Last night, Storm coach Craig Bellamy decided to rest stars Billy Slater and Cameron Smith and copped a pasting at the hands of a pumped up Sydney Roosters outfit. The Storm also struggled with injury and were quite simply run off their feet, by the Braith Anasta led runners-up of season 2010.
The Roosters season has finished strongly, ever since Todd Carney was suspended indefinitely, due to recurring off-field matters. It's now clear where the Roosters problems have originated all season and the coming days should deliver some closure on the issue of Todd Carney, with the 2010 Daly M award winner, tipped to be sacked.
Special mentions to Roosters outside back Joseph Leilua who had a strong game, along with Braith Anasta and Mose Mosoe. I'm tipping a top 8 finish for the Roosters next season - as long as their backs remain relatively injury free. Anthony Mitchell and Jake Friend are also proving to be a strong hooking combination.
Finals
Wests Tigers vs St George-Illawarra Dragons
Expect a very close game. Could go either way. The Dragons have been pretty disappointing over the past 6 weeks and their only attacking option doesn't appear to be yielding the same success as in previous years. The Tigers, on the other hand, are cruising.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
NSW Win Game 2 !
Well, what an epic game! I was there in the Blues Supporters Bay throwing everything I had into supporting the Blues! My voice was about finished, before the kickoff!
As I predicted, NSW won by 10 ! (Finally got one right..)
Ricky Stuart and Paul Gallen... both should be given the utmost respect after Stuart went with a mobile pack who ran QLD off their feet. Good on him for picking the best players and letting their positions sort themselves out. Fantastic work with the rotations too. Paul Gallen - about the best individual Origin display I have ever seen. Up there with Andrew Johns in 2005. To play 80 minutes at Prop and accumulate over 200 meters, was just incredible. Congratulations to the NSW Captain.
Anthony Minichiello - 8
Jarryd Hayne - 7.5
William Hopoate - 8
Mark Gasnier - 7.5
Akuila Uate - 8
Jamie Soward - 8.5
Mitchell Pearce - 9
Paul Gallen - 10
Michael Ennis - 7
Tim Mannah - 7
Beau Scott - 8
Ben Creagh - 7
Greg Bird - 8
--------------------------
Kurt Gidley - 8
Trent Merrin - 5
Luke Lewis - 8.5
Anthony Watmough - 7.5
---------------------------------------------------
Billy Slater - 7
Jharel Yow Yeh - 6
Dane Neilsen - 6
Greg Inglis - 6.5
Darius Boyd - 6
Darren Lockyer - 7.5
Johnathan Thurston - 6.5
Matt Scott - 7
Cameron Smith - 8
Petero Civenoceva - 6
Nate Myles - 7
Sam Thaiday - 5
Ashley Harrison - 5.5
---------------------------
Cooper Cronk - 5
Ben Hannant - 6
Corey Parker - 6.5
David Taylor - 8
As I predicted, NSW won by 10 ! (Finally got one right..)
Ricky Stuart and Paul Gallen... both should be given the utmost respect after Stuart went with a mobile pack who ran QLD off their feet. Good on him for picking the best players and letting their positions sort themselves out. Fantastic work with the rotations too. Paul Gallen - about the best individual Origin display I have ever seen. Up there with Andrew Johns in 2005. To play 80 minutes at Prop and accumulate over 200 meters, was just incredible. Congratulations to the NSW Captain.
Anthony Minichiello - 8
Jarryd Hayne - 7.5
William Hopoate - 8
Mark Gasnier - 7.5
Akuila Uate - 8
Jamie Soward - 8.5
Mitchell Pearce - 9
Paul Gallen - 10
Michael Ennis - 7
Tim Mannah - 7
Beau Scott - 8
Ben Creagh - 7
Greg Bird - 8
--------------------------
Kurt Gidley - 8
Trent Merrin - 5
Luke Lewis - 8.5
Anthony Watmough - 7.5
---------------------------------------------------
Billy Slater - 7
Jharel Yow Yeh - 6
Dane Neilsen - 6
Greg Inglis - 6.5
Darius Boyd - 6
Darren Lockyer - 7.5
Johnathan Thurston - 6.5
Matt Scott - 7
Cameron Smith - 8
Petero Civenoceva - 6
Nate Myles - 7
Sam Thaiday - 5
Ashley Harrison - 5.5
---------------------------
Cooper Cronk - 5
Ben Hannant - 6
Corey Parker - 6.5
David Taylor - 8
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Origin 2
NSW
Anthony Minichiello
Comes in to replace injured Canberra star, Josh Dugan. Mini hasn't played good football since suffering a string of injuries over the last 4 years. This is a very odd selection, given the quality form Brett Stewart has been in.
