Brisbane v Canterbury Bankstown
To kick off the last round before representative scheduling destroys big
games like this one, the Brisbane Broncos host the Bulldogs at Suncorp Stadium
on Friday night. Match of the Round for mine as youngsters Trent Hodkinson and
Kris Keating face the NRLs best defence and set out to prove that youth can
overcome experience. This is just one of many great matchups across the
park.
Justin Hodges is showing no signs of a hangover from ankle surgery and will
be at his devastating best against Josh Morris in a possible origin preview.
The biggest battle, however, will be the speed and discipline of the Broncos
defensive line against the creativity of the Bulldogs' attack. With Ben
Barba in the form that he is in, the visitors will have just enough points in
them to stop the Bronco juggernaut and steal the two points in a beauty.
My tip: Canterbury 22-18
South Sydney v Cronulla
The Rabbitohs performance last week suggests they don't quite believe in
themselves, their game plan, their defensive structure or each other. Whilst
Chris Sandow begins to shed some of the negative reputation that has followed
him in recent times, his halves partner John Sutton seems to be moving in the
opposite direction. The Bunnies have a rising injury toll up front to go with
their playmaker issues. Tough times.
Even tougher times in the Shire though with the Sharks' two main strike
weapons out with injury so this will be a true test of their depth. Will Tim
Smith pass this test? No. Will John Sutton break out of his season long funk?
No. Will Paul Gallen and Michael Crocker break the NRL record for niggling in
one match? Hard to keep score. Speaking of scoring, there won’t be much of it
in this match but Souths crawl away with it against a depleted Cronulla side.
My tip: South Sydney 16-10
Gold Coast v Eastern Suburbs
Last year's runners up are now sitting on five losses from their first seven
matches, a handful of off-field incidents and some genuine questions being
raised about their attack. The Roosters have lost their last 3 and have not
scored over 12 in these losses. Not quite a slump, as it were, but a concern
for Brian Smith nonetheless. How do they respond?
One way is to go the knuckle. The boys from Bondi may as well embrace the
drinking culture that seems firmly entrenched in the club and get involved in
and old fashioned bar room brawl against the Titans at Skilled Park on Saturday
Night. But alas, the ramblings of a league fan stuck in the 80's may not have
any effect on these two clubs so it will come down to how the Roosters can back
up after such a big match on Anzac Day. I'm tipping they back up well and their
attack shifts into a higher gear.
My tip: Roosters 24-20
Melbourne v Newcastle
You're game if you even think of tipping against the Storm after their home
loss last weekend but this is a Newcastle team who gave the reigning premiers
all they could handle a few weeks ago and also had the gumption to come back
from 12-0 down in Canberra last week. There is a good spirit in the Knights
team this year and one reason has been the inspired play of Jarrod Mullen.
You can bet that the Storm know this and will be directing traffic at the
young halfback all night long at AAMI Park on Saturday. If Mullen can overcome
this barrage of Blair, Bromwich and Brian Norrie, the visitors will keep it
close enough to be a chance at the end. He won't. Mullen will not find the
grunt and protection he needs from a willing but outgunned Knights forward pack
and this is where Melbourne win the match - right up the middle with Cam Smith
leading the way.
My tip: Melbourne 26-16
North Queensland v Manly
This will be a ripper. You could not find a more even record between two
teams - 4 wins apiece and exactly the same amount of points scored by both
sides in 8 matches between the Cowboys and the Eagles at Dairy Farmers Stadium.
Just take a minute to settle down after that fascinating statistic and while you’re
at it, take some time to schedule yourself in front of a TV on Saturday night
for a physical battle between two very capable forward packs.
Cowboys prop Matt Scott will be launching himself at everything that moves
in a Manly jumper, as will the Sims brothers and former Eagle Glen Hall. The
reply will come swiftly from Jason King and his crew and just as this
battle heads towards a stalemate, it will be Jonathan Thurston who shines above
the violence and continues his stellar season to give the Cowboys their 4th win
in a row. Juicy.
My tip: North Queensland 23-22
NZ Warriors v Penrith
For those of you who love a Sunday afternoon triple header starting with the
midday entree from Mt Smart Stadium, here is a beauty. The Warriors host the
struggling Panthers in a match that will truly test the visitor’s mettle.
Penrith are one step away from being a club in crisis - players arguing with
management, their coach told he is not welcome back in 2012 and some
embarrassing losses at home. Tough times.
The remedy for these tough times will not be found in wet and windy Auckland
this weekend. What the Panthers will find is a New Zealand club fresh off their
biggest win of the year and pulsating with confidence. If the home side get off
to a good start it could be a long day for Matt Elliott and his team. Our
prediction is that New Zealand get off to a good start and it will be a long day for Matt Elliott and his team.
My tip: Warriors 30-14
Canberra v Wests Tigers
These two teams last met in round 3 at Campbelltown in what was essentially
a drubbing by the Tigers. A lot has changed since then and whilst the Raiders
are still stuck on 1 win, as they were 5 weeks ago, it’s Benji and his boys who
are now doing it a little tougher. A rising injury toll and a form line that
suggests not much has changed in the realm of consistency for Wests means they
head to our nation's capital as slight outsiders.
Playing against the bottom of the table Raiders might be exactly what Tim
Sheens and his team need to turn things around. Whilst the home side have
Dugan, Orford and Tongue back from injury, the desperate Tigers ride improved
performances from their forwards and Benji does the rest. Robert Lui also a
standout as Canberra fall to their 7th loss on the trot and the Tigers' attack
finds all the space it needs.
