Parramatta v Brisbane
A test of depth again here for the Broncos, which historically they have passed with flying colours. In fact, disregarding the win-loss column for Brisbane during the rep season, what’s more important is the amount of talent that has been given an opportunity during this annual mid-season shambles. A credit to their development system and a slap in the face of Sydney based teams.
Speaking of Sydney teams, the Parramatta Eels host the ‘baby broncos’ this Friday night in what should be a very close one. The visitors bring with them a collection of Gen Y footballers wrapped around Peter Wallace whilst the Eels have a good balance of youth and savvy veterans In Nathan Hindmarsh and Luke Burt. This is why the Eels sneak home at the death.
My tip: Parramatta 20-18
Penrith v Canterbury
Welcome back Franky Pritchard. Whilst the Panthers faithful won’t stoop to throwing projectiles onto the field in anger of Pritchard leaving their club, Frank will not be hearing the warmest ovation of his life either. For that matter, neither will the Bulldogs in what shapes up a beauty at Centrebet Stadium in Saturday night’s only game for this shortened round.
Somehow, with their collective futures in limbo and a new coach due in 2012, the Panthers have found some form. Playing at home has always been their best medicine and this match will be no different. They blow the Bulldogs off the park early with sheer enthusiasm and hold on to win. Two great fullbacks on display here in Barba and Coote but fingers crossed for a physical battle between the Panthers forwards and Pritchard.
My tip: Penrith 24-18
Cronulla v South Sydney
Tough to predict that either of these teams will figure in the finals for season 2011, but at Toyota Stadium on Sunday afternoon they will beat the stuffing out of each other nonetheless. The Cronulla forward pack tore strips off the Titans last week and flat out embarrassed the Bulldogs pack the week before with Paul Gallen a standout in both wins.
Without Gallen though, the Sharks find themselves underdogs at home against a Souths team who just played their best game of the season - but this smells like an upset of the week. Led by Jeremy Smith and Nathan Gardner, the Sharks run over South Sydney and never look back in a brutal encounter. Ben Ross continues his good run of form but runs into two young bulls in Snowden and Douglas. Brutal.
My tip: Cronulla 18-16
St George Illawarra v Newcastle
A dress rehearsal of sorts for the visiting Newcastle Knights as they head to Wollongong on Sunday afternoon to play the Dragons at WIN Stadium. Current Saints coach Wayne Bennett will no doubt be able to ignore the fact that he will be coaching the opposition in a matter of months, but the Knights will not. Especially their two young halves in Ryan Stig and Tyrone Roberts.
Having already seen Bennett pull the strings to remove Beau Henry from the 2012 equation, Stig and Roberts will feel the pressure and not be able to repeat their match winning performance from last week against Mitchell Pearce and Todd Carney. Instead they struggle to match wits with two cagey veterans in Ben Hornby and Nathan Fein. The Dragons win at home in a tight one as the understudies get a chance to perform again.
My tip: St George Illawarra 14-8
Eastern Suburbs v Canberra
This match might have the smallest crowd ever seen at a game of Rugby League since fans travelled by horse and cart. Not sure if my historical hyperbole is accurate but you get the point. Roosters fans are notoriously prone to ‘forget’ games like this and on Monday Night, the Sydney Football Stadium will be a very quiet place. You will however, be able to hear the Green Machine faithful who take a ‘sicky’ from their Public Service jobs and travel up the Barton.
All 30 of them will be treated to a great night. They will enjoy yelling obscenities at Todd Carney (for his entire career no doubt), they will enjoy watching their monstrous forward pack run right through the Roosters, they will enjoy sweet victory as their team song echoes around a cavernous stadium and finally, when all is said and done, they will enjoy their trip home with no traffic to speak of on Anzac Parade. For once.
My tip: Canberra 30-22
For live updates throughout the weekend, go to http://leagueunlimited.com/
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Paully's Picks - Round 16
Wests v Canterbury Bankstown
Are the Bulldogs due to turn things around, or are they about to fade out of season 2011 with a whimper, rather than the famous ‘dogs of war’ approach? If it is to be the latter, no better opportunity may come around than this Friday night’s match against the wounded Tigers at Campbelltown Stadium.
With Benji Marshall out, the Tigers’ famous flamboyant attack not seen in months, the Bulldogs’ fans turning against their team and the Belmore club’s season and reputation on the line..... they do turn it around. Led by returning dogs Hodkinson, Ennis and Jamal Idris, the visitors hit the ground running and hold on in a thriller out west. Ben Barba turns it on after the Canterbury forwards finally wake up.
My tip: Canterbury Bankstown 26-20
South Sydney v Brisbane
A mismatch on paper, on form and on the punt. Coincidentally this is also a marketing mismatch. Apparently the NRL believes Sydney’s ‘west’ stretches out a very long distance and have scheduled this match in Perth, WA. Not exactly a territory we need to be fighting for but whatever... let’s play along. Our very good friends west of the Nullarbor will be treated to a beauty.
Fingers crossed they know what a gift it is to watch Darren Lockyer at the peak of his powers. The Broncos forwards outgun the Rabbitohs pack whilst Wallace and Lockyer out play Sandow and Sutton. The fun continues out wide for the ‘visitors’ as the youth and speed of the Broncos backline runs rings around their opposition... except for one monumental showdown between Greg Inglis and Justin Hodges. Enjoy.
My tip: Brisbane 28-12
Gold Coast v Cronulla
What to make of the Titans....? In the idiots guide to building a 1st grade footy team, this club has followed the process step by step. Build the business first with a CEO, investors and a head coach... then start with a forward pack. Bailey, Bird, Harrison, Laffranchi.... they look good enough don’t they? Then get a star halfback to lead your team around the park and a few speedsters outside him. Check, Check and Check.
Bad cheque. With a combination of bad luck and bad defence, they are languishing and the future does not look bright. The rest of the competition is producing players from their respective under 20s teams at an impressive rate. Not so the Titans. Their opponents for your 5.30pm match on Saturday are the Cronulla Sharks who are not much different when you look at the ladder but momentum is everything in this match. The Sharks have it; they win at Robina for the first time ever.
My tip: Cronulla 18-12
Canberra v Parramatta
A 5 day turnaround between matches for the Parramatta Eels as opposed to their hosts who have been resting for 13 days; Situation awful. A Saturday night game in our nation’s capital with forecast temperatures of ‘friggin freezing’; Situation getting worse. The bookies having the visitors at 8.5 point underdogs; situation horrible. Are the Eels any chance here?
No. The Raiders have been terrible at times this season but there seems to be too much on their side this weekend to go against them at home. Whilst the Parramatta spirit is showing signs of life, it won’t be enough to get them over the hump. The Canberra forwards get a roll on early and when Jarryd Hayne finally gets feeling in his legs, it will be too late. Jacob Loko v Blake Ferguson a highlight of two young stars.
My tip: Canberra 30-24
NZ Warriors v Melbourne
This will be a beauty. For those of you planning a six hour feast of Rugby League on Sunday afternoon, there is no better way to kick off than tuning in to this midday match from Mt Smart. The Storm sit atop the ladder and still look like they are just warming up, especially with their attack as new combinations are slowly forming through the season. Their defence, however, looks more than just warmed up.
The Storm have held opponents to an average of just above 5 points per match during their past four matches; all wins. Phenomenal. The home town Warriors will need to be just as stingy if they are a chance to turn their season around, again, after losing their past 3. Brett Seymour has been named to return for the hosts which should help their attack but it simply won’t be enough. Cameron Smith leads the way again as Melbourne hold off a fast finishing Warriors side.