Akuila Uate
Super player, who deserves his spot again
Mark Gasnier
Could well be playing for his representative future with Jamal Idris breathing down his neck for that right centre position. Was well contained in game 1 and will need to stand deeper and get some early ball if he's to cause havoc next Wednesday night. Superstar on his day and NSW need him in form.
William Hopoate
Another odd, odd selection. Having played only a handfull of first grade games, let alone playing in the centres, Hopoate is given a chance to play for his state. This is also odd considering he won't be playing NRL football for the next 2 seasons, due to religious commmitments. A reshuffle to put Hayne into the centres and Blake Ferguson on the wing, would have been a better option.
Jarryd Hayne
Should've been there in game 1 and should have this spot tied up for seasons to come. Long way ahead of Brett Morris as a player who failed miserably in game 1.
Jamie Soward
Standard selection. Stuart was always going to persist with the halves and Jamie will remain in the no.6 NSW jersey until Todd Carney gets his act together or Terry Campese gets some game time.
Mitchell Pearce
Looks likely to have this position held down for many years to come. Good player.
Paul Gallen
Smart move putting Gallen into the front row. He'll have a great game.
Michael Ennis
Few errors in game 1, but a very classy player. Happy to see him retained.
Tim Mannah
Happy also to see Tim retained, strong in game 1 but needs a bigger performance if he's to combat the likes of Matt Scott and Petero Civenoceva.
Beau Scott
Was strong defensively, but opened the flood gates to allow QLD score the match winner in game 1. Needs a big game and needs to keep his head if he's to retain this spot in the team
Ben Creagh
Ineffective off the bench last game. Again, another player under the pump for game 2
Greg Bird
He's not a lock... He was our best backrower in game 1 and should've remained on the fringes. Having said that, origin is a funny game and he's built for it. Might move into the backrow when Luke Lewis or Anthony Watmough come on.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trent Merrin
Hopeless in game 1. Not built for Origin football. Soft and slow. Tom Leroyd-Lars please.
Kurt Gidley
Thankfully he replaces the hopeless Dean Young. Will add spark from the bench and is a good inclusion
Luke Lewis
Should've been there for game 1. Very, very good player. Hopefully he gets plenty of game time
Anthony Watmough
Another player who should've been included for game 1. Done it before for NSW and will do it again.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I like what Ricky Stuart has done in bringing in Anthony Watmough and Luke Lewis. These players are built for Origin football. However again I think he's made a few mistakes and NSW may well pay for them. Whether the problems in the team selections are the difference, we'll have to wait and find out. One thing is for certain, NSW have the strike power to win this football game... but do they have the heart ?!?!
I'll be there, sitting in the Blues Supporters bay, screaming my lungs out and getting behind the boys. GO NSW!!
My tip - NSW by 10
Watch out for Jarryd Hayne..
Anthony Minichiello
Comes in to replace injured Canberra star, Josh Dugan. Mini hasn't played good football since suffering a string of injuries over the last 4 years. This is a very odd selection, given the quality form Brett Stewart has been in.
Akuila Uate
Super player, who deserves his spot again
Mark Gasnier
Could well be playing for his representative future with Jamal Idris breathing down his neck for that right centre position. Was well contained in game 1 and will need to stand deeper and get some early ball if he's to cause havoc next Wednesday night. Superstar on his day and NSW need him in form.
William Hopoate
Another odd, odd selection. Having played only a handfull of first grade games, let alone playing in the centres, Hopoate is given a chance to play for his state. This is also odd considering he won't be playing NRL football for the next 2 seasons, due to religious commmitments. A reshuffle to put Hayne into the centres and Blake Ferguson on the wing, would have been a better option.
Jarryd Hayne
Should've been there in game 1 and should have this spot tied up for seasons to come. Long way ahead of Brett Morris as a player who failed miserably in game 1.
Jamie Soward
Standard selection. Stuart was always going to persist with the halves and Jamie will remain in the no.6 NSW jersey until Todd Carney gets his act together or Terry Campese gets some game time.
Mitchell Pearce
Looks likely to have this position held down for many years to come. Good player.
Paul Gallen
Smart move putting Gallen into the front row. He'll have a great game.
Michael Ennis
Few errors in game 1, but a very classy player. Happy to see him retained.
Tim Mannah
Happy also to see Tim retained, strong in game 1 but needs a bigger performance if he's to combat the likes of Matt Scott and Petero Civenoceva.
Beau Scott
Was strong defensively, but opened the flood gates to allow QLD score the match winner in game 1. Needs a big game and needs to keep his head if he's to retain this spot in the team
Ben Creagh
Ineffective off the bench last game. Again, another player under the pump for game 2
Greg Bird
He's not a lock... He was our best backrower in game 1 and should've remained on the fringes. Having said that, origin is a funny game and he's built for it. Might move into the backrow when Luke Lewis or Anthony Watmough come on.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trent Merrin
Hopeless in game 1. Not built for Origin football. Soft and slow. Tom Leroyd-Lars please.