My tip: Wests 30-22
St George Illawarra v Parramatta
A whole bunch of second generation footballers on show in part three of your
triple header on Sunday afternoon as Kogarah Oval gets its first taste of Rugby
League for season 2011. Slippery Morris, Craig Young, Rocket Reddy and the Mortimer
family have all contributed DNA to this showcase of tradition and a rivalry
that will not be forgotten by any of them. Long may it continue.
This chapter of history, however, will be something that Eels fans
will quickly erase from their memories. The Dragons are on a roll, again, and
their defence is the catalyst, again, for success. More so in this match as
Parramatta continue to struggle for points consistently and as usual Ben Hornby
and Jamie Soward will bide their time and wait for the perfect opportunity to
strike. Keep an eye on another 2nd generation star in M. Gasnier to do the
damage.
My tip: St George Illawarra 27-4
For live updates throughout the weekend go to http://leagueunlimited.com/
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Paully's Picks - Round 7
Manly Warringah v Penrith
A Good Friday special to kick off your Easter weekend feast of Rugby League. The Penrith Panthers make the trek up to Brookvale Oval to face a Manly Sea Eagles team looking for its third win in a row. The Panthers have looked alive at times this season but mostly, they have been a step behind their opposition and the results reflect this. 2 wins from 6 matches and the 2nd worst 'for and against' record in the competition.
The Eagles, on the other hand, have reinvented themselves behind a new halfback, some familiar rough heads in the forwards and talented youngsters like Jamie Buhrer and Will Hopoate. The major difference, however, in this match will be the play of the halves. Foran and Cherry-Evans continue their impressive start to 2011 as their kicking game keeps the Panthers at bay and home ground advantage does the rest. Jennings v Lyon a highlight.
My tip: Manly 22-14
Wests v Brisbane
Enjoy it while it lasts, footy fans. Arguably the two best footballers of a generation come together at the Sydney Football Stadium for perhaps the very last time on Friday night. Benji Marshall may have a few years left in him, but his opposite number in this match does not. What a beauty it will be.... a good balance of youth and experience in both teams and match winners all over the park.
Speaking of match winners, hard to go past the proven combination of Wallace and Lockyer in this match, they are playing outstanding football at the moment and their kicking game is superb. The Tigers will not be given many chances to apply their particular brand of entertaining footy and when the pressure builds, the visitors will capitalise. Ben Hannant and Sam Thaiday tear holes up the middle and the Broncos make it 6 in a row.
My tip: Brisbane 20-16
Cronulla v North Queensland
The Cronulla Sharks are playing a better brand of football in season 2011. An impressive forward pack who toil away bravely up the middle combined with a pair of attacking weapons in Albert Kelly and Nathan Gardner have made this club less of a chore to watch compared to recent seasons. Unfortunately for Sharks fans, their record does not reflect this improvement.
Even more unfortunate for Sharks fans is the impending arrival of Jonathan Thurston and the Cowboys to Toyota Stadium on Saturday Night. Usually a graveyard for the boys from Townsville, their form this season suggests they have the barrels to sneak away with a win here. Keep an eye on the two fullbacks as they blur across your screen with lightning speed and enjoy the battle up front between Kade Snowden and Matt Scott in a mini origin preview.
My tip: North Queensland 21-20
Canterbury Bankstown v South Sydney
Whilst some fans at Redfern might have been impressed with 65 minutes of their team’s performance against the Dragons on Monday night, others will be concerned with the fact that Souths have scored 1 try in their last two games of football. Admittedly, these games were against 2 of the competitions elite sides, but it must be a concern for John Lang and his 'play what's in front of you' approach to offence.
Against the Bulldogs at Homebush on Saturday night, this plan of attack will only work if the Rabbitohs defence holds firm against an extremely potent Canterbury side. It won't. The 'Dogs control possession and the scoreboard. Whatever your plans are for the long weekend, tune in to this match in the hope that Mick Ennis repeats his sledge from last week, only this time to Dave Taylor. The resulting chase around ANZ stadium will be akin to a Benny Hill skit.
My tip: Canterbury Bankstown 30-20
Canberra v Newcastle
Minimum 2... Maximum 20. That is the weather prediction for our nation's capital on Easter Sunday and this chilly reception awaiting the Newcastle Knights is usually enough to tip against anyone travelling down the Barton Highway. However, the Raiders sit in the wooden spoon position after 6 rounds and what's worse is that the Canberra forwards seem to have lost their reputation as intimidators.
The bookies, on the other hand are still leaning towards home side and have placed them favourites during the week. So if you're a betting man, the form of Jarrod Mullen and Kurt Gidley might inspire you but the rest of the Knights will not. They struggle with this road trip and the boys from Canberra get their second win of the season behind the play of Blake Ferguson and the return to form of David Shillington and his pack.
My tip: Canberra 28-24
Parramatta v Gold Coast
William Zillman has been a patient man. Starring for Raiders junior teams as a halfback a few years ago, then moving to the Gold Coast to eventually play from either the interchange bench or at fullback, Zillman must have now finally completed his Rugby League apprenticeship. Titans coach John Cartwright played him in the halves last week and has named him outside Scott Prince again this week.
Why is this important? Simply because Zillman brings with him the two things the Titans have been lacking this year - originality in attack and some youth to go with their experience. Zillman will shine as he faces a team whose weakness is directly opposite him. The Eels halves will again fail to produce enough points to keep them in front and the Titans turnaround continues to finish up your Easter Sunday double header.