My tip: Melbourne 18-16
Penrith v North Queensland
Sunday afternoon at the foot of the mountains. What better way to enjoy the Steve Georgallis era beginning at Penrith and just on that topic, a tip of the hat to Matt Elliott as another coach falls victim to the harsh mistress that is Rugby League. How will the Panthers respond? For starters, their first 20 minutes will be electrifying but if they don’t crack the Cowboys early, they could be in trouble.
This North Queensland team is a site to behold. Aside from injured centres Brent Tate and Willie Tonga, the visitors are strong in every position and are guided brilliantly by the Thurston/Payne combination and a highly gifted and tenacious pack of forwards. Luke Lewis returns from injury for the home side, which is usually a sign they will play well, but against the Cowboys they will need more, and won’t find it. Cowboys win a ripper.
My tip: North Queensland 30-20
Newcastle v Eastern Suburbs
As opposed to the two earlier games on Sunday afternoon, this one doesn’t quite have the same excitement around it. Might have something to do with the fact that when these teams last met in round 11 this season, the Roosters won in a stinker. A tight match that went down to the wire, but a stinker nonetheless.
Will they clear the air up in Newcastle? You bet. The atmosphere at the Knights home ground is always electric for Sunday matches and the Roosters will be keen to perform better than their 4 and 9 record suggests. Unfortunately for the boys from Bondi, they won’t. Their attack is the worst in the NRL and the Knights take full advantage using speed and strength in the form of Akuila Uate and rookie Ryan Stig.
My tip: Newcastle 19-12
St George Illawarra v Manly
Wollongong welcomes the Dragons for the first time in season 2011 for Monday Night Football in your final match of the Women in League Round. The reigning premiers are showing signs of wear and tear lately and are toiling away painfully through the rep season. Manly, on the other hand, are in white hot form and have won their past 6 including wins against the depleted Cowboys and Broncos.
This is the tipping point, literally. Whilst the Eagles again face a top 4 team at less than full strength, they are underdogs at WIN stadium this week. St George Illawarra have an intimidating record at their spiritual home ground and this should be enough to get them 2 points in an absolute bruiser. The Manly forwards will attempt to run right through the middle but will find a resolute defence and this will be no place for the faint hearted.
My tip: St George Illawarra 13-12
For live updates throughout the weekend - go to http://leagueunlimited.com/
Are the Bulldogs due to turn things around, or are they about to fade out of season 2011 with a whimper, rather than the famous ‘dogs of war’ approach? If it is to be the latter, no better opportunity may come around than this Friday night’s match against the wounded Tigers at Campbelltown Stadium.
With Benji Marshall out, the Tigers’ famous flamboyant attack not seen in months, the Bulldogs’ fans turning against their team and the Belmore club’s season and reputation on the line..... they do turn it around. Led by returning dogs Hodkinson, Ennis and Jamal Idris, the visitors hit the ground running and hold on in a thriller out west. Ben Barba turns it on after the Canterbury forwards finally wake up.
My tip: Canterbury Bankstown 26-20
South Sydney v Brisbane
A mismatch on paper, on form and on the punt. Coincidentally this is also a marketing mismatch. Apparently the NRL believes Sydney’s ‘west’ stretches out a very long distance and have scheduled this match in Perth, WA. Not exactly a territory we need to be fighting for but whatever... let’s play along. Our very good friends west of the Nullarbor will be treated to a beauty.
Fingers crossed they know what a gift it is to watch Darren Lockyer at the peak of his powers. The Broncos forwards outgun the Rabbitohs pack whilst Wallace and Lockyer out play Sandow and Sutton. The fun continues out wide for the ‘visitors’ as the youth and speed of the Broncos backline runs rings around their opposition... except for one monumental showdown between Greg Inglis and Justin Hodges. Enjoy.
My tip: Brisbane 28-12
Gold Coast v Cronulla
What to make of the Titans....? In the idiots guide to building a 1st grade footy team, this club has followed the process step by step. Build the business first with a CEO, investors and a head coach... then start with a forward pack. Bailey, Bird, Harrison, Laffranchi.... they look good enough don’t they? Then get a star halfback to lead your team around the park and a few speedsters outside him. Check, Check and Check.
Bad cheque. With a combination of bad luck and bad defence, they are languishing and the future does not look bright. The rest of the competition is producing players from their respective under 20s teams at an impressive rate. Not so the Titans. Their opponents for your 5.30pm match on Saturday are the Cronulla Sharks who are not much different when you look at the ladder but momentum is everything in this match. The Sharks have it; they win at Robina for the first time ever.
My tip: Cronulla 18-12
Canberra v Parramatta
A 5 day turnaround between matches for the Parramatta Eels as opposed to their hosts who have been resting for 13 days; Situation awful. A Saturday night game in our nation’s capital with forecast temperatures of ‘friggin freezing’; Situation getting worse. The bookies having the visitors at 8.5 point underdogs; situation horrible. Are the Eels any chance here?
No. The Raiders have been terrible at times this season but there seems to be too much on their side this weekend to go against them at home. Whilst the Parramatta spirit is showing signs of life, it won’t be enough to get them over the hump. The Canberra forwards get a roll on early and when Jarryd Hayne finally gets feeling in his legs, it will be too late. Jacob Loko v Blake Ferguson a highlight of two young stars.
My tip: Canberra 30-24
NZ Warriors v Melbourne
This will be a beauty. For those of you planning a six hour feast of Rugby League on Sunday afternoon, there is no better way to kick off than tuning in to this midday match from Mt Smart. The Storm sit atop the ladder and still look like they are just warming up, especially with their attack as new combinations are slowly forming through the season. Their defence, however, looks more than just warmed up.
The Storm have held opponents to an average of just above 5 points per match during their past four matches; all wins. Phenomenal. The home town Warriors will need to be just as stingy if they are a chance to turn their season around, again, after losing their past 3. Brett Seymour has been named to return for the hosts which should help their attack but it simply won’t be enough. Cameron Smith leads the way again as Melbourne hold off a fast finishing Warriors side.
My tip: Melbourne 18-16
Penrith v North Queensland
Sunday afternoon at the foot of the mountains. What better way to enjoy the Steve Georgallis era beginning at Penrith and just on that topic, a tip of the hat to Matt Elliott as another coach falls victim to the harsh mistress that is Rugby League. How will the Panthers respond? For starters, their first 20 minutes will be electrifying but if they don’t crack the Cowboys early, they could be in trouble.
This North Queensland team is a site to behold. Aside from injured centres Brent Tate and Willie Tonga, the visitors are strong in every position and are guided brilliantly by the Thurston/Payne combination and a highly gifted and tenacious pack of forwards. Luke Lewis returns from injury for the home side, which is usually a sign they will play well, but against the Cowboys they will need more, and won’t find it. Cowboys win a ripper.
My tip: North Queensland 30-20
Newcastle v Eastern Suburbs
As opposed to the two earlier games on Sunday afternoon, this one doesn’t quite have the same excitement around it. Might have something to do with the fact that when these teams last met in round 11 this season, the Roosters won in a stinker. A tight match that went down to the wire, but a stinker nonetheless.
Will they clear the air up in Newcastle? You bet. The atmosphere at the Knights home ground is always electric for Sunday matches and the Roosters will be keen to perform better than their 4 and 9 record suggests. Unfortunately for the boys from Bondi, they won’t. Their attack is the worst in the NRL and the Knights take full advantage using speed and strength in the form of Akuila Uate and rookie Ryan Stig.