Kurt Gidley
Thankfully he replaces the hopeless Dean Young. Will add spark from the bench and is a good inclusion
Luke Lewis
Should've been there for game 1. Very, very good player. Hopefully he gets plenty of game time
Anthony Watmough
Another player who should've been included for game 1. Done it before for NSW and will do it again.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I like what Ricky Stuart has done in bringing in Anthony Watmough and Luke Lewis. These players are built for Origin football. However again I think he's made a few mistakes and NSW may well pay for them. Whether the problems in the team selections are the difference, we'll have to wait and find out. One thing is for certain, NSW have the strike power to win this football game... but do they have the heart ?!?!
I'll be there, sitting in the Blues Supporters bay, screaming my lungs out and getting behind the boys. GO NSW!!
My tip - NSW by 10
Watch out for Jarryd Hayne..
Monday, May 16, 2011
NSW State of Origin
Ricky Stuart has named his 17-man team to take on Queensland in 8 days time
Fullback - Josh Dugan
The kid is a superstar and thoroughly deserved selection. He'd been earmarked by Ricky for a long time and was always going to get the #1 jersey. Quite an upgrade on Kurt Gidley and certainly better suited to the Origin Fullback role than Jarryd Hayne
Winger - Akuila Uate
The Fijian flyer! Akuila the Thriller ! The Newcastle Winger is a game breaker, with blistering speed and again was a much deserved selection.
Centre - Mark Gasnier
Playing his first Origin game in 3 series, Gaz has played himself into form and trained hard to get back to peek fitness. He's had a stunning last month at the Dragons and his last 2 performances have been his best in a long time.
Centre - Michael Jennings
A surprise selection with the Penrith centre struggling to shine this year in a team which has underperformed all season. However Ricky's decision, I believe was justified. Jamal Idris is a loose cannon and specialist right centre. Jennings is a specialist left centre, who has done it before for NSW. There aren't many other options and even though Matt Cooper retired from rep footy, he was average in last years game.
Winger - Brett Morris
No surprise here, but Jarryd Hayne should have nabbed this position. Morris has scored just 2 tries for the Dragons this season and has failed to perform on the rep scene over the past 2 years. He's a good straight runner and strong finisher, but is not quite the player Jarryd Hayne is. A good club player, but unfortunately not the man I'd have gone with. Penrith's Michael Gordon would have also gotten the nod over Morris in my team.
Five-Eighth - Jamie Soward
Deemed finally ready to wear the sky-blue jersey, Soward's form is unquestionable. His kicking, passing and goal-kicking abilities, backed up by his attitude have proved he is the right man to take the job. Todd Carney miserably drank himself out of contention this season.
Half-Back - Mitchell Pearce
His organisation an Origin level has been quality in the past and he'll need to replicate it again in this years series. He's held his own at this level in the past and deserves selection.
Prop - Jason King
Dear oh dear. Another failed selection. King is well and truly past it. Aiden Tolman should've had this position locked up.
Hooker - Michael Ennis
Good call. Very strong game vs the Dragons last week and is the perfect player NSW need at hooker.
Prop - Kade Snowden
Was always going to get selected here and has not failed in the past. A strong player who is sure to get go-forward for NSW
Backrow - Beau Scott
Interesting selection. I'd have said no to Beau Scott, but having him defend next to Gasnier and Soward, as they do at club level, will be a big advantage. Luke Lewis robbed IMO.
Backrow - Greg Bird
Done nothing all year.. but has proved himself worthy in Origin series gone by. Good call.
Lock - Paul Gallen
Needs no justification. He's tightened the loose screws in his game and will hopefully bust a few of them in the QLD pack.
--------------------------------------------
Bench - Ben Creagh
Disrespected the NSW jumper by pushing Justin Hodges and running off in the 2009 series. If the defence gets in his face, he is absolutely useless. Big call, but there aren't many other options, apart from a player who has torn QLD apart in recent series, Anthony Watmough.
Bench - Dean Young
Interesting call, but he can play Hooker and backrow which makes him the right choice for a bench utility.
Bench - Trent Merrin
Tom Leroyd-Lars absolutely robbed, as he was the only player to get go-forward to NSW in the past series. Who is Trent Merrin ?
Bench - Tim Mannah
Good call, deserving of his spot in the side.
---------------------------------
Ommissions
Jarryd Hayne - The only bloke who could hold his head high from last series, Hayne has been overlooked in favour of Canberra's Josh Dugan, with Ricky Stuart stating that he sees Hayne as a 5/8th and that he should play there at club level. IMO I totally agree and I think Dugan's running game is better suited to Origin footy. However a spot should've been made for Hayne on the wing, instead of Brett Morris.
Jamal Idris - Another good call. Would get caught out in defence again.