My tip: Gold Coast 24-16
Eastern Suburbs v St George Illawarra
Take in a dawn service and remember those who have fallen...... Then, cheer on the parade and enjoy some two-up before kick off because you won't want to miss this. The traditional Anzac Day match between the Dragons and the Roosters is just the antidote required by Brian Smith's men to bring their season back from the brink on Monday afternoon at the SFS.
Typical of this rivalry, form will not matter in the opening 20 minutes as both sets of forwards turn the clock back and launch themselves into each other to establish early dominance. It will be the single minded St George Illawarra team, however, who finish stronger and shut down a Roosters attack lacking confidence and patience. SKD v Matt Cooper a definite highlight as the Roosters give it their all but fall short again.
My tip: St George Illawarra 19-6
Melbourne v NZ Warriors
It did not take them very long to re-establish this status, but the Melbourne Storm are once again the benchmark by which all clubs are now measured. They do all the little things right – winning the ruck, chasing kicks, support play, last tackle options – and not just when they are on song; they deliver at a high level every weekend in attack and defence.
This Monday Night at AAMI Park, the New Zealand Warriors will be the next team to fall victim to the machine and with a 10.5 start from bookies, nobody is expecting an upset. The visitors will find themselves in a position to win this game at some point during the contest with James Maloney playing a leading role, but it will be quickly snuffed out and the Storm make it 6 from 7.
My tip: Melbourne 30-14
For live updates throughout the weekend - go to http://www.leagueunlimited.com/index.php
A Good Friday special to kick off your Easter weekend feast of Rugby League. The Penrith Panthers make the trek up to Brookvale Oval to face a Manly Sea Eagles team looking for its third win in a row. The Panthers have looked alive at times this season but mostly, they have been a step behind their opposition and the results reflect this. 2 wins from 6 matches and the 2nd worst 'for and against' record in the competition.
The Eagles, on the other hand, have reinvented themselves behind a new halfback, some familiar rough heads in the forwards and talented youngsters like Jamie Buhrer and Will Hopoate. The major difference, however, in this match will be the play of the halves. Foran and Cherry-Evans continue their impressive start to 2011 as their kicking game keeps the Panthers at bay and home ground advantage does the rest. Jennings v Lyon a highlight.
My tip: Manly 22-14
Wests v Brisbane
Enjoy it while it lasts, footy fans. Arguably the two best footballers of a generation come together at the Sydney Football Stadium for perhaps the very last time on Friday night. Benji Marshall may have a few years left in him, but his opposite number in this match does not. What a beauty it will be.... a good balance of youth and experience in both teams and match winners all over the park.
Speaking of match winners, hard to go past the proven combination of Wallace and Lockyer in this match, they are playing outstanding football at the moment and their kicking game is superb. The Tigers will not be given many chances to apply their particular brand of entertaining footy and when the pressure builds, the visitors will capitalise. Ben Hannant and Sam Thaiday tear holes up the middle and the Broncos make it 6 in a row.
My tip: Brisbane 20-16
Cronulla v North Queensland
The Cronulla Sharks are playing a better brand of football in season 2011. An impressive forward pack who toil away bravely up the middle combined with a pair of attacking weapons in Albert Kelly and Nathan Gardner have made this club less of a chore to watch compared to recent seasons. Unfortunately for Sharks fans, their record does not reflect this improvement.
Even more unfortunate for Sharks fans is the impending arrival of Jonathan Thurston and the Cowboys to Toyota Stadium on Saturday Night. Usually a graveyard for the boys from Townsville, their form this season suggests they have the barrels to sneak away with a win here. Keep an eye on the two fullbacks as they blur across your screen with lightning speed and enjoy the battle up front between Kade Snowden and Matt Scott in a mini origin preview.
My tip: North Queensland 21-20
Canterbury Bankstown v South Sydney
Whilst some fans at Redfern might have been impressed with 65 minutes of their team’s performance against the Dragons on Monday night, others will be concerned with the fact that Souths have scored 1 try in their last two games of football. Admittedly, these games were against 2 of the competitions elite sides, but it must be a concern for John Lang and his 'play what's in front of you' approach to offence.
Against the Bulldogs at Homebush on Saturday night, this plan of attack will only work if the Rabbitohs defence holds firm against an extremely potent Canterbury side. It won't. The 'Dogs control possession and the scoreboard. Whatever your plans are for the long weekend, tune in to this match in the hope that Mick Ennis repeats his sledge from last week, only this time to Dave Taylor. The resulting chase around ANZ stadium will be akin to a Benny Hill skit.
My tip: Canterbury Bankstown 30-20
Canberra v Newcastle
Minimum 2... Maximum 20. That is the weather prediction for our nation's capital on Easter Sunday and this chilly reception awaiting the Newcastle Knights is usually enough to tip against anyone travelling down the Barton Highway. However, the Raiders sit in the wooden spoon position after 6 rounds and what's worse is that the Canberra forwards seem to have lost their reputation as intimidators.
The bookies, on the other hand are still leaning towards home side and have placed them favourites during the week. So if you're a betting man, the form of Jarrod Mullen and Kurt Gidley might inspire you but the rest of the Knights will not. They struggle with this road trip and the boys from Canberra get their second win of the season behind the play of Blake Ferguson and the return to form of David Shillington and his pack.
