but with rain predicted in Auckland on Sunday, there is hope for home side.
Not enough though as you just can't go past a superior yardage game. NZ will miss Simon Mannering and Manu Vatuvei. Manly will win the ruck and the match by playing mistake free football. Also, let's hope Jamie Lyon and Brent Tate cross paths in this game. Who can forget their torrid sledging battle in an origin match in 2003? It went for 80 minutes that night and perhaps these two can treat us to another round.
Man of the Match Prediction: Glenn Stewart
Tip: Manly 22-20
Result: Manly 14-6
Man of the Match: Steve Matai
Match Review:
Glenn Stewart has played himself into the NSW side after this performance. Manly have played themselves into top 8 material.
This Eagles team has resolve, and has speed and talent all over the field. Their young halves combination will only improve as the season goes on. The major talking point of this game was obviously the video referee's decision to award Steve Matai a try lat in the game to hand Manly the win. Boring!!
Instead let’s talk about Wade Mackinnon’s abuse of the referee that cost his team two points. He is a dying breed, Wade. The kid from Penrith has a reputation of mouthing off to officials and I hope the mere fact that any continuation of this behaviour will cost his team wins, and possibly a finals berth, will not stop him.
I only wish I could hear what he said.
Canberra v Wests
The Tigers played very well last week. Todd Payton led a willing forward pack to dominate the Eels as Gareth Ellis and Robbie Farah were superb. Add to that the blistering performance from a backline boasting some supreme talent. To complete the package, the Tigers defense, as Benji Marshall says, can turn up whenever they want to.
They may not want to in Canberra on Easter Sunday with temperatures predicted to be as low as 9 degrees and a high of 20. Herein lies the question facing every tipster whenever the Raiders play at home. I must be the millionth person to point this out in a match preview and I must be the millionth person to point out that I've pointed this out! So, the Raiders win at home in a close one with Terry Campese getting plenty of room to move and Bronson Harrison having a blinder against his old club.
Man of the Match Prediction: Terry Campese
Tip: Raiders 32-22
Result: Tigers 35-22
Man of the Match: Robbie Farah
Match Review:
Unbelievable. The Raiders ran with so much aggression and intent in the first 30 minutes of this game that I thought we would have at least one match this year without a miraculous comeback. Wrong again!
The Tigers seem to have so much confidence and patience in their game plan. They never panic. So when they needed points it was simply a matter of using their many attacking weapons and running over, around and through the kids from Canberra. They scored 25 unanswered in 40 minutes.
Questions are no doubt being asked of Terry Campese and his ability late in games to rally his troops. An art mastered by very few, this quality seemed to have deserted the Raiders five-eighth in the final 15 minutes. After seconds of deliberation, two issues spring to my mind about the Raiders/Campo....1. They don't seem to protect him in defense, enabling him to have enough left in the tank to carry the Raiders over the line in games like this, and 2. They are a very young team so this is understandable, but if they do not learn fast another year will be over.
Newcastle v Penrith
Both teams will benefit from the 8 days rest - and will also benefit from playing in a day game. This will be lively. Jarrod Mullen was quiet last week; I don't expect the same this week. The Panthers were sloppy last week; I don't expect the same this week. The Panthers will, however, find it difficult on the road at Newcastle without their sublime back rowers Trent Waterhouse and Frank Pritchard. Instead they will take the field with Gavin Cooper and Nigel Plum. Doesn't quite have the same lethal ring to it.
This is why Newcastle wins the game. In an open contest they have more firepower in the forwards plus Junior Sau and Cooper Vuna returning to the backline. Ben Cross, the Knights best forward from rounds 1 and 2, also comes back and will carry them over the top of the Panthers in an Easter Monday classic. Plenty of tries, plenty of fun and a perfect warm up for Monday Night Football.
Man of the Match Prediction: Jarrod Mullen
Tip: Newcastle 32-26
Result: Penrith 34-30
Man of the Match: Petero Civoniceva
Match Review:
A shoot out. Two teams whose defense won't win premierships but will make for fantastic footy. This game was the complete opposite of last Friday's match between the Storm and the Dragons. Have a look at the ladder at seasons end and you may notice which playing style is more effective. Bummer.
