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