Queensland Origin back Israel Folau and halfback-hopeful Scott Prince will miss at least the next three weeks of NRL competition.
Folau joins a long list of wounded Brisbane Broncos with up to five regular first-graders sidelined.
The giant centre dislocated a finger trying to catch a bomb in the Broncos poor 48-16 loss to the Warriors last weekend.
Folau’s right-side partner, winger Denan Kemp, suffered a suspected broken rib and left the Warriors match soon after Folau midway in the first half.
Kemp is expected to miss up to two months while Folau hopes to be back next month.
They join Justin Hodges (Achilles), Jharal Yow Yeh (knee) and Corey Parker (knee) on the mid-to-long term injury list.
Coach Ivan Henjak named makeshift centres Ben Te’o and Alex Glenn to face the Roosters in Sydney on Friday night.
Gerard Beale, who was replaced at left centre by Glenn last week before substituting for Kemp, will start on the right wing.
Experienced forward Ashton Sims has been recalled to the side after spending the opening three weeks in the Queensland Cup.
Lock Matt Gillett, who replaced the injured Parker last week, has a corked thigh but has been named for the traditional Good Friday clash.
Rookie halfback Ben Hunt has been named as the utility on a five man bench while 20-year-old winger Mitch Rivett is 18th man.
After starting the season with a nail-biting win over the Cowboys, the Broncos have slumped to two disappointing losses.
The Broncos have not lost to the Roosters in the Good Friday match at the Sydney Football Stadium since 2002.
Campbell replaces Prince
Preston Campbell will play halfback for the Titans derby match with North Queensland Cowboys in Townsville on Saturday night.
As he did in the exact round last year, Campbell steps into the pivot position to replace injured captain Prince.
Prince, considered the front-runner to replace Darren Lockyer should he retire from representative football, broke his thumb late in the 24-4 win over Canberra.
Like Folau, Prince is expected to miss a month of football but should be back to push his Queensland representative claims.
Luke Bailey will captain the Titans and William Zillman returns to fullback, while Riley Brown has been recalled to the interchange bench.
Ashley Harrison is named at lock after withdrawing from the Raiders game on Saturday with a back injury suffered during the warm up.
His replacement last week, Will Matthews, has been retained on the bench.
Interchange forward Bodene Thompson will miss three matches after taking an early guilty plea for a high tackle that left Raiders hooker Travis Waddell with a broken jaw.
The Titans are one of three teams undefeated after the opening three games of the season.
Three changes for NQ
There are no new injury concerns for the North Queensland Cowboys but their slow start to the season is causing headaches.
The Cowboys have managed a poultry four points (two penalty goals) in the combined first-half performances across the opening three games of the season.
The sluggish start to matches has made it almost impossible to win, even though the Cowboys managed to power over Penrith two weeks ago.
Coach Neil Henry axed five-eighth Grant Rovelli and winger Michael Bani following the 33-8 thumping at the hands of the Dragons last week.
Under 20’s captain Ray Thompson, who made his NRL debut in the final game of last season, will partner Johnathan Thurston in the halves for the Titans match this weekend.
Winger Will Tupou, also plucked from the Under 20’s side, will debut in place of Bani.
Forward James Tamou should break his three week run as 18th man after replacing Steve Southern on the bench.
Young forward Leeson Ah Mau is 18th man for this weekend.
The Cowboys play back-to-back games in Townsville and will hope to kick-start their season with a win over the Titans.
The match will be live on Fox Sports from 6:30pm Saturday while the Broncos game is live on Channel Nine from 7:30pm Friday.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Roosters, Friday 7:35pm QLD, (Channel Nine, live)
Corey Norman, Antonio Winterstein, Alex Glenn, Ben Te’o, Gerard Beale, Darren Lockyer (c), Peter Wallace, Nick Kenny, Andrew McCullough, Scott Anderson, Ashton Sims, Sam Thaiday, Matt Gillett. Interchange: Lagi Setu, Ben Hunt, Mitchell Dodds, Josh McGuire, Mitch Rivett (one to be omitted).