Aiden Tolman - Needs no justification. A lot better than 2 other props selected in this team
Tom Leroyd-Lars - Same deal as Tolman.
Fullback - Josh Dugan
The kid is a superstar and thoroughly deserved selection. He'd been earmarked by Ricky for a long time and was always going to get the #1 jersey. Quite an upgrade on Kurt Gidley and certainly better suited to the Origin Fullback role than Jarryd Hayne
Winger - Akuila Uate
The Fijian flyer! Akuila the Thriller ! The Newcastle Winger is a game breaker, with blistering speed and again was a much deserved selection.
Centre - Mark Gasnier
Playing his first Origin game in 3 series, Gaz has played himself into form and trained hard to get back to peek fitness. He's had a stunning last month at the Dragons and his last 2 performances have been his best in a long time.
Centre - Michael Jennings
A surprise selection with the Penrith centre struggling to shine this year in a team which has underperformed all season. However Ricky's decision, I believe was justified. Jamal Idris is a loose cannon and specialist right centre. Jennings is a specialist left centre, who has done it before for NSW. There aren't many other options and even though Matt Cooper retired from rep footy, he was average in last years game.
Winger - Brett Morris
No surprise here, but Jarryd Hayne should have nabbed this position. Morris has scored just 2 tries for the Dragons this season and has failed to perform on the rep scene over the past 2 years. He's a good straight runner and strong finisher, but is not quite the player Jarryd Hayne is. A good club player, but unfortunately not the man I'd have gone with. Penrith's Michael Gordon would have also gotten the nod over Morris in my team.
Five-Eighth - Jamie Soward
Deemed finally ready to wear the sky-blue jersey, Soward's form is unquestionable. His kicking, passing and goal-kicking abilities, backed up by his attitude have proved he is the right man to take the job. Todd Carney miserably drank himself out of contention this season.
Half-Back - Mitchell Pearce
His organisation an Origin level has been quality in the past and he'll need to replicate it again in this years series. He's held his own at this level in the past and deserves selection.
Prop - Jason King
Dear oh dear. Another failed selection. King is well and truly past it. Aiden Tolman should've had this position locked up.
Hooker - Michael Ennis
Good call. Very strong game vs the Dragons last week and is the perfect player NSW need at hooker.
Prop - Kade Snowden
Was always going to get selected here and has not failed in the past. A strong player who is sure to get go-forward for NSW
Backrow - Beau Scott
Interesting selection. I'd have said no to Beau Scott, but having him defend next to Gasnier and Soward, as they do at club level, will be a big advantage. Luke Lewis robbed IMO.
Backrow - Greg Bird
Done nothing all year.. but has proved himself worthy in Origin series gone by. Good call.
Lock - Paul Gallen
Needs no justification. He's tightened the loose screws in his game and will hopefully bust a few of them in the QLD pack.
--------------------------------------------
Bench - Ben Creagh
Disrespected the NSW jumper by pushing Justin Hodges and running off in the 2009 series. If the defence gets in his face, he is absolutely useless. Big call, but there aren't many other options, apart from a player who has torn QLD apart in recent series, Anthony Watmough.
Bench - Dean Young
Interesting call, but he can play Hooker and backrow which makes him the right choice for a bench utility.
Bench - Trent Merrin
Tom Leroyd-Lars absolutely robbed, as he was the only player to get go-forward to NSW in the past series. Who is Trent Merrin ?
Bench - Tim Mannah
Good call, deserving of his spot in the side.
---------------------------------
Ommissions
Jarryd Hayne - The only bloke who could hold his head high from last series, Hayne has been overlooked in favour of Canberra's Josh Dugan, with Ricky Stuart stating that he sees Hayne as a 5/8th and that he should play there at club level. IMO I totally agree and I think Dugan's running game is better suited to Origin footy. However a spot should've been made for Hayne on the wing, instead of Brett Morris.
Jamal Idris - Another good call. Would get caught out in defence again.
Aiden Tolman - Needs no justification. A lot better than 2 other props selected in this team
Tom Leroyd-Lars - Same deal as Tolman.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Todd Carney at it again..
Again, again, again... Todd Carney again caught red-faced after a night out drinking with former team mate Anthony Watts. It's one thing not being able to put the bottle down, but it's another to have the stupidity to put yourself in the situation where alcohol is readily available. With a 6 figure contract (probably starting with 3), a NSW jersey calling and bunch of fans cheering you on each week, how hard is it to restrain yourself from going out into the city!
Why are the Roosters soo hesistant to let Todd Carney go ?
Well in 12 months time, he'll pop up again at another NRL club and will come back to haunt them. It will be tough for Carney to get a visa to travel overseas to play in the Super League as well and will mean he is even further away from his family - so a move to England is unlikely.
Not only that, the Roosters will struggle without their star player whom they've given numerous chances to.