My tip: Canberra 28-24
Parramatta v Gold Coast
William Zillman has been a patient man. Starring for Raiders junior teams as a halfback a few years ago, then moving to the Gold Coast to eventually play from either the interchange bench or at fullback, Zillman must have now finally completed his Rugby League apprenticeship. Titans coach John Cartwright played him in the halves last week and has named him outside Scott Prince again this week.
Why is this important? Simply because Zillman brings with him the two things the Titans have been lacking this year - originality in attack and some youth to go with their experience. Zillman will shine as he faces a team whose weakness is directly opposite him. The Eels halves will again fail to produce enough points to keep them in front and the Titans turnaround continues to finish up your Easter Sunday double header.
My tip: Gold Coast 24-16
Eastern Suburbs v St George Illawarra
Take in a dawn service and remember those who have fallen...... Then, cheer on the parade and enjoy some two-up before kick off because you won't want to miss this. The traditional Anzac Day match between the Dragons and the Roosters is just the antidote required by Brian Smith's men to bring their season back from the brink on Monday afternoon at the SFS.
Typical of this rivalry, form will not matter in the opening 20 minutes as both sets of forwards turn the clock back and launch themselves into each other to establish early dominance. It will be the single minded St George Illawarra team, however, who finish stronger and shut down a Roosters attack lacking confidence and patience. SKD v Matt Cooper a definite highlight as the Roosters give it their all but fall short again.
My tip: St George Illawarra 19-6
Melbourne v NZ Warriors
It did not take them very long to re-establish this status, but the Melbourne Storm are once again the benchmark by which all clubs are now measured. They do all the little things right – winning the ruck, chasing kicks, support play, last tackle options – and not just when they are on song; they deliver at a high level every weekend in attack and defence.
This Monday Night at AAMI Park, the New Zealand Warriors will be the next team to fall victim to the machine and with a 10.5 start from bookies, nobody is expecting an upset. The visitors will find themselves in a position to win this game at some point during the contest with James Maloney playing a leading role, but it will be quickly snuffed out and the Storm make it 6 from 7.
My tip: Melbourne 30-14
For live updates throughout the weekend - go to http://www.leagueunlimited.com/index.php
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Paully's Picks - Round 6
Gold Coast v Wests Tigers
With a 1 and 4 record staring him in the face, Titans coach John Cartwright is now feeling the pressure. The former Penrith forward came to the Gold Coast with good experience as an assistance coach and player and was duly trusted with the future of the club by Michael Searle. He now owns a 50% all time winning record in charge at Robina and is struggling this season so far. The going is about to get a whole lot tougher this Friday night as Benji Marshall comes to town.
Wests Tigers coach Tim Sheens will test every possible weakness in the home side and this method will be delivered astutely, as always, by Robbie Farah and Marshall. Add to this arsenal the rejuvenated Tim Moltzen, now in his preferred position at halfback and tipsters will be flocking towards the visitors. Gareth Ellis plays all over the Titans and the Tigers win 2 in a row.
My tip: Wests 22-16
Parramatta v Canterbury Bankstown
Between them, these two NRL teams scored 1 try in 160 minutes of football last week so don't expect the greatest chapter in ‘dogs v eels history to be written on Friday night at ANZ Stadium. Rather, footy fans should expect to see an Eels team searching for its identity, a Bulldogs team still blooding a new halfback and five-eighth and finally, a few stories in the media on Friday about the Mortimer family and young Daniel's on-going struggles.
Speaking of the Eels' number 6, he faces former teammate Kris Keating in an interesting head to head matchup but easily the most exciting battle on the field will be between the two fullbacks. Fleet footed and capable of beating multiple defenders in one movement, Ben Barba and Jarryd Hayne will keep the kids awake and interested. Speaking of awake and interested, the 'Dogs show more enthusiasm after losing 2 straight and come away with the biscuits.
My tip: Canterbury Bankstown 24-16
Manly Warringah v NZ Warriors
Any of you who saw the Sea Eagles pull one out in the dying moments of their match against the Sharks last weekend may never doubt them again. Me personally, I will never forgive them as that ridiculous turn of events cost me a multi. Ridiculous for some but for Des Halser, a sign that his group are capable of miracles and with this confidence, they face the visiting New Zealand Warriors on Saturday afternoon at Brookvale Oval.
A huge win for Ivan Cleary's men last week but this is a long road trip and although they have had success in the past, New Zealand will find the task too difficult to overcome. The Eagles discipline and defence holds the Warriors at bay but only just. Don’t miss the enthralling matchup in the centres as four old hard heads prepare to knock the stuffing out of each other. Jamie Lyon and his men hold on in a tight one.
My tip: Manly 19-18
North Queensland v Canberra
The Canberra Raiders have now officially hit the skids. Their spine should read - Dugan, Campese, Orford, and Tongue but rather reads.... well... I won't bad mouth these players by naming names but needless to say the boys from our nation’s capital are finding out how hard the grind of the NRL really is. Without the leadership and class of these missing stars, it's a near impossible feat to travel to Townsville and beat the in-form Cowboys on a Saturday night.
So, with the open exchanges between two willing forward packs set to be a highlight, the Raiders should fade soon after and this is when Jonathan Thurston and Matt Bowen will continue their resurgence and start the scoreboard ticking over. Look forward to seeing young firebrand Tariq Sims slam himself into the Raiders front rowers but apart from this muscle mashing, it shouldn’t be a contest. The Cowboys are fairdinkum and play as such.