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Titans, Saturday 6:30pm QLD, (Fox Sports, live)
Ty Williams, John Williams, Ashley Graham, Willie Tonga, Will Tupou, Ray Thompson, Johnathan Thurston (c), Matt Scott, Aaron Payne, Antonio Kaufusi, Scott Bolton, Steve Rapira, Luke O’Donnell. Interchange: Anthony Watts, James Tamou, Willie Mason, Carl Webb, Leeson Ah Mau (one to be omitted).
Gold Coast Titans vs. Cowboys, Saturday 6:30pm QLD, (Fox Sports, live)
William Zillman, Kevin Gordon, Mat Rogers, Joseph Tomane, David Mead, Greg Bird, Preston Campbell, Luke Bailey (c), Nathan Friend, Brad Meyers, Anthony Laffranchi, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Matthew White, Sam Tagataese, Will Matthews, Riley Brown, Michael Henderson (one to be omitted).
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Contracts mean something, right?
Hi everyone and thanks for coming back again this week. This week I will discuss an issue that has crept into our game the past couple of years – player contracts.
Are these things written on scraps of paper now? Are they kept in a back pocket to be used when needed and discarded when finished? I’m no legal expert but I’m sure an NRL contract says – “We’re going to pay you so much money and you’re going to represent our club for so many years”. These days it seems the contracts say – “We’re going to pay you so much money but don’t worry about the years, they’re an approximate number”.
It seems in the last few years very few players see out their contracts. This DOES go both ways with clubs sometimes moving guys along early, but today I’m focussing on the player side of it. Of course the greatest example is Sonny Bill Williams, but that’s an extreme case. The one I’m looking at is Ben Hannant and the Bulldogs.
For those that don’t know, Hannant signed a big three year deal with the Bulldogs and is contracted to play there until the end of next season. However Hannant and his family are homesick and want to move back to Queensland and play with either the Titans or Broncos from next year onwards. That essentially means Hannant wants to walk out on the final year of his current contract, and that’s where the problem is.
No place like home
I don't doubt Hannant is homesick. He has nothing against the Bulldogs and has always struck me (and most) as a good, honest footballer, man, husband and father. But at the end of the day he made a commitment to play for the Bulldogs for three years, and to get paid handsomely for it.
Hannant had a chance to stay in Queensland from 2009. He was playing with my team, the Broncos, and they wanted him. That club has a history of players wanting to play for the Broncos on less money they could earn elsewhere. Hannant made the decision to reject a Broncos offer and take up a richer deal in Sydney – who could blame him? I certainly don’t, he made what he felt was the best decision for him and his family. And good on him – but there can be no backing out.
With the money came the change of lifestyle and a big move to Sydney. Hannant and his family knew that when he signed the contract.
There’s nothing stopping the Hannant family living in Brisbane if Ben is willing to commute for all Bulldogs training, playing and extra-curricular commitments. I know his fellow prop at the Bulldogs Michael Hodgson has done something similar – he had a wife left behind in Canberra I think last year.
The Club View
It’s a tough position for the Hannant family to be in, it really is. But rugby league can’t let players pick and choose when they want to honour contracts. It’s unfair on the Bulldogs club and their fans. Same goes for any other player at any other club – contracts should mean something strong.
In this situation the Bulldogs, being the club they are, likely won’t demand Hannant stays put and honours his deal. They’ve asked for compensation and fair enough. Hannant is a Queensland and Australian prop forward – those guys don’t come around every day.
While I really feel for the tough position Hannant is in, I don’t think he can be allowed to walk. To his credit Hannant has done the right thing and won’t walk out on the club. We need to be very careful to ensure this situation is the extreme exception – when a player signs a contract they should honour it to suit themselves, the club, and most importantly, the fans.
TIPPING
Tips – Parramatta, Dragons, Penrith, Manly, Titans, Broncos, Bulldogs, Cronulla
Last Week – 4/8
Total – 10/16
If you have any thoughts on player contracts, Ben Hannant or anything at all drop me a line at andrew.keyte@gmail.com. I’m also on twitter, @keyto316, and Facebook. There’s my blog, http://keytonrlhits.blogspot.com, and I write at Sports Australia. So there’s plenty of ways to reach me and I will reply.