If Carney is suspended from playing for the rest of the season, which is likely, he's odds on to turn back to the bottle and disgrace himself again.
A troubled star on the brink of losing everything... pull your head in!
Why are the Roosters soo hesistant to let Todd Carney go ?
Well in 12 months time, he'll pop up again at another NRL club and will come back to haunt them. It will be tough for Carney to get a visa to travel overseas to play in the Super League as well and will mean he is even further away from his family - so a move to England is unlikely.
Not only that, the Roosters will struggle without their star player whom they've given numerous chances to.
If Carney is suspended from playing for the rest of the season, which is likely, he's odds on to turn back to the bottle and disgrace himself again.
A troubled star on the brink of losing everything... pull your head in!
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Bennett to the Knights & Round 6
Wayne Bennett this week signed a 4-year contract worth an estimated $6 million with the Newcastle Knights. South Sydney have missed out on a coach that I believe is one of the few people with the ability to transform the losing culture that has plagued South Sydney in recent years.
Speculation has risen as to the future of Dragons fullback Darius Boyd who has pledged his allegiance to Wayne Bennett, rather than the club he plays for. With the likes of Kade Snowden and Canberra's Joe Picker also on the radar for Wayne Bennett, the Knights will need to make room and a clean out would be necessary. Junior Sau looks likely to move on, unless he agrees to a deal worth less than his asking price of $250,000. Players like Ben Rogers, Shannon McDonnell and even Isaac De Gois could be on the chopping block.
Round 6
Parramatta vs Bulldogs
Traditionally a very good game. With the Dogs coming off a Sunday afternoon loss to the Dragons, they will be hungry for victory. Things just aren't shaping up for the Eels this season and they need a strong performance from Jarryd Hayne to stop this from getting ugly.
My tip = Bulldogs
Gold Coast vs Wests Tigers
Titans are another team who have started very poorly. Injuries and poor attitudes have plagued their campaign thus far, but the return of Scott Prince, at home, against his former club, should make for a good game of footy. However the Tigers have been far too impressive this year and even with Chris Lawrence and Lote Tuqiri, they have still been very good with Benji Marshall on fire.
My tip = Wests Tigers
Manly vs New Zealand
Brookvale oval, 5pm should draw a decent crowd for Manly. Both teams backing up from close victories in their previous games. Manly are currently 3 wins from 5 games and I expect them to take the points again tomorrow night.
My tip = Manly
North Queensland vs Canberra
The Cowboys are currently sitting at 4th on the ladder and have looked very strong with Thurston controlling them around the park. The Raiders welcome back U20's half Sam Williams who will slot in for an injured Matt Orford, who copped a knee to the back in Canberra's 4th successive loss last week. Although I think Williams will add plenty to this team, the Cowboys should be too strong at home. Watch out for Cowboys winger, Kalifi Faifai Loa.
My tip = North Queensland
Sydney Roosters vs Brisbane Broncos
The Roosters are coming off a loss to the NZ and should bounce back strongly. The halves from both teams have big roles to play in getting their teams over the line. Expect a close game with plenty of free flowing attacking football.
My tip = Sydney Roosters
Newcastle vs Cronulla
Newcastle just couldn't find the line last week and Cronulla were unlucky to not hold on. Expect another close and hard fought game, but I think the Cronulla pack will help their team prevail
My tip = Cronulla Sharks
Penrith vs Melbourne
This could get ugly.. Penrith have been pretty useless this season and Melbourne have been brilliant and are sitting on top of the ladder. Expect big points to be scored in this game and don't be surprised if it gets embarrassing !
My tip = Melbourne
South Sydney vs St George
The Dragons don't like Monday night football.. having won just 1 out of their last 4 Monday night games. However South Sydney are travelling very poorly this season and the Saints were great last week vs the Bulldogs. Expect a comfortable win for the "Red V"
My tip = Dragons
Speculation has risen as to the future of Dragons fullback Darius Boyd who has pledged his allegiance to Wayne Bennett, rather than the club he plays for. With the likes of Kade Snowden and Canberra's Joe Picker also on the radar for Wayne Bennett, the Knights will need to make room and a clean out would be necessary. Junior Sau looks likely to move on, unless he agrees to a deal worth less than his asking price of $250,000. Players like Ben Rogers, Shannon McDonnell and even Isaac De Gois could be on the chopping block.
Round 6
Parramatta vs Bulldogs
Traditionally a very good game. With the Dogs coming off a Sunday afternoon loss to the Dragons, they will be hungry for victory. Things just aren't shaping up for the Eels this season and they need a strong performance from Jarryd Hayne to stop this from getting ugly.
My tip = Bulldogs
Gold Coast vs Wests Tigers
Titans are another team who have started very poorly. Injuries and poor attitudes have plagued their campaign thus far, but the return of Scott Prince, at home, against his former club, should make for a good game of footy. However the Tigers have been far too impressive this year and even with Chris Lawrence and Lote Tuqiri, they have still been very good with Benji Marshall on fire.