My tip: North Queensland 36-18
Eastern Suburbs v Brisbane
A Roosters fan base in Gosford? Not sure. Perhaps maybe a Broncos supporters group around the Central Coast? Doubtful. This scheduling phenomenon exists only because everyone's favourite publican, John Singleton, wants to host a game of footy on Saturday night, create some exposure for the Bears Bid (rightly so) and perhaps shout some refreshing beverages for the punters. Is it a coincidence that Mark Riddell is heading up the F3? Can't be.
After 'Piggy's' recent column in a Sydney metro newspaper, you'd think Singleton will need to re-stock the bar after fulltime as Riddell heads to the members area of Bluetongue Stadium. Unfortunately for the Bondi club's back up rake, it will be the Broncos who drink from the cup of victory after this match as their impressive defensive form continues and they keep the potent Roosters offense at bay. Carney 'the student' v Lockyer 'the immortal' a highlight.
My tip: Brisbane 18-12
Newcastle v Cronulla
The dawn of a new age is upon the Hunter. A new 'super coach' for next season, a good crop of juniors coming through, Darius Boyd set to sign..... All very exciting for the Newcastle fans. However, that future will have to wait because this Sunday afternoon at 2pm, the only thing coming at the Knights will be a hardnosed and destructive Cronulla Sharks forward pack. A nearly all-representative group who would no doubt be stinging from their desperate loss last week.
The Knights should be wary but with a distracted preparation for this match, they might be ripe for the picking and what better opportunity for the Sharks to steal an away win. Upset of the week for mine. Wade Graham's prodigious right boot combined with the visitors forwards make this a long day for Newcastle and the Shire boys come away with redemption for last week's horror. Snowden and Douglas the standouts.
My tip: Cronulla 24-22
Penrith v Melbourne
You could not find two more contrasting football teams. The Panthers of recent years have been inconsistent, reliant upon only a handful of players and have disappeared in some big games. The Storm, on the other hand, have been a model of week-to-week consistency, have talent across the park in attack and defence and have done nothing but win the big games. Whilst some of this can be explained away via the Salary Cap scandal of 2010, Melbourne's performances this year suggest otherwise.
They defend for 80 minutes, they are clinical in attack and they have enough firepower to blow you off the park in a hurry. This is exactly what will happen on Sunday afternoon at Centrebet Stadium. The Panthers will lift as they do but will drop their guard long enough for the visitors to punish them. It will be hard going for Luke Walsh and Kevin Kingston as they are out-gunned in the end by Cooper Cronk and Cameron Smith.
My tip: Melbourne 18-10
South Sydney v St George Illawarra
As has been their custom over the past 3 years, the Dragons have simply shut down every attack they face and turned every opponent towards desperation. Some can keep it close and even sneak away with the occasional victory, but most simply fade away and become victims of the best defence in the competition. South Sydney, the team with the worst defence in the competition, hosts the reigning premiers on Monday night at ANZ stadium.
This could be a massacre. The 'Pride of the League' could quickly turn into the 'Shame of the Week'... If the Rabbitohs fail to bring their best to Homebush, things could turn nasty in the Burrow but fear not my feathered, fluffy-tailed friends, it won’t be as bad as you fear. The likes of Burgess and Taylor launch themselves into the fire, so to speak, and gain some respectability but Souths just aren’t on the same level. Dragons too good.
My tip: St George Illawarra 22-4
For live updates throughout the weekend go to leagueunlimited.com
With a 1 and 4 record staring him in the face, Titans coach John Cartwright is now feeling the pressure. The former Penrith forward came to the Gold Coast with good experience as an assistance coach and player and was duly trusted with the future of the club by Michael Searle. He now owns a 50% all time winning record in charge at Robina and is struggling this season so far. The going is about to get a whole lot tougher this Friday night as Benji Marshall comes to town.
Wests Tigers coach Tim Sheens will test every possible weakness in the home side and this method will be delivered astutely, as always, by Robbie Farah and Marshall. Add to this arsenal the rejuvenated Tim Moltzen, now in his preferred position at halfback and tipsters will be flocking towards the visitors. Gareth Ellis plays all over the Titans and the Tigers win 2 in a row.
My tip: Wests 22-16
Parramatta v Canterbury Bankstown
Between them, these two NRL teams scored 1 try in 160 minutes of football last week so don't expect the greatest chapter in ‘dogs v eels history to be written on Friday night at ANZ Stadium. Rather, footy fans should expect to see an Eels team searching for its identity, a Bulldogs team still blooding a new halfback and five-eighth and finally, a few stories in the media on Friday about the Mortimer family and young Daniel's on-going struggles.
Speaking of the Eels' number 6, he faces former teammate Kris Keating in an interesting head to head matchup but easily the most exciting battle on the field will be between the two fullbacks. Fleet footed and capable of beating multiple defenders in one movement, Ben Barba and Jarryd Hayne will keep the kids awake and interested. Speaking of awake and interested, the 'Dogs show more enthusiasm after losing 2 straight and come away with the biscuits.
My tip: Canterbury Bankstown 24-16
Manly Warringah v NZ Warriors
Any of you who saw the Sea Eagles pull one out in the dying moments of their match against the Sharks last weekend may never doubt them again. Me personally, I will never forgive them as that ridiculous turn of events cost me a multi. Ridiculous for some but for Des Halser, a sign that his group are capable of miracles and with this confidence, they face the visiting New Zealand Warriors on Saturday afternoon at Brookvale Oval.