I’m off to the Broncos vs. Warriors on Sunday and hopefully you can get out and watch your team this weekend.
See you next week,
Keyto
Are these things written on scraps of paper now? Are they kept in a back pocket to be used when needed and discarded when finished? I’m no legal expert but I’m sure an NRL contract says – “We’re going to pay you so much money and you’re going to represent our club for so many years”. These days it seems the contracts say – “We’re going to pay you so much money but don’t worry about the years, they’re an approximate number”.
It seems in the last few years very few players see out their contracts. This DOES go both ways with clubs sometimes moving guys along early, but today I’m focussing on the player side of it. Of course the greatest example is Sonny Bill Williams, but that’s an extreme case. The one I’m looking at is Ben Hannant and the Bulldogs.
For those that don’t know, Hannant signed a big three year deal with the Bulldogs and is contracted to play there until the end of next season. However Hannant and his family are homesick and want to move back to Queensland and play with either the Titans or Broncos from next year onwards. That essentially means Hannant wants to walk out on the final year of his current contract, and that’s where the problem is.
No place like home
I don't doubt Hannant is homesick. He has nothing against the Bulldogs and has always struck me (and most) as a good, honest footballer, man, husband and father. But at the end of the day he made a commitment to play for the Bulldogs for three years, and to get paid handsomely for it.
Hannant had a chance to stay in Queensland from 2009. He was playing with my team, the Broncos, and they wanted him. That club has a history of players wanting to play for the Broncos on less money they could earn elsewhere. Hannant made the decision to reject a Broncos offer and take up a richer deal in Sydney – who could blame him? I certainly don’t, he made what he felt was the best decision for him and his family. And good on him – but there can be no backing out.
With the money came the change of lifestyle and a big move to Sydney. Hannant and his family knew that when he signed the contract.
There’s nothing stopping the Hannant family living in Brisbane if Ben is willing to commute for all Bulldogs training, playing and extra-curricular commitments. I know his fellow prop at the Bulldogs Michael Hodgson has done something similar – he had a wife left behind in Canberra I think last year.
The Club View
It’s a tough position for the Hannant family to be in, it really is. But rugby league can’t let players pick and choose when they want to honour contracts. It’s unfair on the Bulldogs club and their fans. Same goes for any other player at any other club – contracts should mean something strong.
In this situation the Bulldogs, being the club they are, likely won’t demand Hannant stays put and honours his deal. They’ve asked for compensation and fair enough. Hannant is a Queensland and Australian prop forward – those guys don’t come around every day.
While I really feel for the tough position Hannant is in, I don’t think he can be allowed to walk. To his credit Hannant has done the right thing and won’t walk out on the club. We need to be very careful to ensure this situation is the extreme exception – when a player signs a contract they should honour it to suit themselves, the club, and most importantly, the fans.
TIPPING
Tips – Parramatta, Dragons, Penrith, Manly, Titans, Broncos, Bulldogs, Cronulla
Last Week – 4/8
Total – 10/16
If you have any thoughts on player contracts, Ben Hannant or anything at all drop me a line at andrew.keyte@gmail.com. I’m also on twitter, @keyto316, and Facebook. There’s my blog, http://keytonrlhits.blogspot.com, and I write at Sports Australia. So there’s plenty of ways to reach me and I will reply.
I’m off to the Broncos vs. Warriors on Sunday and hopefully you can get out and watch your team this weekend.
See you next week,
Keyto
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Qld Teams Rd 3 - Campbell back, Parker out
Cowboys prepare for NSW trip
The North Queensland Cowboys will take an unchanged 18 man squad on their first trip south of the border this season.
Coach Neil Henry has made one positional change to the previously announced sides as his team prepares to face St George-Illawarra in Wollongong Friday night.
Steve Rapira is named to start in the second row with Steve Southern pushed back to the bench.
Carl Webb made a successful return from a calf injury last week and eventually started the 28-20 come-from-behind win over the Panthers.
Webb too has been named on the bench with Matt Scott likely to assume a starting prop position.