The Knights once again need leadership out on the field. Is Jarrod Mullen the answer? Yes, Jarrod has been playing first grade since the age of 17 and should now be aware of how to steer a football team home when leading by 20 points. Disappointing for Knights fans but fantastic for Panthers fans as their star second rower, Frank Pritchard, played injured and showed the type of courage and commitment you hope to see from your team every week. Michael Jennings could be remembered as one of the great centres in RL history when his career is over, but only if he links up with good coaches for the rest of his career.
South Sydney v Canterbury
Public Holiday MNF is the best kind of MNF. Enjoy your day off and ease into your afternoon with the 4pm game from Newcastle as it prepares you for a belter from ANZ stadium. This game will be close. Souths have a tendency to give a little bit extra in their games against Canterbury and this one will be no different. With a bumper Easter Show crowd in attendance the Bunnies will not want to disappoint their fans. I have a feeling they will.
The Bulldogs have obviously switched on this season but Souths are still to produce their best. We think they have to wait another week as the Dogs discipline and defense gets them home. Brett Kimmorley guides his troops around the field to befuddle the erratic Rabbitohs and they put enough pressure on Sandow and Sutton for Souths to lose direction. The forward battle will be a beauty with Souths having a slight advantage but they fail to capitalise. Mick Ennis v Chris Sandow round 2 will be a highlight, as will the return of Michael Crocker as he chases Ennis around the field looking for a reason to fight. Excellent.
Man of the Match Prediction: Jamal Idris
Tip: Bulldogs 27-20
Result: Souths 38-16
Man of the Match: Isaac Luke
Match Review:
Isaac Luke is thriving under the new coaching system of John Lang. No longer concerned with playing 80 minutes, or coming off the bench for Craig Wing, Luke seems to be toying with opposition defenses as he guides the Rabbioths around the park. John Sutton plays off the back of this success with much space to move out wide; They are impressive.
The Bulldogs were not. Defensively they seem to be waiting for other people to inspire them. They need look no further than Ben Hannant. The QLD front rowers impressive statistics from this game indicate that last year's semi finalists are feeling the effects of injury. They were without 3 regular props on Monday night and were subsequently made to suffer against a willing Rabbits pack.
Canterbury are 1 and 3 this year with their only victory coming against a Roosters team who, at the time, probably should have been in hospital. Danger signs?
Game of the season at this early stage. The two best defensive teams in the competition so it will be uncompromising, aggressive, close and if we are lucky - slightly violent. These teams do have a history of 'restless' behaviour: so let's hope Billy Slater and Jason Nightingale run into each other a few times, and perhaps Jeremy Smith can incite an altercation against his old club??
All the fun aside, Cooper Cronk will make a huge difference to the Storm, as he did last week, and will ignite their attack. His combination with Smith and Slater against a frigid Dragons defense will be like watching a heavyweight title fight without the corrupt officialdom. Ducking, weaving, jabbing, and trying different combinations to punch a hole in the opposition - it will be super entertaining. The Dragons defense holds out and they score enough points through Ben Creagh and an ever improving backline to win a close one.
Man of the Match Prediction: Jeremy Smith
Tip: Saints 19-18
Result: Melbourne 17-4
Man of the Match: Billy Slater
Match Review:
The Dragons have shown once again that their attack might need some fine tuning. The Storm, on the other hand, have shown that they truly are the standard by which all other clubs must be measured against. When you play against the mighty red army from the south, prepare to be smothered. Literally and figuratively. They will suffocate your attack with committed defense. No players on the Storm will ever leave a teammate stranded on a defensive assignment. They will run their attack at your weakest point and will not do this obviously. It will be a measured attack, pointed and delivered at the perfect moment. Just like Cooper Cronk has been doing for two weeks now and on this occasion, did so in the form of that magnificent inside ball to Billy Slater. It was aimed at a tired Dragons defense and that is something we have not been able to say so far this year.