My tip: Newcastle 19-12
St George Illawarra v Manly
Wollongong welcomes the Dragons for the first time in season 2011 for Monday Night Football in your final match of the Women in League Round. The reigning premiers are showing signs of wear and tear lately and are toiling away painfully through the rep season. Manly, on the other hand, are in white hot form and have won their past 6 including wins against the depleted Cowboys and Broncos.
This is the tipping point, literally. Whilst the Eagles again face a top 4 team at less than full strength, they are underdogs at WIN stadium this week. St George Illawarra have an intimidating record at their spiritual home ground and this should be enough to get them 2 points in an absolute bruiser. The Manly forwards will attempt to run right through the middle but will find a resolute defence and this will be no place for the faint hearted.
My tip: St George Illawarra 13-12
For live updates throughout the weekend - go to http://leagueunlimited.com/
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Paully's Picks - Round 15
Brisbane v St George Illawarra
As the representative scheduling shambles continues, this match between two of the league’s heavyweights will be overshadowed by the debate itself. Did the Dragons and the Broncos agree to this? Were they involved in the decision? Will it be the ‘Baby Broncos’ v the ‘Diaper Dragons’ on Friday night at Suncorp Stadium? This abomination of a fixture could still be a ripper, considering the toughness of those involved.
If it is Darren Lockyer v Jamie Soward for the second time this week, tune in to see a beauty. Two artists with the boot will battle again to gain any advantage and then watch them pounce on a tired defence at the perfect time. The Dragons defence seems well equipped to handle the Broncos and two teams who love to grind out a win will make for a ferocious forward battle. Saints in a close one.
My tip: St George Illawarra 21-14
South Sydney v Gold Coast
The Titans are coming of their biggest win of the season. Admittedly against inferior opposition but confidence can do wonders for them against a team like South Sydney who have been known to fade in and out of games. If the visitors get off to a good start on Friday night at ANZ stadium, they could do some damage.
They won’t. The Bunnies will be coming off 12 days rest before this game which should give them the upper hand during opening exchanges. “Should”, being the operative word because this is South Sydney and we just never know. They have not won in a month but in a match between two teams who look more likely to start planning a Mad Monday pub crawl than execute a game plan, Souths have the edge with their defence.
My tip: South Sydney 24-20
Newcastle v Penrith
It seems a burgeoning tradition that every new coach appointed to the top job at Newcastle wants to clean out the current roster and make his own mark in the Hunter. Why is this? Promising number 6 Beau Henry gone mid season, Cory Paterson the same, seemingly their entire forward pack on notice and subsequently a 5 and 7 win loss record which comes as no surprise considering this type of upheaval.
The Panthers also have a 5 and 7 record and a new coach starting next year but this announcement seemed to bring life to a miserable season, rather than literally tear apart the playing roster. They have won 3 out of their last 4 and look to be building towards a finals run. They will likely be without captain Petero Civoniceva but still look good for an upset. Lachlan Coote the standout as the visitors exact revenge for that infamous round 1 thrashing.
My tip: Penrith 20-12
North Queensland v NZ Warriors
The Warriors are a hard working bunch with the record to show for it. They sit 6th on the ladder and have the advantage of not losing any players to origin. They are, however, losing a few to injury and have dropped their past two matches by narrow margins. Ivan Cleary has now made some changes for their match in Townsville on Saturday Night against the Cowboys.
Two noted speedsters in Kris Inu and Glen Fisiiahi make up the right side attack for the Warriors but unfortunately for them, they are not noted defenders. If Jonathan Thurston is not completely exhausted from Wednesday night, he will take advantage of this. The Cowboys forwards get a roll on and give him all the space he needs. Tariq Sims is fast becoming a player that fans tune in to see and the Warriors will be seeing plenty of him.
My tip: North Queensland 30-14
Canterbury Bankstown v Cronulla
After their last game, the Bulldogs were being attacked from all sides. On the field, they were impotent. Off the field, the board and the coach did not see eye to eye. Seems like the standard public and media reaction when a club as famous as the ‘Berries’ play like they did against Manly on that fateful Saturday night.
Here we are two weeks later and the ‘Dogs have a shot at redemption. They host the Cronulla Sharks on Sunday afternoon, who bring with them a full strength and brutal forward pack. Ben Roberts makes his starting debut for season 2011 after playing only 7 minutes of 1st grade all year and is playing outside Kris Keating. This combination won’t bring the home side a lot of points, but should be enough to win if they get Ben Barba involved at every opportunity.
My tip: Canterbury Bankstown 18-14
Wests v Melbourne
Match of the Round for mine. Even with the Tigers missing two of their best in Chris Lawrence and Lote Tuqiri, they still have Benji Marshall. After watching him last week in Auckland it just might be enough to beat the team with the best for and against record in the NRL and holders of a 10 and 3 record. The Melbourne Storm have won 5 from their last 6 and more importantly have not allowed more than 8 points in a month.
This is where we have the greatest battle. Attack v Defence. Flair v Grind. The unpredictability of the Tigers v the Rugby League robots from Melbourne. With the visitors showing $2.15 for the win, bookies must be convinced of the magical powers of Leichardt Oval and with the Storm owning a 2 and 7 record at the famous ground, it’s hard to argue. So I won’t. The Tigers thrive in the daytime led by Gareth Ellis and Robbie Farah.
My tip: Wests 20-16
Manly v Parramatta
Monday Night Football at Brookvale Oval has the Parramatta Eels venturing where they dare not by choice. Do you think Tim Mannah ever ventured to the Northern Beaches from Guildford in his spare time? Reckon Jarryd Hayne ever made the trek from his humble roots in Campbelltown to hang out with the yuppies at Harbord? No. Manly fans don’t like you and will not welcome you.
Hence, we have one of the greatest rivalries in the NRL. The Sea Eagles take on the Eels for the 125th time in their history with the visitors at long odds to win. Manly represent the fulfilled potential of what the Eels are trying to build; Tough forwards who hit the advantage line hard and get quick play the balls, composed halves with smart kicking games and a superstar at the back. Parra not quite there yet and Manly make it 6 in a row.
My tip: Manly 20-18
For live updates throughout the weekend - go to http://leagueunlimited.com/
As the representative scheduling shambles continues, this match between two of the league’s heavyweights will be overshadowed by the debate itself. Did the Dragons and the Broncos agree to this? Were they involved in the decision? Will it be the ‘Baby Broncos’ v the ‘Diaper Dragons’ on Friday night at Suncorp Stadium? This abomination of a fixture could still be a ripper, considering the toughness of those involved.
If it is Darren Lockyer v Jamie Soward for the second time this week, tune in to see a beauty. Two artists with the boot will battle again to gain any advantage and then watch them pounce on a tired defence at the perfect time. The Dragons defence seems well equipped to handle the Broncos and two teams who love to grind out a win will make for a ferocious forward battle. Saints in a close one.
My tip: St George Illawarra 21-14
South Sydney v Gold Coast
The Titans are coming of their biggest win of the season. Admittedly against inferior opposition but confidence can do wonders for them against a team like South Sydney who have been known to fade in and out of games. If the visitors get off to a good start on Friday night at ANZ stadium, they could do some damage.