Young second-rower James Tamou is 18th man for the third week in a row.
Fullback Ty Williams and five-eighth Grant Rovelli held their spots despite mixed starts in season 2010.
Williams is deputising for the injured Matt Bowen and his inexperience has been exposed by both Penrith and Brisbane in the early rounds.
Rovelli, under pressure from Under 20’s halfback Ray Thompson, has been given at least one more week to work on his kicking game and foil options for Johnathan Thurston.
The Cowboys last week staged a remarkable 26-point second half comeback to down Penrith, a week after a 24-point blitz against the Broncos came up just short.
Friday night’s opponents the Dragons are unlikely to allow such a comeback making a strong start imperative for the Cowboys.
Titans eye three straight
The undefeated Gold Coast Titans welcome back Preston Campbell for their home match with Canberra Saturday night.
Campbell was a late scratching from last week’s 19-18 Golden Point thriller over South Sydney.
The concussed Campbell was adequately replaced at fullback by former Raider William Zillman.
In the only change from last week Zillman is on the bench to fill the utility role in place of off-season recruit Riley Brown.
Brown has struggled for match time in the opening rounds and is likely to play close to a full game with the Burleigh Bears in the Queensland Cup this weekend.
The Titans are aiming for their third straight win in both the NRL competition and against the Raiders at Skilled Park.
Canberra, fresh off a gutsy 22-14 win over the Broncos last night, are searching for their first win at Skilled Park.
The match starts at the later time of 8:30pm Saturday.
Bronco Parker injured
Hardworking Broncos lock Corey Parker will likely miss up to six weeks with a knee ligament strain suffered in last night’s loss to the Raiders.
With the short turnaround the Broncos named Parker for Sunday’s match at Suncorp Stadium against the Warriors.
However it seems unlikely Parker will play with 18th man Lagi Setu favourite to play his first match of the season.
Parker flew home early this morning to be with his wife for the birth of their first child and having played every game last season, will be sorely missed in the team.
Apart from his solid defensive work rate Parker is also first choice goal kicker.
Rookie fullback Corey Norman missed an easy conversion attempt at 18-14 last night when Parker was off the field.
Goal-kicking responsibilities for Sunday are likely to fall with halfback Peter Wallace.
The 18-man squad remains the same as those named in the first two weeks of the competition.
Former Broncos players Brent Tate and Joel Moon form part of a Warriors squad desperate to improve their form in Australia.
Queensland stalwart Steve Price hoped to be clear of a heel injury but was not named in the Warriors side today.
The match will screen live on Fox Sports from 1pm (Queensland time) Sunday with the Titans game also live on Fox Sports from 8:30pm Saturday.
The Cowboys kick-off round three Friday night against the Dragons live from 7:30pm (Queensland time) on Channel Nine.
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Dragons, Friday 7:35pm QLD, (Channel Nine, live)
Ty Williams, John Williams, Ashley Graham, Willie Tonga, Michael Bani, Grant Rovelli, Johnathan Thurston (c), Matt Scott, Aaron Payne, Antonio Kaufusi, Scott Bolton, Steve Rapira, Luke O’Donnell. Interchange: Anthony Watts, Steve Southern, Willie Mason, Carl Webb, James Tamou (one to be omitted).
Gold Coast Titans vs. Canberra, Saturday 8:30pm QLD, (Fox Sports, live)
Preston Campbell, Kevin Gordon, Mat Rogers, Joseph Tomane, David Mead, Greg Bird, Scott Prince (c), Luke Bailey, Nathan Friend, Brad Meyers, Anthony Laffranchi, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Matthew White, Sam Tagataese, Bodene Thompson, William Zillman.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Warriors, Sunday 1pm QLD, (Fox Sports, live)
Corey Norman, Antonio Winterstein, Gerard Beale, Israel Folau, Denan Kemp, Darren Lockyer (c), Peter Wallace, Nick Kenny, Andrew McCullough, Scott Anderson, Ben Te’o, Sam Thaiday, Corey Parker. Interchange: Alex Glenn, Matt Gillett, Mitchell Dodds, Josh McGuire, Lagi Setu (one to be omitted).