Eastern Suburbs v Brisbane
The Broncos defense was in disarray last week but have a very good opportunity to find redemption here against a Roosters team whose defense was just as bad. However, let's avoid clichés and assume that both teams are not "only as good as their last game". They are in fact much better and will both turn up on Friday night at the SFS. Sam Thaiday in particular will have a lot to prove coming off last week.
The only difference will be that the Roosters have most of their roster still intact whilst the Broncos have a multitude of positional changes. This will be telling when the Bondi boys start controlling the ball through the impressive Mitchell Pearce and then capitalise on the scoreboard through Todd Carney as they attack the visitors’ experimental centre and wing combinations. Darren Lockyer will give all he can (as always) to stop the Broncos losing 3 in a row, but he just won't be able to do it alone.
Man of the Match Prediction: Mitchell Pearce
Tip: Roosters 25-12
Result: Roosters 25-6
Man of the Match: Todd Carney
Match Review:
The Broncos are in a hole; with injury and ball control being the two shovels that will dig them even deeper. As predicted, Brisbane's defense on the left and right corridors was never going to be able to stop such attacking weapons as Phil Graham and Shaun Kenny-Dowall. A very physical opening 15 minutes suggested the visitors might be able to grind out a victory if they maintained possession long enough for Darren Lockyer to craft out points. Unfortunately this commitment from the Broncos did not last. They turned the ball over and the Roosters capitalised by running right through the aforementioned defensive weaknesses.
Cronulla v Parramatta
The Eels are abominable in attack so far this year. However you get the feeling it’s no cause for concern for them or their fans. This confidence will either be their undoing or bring them home with a wet sail as it did last year. There will be no in-between for Parramatta. Speaking of in-between, the Sharks find themselves stuck in between the wood and the spoon. They are in desperate need of 2 points for the sake of the club, the fans and the Shire in general. They need something positive to happen. Could that something be Tim Smith?
No. His combination with Trent Barrett might be a positive, his tactical knowledge of some of the Eels players might be a positive, but the final result will be in the negative for Tim and his new team. Why? Jarryd Hayne, that's why. If the Eels fullback was not playing in this game, one might be tempted to tip an upset. However, he is playing, he will destroy the Sharks and it will be a site to behold. There are no other reasons to tune into a 5.30 game from Shark Park and you shouldn't need one.
Man of the Match Prediction: J. Hayne
Tip: Eels 24-0
Result: Cronulla 11-0
Man of the Match: Paul Gallen
Match Review:
This game of football actually made me laugh. I was receiving text messages from friends about how the first half was "40 minutes of my life I will never get back". Parramatta has played so horribly this season that it actually makes me look forward to their next match - Why? Two reasons...
1. You know they will turn up one day, and with such potential, I don't want to miss out when they do.
2. It is exactly how they played last year, to the point where some rugby league writers seem to be recycling the same opinion articles about how bad the Eels are. Hilarious.
Credit to the Sharks for delivering an inspirational performance. They have the troops to be a quality football team, unfortunately the design of their attack looks as though it's come from a touch football game at training, 17 years ago.
North Qld v Gold Coast
Cowboys coach Neil Henry has named Ray Thompson to partner Thurston in the halves. This will be good for the up-and-coming Thompson and even better for North Qld in the long run. Thurston has been crying out for some help in attack and the Grant Rovelli experiment ended with a whimper last week. So now seems the perfect time to blood a new five eighth: at home against a Gold Coast team that loses potency and direction without captain Scott Prince.
However, the Titans have enough depth to cover this loss with William Zillman coming into the starting squad and a forward pack that is healthy, talented and aggressive in defense. Judging from the way he destroyed the Raiders last week, Greg Bird is finding some form and will be too much for the Cowboys whose home ground does not bring the same advantages it once did. Keep an eye on Thompson though, the kid is talented.