My tip = Wests Tigers
Manly vs New Zealand
Brookvale oval, 5pm should draw a decent crowd for Manly. Both teams backing up from close victories in their previous games. Manly are currently 3 wins from 5 games and I expect them to take the points again tomorrow night.
My tip = Manly
North Queensland vs Canberra
The Cowboys are currently sitting at 4th on the ladder and have looked very strong with Thurston controlling them around the park. The Raiders welcome back U20's half Sam Williams who will slot in for an injured Matt Orford, who copped a knee to the back in Canberra's 4th successive loss last week. Although I think Williams will add plenty to this team, the Cowboys should be too strong at home. Watch out for Cowboys winger, Kalifi Faifai Loa.
My tip = North Queensland
Sydney Roosters vs Brisbane Broncos
The Roosters are coming off a loss to the NZ and should bounce back strongly. The halves from both teams have big roles to play in getting their teams over the line. Expect a close game with plenty of free flowing attacking football.
My tip = Sydney Roosters
Newcastle vs Cronulla
Newcastle just couldn't find the line last week and Cronulla were unlucky to not hold on. Expect another close and hard fought game, but I think the Cronulla pack will help their team prevail
My tip = Cronulla Sharks
Penrith vs Melbourne
This could get ugly.. Penrith have been pretty useless this season and Melbourne have been brilliant and are sitting on top of the ladder. Expect big points to be scored in this game and don't be surprised if it gets embarrassing !
My tip = Melbourne
South Sydney vs St George
The Dragons don't like Monday night football.. having won just 1 out of their last 4 Monday night games. However South Sydney are travelling very poorly this season and the Saints were great last week vs the Bulldogs. Expect a comfortable win for the "Red V"
My tip = Dragons
Monday, April 4, 2011
Opening 4 Rounds Completed
The injury toll, Tinkler takes over and this weeks featured player - Matt Utai...
Never have I seen such an overwhelming number of high quality players sitting on the sidelines so early into a season. But where does the problem rest ? Is it the gang tackles and wrestling moves? Tougher training sessions? Does the NRL need to step in and limit the number of players in a tackle ? Is banning the shoulder charge the answer ? I think the problem focuses in on the heavy training sessions and heavy contact. The players are built bigger and hit harder these days. Their muscles are more developed physically, but their joints and ligaments aren't. Banning shoulder charges is not the answer.. It's a mans sport and the entertainment value of a shoulder charge should take precedence over the little number of injuries that can be directly related to the player receiving such brutal treatment. I think it's up to the coaches to curb the amount of training the players are doing and limiting the use of injured players, wherever possible, as it's all beginning to take it's toll.
Now to Newcastle and congrats to Nathan Tinkler and his Sporting Group for securing ownership of the Newcastle Club, with a 97% majority vote. I've always had my doubts about private ownership but I think clubs need to find a balance where their owners are taking a back foot in footballing decisions and keeping in mind that it's a club, not a business. Tinkler appears to be heading in the right direction with the Newcastle clubs and I'm impressed by his vision to pack out AusGrid stadium with Blue and Red. This coincides with the opening of their new grandstand, which takes the stadiums capacity to 30,000 !
Matt Utai... Returning from a season of park football, playing for the Auburn Warriors, the 29-year old is looking to resurrect his career with the Wests Tigers. Injuries to Beau Ryan and a career-ending one to Taniela Tuiaki have given the "pocket rocket" a real chance of doing so. Coming to the Tigers on an incentive based deal, Utai has impressed with solid performances in defence and attack, including an average of just over 115 metres and 12.5 hit ups per game, the winger has all but secured his spot on the flank and has IMO poured the cement!
Never have I seen such an overwhelming number of high quality players sitting on the sidelines so early into a season. But where does the problem rest ? Is it the gang tackles and wrestling moves? Tougher training sessions? Does the NRL need to step in and limit the number of players in a tackle ? Is banning the shoulder charge the answer ? I think the problem focuses in on the heavy training sessions and heavy contact. The players are built bigger and hit harder these days. Their muscles are more developed physically, but their joints and ligaments aren't. Banning shoulder charges is not the answer.. It's a mans sport and the entertainment value of a shoulder charge should take precedence over the little number of injuries that can be directly related to the player receiving such brutal treatment. I think it's up to the coaches to curb the amount of training the players are doing and limiting the use of injured players, wherever possible, as it's all beginning to take it's toll.
Now to Newcastle and congrats to Nathan Tinkler and his Sporting Group for securing ownership of the Newcastle Club, with a 97% majority vote. I've always had my doubts about private ownership but I think clubs need to find a balance where their owners are taking a back foot in footballing decisions and keeping in mind that it's a club, not a business. Tinkler appears to be heading in the right direction with the Newcastle clubs and I'm impressed by his vision to pack out AusGrid stadium with Blue and Red. This coincides with the opening of their new grandstand, which takes the stadiums capacity to 30,000 !