A huge win for Ivan Cleary's men last week but this is a long road trip and although they have had success in the past, New Zealand will find the task too difficult to overcome. The Eagles discipline and defence holds the Warriors at bay but only just. Don’t miss the enthralling matchup in the centres as four old hard heads prepare to knock the stuffing out of each other. Jamie Lyon and his men hold on in a tight one.
My tip: Manly 19-18
North Queensland v Canberra
The Canberra Raiders have now officially hit the skids. Their spine should read - Dugan, Campese, Orford, and Tongue but rather reads.... well... I won't bad mouth these players by naming names but needless to say the boys from our nation’s capital are finding out how hard the grind of the NRL really is. Without the leadership and class of these missing stars, it's a near impossible feat to travel to Townsville and beat the in-form Cowboys on a Saturday night.
So, with the open exchanges between two willing forward packs set to be a highlight, the Raiders should fade soon after and this is when Jonathan Thurston and Matt Bowen will continue their resurgence and start the scoreboard ticking over. Look forward to seeing young firebrand Tariq Sims slam himself into the Raiders front rowers but apart from this muscle mashing, it shouldn’t be a contest. The Cowboys are fairdinkum and play as such.
My tip: North Queensland 36-18
Eastern Suburbs v Brisbane
A Roosters fan base in Gosford? Not sure. Perhaps maybe a Broncos supporters group around the Central Coast? Doubtful. This scheduling phenomenon exists only because everyone's favourite publican, John Singleton, wants to host a game of footy on Saturday night, create some exposure for the Bears Bid (rightly so) and perhaps shout some refreshing beverages for the punters. Is it a coincidence that Mark Riddell is heading up the F3? Can't be.
After 'Piggy's' recent column in a Sydney metro newspaper, you'd think Singleton will need to re-stock the bar after fulltime as Riddell heads to the members area of Bluetongue Stadium. Unfortunately for the Bondi club's back up rake, it will be the Broncos who drink from the cup of victory after this match as their impressive defensive form continues and they keep the potent Roosters offense at bay. Carney 'the student' v Lockyer 'the immortal' a highlight.
My tip: Brisbane 18-12
Newcastle v Cronulla
The dawn of a new age is upon the Hunter. A new 'super coach' for next season, a good crop of juniors coming through, Darius Boyd set to sign..... All very exciting for the Newcastle fans. However, that future will have to wait because this Sunday afternoon at 2pm, the only thing coming at the Knights will be a hardnosed and destructive Cronulla Sharks forward pack. A nearly all-representative group who would no doubt be stinging from their desperate loss last week.
The Knights should be wary but with a distracted preparation for this match, they might be ripe for the picking and what better opportunity for the Sharks to steal an away win. Upset of the week for mine. Wade Graham's prodigious right boot combined with the visitors forwards make this a long day for Newcastle and the Shire boys come away with redemption for last week's horror. Snowden and Douglas the standouts.
My tip: Cronulla 24-22
Penrith v Melbourne
You could not find two more contrasting football teams. The Panthers of recent years have been inconsistent, reliant upon only a handful of players and have disappeared in some big games. The Storm, on the other hand, have been a model of week-to-week consistency, have talent across the park in attack and defence and have done nothing but win the big games. Whilst some of this can be explained away via the Salary Cap scandal of 2010, Melbourne's performances this year suggest otherwise.
They defend for 80 minutes, they are clinical in attack and they have enough firepower to blow you off the park in a hurry. This is exactly what will happen on Sunday afternoon at Centrebet Stadium. The Panthers will lift as they do but will drop their guard long enough for the visitors to punish them. It will be hard going for Luke Walsh and Kevin Kingston as they are out-gunned in the end by Cooper Cronk and Cameron Smith.
My tip: Melbourne 18-10
South Sydney v St George Illawarra
As has been their custom over the past 3 years, the Dragons have simply shut down every attack they face and turned every opponent towards desperation. Some can keep it close and even sneak away with the occasional victory, but most simply fade away and become victims of the best defence in the competition. South Sydney, the team with the worst defence in the competition, hosts the reigning premiers on Monday night at ANZ stadium.
This could be a massacre. The 'Pride of the League' could quickly turn into the 'Shame of the Week'... If the Rabbitohs fail to bring their best to Homebush, things could turn nasty in the Burrow but fear not my feathered, fluffy-tailed friends, it won’t be as bad as you fear. The likes of Burgess and Taylor launch themselves into the fire, so to speak, and gain some respectability but Souths just aren’t on the same level. Dragons too good.
My tip: St George Illawarra 22-4
For live updates throughout the weekend go to leagueunlimited.com
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Paully's Picks - Round 5
North Queensland v Gold Coast
It all moves along so quickly. Round 5 is upon us and with only weeks until the representative season and some clubs already seem in trouble whilst others appear to have turned around their poor form of last season. Two teams at either end of this spectrum face each other to open the weekend’s football at Dairy Farmers Stadium in Townsville on Friday night.
The game within the game here is the battle between Jonathan Thurston and Scott Prince. Two of the game’s great stars, captains and scheming halfbacks will no doubt bring their best in a bid to outplay each other and the winner of this skirmish will no doubt come away with the 2 points. Thurston too good for mine as the exhausted Titans take the field a little sluggish after their epic encounter in Canberra last week. Back to back away games take their toll.
My tip: North Queensland 20-16
Wests Tigers v South Sydney
Match of the Round for mine. Even with the Tigers devastating injury toll, their defensive performance against the Roosters last week signalled an intention to not go down without a fight. It continues here when they face the Bunnies on Friday night at the SFS. Robbie Farah will scheme, Benji Marshall will attack feverishly and the Wests’ forwards will give their very best, but it simply won’t be enough.