Man of the Match Prediction: Greg Bird
Tip: Titans 18-14
Result: Cowboys 32-18
Man of the Match: Willie Tonga
Match Review:
A very frustrating game to watch, especially if you had taken a risk and put money on the Titans. Hypothetically I mean.
The Cowboys did put together some impressive plays in attack, and defended well against a reserve grade offense, but credit cannot be given entirely to the home side for this victory. The Titans were horrible. Their attack was so poor without Scott Prince and Anthony Laffranchi that at one stage during this game you wondered if they were going to complete another set of six. Greg Bird must have begged his coach to switch Mark Minichiello to the opposite side of the field. The Titans second rower coughed up so much possession in this game that one could be forgiven for thinking that he was doing it on purpose to destroy this blog's multi!!! I did feel sympathy for Mark, but not a lot.
Interesting to note in this game that the Titan's reaction to their first try seemed like they did not care at all. For a visiting team, without their two best players and with a reputation of having poor away form, I would have expected some sort of emotional response to beginning the match so well. Nothing. A sign, I thought, that perhaps they lack confidence and self belief.
NZ Warriors v Manly
Two teams very difficult to gauge; so we will start with the forward packs. Manly by a nose. The Eagles are an experienced outfit who will not suffer the same affliction as other teams when playing across the Tasman. They won't go missing, so this means fireworks in the middle and an exciting game to watch. Steve Matai and Kieran Foran will be revved up in their home country and the latter's halves partner, Trent Hodkinson, has shown maturity beyond his years .This might be enough to cover the Warriors, but with rain predicted in Auckland on Sunday, there is hope for home side.
Not enough though as you just can't go past a superior yardage game. NZ will miss Simon Mannering and Manu Vatuvei. Manly will win the ruck and the match by playing mistake free football. Also, let's hope Jamie Lyon and Brent Tate cross paths in this game. Who can forget their torrid sledging battle in an origin match in 2003? It went for 80 minutes that night and perhaps these two can treat us to another round.
Man of the Match Prediction: Glenn Stewart
Tip: Manly 22-20
Result: Manly 14-6
Man of the Match: Steve Matai
Match Review:
Glenn Stewart has played himself into the NSW side after this performance. Manly have played themselves into top 8 material.
This Eagles team has resolve, and has speed and talent all over the field. Their young halves combination will only improve as the season goes on. The major talking point of this game was obviously the video referee's decision to award Steve Matai a try lat in the game to hand Manly the win. Boring!!
Instead let’s talk about Wade Mackinnon’s abuse of the referee that cost his team two points. He is a dying breed, Wade. The kid from Penrith has a reputation of mouthing off to officials and I hope the mere fact that any continuation of this behaviour will cost his team wins, and possibly a finals berth, will not stop him.
I only wish I could hear what he said.
Canberra v Wests
The Tigers played very well last week. Todd Payton led a willing forward pack to dominate the Eels as Gareth Ellis and Robbie Farah were superb. Add to that the blistering performance from a backline boasting some supreme talent. To complete the package, the Tigers defense, as Benji Marshall says, can turn up whenever they want to.
They may not want to in Canberra on Easter Sunday with temperatures predicted to be as low as 9 degrees and a high of 20. Herein lies the question facing every tipster whenever the Raiders play at home. I must be the millionth person to point this out in a match preview and I must be the millionth person to point out that I've pointed this out! So, the Raiders win at home in a close one with Terry Campese getting plenty of room to move and Bronson Harrison having a blinder against his old club.
Man of the Match Prediction: Terry Campese
Tip: Raiders 32-22
Result: Tigers 35-22
Man of the Match: Robbie Farah
Match Review:
Unbelievable. The Raiders ran with so much aggression and intent in the first 30 minutes of this game that I thought we would have at least one match this year without a miraculous comeback. Wrong again!
The Tigers seem to have so much confidence and patience in their game plan. They never panic. So when they needed points it was simply a matter of using their many attacking weapons and running over, around and through the kids from Canberra. They scored 25 unanswered in 40 minutes.