The North Queensland Cowboys will take an unchanged 18 man squad on their first trip south of the border this season.
Coach Neil Henry has made one positional change to the previously announced sides as his team prepares to face St George-Illawarra in Wollongong Friday night.
Steve Rapira is named to start in the second row with Steve Southern pushed back to the bench.
Carl Webb made a successful return from a calf injury last week and eventually started the 28-20 come-from-behind win over the Panthers.
Webb too has been named on the bench with Matt Scott likely to assume a starting prop position.
Young second-rower James Tamou is 18th man for the third week in a row.
Fullback Ty Williams and five-eighth Grant Rovelli held their spots despite mixed starts in season 2010.
Williams is deputising for the injured Matt Bowen and his inexperience has been exposed by both Penrith and Brisbane in the early rounds.
Rovelli, under pressure from Under 20’s halfback Ray Thompson, has been given at least one more week to work on his kicking game and foil options for Johnathan Thurston.
The Cowboys last week staged a remarkable 26-point second half comeback to down Penrith, a week after a 24-point blitz against the Broncos came up just short.
Friday night’s opponents the Dragons are unlikely to allow such a comeback making a strong start imperative for the Cowboys.
Titans eye three straight
The undefeated Gold Coast Titans welcome back Preston Campbell for their home match with Canberra Saturday night.
Campbell was a late scratching from last week’s 19-18 Golden Point thriller over South Sydney.
The concussed Campbell was adequately replaced at fullback by former Raider William Zillman.
In the only change from last week Zillman is on the bench to fill the utility role in place of off-season recruit Riley Brown.
Brown has struggled for match time in the opening rounds and is likely to play close to a full game with the Burleigh Bears in the Queensland Cup this weekend.
The Titans are aiming for their third straight win in both the NRL competition and against the Raiders at Skilled Park.
Canberra, fresh off a gutsy 22-14 win over the Broncos last night, are searching for their first win at Skilled Park.
The match starts at the later time of 8:30pm Saturday.
Bronco Parker injured
Hardworking Broncos lock Corey Parker will likely miss up to six weeks with a knee ligament strain suffered in last night’s loss to the Raiders.
With the short turnaround the Broncos named Parker for Sunday’s match at Suncorp Stadium against the Warriors.
However it seems unlikely Parker will play with 18th man Lagi Setu favourite to play his first match of the season.
Parker flew home early this morning to be with his wife for the birth of their first child and having played every game last season, will be sorely missed in the team.
Apart from his solid defensive work rate Parker is also first choice goal kicker.
Rookie fullback Corey Norman missed an easy conversion attempt at 18-14 last night when Parker was off the field.
Goal-kicking responsibilities for Sunday are likely to fall with halfback Peter Wallace.
The 18-man squad remains the same as those named in the first two weeks of the competition.
Former Broncos players Brent Tate and Joel Moon form part of a Warriors squad desperate to improve their form in Australia.
Queensland stalwart Steve Price hoped to be clear of a heel injury but was not named in the Warriors side today.
The match will screen live on Fox Sports from 1pm (Queensland time) Sunday with the Titans game also live on Fox Sports from 8:30pm Saturday.
The Cowboys kick-off round three Friday night against the Dragons live from 7:30pm (Queensland time) on Channel Nine.
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Dragons, Friday 7:35pm QLD, (Channel Nine, live)
Ty Williams, John Williams, Ashley Graham, Willie Tonga, Michael Bani, Grant Rovelli, Johnathan Thurston (c), Matt Scott, Aaron Payne, Antonio Kaufusi, Scott Bolton, Steve Rapira, Luke O’Donnell. Interchange: Anthony Watts, Steve Southern, Willie Mason, Carl Webb, James Tamou (one to be omitted).