The ‘visitors’ pack is something to behold. Dave Taylor will continue his phenomenal season so far and will be ably assisted by a rejuvenated captain in Roy Asotasi, the return from injury of Sam Burgess and an interchange bench that will leave the Tigers breathless in the end. Field position wins this one and South Sydney gets it in spades to give John Sutton and Greg Inglis just enough of an edge in a fight to the death.
My tip: Souths 24-20
NZ Warriors v Eastern Suburbs
In the corresponding match last year, these two teams played out an enthralling game of football in torrential rain, only decided when a freakish Warriors try at full time got them home. Tune it to see more of the same here as Brian Smith’s team travel across the Tasman to kick off your Saturday night triple header at Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland. A huge test for New Zealand.
Weather predictions suggest a dry track, which can only be good for the Roosters as their speed and mobility proves too much for the home side. The Warriors wrestled their season back on track last week with a win over the Sharks, however they will find it difficult to contain the Roosters attack this week as Todd Carney and Mitchell Pearce remind us all why they’ve been touted as this years’ origin halves combination. Carney again the standout.
My tip: Roosters 30-14
Cronulla v Manly Warringah
It was only a few short years ago when tipsters would never bet against the Sharks at home on a Saturday night. The often wet and windy conditions would always favour the home side and I can still see David Peachey and co. tearing teams apart in front of the shire faithfull. For tortured Cronulla fans this must seem like decades ago... but fear not, those heady days are about to return.
Next up; the Manly Sea Eagles. In the 80th meeting between these clubs, the youth and renewed spirit of the home side will give them the advantage in a physical encounter. The Cronulla spine has been combining well so far this season and with Albert Kelly and Nathan Gardner shining bright, they produce the goods against an aggressive Manly side who give it everything they have, as always. Props Douglas/Snowden v Kite/King a must see.
My tip: Cronulla 22-18
Penrith v Canberra
To close out your Saturday night, we head out west to the foot of the mountains to see two teams under the pump. Both clubs come into this match with one win from their opening four matches and with this, comes the inevitable pressure from fans and media alike. The difference is that the Panthers have felt the brunt of this criticism as a team, whilst in our nation’s capital; all fingers of blame are pointed directly at Matt Orford.
Whether this is justified or not, it will be Orford’s form at halfback that controls the Raiders performance here. He has the weapons in front of him and the speed outside him to navigate Centrebet stadium and steer his new club to a win and that’s exactly what he does in a nail biter. The visitors forwards do plenty to assist Orford as he comes out shooting and gets the Raiders home in this semi final replay.
My tip: Canberra 28-24
Melbourne v Parramatta
The tantalising rivalry between two of the game’s best fullbacks is the first thing that springs to mind in this match. In recent seasons, Jarryd Hayne and Billy Slater have fought for Australian Jersey’s, Origin glory and an NRL premiership. Slater getting the biscuits in all three and copping a face full of Hayne for his troubles last year in a spiteful encounter at Parramatta stadium.
Let’s hope this spite continues on Sunday afternoon at AAMI Park when the Eels travel to Melbourne as heavy underdogs. The Storm dispatched the previously unbeaten Bulldogs with consummate ease last week and their defence will deliver more of the same here. The visitors will battle gamely and may even keep it close if wet weather predictions come true, but Cameron Smith once again slices them up. Storm too good.
My tip: Melbourne 24-10
St George Illawarra v Canterbury Bankstown
A match that signifies Heritage Round like no other, this local derby has too much history to simply be forgotten post merger. How fitting that we now get to see these famous jerseys run out at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Sunday afternoon as the Dragons host Canterbury Bankstown in what will be a low-scoring, grinding style of match that coincidentally pays tribute to the 80’s style when these two clubs were kings.
With the ‘Dogs coming off their first loss of the season and the Dragons as consistent as ever, the opening 20 minutes of this match could decide the outcome. If the Bulldogs come out firing with enough aggression to set the tone, they have enough fire power to break the Dragons defence. They won’t. Saints too professional and too strong up front and the Canterbury attack stalls at the finish line.
My tip: St George Illawarra 19-12
Brisbane v Newcastle
The Brisbane Broncos have the best defence in the NRL after 4 rounds and this is a glowing reflection of the breeding ground that is Queensland Rugby League. For the amount of youngsters in their first grade squad you would expect a more cavalier approach to their football. The Broncos method in 2011 in anything but. Led by an experienced halfback and a future immortal, they sit atop the ladder.
The visiting Newcastle Knights bring with them a halfback in tremendous form who is capable of leading his team to an upset victory in Monday Night Football this week. Unfortunately for Jarrod Mullen, his forward pack simply won’t have the plums to get on top of the Broncos and with Corey Parker and Sam Thaiday leading the way, the home side wins with their defence again.
My tip: Brisbane 16-10
For live updates throughout the weekend, go to http://www.leagueunlimited.com/index.php
It all moves along so quickly. Round 5 is upon us and with only weeks until the representative season and some clubs already seem in trouble whilst others appear to have turned around their poor form of last season. Two teams at either end of this spectrum face each other to open the weekend’s football at Dairy Farmers Stadium in Townsville on Friday night.