Questions are no doubt being asked of Terry Campese and his ability late in games to rally his troops. An art mastered by very few, this quality seemed to have deserted the Raiders five-eighth in the final 15 minutes. After seconds of deliberation, two issues spring to my mind about the Raiders/Campo....1. They don't seem to protect him in defense, enabling him to have enough left in the tank to carry the Raiders over the line in games like this, and 2. They are a very young team so this is understandable, but if they do not learn fast another year will be over.
Newcastle v Penrith
Both teams will benefit from the 8 days rest - and will also benefit from playing in a day game. This will be lively. Jarrod Mullen was quiet last week; I don't expect the same this week. The Panthers were sloppy last week; I don't expect the same this week. The Panthers will, however, find it difficult on the road at Newcastle without their sublime back rowers Trent Waterhouse and Frank Pritchard. Instead they will take the field with Gavin Cooper and Nigel Plum. Doesn't quite have the same lethal ring to it.
This is why Newcastle wins the game. In an open contest they have more firepower in the forwards plus Junior Sau and Cooper Vuna returning to the backline. Ben Cross, the Knights best forward from rounds 1 and 2, also comes back and will carry them over the top of the Panthers in an Easter Monday classic. Plenty of tries, plenty of fun and a perfect warm up for Monday Night Football.
Man of the Match Prediction: Jarrod Mullen
Tip: Newcastle 32-26
Result: Penrith 34-30
Man of the Match: Petero Civoniceva
Match Review:
A shoot out. Two teams whose defense won't win premierships but will make for fantastic footy. This game was the complete opposite of last Friday's match between the Storm and the Dragons. Have a look at the ladder at seasons end and you may notice which playing style is more effective. Bummer.
The Knights once again need leadership out on the field. Is Jarrod Mullen the answer? Yes, Jarrod has been playing first grade since the age of 17 and should now be aware of how to steer a football team home when leading by 20 points. Disappointing for Knights fans but fantastic for Panthers fans as their star second rower, Frank Pritchard, played injured and showed the type of courage and commitment you hope to see from your team every week. Michael Jennings could be remembered as one of the great centres in RL history when his career is over, but only if he links up with good coaches for the rest of his career.
South Sydney v Canterbury
Public Holiday MNF is the best kind of MNF. Enjoy your day off and ease into your afternoon with the 4pm game from Newcastle as it prepares you for a belter from ANZ stadium. This game will be close. Souths have a tendency to give a little bit extra in their games against Canterbury and this one will be no different. With a bumper Easter Show crowd in attendance the Bunnies will not want to disappoint their fans. I have a feeling they will.
The Bulldogs have obviously switched on this season but Souths are still to produce their best. We think they have to wait another week as the Dogs discipline and defense gets them home. Brett Kimmorley guides his troops around the field to befuddle the erratic Rabbitohs and they put enough pressure on Sandow and Sutton for Souths to lose direction. The forward battle will be a beauty with Souths having a slight advantage but they fail to capitalise. Mick Ennis v Chris Sandow round 2 will be a highlight, as will the return of Michael Crocker as he chases Ennis around the field looking for a reason to fight. Excellent.
Man of the Match Prediction: Jamal Idris
Tip: Bulldogs 27-20
Result: Souths 38-16
Man of the Match: Isaac Luke
Match Review:
Isaac Luke is thriving under the new coaching system of John Lang. No longer concerned with playing 80 minutes, or coming off the bench for Craig Wing, Luke seems to be toying with opposition defenses as he guides the Rabbioths around the park. John Sutton plays off the back of this success with much space to move out wide; They are impressive.
The Bulldogs were not. Defensively they seem to be waiting for other people to inspire them. They need look no further than Ben Hannant. The QLD front rowers impressive statistics from this game indicate that last year's semi finalists are feeling the effects of injury. They were without 3 regular props on Monday night and were subsequently made to suffer against a willing Rabbits pack.
Canterbury are 1 and 3 this year with their only victory coming against a Roosters team who, at the time, probably should have been in hospital. Danger signs?
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