They won’t. The Bunnies will be coming off 12 days rest before this game which should give them the upper hand during opening exchanges. “Should”, being the operative word because this is South Sydney and we just never know. They have not won in a month but in a match between two teams who look more likely to start planning a Mad Monday pub crawl than execute a game plan, Souths have the edge with their defence.
My tip: South Sydney 24-20
Newcastle v Penrith
It seems a burgeoning tradition that every new coach appointed to the top job at Newcastle wants to clean out the current roster and make his own mark in the Hunter. Why is this? Promising number 6 Beau Henry gone mid season, Cory Paterson the same, seemingly their entire forward pack on notice and subsequently a 5 and 7 win loss record which comes as no surprise considering this type of upheaval.
The Panthers also have a 5 and 7 record and a new coach starting next year but this announcement seemed to bring life to a miserable season, rather than literally tear apart the playing roster. They have won 3 out of their last 4 and look to be building towards a finals run. They will likely be without captain Petero Civoniceva but still look good for an upset. Lachlan Coote the standout as the visitors exact revenge for that infamous round 1 thrashing.
My tip: Penrith 20-12
North Queensland v NZ Warriors
The Warriors are a hard working bunch with the record to show for it. They sit 6th on the ladder and have the advantage of not losing any players to origin. They are, however, losing a few to injury and have dropped their past two matches by narrow margins. Ivan Cleary has now made some changes for their match in Townsville on Saturday Night against the Cowboys.
Two noted speedsters in Kris Inu and Glen Fisiiahi make up the right side attack for the Warriors but unfortunately for them, they are not noted defenders. If Jonathan Thurston is not completely exhausted from Wednesday night, he will take advantage of this. The Cowboys forwards get a roll on and give him all the space he needs. Tariq Sims is fast becoming a player that fans tune in to see and the Warriors will be seeing plenty of him.
My tip: North Queensland 30-14
Canterbury Bankstown v Cronulla
After their last game, the Bulldogs were being attacked from all sides. On the field, they were impotent. Off the field, the board and the coach did not see eye to eye. Seems like the standard public and media reaction when a club as famous as the ‘Berries’ play like they did against Manly on that fateful Saturday night.
Here we are two weeks later and the ‘Dogs have a shot at redemption. They host the Cronulla Sharks on Sunday afternoon, who bring with them a full strength and brutal forward pack. Ben Roberts makes his starting debut for season 2011 after playing only 7 minutes of 1st grade all year and is playing outside Kris Keating. This combination won’t bring the home side a lot of points, but should be enough to win if they get Ben Barba involved at every opportunity.
My tip: Canterbury Bankstown 18-14
Wests v Melbourne
Match of the Round for mine. Even with the Tigers missing two of their best in Chris Lawrence and Lote Tuqiri, they still have Benji Marshall. After watching him last week in Auckland it just might be enough to beat the team with the best for and against record in the NRL and holders of a 10 and 3 record. The Melbourne Storm have won 5 from their last 6 and more importantly have not allowed more than 8 points in a month.
This is where we have the greatest battle. Attack v Defence. Flair v Grind. The unpredictability of the Tigers v the Rugby League robots from Melbourne. With the visitors showing $2.15 for the win, bookies must be convinced of the magical powers of Leichardt Oval and with the Storm owning a 2 and 7 record at the famous ground, it’s hard to argue. So I won’t. The Tigers thrive in the daytime led by Gareth Ellis and Robbie Farah.
My tip: Wests 20-16
Manly v Parramatta
Monday Night Football at Brookvale Oval has the Parramatta Eels venturing where they dare not by choice. Do you think Tim Mannah ever ventured to the Northern Beaches from Guildford in his spare time? Reckon Jarryd Hayne ever made the trek from his humble roots in Campbelltown to hang out with the yuppies at Harbord? No. Manly fans don’t like you and will not welcome you.
Hence, we have one of the greatest rivalries in the NRL. The Sea Eagles take on the Eels for the 125th time in their history with the visitors at long odds to win. Manly represent the fulfilled potential of what the Eels are trying to build; Tough forwards who hit the advantage line hard and get quick play the balls, composed halves with smart kicking games and a superstar at the back. Parra not quite there yet and Manly make it 6 in a row.
My tip: Manly 20-18
For live updates throughout the weekend - go to http://leagueunlimited.com/
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
2011 State of Origin 2 - Match Preview
NSW v Queensland - State of Origin II.
Combinations, Cohesion, Courage, Class and the Count. This is what will decide game 2 of the 2011 State of Origin series at ANZ Stadium on Wednesday night.
Combinations in defence can obviously make or break a team’s performance. The Blues, as is their tradition, have made 8 positional changes from their game 1 loss and most importantly, to a wing/centre combination. Jarryd Hayne joins debutant Will Hopoate on the left side for NSW and if history has taught us anything, they will need at least one game together to get this right. The Blues don’t have 1 game.
Cohesion falls under the same umbrella; the Blues will hear a different voice behind them in defence as Anthony Minichiello makes his return to the game’s biggest arena. A great story for The Count but once again this change will affect cohesion. Courage... In the Rugby League world, nobody typifies this word more than Minichiello. New South Wales will have plenty of it, especially if they have to defend their try line as often as game 1 which is highly likely.
Class. This is where the Queenslanders simply cannot be touched. Blues fans are probably sick of hearing their names at this stage but as always, the Maroons success will start with Cam Smith and his two front rowers in Civoniceva and Scott; and finish with Lockyer and.... hang on..... We ARE sick of hearing their names. Whoever they are, they will flourish in the wet weather conditions, and thrive in the familiar position of a series clinching game.
Expect improved performances from Mitchell Pearce and Jamie Soward as their combination grows. Expect a master class in wet weather positional play by all four halves. Expect a few more penalties in this game after both sides complained about game 1 ruck speed. Expect another fiery and physical battle in Rugby League’s version of all out war and finally, don’t expect me to tip against the Blues. This will be another intense and amazing chapter in Origin so sit tight and enjoy.
My tip: An all in brawl in the first 5 minutes. 4 players sent to the sin bin and Queensland win...... oops (still can’t do it)... NSW win 8-6.
Man of the Match prediction: Matt Scott.
Combinations, Cohesion, Courage, Class and the Count. This is what will decide game 2 of the 2011 State of Origin series at ANZ Stadium on Wednesday night.
Combinations in defence can obviously make or break a team’s performance. The Blues, as is their tradition, have made 8 positional changes from their game 1 loss and most importantly, to a wing/centre combination. Jarryd Hayne joins debutant Will Hopoate on the left side for NSW and if history has taught us anything, they will need at least one game together to get this right. The Blues don’t have 1 game.
Cohesion falls under the same umbrella; the Blues will hear a different voice behind them in defence as Anthony Minichiello makes his return to the game’s biggest arena. A great story for The Count but once again this change will affect cohesion. Courage... In the Rugby League world, nobody typifies this word more than Minichiello. New South Wales will have plenty of it, especially if they have to defend their try line as often as game 1 which is highly likely.
Class. This is where the Queenslanders simply cannot be touched. Blues fans are probably sick of hearing their names at this stage but as always, the Maroons success will start with Cam Smith and his two front rowers in Civoniceva and Scott; and finish with Lockyer and.... hang on..... We ARE sick of hearing their names. Whoever they are, they will flourish in the wet weather conditions, and thrive in the familiar position of a series clinching game.
Expect improved performances from Mitchell Pearce and Jamie Soward as their combination grows. Expect a master class in wet weather positional play by all four halves. Expect a few more penalties in this game after both sides complained about game 1 ruck speed. Expect another fiery and physical battle in Rugby League’s version of all out war and finally, don’t expect me to tip against the Blues. This will be another intense and amazing chapter in Origin so sit tight and enjoy.