Matt Utai... Returning from a season of park football, playing for the Auburn Warriors, the 29-year old is looking to resurrect his career with the Wests Tigers. Injuries to Beau Ryan and a career-ending one to Taniela Tuiaki have given the "pocket rocket" a real chance of doing so. Coming to the Tigers on an incentive based deal, Utai has impressed with solid performances in defence and attack, including an average of just over 115 metres and 12.5 hit ups per game, the winger has all but secured his spot on the flank and has IMO poured the cement!
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Season 2011 Preview - Part 2
With just 5 days left until season 2011 kicks off... Let's see which teams I believe have what it takes and why...
St George ... Backing up from last years success will be a tough task, however nothing is impossible with Wayne Bennett in charge. The man has proved himself time and time again to have what it takes to bring out the best in every player in his squad. The loss of Jeremy Smith could hurt them though.
Gold Coast Titans ... Scott Prince must stay injury free for the Titans to have a good season. Their outside backs are exciting and they've got a very strong back row. William Zillman needs to form a good combination with the halves and I think the Titans have what it takes to make an impact this year
Sydney Roosters ... Disappointment at the end, after such a successful turnaround in form, coming from wooden spooners to make the Grand Final. Again Todd Carney is the key and if he stays out of the trouble, the small group of Roosters fans will be cheering! Watch out for the other Carney (no relation) Justin, to make an impact this year.
Melbourne Storm.... Could go either way, but I'm tipping them to play some real quality football with a point to prove that they can make it happen whilst operating within the salary cap. Billy Slater, Cooper Cronk and Cameron Smith are the keys.
Canberra Raiders ... Off season recruit Matt Orford has helped me conclude that this team will be a force this coming season. They have one of the most exciting and talented teams on paper, with arguablly the best forward pack in the comp. Brett White will add some aggression, while Blake Ferguson has come to a club he beleives will deliver a premiership. The belief among the players, coaching staff and fans is there.. it's now time to make it happen on the park. Their success relies on the recovery of Terry Campese. Watch out for Josh Dugan in the sky Blue jersey mid year and watch out for the Raiders come finals time. This is definitely going to be a big year for the Green Machine
Wests Tigers ..... Widely tipped to go the extra step this season, the Tigers are determined to secure a premiership. The return of Tim Moltzen is the most exciting for the Tigers. He has the potential to become one of the games top halfbacks, provided Sheens plays him at #7 ahead of Robert Lui. Their only recruit is Matt Utai who is back in the NRL after playing in a park competition for Auburn.
Parramatta Eels .... Attitude is the key for the Eels. Steve Kearney has been working the Eels overtime in the off season. Expect an exciting season Parra fans.. Jarryd Hayne needs to bounce back after a disappointing 2010. Hunger for success is the key for the Parra.
New Zealand Warriors... An interesting one. The Warriors never seem to build successive years of consistency but I'm tipping them to break the habit. Lance Hohaia, James Moloney, new Super League recruit Shaun Berrigan and former Eel, Feleti Mateo are the keys for the Warriors success.
My Tip for the premiership .. Dragons
Roughie ... Canberra Raiders
St George ... Backing up from last years success will be a tough task, however nothing is impossible with Wayne Bennett in charge. The man has proved himself time and time again to have what it takes to bring out the best in every player in his squad. The loss of Jeremy Smith could hurt them though.
Gold Coast Titans ... Scott Prince must stay injury free for the Titans to have a good season. Their outside backs are exciting and they've got a very strong back row. William Zillman needs to form a good combination with the halves and I think the Titans have what it takes to make an impact this year
Sydney Roosters ... Disappointment at the end, after such a successful turnaround in form, coming from wooden spooners to make the Grand Final. Again Todd Carney is the key and if he stays out of the trouble, the small group of Roosters fans will be cheering! Watch out for the other Carney (no relation) Justin, to make an impact this year.
Melbourne Storm.... Could go either way, but I'm tipping them to play some real quality football with a point to prove that they can make it happen whilst operating within the salary cap. Billy Slater, Cooper Cronk and Cameron Smith are the keys.
Canberra Raiders ... Off season recruit Matt Orford has helped me conclude that this team will be a force this coming season. They have one of the most exciting and talented teams on paper, with arguablly the best forward pack in the comp. Brett White will add some aggression, while Blake Ferguson has come to a club he beleives will deliver a premiership. The belief among the players, coaching staff and fans is there.. it's now time to make it happen on the park. Their success relies on the recovery of Terry Campese. Watch out for Josh Dugan in the sky Blue jersey mid year and watch out for the Raiders come finals time. This is definitely going to be a big year for the Green Machine
Wests Tigers ..... Widely tipped to go the extra step this season, the Tigers are determined to secure a premiership. The return of Tim Moltzen is the most exciting for the Tigers. He has the potential to become one of the games top halfbacks, provided Sheens plays him at #7 ahead of Robert Lui. Their only recruit is Matt Utai who is back in the NRL after playing in a park competition for Auburn.