Gold Coast Titans vs. Canberra, Saturday 8:30pm QLD, (Fox Sports, live)
Preston Campbell, Kevin Gordon, Mat Rogers, Joseph Tomane, David Mead, Greg Bird, Scott Prince (c), Luke Bailey, Nathan Friend, Brad Meyers, Anthony Laffranchi, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Matthew White, Sam Tagataese, Bodene Thompson, William Zillman.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Warriors, Sunday 1pm QLD, (Fox Sports, live)
Corey Norman, Antonio Winterstein, Gerard Beale, Israel Folau, Denan Kemp, Darren Lockyer (c), Peter Wallace, Nick Kenny, Andrew McCullough, Scott Anderson, Ben Te’o, Sam Thaiday, Corey Parker. Interchange: Alex Glenn, Matt Gillett, Mitchell Dodds, Josh McGuire, Lagi Setu (one to be omitted).
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Exciting Backs to Excite the Fans
G’day folks I am back again with my weekly thoughts on the NRL season. Thanks to everyone who read and responded to my four part Preview article last week. Welcome to anyone who may be here for the first time as well.
Each Thursday I will post a short piece on a thought or issue within the wonderful game of rugby league over at Sports Australia and my blog site: http://keytonrlhits.blogspot.com/. Your contributions are very much welcome and you can leave comments below or reach me directly at andrew.keyte@gmail.com.
This week I am going to take a look at three of the most exciting backs in the game. These promising gents are destined for representative football and all have the potential, as we’ve seen, to really ignite a crowd.
Jamal Idris
I love watching this Bulldog play – the man is a giant and has hair all over the place!! He stands out, he can hit and knows how to find the try line. The scary thing is, Idris is just a pup! He is one year out of school and still growing!!
I remember Idris making a break against the Titans last year. He had two men unmarked and one defender coming across in cover – Preston Campbell. You could see Jamal’s mind tick over – “Yep, I can take him”. And the big fella proceeded to run Presto over like a bump in the road.
Final thought – Idris vs. Inglis, Origin I ... how good would that be?!?
Chris Lawrence
This is one of the really good kids in the NRL. He too is quite young but hearing him speak and watching him off-field you would think he is a ten year veteran. When Lawrence broke into the Tigers side he was a skinny whippet. These days he is still a whippet, but he is also a big strong lad who knows how to tackle.
I think the Blues could do worse than pick Lawrence in the centres for Origin this year – tough call with the likes of Tahu, Cooper, Jennings, Morris, Lyon and Idris – but Lawrence is ready.
The thing I like most about Lawrence is his ability to hit hard and make the big play. Sometimes the big play is that one-on-one tackle or being in the right position. He would be in my team any day.
Josh Dugan
Now, Dugan I like the most. There’s just something about this Canberra fullback I really, really like. The kid is tough, he is there when he is needed and knows when to chime in to attack. He is also learning every game. Dugan too is only a pup and I would not expect to see him at rep level for a while.
The bravado Dugan displayed against the Broncos last season typified just why I rate him. Not once but twice Dugan was steamrolled by man-mountain Dave Taylor. He was the last man standing both times, hardly stood a chance both times, but gave it his shot both times – and succeeded in stopping Taylor.
This season I think Dugan could really step up another notch and form a key link role in whatever the Raiders do in attack. I would like to see Dugan play the role of second five-eighth and get involved when needed, while of course continuing to evolve as a quality fullback.
Tips – Bulldogs, Souths, Warriors, Storm, Cowboys, Eels, Tigers, Broncos
Last Week – 6/8
Total – 6/8
So, there you have three of the young backline talents running around this season in the NRL. I reckon all three will be real stars of the future, if they are not already stars of today.
Any thoughts or players of your own can be emailed to me and I will respond.
Until next week enjoy the football and hopefully your team has a win on the weekend.
Cheers,
Keyto
Each Thursday I will post a short piece on a thought or issue within the wonderful game of rugby league over at Sports Australia and my blog site: http://keytonrlhits.blogspot.com/. Your contributions are very much welcome and you can leave comments below or reach me directly at andrew.keyte@gmail.com.
This week I am going to take a look at three of the most exciting backs in the game. These promising gents are destined for representative football and all have the potential, as we’ve seen, to really ignite a crowd.
Jamal Idris
I love watching this Bulldog play – the man is a giant and has hair all over the place!! He stands out, he can hit and knows how to find the try line. The scary thing is, Idris is just a pup! He is one year out of school and still growing!!