My tip: An all in brawl in the first 5 minutes. 4 players sent to the sin bin and Queensland win...... oops (still can’t do it)... NSW win 8-6.
Man of the Match prediction: Matt Scott.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
A Rugby League Representative Calender - my wish list 2.0.
That time of year again – where player fatigue is an issue and the representative calendar is the hot topic. Interesting to read Cameron Smith’s comments recently about shortening the season and scheduling Origin matches on a stand alone weekend.
Perhaps we go one step further. Perhaps we include a bigger representative 'month' that showcases country/ international rugby league, as well as highlighting the NRL and includes the origin series played over 3 consecutive Monday Nights? Similar to soccer's approach to World Cup qualifying, or the NBA's approach to its midyear 'All Star' match. The competition proper simply shuts down and to avoid having too many players with 3 weeks off, we incorporate some more games into a celebration of league including some old traditions and some new, successful initiatives.
This suggestion also responds to the issue of a season too long and subsequent meaningless matches at the beginning of the year. Many league supporters know that teams only need to start winning around June to make the top 8 and this takes away from some performances in early rounds. Shorten the season and every match will mean something - bigger crowds will come. Stop the season during origin and you won’t have matches played with a skeleton 17 that barely resembles the NRLs best players, and you minimise player burnout.
For those who believe that current player salaries warrant this kind of physical abuse, look no further than Jonathan Thurston. Less than 12 months ago, Thurston was a shadow of his former self and struggling with shoulders that were rapidly deteriorating and threatening his career. He tried to play on, he played as often as he could and he played all three origin games last year. And then he broke down and the Cowboys basically pulled the plug on their season. JT then pulled out of the end of season tri-nations tournament, had his operations and dived into rehab.
Season 2011 has the Cowboys firmly entrenched in the premiership race. Bringing crowds back to North Queensland and the Cowboys making the news not because of alleged player v coach scandals – but because of a genuine turnaround in fortunes, led by arguably the game’s best; all because he simply needed a rest. Granted, the Cowboys recruited well and their forwards deserve plenty of credit, but they would never be where they are without Thurston.
So - to my suggestion. The NRL shuts down on a Sunday afternoon, origin players are selected and go into camp and a 3 week festival of football begins.
Week 1
Friday Night - Tonga v Samoa
What a spectacle in 2009 during the Rugby League World Cup!! A passionate game of football attended by a huge crowd at Penrith's CUA stadium. This was an instant success and a great advertisement for the islander population of our great game. Marketed properly it could continue as a great tradition.
Saturday Night - City v Country
Play this game as a genuine showpiece of young talent in the NRL, but also use it to gauge players' performance against the best in NSW. This still makes it an origin trial - but for future series or possibly for games 2 and 3 of the series. If not an origin selection trial, this match still has a link to history and will help keep country rugby league alive.
Monday Night - Origin 1
Week 2
Friday Night - Indigenous All Stars v New Zealand.
This gives both teams more time together as preparation for their respective 'other' matches. The Indigenous team now have the February All-Star' game as a highlight, and NZ will use this match as a warm up to a possible post origin series (or one off test) or end of year tri nations, which probably should be held every 2 or 3 years - not every year. Admittedly, the Indigenous team would be missing troops on origin duty, but this puts more onus on development. A great opportunity for young talent to learn at a higher level and a good earner for a worthy charity. This match could also be moved to Saturday or Sunday to accommodate the large number of interstate and rural league fans in attendance.
Saturday Day/Night - Rugby League 7s tournament.
With a number of players who could be 'on holidays' during this month, include them in the 7s and bring back an entertaining concept. Marketed well, this could be a highlight. That brings us to a relevant issue. The NRL is currently owned and marketed by a media company. When this finally changes, the successful marketing of a representative ‘mid season’ festival is key. It simply cannot be advertised on Channel 9 and the Telegraph alone. It will require maximum exposure and a targeting of certain areas in NSW and Queensland to be successful. Western Sydney? Yes. Brisbane City? Yes. North Queensland? Yes. Furthermore, once this ‘festival’ is established, the NRL would then branch out to meet peaking interest in Melbourne and perhaps New Zealand. A step by step approach starting with the Rugby League heartland.
Monday Night- Origin 2
Week 3
Saturday night - NSW v QLD under 20s... with a Junior Rep Grand Final curtain raiser where Jersey Flegg and SG Ball Grand Finals are played.
This will add to the Rugby League "expo" approach and double as a scouting extravaganza for all clubs. The junior rep finals are already played mid season so it would fit perfectly into the schedule. Speaking of the under 20’s competition: what do they do during this 3 week break? They play through. Perhaps start their season 3 weeks after the NRL season begins and they effectively ‘catch up’ during this time.
Sunday - Papua New Guinea v Australian Pri-Ministers 13
PNG are obviously mad for their footy and this game could be part of the rep calendar, rather than at year's end. If played in PNG, the local fans might miss out on seeing some of the NRL's best who are on origin duty, but this is not too far from current strategy.
Monday night - Origin 3
Following weekend - full round of matches.
The response from all clubs would be predictable – What about our bottom line? Any loss of revenue for clubs who do not play for 3 weeks can be covered (hopefully) by revenue created from TV rights for this ‘festival’, including what should be a windfall from selling the origin series to the highest bidder. This schedule addresses the issues of player fatigue as it would shorten the season by 3 weeks (obviously a requirement when you look at the list of players currently injured), players missing from games through rep duty and removes the need for byes. It also markets the jewel in the rugby league crown (State of Origin) as a standalone event surrounded by a carnival of Rugby League.
Perhaps we go one step further. Perhaps we include a bigger representative 'month' that showcases country/ international rugby league, as well as highlighting the NRL and includes the origin series played over 3 consecutive Monday Nights? Similar to soccer's approach to World Cup qualifying, or the NBA's approach to its midyear 'All Star' match. The competition proper simply shuts down and to avoid having too many players with 3 weeks off, we incorporate some more games into a celebration of league including some old traditions and some new, successful initiatives.
This suggestion also responds to the issue of a season too long and subsequent meaningless matches at the beginning of the year. Many league supporters know that teams only need to start winning around June to make the top 8 and this takes away from some performances in early rounds. Shorten the season and every match will mean something - bigger crowds will come. Stop the season during origin and you won’t have matches played with a skeleton 17 that barely resembles the NRLs best players, and you minimise player burnout.
For those who believe that current player salaries warrant this kind of physical abuse, look no further than Jonathan Thurston. Less than 12 months ago, Thurston was a shadow of his former self and struggling with shoulders that were rapidly deteriorating and threatening his career. He tried to play on, he played as often as he could and he played all three origin games last year. And then he broke down and the Cowboys basically pulled the plug on their season. JT then pulled out of the end of season tri-nations tournament, had his operations and dived into rehab.
Season 2011 has the Cowboys firmly entrenched in the premiership race. Bringing crowds back to North Queensland and the Cowboys making the news not because of alleged player v coach scandals – but because of a genuine turnaround in fortunes, led by arguably the game’s best; all because he simply needed a rest. Granted, the Cowboys recruited well and their forwards deserve plenty of credit, but they would never be where they are without Thurston.
So - to my suggestion. The NRL shuts down on a Sunday afternoon, origin players are selected and go into camp and a 3 week festival of football begins.