Parramatta Eels .... Attitude is the key for the Eels. Steve Kearney has been working the Eels overtime in the off season. Expect an exciting season Parra fans.. Jarryd Hayne needs to bounce back after a disappointing 2010. Hunger for success is the key for the Parra.
New Zealand Warriors... An interesting one. The Warriors never seem to build successive years of consistency but I'm tipping them to break the habit. Lance Hohaia, James Moloney, new Super League recruit Shaun Berrigan and former Eel, Feleti Mateo are the keys for the Warriors success.
My Tip for the premiership .. Dragons
Roughie ... Canberra Raiders
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Season 2011
Season Preview Part 1
Indigenous Team
20. Matt Bowen, 2. Nathan Merritt, 3. Willie Tonga, 4. Beau Champion, 5, Jharal Yow Yeh, 6. Scott Prince, 7. Johnathan Thurston (c), 8. Tom Learoyd-Lahrs, 9. Travis Waddell, 10. George Rose, 11. Cory Paterson, 12. Jamal Idris, 13. Greg Bird, 14. Ben Barba, 15. Jamie Soward, 16. Carl Webb, 17. Joel Moon, 18. Joel Thompson, 19. Ryan James, 21 Anthony Mitchell.
NRL All Stars
1. Josh Dugan, 2. Akuila Uate, 3. Michael Jennings, 4. Jamie Lyon, 5. Brett Morris, 6. Darren Lockyer (c), 7. Benji Marshall, 8. Ben Hannant, 9. Cameron Smith, 10. Matthew Scott, 11. Nathan Hindmarsh, 12. Liam Fulton, 13. Paul Gallen, 14, Dave Taylor, 15. Ashley Harrison, 16. Feleti Mateo, 17. Shaun Kenny-Dowall, 18. Michael Ennis, 19. Petero Civoniceva, 20. Kurt Gidley
Expect a pretty good game of footy... Emerging talents and established stars playing together and against each other for a worthy cause.
Players to watch.. Josh Dugan, Joel Thompson, Feleti Mateo, Ryan James and Jamal Idris.
My Tip.. NRL All Stars by 4
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2011 Season Preview
After the normal rounds, I expect to see this ladder
1. St George-Illawarra Dragons
2. Gold Coast Titans
3. Sydney Roosters
4. Melbourne Storm
5. Canberra Raiders
6. Wests Tigers
7. Parramatta Eels
8. NZ Warriors
In part 2, I will explain why I think these teams will make up the 8 and why I think the rest will miss out..
Stay tuned!
Indigenous Team
20. Matt Bowen, 2. Nathan Merritt, 3. Willie Tonga, 4. Beau Champion, 5, Jharal Yow Yeh, 6. Scott Prince, 7. Johnathan Thurston (c), 8. Tom Learoyd-Lahrs, 9. Travis Waddell, 10. George Rose, 11. Cory Paterson, 12. Jamal Idris, 13. Greg Bird, 14. Ben Barba, 15. Jamie Soward, 16. Carl Webb, 17. Joel Moon, 18. Joel Thompson, 19. Ryan James, 21 Anthony Mitchell.
NRL All Stars
1. Josh Dugan, 2. Akuila Uate, 3. Michael Jennings, 4. Jamie Lyon, 5. Brett Morris, 6. Darren Lockyer (c), 7. Benji Marshall, 8. Ben Hannant, 9. Cameron Smith, 10. Matthew Scott, 11. Nathan Hindmarsh, 12. Liam Fulton, 13. Paul Gallen, 14, Dave Taylor, 15. Ashley Harrison, 16. Feleti Mateo, 17. Shaun Kenny-Dowall, 18. Michael Ennis, 19. Petero Civoniceva, 20. Kurt Gidley
Expect a pretty good game of footy... Emerging talents and established stars playing together and against each other for a worthy cause.
Players to watch.. Josh Dugan, Joel Thompson, Feleti Mateo, Ryan James and Jamal Idris.
My Tip.. NRL All Stars by 4
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2011 Season Preview
After the normal rounds, I expect to see this ladder
1. St George-Illawarra Dragons
2. Gold Coast Titans
3. Sydney Roosters
4. Melbourne Storm
5. Canberra Raiders
6. Wests Tigers
7. Parramatta Eels
8. NZ Warriors
In part 2, I will explain why I think these teams will make up the 8 and why I think the rest will miss out..
Stay tuned!
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