The game within the game here is the battle between Jonathan Thurston and Scott Prince. Two of the game’s great stars, captains and scheming halfbacks will no doubt bring their best in a bid to outplay each other and the winner of this skirmish will no doubt come away with the 2 points. Thurston too good for mine as the exhausted Titans take the field a little sluggish after their epic encounter in Canberra last week. Back to back away games take their toll.
My tip: North Queensland 20-16
Wests Tigers v South Sydney
Match of the Round for mine. Even with the Tigers devastating injury toll, their defensive performance against the Roosters last week signalled an intention to not go down without a fight. It continues here when they face the Bunnies on Friday night at the SFS. Robbie Farah will scheme, Benji Marshall will attack feverishly and the Wests’ forwards will give their very best, but it simply won’t be enough.
The ‘visitors’ pack is something to behold. Dave Taylor will continue his phenomenal season so far and will be ably assisted by a rejuvenated captain in Roy Asotasi, the return from injury of Sam Burgess and an interchange bench that will leave the Tigers breathless in the end. Field position wins this one and South Sydney gets it in spades to give John Sutton and Greg Inglis just enough of an edge in a fight to the death.
My tip: Souths 24-20
NZ Warriors v Eastern Suburbs
In the corresponding match last year, these two teams played out an enthralling game of football in torrential rain, only decided when a freakish Warriors try at full time got them home. Tune it to see more of the same here as Brian Smith’s team travel across the Tasman to kick off your Saturday night triple header at Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland. A huge test for New Zealand.
Weather predictions suggest a dry track, which can only be good for the Roosters as their speed and mobility proves too much for the home side. The Warriors wrestled their season back on track last week with a win over the Sharks, however they will find it difficult to contain the Roosters attack this week as Todd Carney and Mitchell Pearce remind us all why they’ve been touted as this years’ origin halves combination. Carney again the standout.
My tip: Roosters 30-14
Cronulla v Manly Warringah
It was only a few short years ago when tipsters would never bet against the Sharks at home on a Saturday night. The often wet and windy conditions would always favour the home side and I can still see David Peachey and co. tearing teams apart in front of the shire faithfull. For tortured Cronulla fans this must seem like decades ago... but fear not, those heady days are about to return.
Next up; the Manly Sea Eagles. In the 80th meeting between these clubs, the youth and renewed spirit of the home side will give them the advantage in a physical encounter. The Cronulla spine has been combining well so far this season and with Albert Kelly and Nathan Gardner shining bright, they produce the goods against an aggressive Manly side who give it everything they have, as always. Props Douglas/Snowden v Kite/King a must see.
My tip: Cronulla 22-18
Penrith v Canberra
To close out your Saturday night, we head out west to the foot of the mountains to see two teams under the pump. Both clubs come into this match with one win from their opening four matches and with this, comes the inevitable pressure from fans and media alike. The difference is that the Panthers have felt the brunt of this criticism as a team, whilst in our nation’s capital; all fingers of blame are pointed directly at Matt Orford.
Whether this is justified or not, it will be Orford’s form at halfback that controls the Raiders performance here. He has the weapons in front of him and the speed outside him to navigate Centrebet stadium and steer his new club to a win and that’s exactly what he does in a nail biter. The visitors forwards do plenty to assist Orford as he comes out shooting and gets the Raiders home in this semi final replay.
My tip: Canberra 28-24
Melbourne v Parramatta
The tantalising rivalry between two of the game’s best fullbacks is the first thing that springs to mind in this match. In recent seasons, Jarryd Hayne and Billy Slater have fought for Australian Jersey’s, Origin glory and an NRL premiership. Slater getting the biscuits in all three and copping a face full of Hayne for his troubles last year in a spiteful encounter at Parramatta stadium.
Let’s hope this spite continues on Sunday afternoon at AAMI Park when the Eels travel to Melbourne as heavy underdogs. The Storm dispatched the previously unbeaten Bulldogs with consummate ease last week and their defence will deliver more of the same here. The visitors will battle gamely and may even keep it close if wet weather predictions come true, but Cameron Smith once again slices them up. Storm too good.
My tip: Melbourne 24-10
St George Illawarra v Canterbury Bankstown
A match that signifies Heritage Round like no other, this local derby has too much history to simply be forgotten post merger. How fitting that we now get to see these famous jerseys run out at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Sunday afternoon as the Dragons host Canterbury Bankstown in what will be a low-scoring, grinding style of match that coincidentally pays tribute to the 80’s style when these two clubs were kings.
With the ‘Dogs coming off their first loss of the season and the Dragons as consistent as ever, the opening 20 minutes of this match could decide the outcome. If the Bulldogs come out firing with enough aggression to set the tone, they have enough fire power to break the Dragons defence. They won’t. Saints too professional and too strong up front and the Canterbury attack stalls at the finish line.
My tip: St George Illawarra 19-12
Brisbane v Newcastle
The Brisbane Broncos have the best defence in the NRL after 4 rounds and this is a glowing reflection of the breeding ground that is Queensland Rugby League. For the amount of youngsters in their first grade squad you would expect a more cavalier approach to their football. The Broncos method in 2011 in anything but. Led by an experienced halfback and a future immortal, they sit atop the ladder.
The visiting Newcastle Knights bring with them a halfback in tremendous form who is capable of leading his team to an upset victory in Monday Night Football this week. Unfortunately for Jarrod Mullen, his forward pack simply won’t have the plums to get on top of the Broncos and with Corey Parker and Sam Thaiday leading the way, the home side wins with their defence again.
My tip: Brisbane 16-10
For live updates throughout the weekend, go to http://www.leagueunlimited.com/index.php
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