Week 1
Friday Night - Tonga v Samoa
What a spectacle in 2009 during the Rugby League World Cup!! A passionate game of football attended by a huge crowd at Penrith's CUA stadium. This was an instant success and a great advertisement for the islander population of our great game. Marketed properly it could continue as a great tradition.
Saturday Night - City v Country
Play this game as a genuine showpiece of young talent in the NRL, but also use it to gauge players' performance against the best in NSW. This still makes it an origin trial - but for future series or possibly for games 2 and 3 of the series. If not an origin selection trial, this match still has a link to history and will help keep country rugby league alive.
Monday Night - Origin 1
Week 2
Friday Night - Indigenous All Stars v New Zealand.
This gives both teams more time together as preparation for their respective 'other' matches. The Indigenous team now have the February All-Star' game as a highlight, and NZ will use this match as a warm up to a possible post origin series (or one off test) or end of year tri nations, which probably should be held every 2 or 3 years - not every year. Admittedly, the Indigenous team would be missing troops on origin duty, but this puts more onus on development. A great opportunity for young talent to learn at a higher level and a good earner for a worthy charity. This match could also be moved to Saturday or Sunday to accommodate the large number of interstate and rural league fans in attendance.
Saturday Day/Night - Rugby League 7s tournament.
With a number of players who could be 'on holidays' during this month, include them in the 7s and bring back an entertaining concept. Marketed well, this could be a highlight. That brings us to a relevant issue. The NRL is currently owned and marketed by a media company. When this finally changes, the successful marketing of a representative ‘mid season’ festival is key. It simply cannot be advertised on Channel 9 and the Telegraph alone. It will require maximum exposure and a targeting of certain areas in NSW and Queensland to be successful. Western Sydney? Yes. Brisbane City? Yes. North Queensland? Yes. Furthermore, once this ‘festival’ is established, the NRL would then branch out to meet peaking interest in Melbourne and perhaps New Zealand. A step by step approach starting with the Rugby League heartland.
Monday Night- Origin 2
Week 3
Saturday night - NSW v QLD under 20s... with a Junior Rep Grand Final curtain raiser where Jersey Flegg and SG Ball Grand Finals are played.
This will add to the Rugby League "expo" approach and double as a scouting extravaganza for all clubs. The junior rep finals are already played mid season so it would fit perfectly into the schedule. Speaking of the under 20’s competition: what do they do during this 3 week break? They play through. Perhaps start their season 3 weeks after the NRL season begins and they effectively ‘catch up’ during this time.
Sunday - Papua New Guinea v Australian Pri-Ministers 13
PNG are obviously mad for their footy and this game could be part of the rep calendar, rather than at year's end. If played in PNG, the local fans might miss out on seeing some of the NRL's best who are on origin duty, but this is not too far from current strategy.
Monday night - Origin 3
Following weekend - full round of matches.
The response from all clubs would be predictable – What about our bottom line? Any loss of revenue for clubs who do not play for 3 weeks can be covered (hopefully) by revenue created from TV rights for this ‘festival’, including what should be a windfall from selling the origin series to the highest bidder. This schedule addresses the issues of player fatigue as it would shorten the season by 3 weeks (obviously a requirement when you look at the list of players currently injured), players missing from games through rep duty and removes the need for byes. It also markets the jewel in the rugby league crown (State of Origin) as a standalone event surrounded by a carnival of Rugby League.
Paully's Picks - Round 14
St George Illawarra v Gold Coast
This rotten effect the representative season has on premiership footy continues on Friday night at Kogarah's Jubilee Oval. The Titans are in the midst of the worst form in franchise history but have a good record against the Dragons and might find some semblance of motivation in this match, but as a spectacle it simply won't be... well.... a spectacle at all.
Enough of the whining though. We still, at least for another year, have to deal with this rep season schedule so as footy fans, let's embrace it. What better way to celebrate this match than to congratulate 19 year old Dragons debutant Alex McKinnon, who starts at centre and represents the mighty Aberdeen Tigers. Another way to enjoy this match is to watch Michael Weyman and Dan Hunt tear holes through the Titans in a very, very low scoring match.
My tip: St George Illawarra 12-10
Manly v North Queensland
Brookvale Oval will be positively buzzing on Saturday night with the Eagles on a 4 match winning streak that includes some very impressive performances over the past fortnight. In fact, Manly have lost only 1 game out of their last 9, and that was against the Cowboys in Townsville in a match that finished 4 tries apiece.
Judging by how the bookies have reacted to the visitors travelling to Sydney without Jonathan Thurston, Manly look set for a little revenge but it won't be easy. Whilst the high performance race-car that is the Cowboys of 2011 will be missing it's steering wheel, coach Neil Henry has been blooding replacement number 7 Michael Morgan for just such an occasion. He performs well, but the Eagles too good at home in a bottler.
My tip: Manly 24-20
Brisbane v Canberra
Just when you think you've made peace with watching rugby league games pre-origin, this match comes along to test all your tipping powers. Both teams at $1.91 mid week. The closeness of this match between the Raiders and the Broncos at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday afternoon won't be getting Queenslanders through the doors in record numbers.
A quiet crowd, an essentially empty stadium, a visiting team whose fans won't travel in numbers and no Darren Lockyer. Now that I've proven my marketing genius, let’s get to the good stuff. Canberra had their hearts broken last week and if they haven’t been through enough soul searching already this season, here is another test. Can they bounce back against a young, fast and enthusiastic Brisbane team? No.
My tip: Brisbane 20-16
NZ Warriors v Wests
Match of the Round for mine. These two clubs are possibly the least affected teams by origin, they sit 6th and 7th on the ladder respectively and have almost identical for and against records. Good signs for the Tigers recently with self labelled 'poor performances' still leading to victories over the Panthers and the Knights. Just imagine if they finally turn it on.
For the Warriors, despite a tough loss in Sydney last weekend, they've been winning with a disciplined brand and showing patience with the football that led to a 5 match winning streak. Two reasons why the Warriors come good on Sunday at Mt Smart: 1) Size... they have two 2nd rowers playing out wide and they love the tough stuff... 2) The Tigers have only won 1 away game this year and this is the toughest road trip of all.
My tip: New Zealand 22-16
Melbourne v Eastern Suburbs
Another test of depth to see who wins this one. Just like most of this weekend's matches, ultimately the winner will be decided by which club can replace its stars without losing cohesion. With a club like Melbourne, you know that whoever puts on the jersey will be well prepared, well developed and ready to tackle their tails off.
The Roosters? Possibly fair to say that whoever puts on the jersey to replace their missing stars will be well drilled, wide awake after 7 coffees that day.... and is most probably a Souths Junior. The struggling Roosters attack up against a tireless Storm defence? In freezing weather, Todd Carney and Braith Anasta finally remember each other’s names and produce enough to get the visitors over the line.
My tip: Roosters 20-10
For live updates throughout the weekend - go to http://www.leagueunlimited.com/index.php
This rotten effect the representative season has on premiership footy continues on Friday night at Kogarah's Jubilee Oval. The Titans are in the midst of the worst form in franchise history but have a good record against the Dragons and might find some semblance of motivation in this match, but as a spectacle it simply won't be... well.... a spectacle at all.
Enough of the whining though. We still, at least for another year, have to deal with this rep season schedule so as footy fans, let's embrace it. What better way to celebrate this match than to congratulate 19 year old Dragons debutant Alex McKinnon, who starts at centre and represents the mighty Aberdeen Tigers. Another way to enjoy this match is to watch Michael Weyman and Dan Hunt tear holes through the Titans in a very, very low scoring match.
My tip: St George Illawarra 12-10
Manly v North Queensland
Brookvale Oval will be positively buzzing on Saturday night with the Eagles on a 4 match winning streak that includes some very impressive performances over the past fortnight. In fact, Manly have lost only 1 game out of their last 9, and that was against the Cowboys in Townsville in a match that finished 4 tries apiece.
Judging by how the bookies have reacted to the visitors travelling to Sydney without Jonathan Thurston, Manly look set for a little revenge but it won't be easy. Whilst the high performance race-car that is the Cowboys of 2011 will be missing it's steering wheel, coach Neil Henry has been blooding replacement number 7 Michael Morgan for just such an occasion. He performs well, but the Eagles too good at home in a bottler.
My tip: Manly 24-20
Brisbane v Canberra
Just when you think you've made peace with watching rugby league games pre-origin, this match comes along to test all your tipping powers. Both teams at $1.91 mid week. The closeness of this match between the Raiders and the Broncos at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday afternoon won't be getting Queenslanders through the doors in record numbers.
A quiet crowd, an essentially empty stadium, a visiting team whose fans won't travel in numbers and no Darren Lockyer. Now that I've proven my marketing genius, let’s get to the good stuff. Canberra had their hearts broken last week and if they haven’t been through enough soul searching already this season, here is another test. Can they bounce back against a young, fast and enthusiastic Brisbane team? No.
My tip: Brisbane 20-16
NZ Warriors v Wests
Match of the Round for mine. These two clubs are possibly the least affected teams by origin, they sit 6th and 7th on the ladder respectively and have almost identical for and against records. Good signs for the Tigers recently with self labelled 'poor performances' still leading to victories over the Panthers and the Knights. Just imagine if they finally turn it on.
For the Warriors, despite a tough loss in Sydney last weekend, they've been winning with a disciplined brand and showing patience with the football that led to a 5 match winning streak. Two reasons why the Warriors come good on Sunday at Mt Smart: 1) Size... they have two 2nd rowers playing out wide and they love the tough stuff... 2) The Tigers have only won 1 away game this year and this is the toughest road trip of all.
My tip: New Zealand 22-16
Melbourne v Eastern Suburbs
Another test of depth to see who wins this one. Just like most of this weekend's matches, ultimately the winner will be decided by which club can replace its stars without losing cohesion. With a club like Melbourne, you know that whoever puts on the jersey will be well prepared, well developed and ready to tackle their tails off.
The Roosters? Possibly fair to say that whoever puts on the jersey to replace their missing stars will be well drilled, wide awake after 7 coffees that day.... and is most probably a Souths Junior. The struggling Roosters attack up against a tireless Storm defence? In freezing weather, Todd Carney and Braith Anasta finally remember each other’s names and produce enough to get the visitors over the line.
My tip: Roosters 20-10
For live updates throughout the weekend - go to http://www.leagueunlimited.com/index.php
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Paully's Picks - Round 13
Cronulla v Brisbane
So it seems, once again, that the representative season brings more debate about scheduling than it does about actual footy. The Broncos are the perfect example as to why. At the end of round 8 this year, they were the best defensive team in the competition and were on a 7 match winning streak. Since that weekend, they have conceded an average of 32 in three games. Debate over, the rep season kills premiership footy.
So, rather than premiership success being based on depth or luck with injuries, how about basing it on hard work combined with talent. Speaking of those two traits, that's where the Broncos have the edge over the Sharks at Toyota Park on Friday Night. The Shire says farewell to Darren Lockyer and the Broncos get back on track. Corey Parker and Sam Thaiday the standouts.
My tip: Brisbane 18-10
Parramatta v St George Illawarra
Although one can sense a slight turnaround in form for the Eels, they don’t seem to be at the stage where they can make this match a contest. Unlucky not to win up in Newcastle last week, Parramatta will need all the luck in the world against a team that held them scoreless only a month ago. They will also be hoping Saints struggle with fatigue whilst in the midst of the rep season.
So, with their fingers crossed, a rabbit’s foot in their pocket and a four leaf clover hovering over Parramatta Stadium, the Eels host the reigning premiers on Friday night. Even if the Dragons are tired, their defence will be too good for Hayne and company as Saints make it 10 in a row. Good battle out wide between the up and coming Jacob Loko and NSW star Mark Gasnier.
My tip: St George Illawarra 23-10
Gold Coast v Penrith
The Panthers seem to have finally come good. It is no coincidence that they have also welcomed back Luke Lewis, Nathan Smith and Lachlan Coote from injury in recent weeks and Lewis in particular has been in vintage form. By contrast, the Titans have not been able to turn a horrible season around and this bad fortune was on display last week when they could not stop dropping the ball over the try line.
If they were playing against a Queensland origin team, all the talk would have been about the Maroons 'desperate' on-line defence but against the Bulldogs, John Cartwright's men were simply 'unlucky'. My bitterness aside, luck must turn around soon for the Titans and it should happen this week, they must be due. It won’t, and they aren’t. The Panthers are peaking and they fire on all cylinders in this match with Lewis and Michael Jennings the standouts.
My tip: Penrith 26-20
Canterbury v Manly
Match of the Round by a country mile. There are plenty of exciting contests across the park in this one: age v youth, speed v strength and finally, Belrose v Bankstown. The Silvertails will definitely enjoy the trip south into enemy territory as the Bulldogs face the Sea Eagles for the 112th time in NRL history. Fantastic for historians to see two giants of the competition square off on Saturday night at Homebush.
So, moving on from pomp and ceremony, the home side will be without its starting halfback and facing a Manly side coming off its best half of football in recent memory. The Eagles were magnificent last week against a depleted Broncos team but they will bring this confidence to ANZ stadium and walk away with the two points. Kieran Foran the standout with Brett Stewart and Ben Barba making this one a beauty.
My tip: Manly 26-18
Eastern Suburbs v NZ Warriors
Not sure if anything said about the Roosters has not already been noted. Brian Smith has seen it all before, including calls for his resignation and this seems to happen at every club he has coached. Tough times for the boys from Bondi. Across the Tasman however, the Warriors are on a 5 game winning streak and come to the SFS on Saturday night brimming with confidence.
They have successfully incorporated Feleti Mateo into their attack and James Maloney is leading them around the park like a wise old sage. They have a workhorse pack of forwards highlighted by the tough-as-nails Michael Luck and his young apprentice, Elijah Taylor. They will out-work the Roosters and reap the rewards late in the game. Maloney a standout.
My tip: NZ Warriors 30-16
Canberra v North Queensland
What better example of 'Home Ground Advantage' than the matchup between these two clubs. The Cowboys are owners of an 8-3 record, have the 2nd best attack in the competition and have the best player in the world as their halfback. Still, they travel to our nation's capital on Sunday afternoon as outsiders. Seems the bookies once again believe the Raiders are near unbeatable at home in winter.
Poppycock. North Queensland are a different club this year and have rebuilt around a forward pack that protects their halfback and defends their line ferociously. Matt Scott is considered to be the best prop in Australia and the emergence of Ray Thompson has taken plenty of responsibility away from Jonathan Thurston, just when he was in danger of being worn out. It all combines to bring the Cowboys only their 3rd ever win in Canberra.
My tip: North Queensland 28-20
South Sydney v Melbourne
League fans may have read a whole bunch about Adam Blair recently. The Storm second rower is apparently being courted by a number of clubs and to back up this interest, he has even been called 'the best forward in the world'. There must be a few players in the NRL who would have something to say about this. Fingers crossed the likes of Dave Taylor and Mick Crocker have heard this rumour and reply accordingly.
These are the games that separate the real from the fake. Adam Blair, can you perform on a cold and wet Sunday afternoon in front of 5000 fans at a stadium that resembles playing in an empty warehouse? We can ask the same of the entire Melbourne squad. On paper they should put Souths to the sword but this match will be closer than the 10.5 handicap suggests. Souths give it a real shake, as they usually do against Melbourne but once again finish just short.
My tip: Melbourne 20-16
Wests v Newcastle
9 regular first graders out injured for this match. That statistic is usually enough to suggest, as a spectacle, this match might lose some of its shine. Not this time. The hustle and bustle of Sydney's inner west will slow down just for a few hours on Monday night as the Knights head to Leichardt Oval to play the Tigers. The Balmain faithful will ensure the atmosphere is intimidating and unwelcoming for the visitors.
Checking the record books, it’s hard to say if any of the current Knights players have ever played at the famous Sydney ground and this will swing the momentum as far as it needs to go for the Tigers to get home. The return of Gareth Ellis and Keith Galloway set the tone up front for the home side and Benji does the rest. Lote Tuqiri has been named to return from injury to face Akuila Uate in a battle of Fiji's finest. Enjoy.
My tip: Wests Tigers 24-18
For live updates throughout the weekend - go to http://leagueunlimited.com/index.php
So it seems, once again, that the representative season brings more debate about scheduling than it does about actual footy. The Broncos are the perfect example as to why. At the end of round 8 this year, they were the best defensive team in the competition and were on a 7 match winning streak. Since that weekend, they have conceded an average of 32 in three games. Debate over, the rep season kills premiership footy.
So, rather than premiership success being based on depth or luck with injuries, how about basing it on hard work combined with talent. Speaking of those two traits, that's where the Broncos have the edge over the Sharks at Toyota Park on Friday Night. The Shire says farewell to Darren Lockyer and the Broncos get back on track. Corey Parker and Sam Thaiday the standouts.
My tip: Brisbane 18-10
Parramatta v St George Illawarra
Although one can sense a slight turnaround in form for the Eels, they don’t seem to be at the stage where they can make this match a contest. Unlucky not to win up in Newcastle last week, Parramatta will need all the luck in the world against a team that held them scoreless only a month ago. They will also be hoping Saints struggle with fatigue whilst in the midst of the rep season.
So, with their fingers crossed, a rabbit’s foot in their pocket and a four leaf clover hovering over Parramatta Stadium, the Eels host the reigning premiers on Friday night. Even if the Dragons are tired, their defence will be too good for Hayne and company as Saints make it 10 in a row. Good battle out wide between the up and coming Jacob Loko and NSW star Mark Gasnier.
My tip: St George Illawarra 23-10
Gold Coast v Penrith
The Panthers seem to have finally come good. It is no coincidence that they have also welcomed back Luke Lewis, Nathan Smith and Lachlan Coote from injury in recent weeks and Lewis in particular has been in vintage form. By contrast, the Titans have not been able to turn a horrible season around and this bad fortune was on display last week when they could not stop dropping the ball over the try line.
If they were playing against a Queensland origin team, all the talk would have been about the Maroons 'desperate' on-line defence but against the Bulldogs, John Cartwright's men were simply 'unlucky'. My bitterness aside, luck must turn around soon for the Titans and it should happen this week, they must be due. It won’t, and they aren’t. The Panthers are peaking and they fire on all cylinders in this match with Lewis and Michael Jennings the standouts.
My tip: Penrith 26-20
Canterbury v Manly
Match of the Round by a country mile. There are plenty of exciting contests across the park in this one: age v youth, speed v strength and finally, Belrose v Bankstown. The Silvertails will definitely enjoy the trip south into enemy territory as the Bulldogs face the Sea Eagles for the 112th time in NRL history. Fantastic for historians to see two giants of the competition square off on Saturday night at Homebush.
So, moving on from pomp and ceremony, the home side will be without its starting halfback and facing a Manly side coming off its best half of football in recent memory. The Eagles were magnificent last week against a depleted Broncos team but they will bring this confidence to ANZ stadium and walk away with the two points. Kieran Foran the standout with Brett Stewart and Ben Barba making this one a beauty.
My tip: Manly 26-18
Eastern Suburbs v NZ Warriors
Not sure if anything said about the Roosters has not already been noted. Brian Smith has seen it all before, including calls for his resignation and this seems to happen at every club he has coached. Tough times for the boys from Bondi. Across the Tasman however, the Warriors are on a 5 game winning streak and come to the SFS on Saturday night brimming with confidence.
They have successfully incorporated Feleti Mateo into their attack and James Maloney is leading them around the park like a wise old sage. They have a workhorse pack of forwards highlighted by the tough-as-nails Michael Luck and his young apprentice, Elijah Taylor. They will out-work the Roosters and reap the rewards late in the game. Maloney a standout.
My tip: NZ Warriors 30-16
Canberra v North Queensland
What better example of 'Home Ground Advantage' than the matchup between these two clubs. The Cowboys are owners of an 8-3 record, have the 2nd best attack in the competition and have the best player in the world as their halfback. Still, they travel to our nation's capital on Sunday afternoon as outsiders. Seems the bookies once again believe the Raiders are near unbeatable at home in winter.
Poppycock. North Queensland are a different club this year and have rebuilt around a forward pack that protects their halfback and defends their line ferociously. Matt Scott is considered to be the best prop in Australia and the emergence of Ray Thompson has taken plenty of responsibility away from Jonathan Thurston, just when he was in danger of being worn out. It all combines to bring the Cowboys only their 3rd ever win in Canberra.
My tip: North Queensland 28-20
South Sydney v Melbourne
League fans may have read a whole bunch about Adam Blair recently. The Storm second rower is apparently being courted by a number of clubs and to back up this interest, he has even been called 'the best forward in the world'. There must be a few players in the NRL who would have something to say about this. Fingers crossed the likes of Dave Taylor and Mick Crocker have heard this rumour and reply accordingly.
These are the games that separate the real from the fake. Adam Blair, can you perform on a cold and wet Sunday afternoon in front of 5000 fans at a stadium that resembles playing in an empty warehouse? We can ask the same of the entire Melbourne squad. On paper they should put Souths to the sword but this match will be closer than the 10.5 handicap suggests. Souths give it a real shake, as they usually do against Melbourne but once again finish just short.
My tip: Melbourne 20-16
Wests v Newcastle
9 regular first graders out injured for this match. That statistic is usually enough to suggest, as a spectacle, this match might lose some of its shine. Not this time. The hustle and bustle of Sydney's inner west will slow down just for a few hours on Monday night as the Knights head to Leichardt Oval to play the Tigers. The Balmain faithful will ensure the atmosphere is intimidating and unwelcoming for the visitors.
Checking the record books, it’s hard to say if any of the current Knights players have ever played at the famous Sydney ground and this will swing the momentum as far as it needs to go for the Tigers to get home. The return of Gareth Ellis and Keith Galloway set the tone up front for the home side and Benji does the rest. Lote Tuqiri has been named to return from injury to face Akuila Uate in a battle of Fiji's finest. Enjoy.
My tip: Wests Tigers 24-18
For live updates throughout the weekend - go to http://leagueunlimited.com/index.php
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