I remember Idris making a break against the Titans last year. He had two men unmarked and one defender coming across in cover – Preston Campbell. You could see Jamal’s mind tick over – “Yep, I can take him”. And the big fella proceeded to run Presto over like a bump in the road.
Final thought – Idris vs. Inglis, Origin I ... how good would that be?!?
Chris Lawrence
This is one of the really good kids in the NRL. He too is quite young but hearing him speak and watching him off-field you would think he is a ten year veteran. When Lawrence broke into the Tigers side he was a skinny whippet. These days he is still a whippet, but he is also a big strong lad who knows how to tackle.
I think the Blues could do worse than pick Lawrence in the centres for Origin this year – tough call with the likes of Tahu, Cooper, Jennings, Morris, Lyon and Idris – but Lawrence is ready.
The thing I like most about Lawrence is his ability to hit hard and make the big play. Sometimes the big play is that one-on-one tackle or being in the right position. He would be in my team any day.
Josh Dugan
Now, Dugan I like the most. There’s just something about this Canberra fullback I really, really like. The kid is tough, he is there when he is needed and knows when to chime in to attack. He is also learning every game. Dugan too is only a pup and I would not expect to see him at rep level for a while.
The bravado Dugan displayed against the Broncos last season typified just why I rate him. Not once but twice Dugan was steamrolled by man-mountain Dave Taylor. He was the last man standing both times, hardly stood a chance both times, but gave it his shot both times – and succeeded in stopping Taylor.
This season I think Dugan could really step up another notch and form a key link role in whatever the Raiders do in attack. I would like to see Dugan play the role of second five-eighth and get involved when needed, while of course continuing to evolve as a quality fullback.
Tips – Bulldogs, Souths, Warriors, Storm, Cowboys, Eels, Tigers, Broncos
Last Week – 6/8
Total – 6/8
So, there you have three of the young backline talents running around this season in the NRL. I reckon all three will be real stars of the future, if they are not already stars of today.
Any thoughts or players of your own can be emailed to me and I will respond.
Until next week enjoy the football and hopefully your team has a win on the weekend.
Cheers,
Keyto
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Queensland Teams - Rd 2
Titans name Campbell, Zillman on standby
Gold Coast Titans Coach John Cartwright named Preston Campbell to play this weekend despite the fullback under an injury cloud.
Campbell was named in the 18 man squad to play the Rabbitohs in Sydney on Friday night but reports this morning suggest he may miss the trip.
After pulling off a series of big plays to set up a 24-18 Round One victory over the Warriors, Campbell suffered a heavy head knock late in the match and could not recall the afternoon’s game.
If ruled out Friday night, Campbell will be replaced at fullback by William Zillman.
After spending last season filling any necessary spot in the Titans backline, Zillman started the 2010 season in the Queensland Cup with new recruit Riley Brown claiming the utility role on the bench.
Zillman produced a blinder for feeder side Ipswich Jets that included two tries and 16 of the 17 players’ player votes.
Prop Matthew White is the only other addition to the squad that produced a scrappy come-from-behind win at Skilled Park last weekend.
White has been suffering a virus for the past three weeks and appears the man most likely to drop off a five man bench.
Cowboys unchanged
The North Queensland Cowboys are unchanged for their first home match of the season.
Coach Neil Henry may have the addition of hulking prop Carl Webb (calf) to face Penrith on Saturday night.
Named 18th man, Webb will have a fitness test on the injured calf that forced him out of last weekend’s exciting six point loss to Brisbane.
The Cowboys overcame a shocking start against the Broncos, in which they trailed 24-0, to come within a whisker of stealing a first round victory.
North Queensland host an open training session at Dairy Farmers Stadium on Friday.
Winterstein, Folau likely for Broncos
Coach Ivan Henjak backed winger Antonio Winterstein and centre Israel Folau to overcome minor injuries ahead of Monday nights’ game in Canberra.
Both men were injured against the Cowboys last week with Winterstein spending the entire second half sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Folau injured his shoulder scoring the opening Broncos try of the season but finished the game against the Cowboys.
The Broncos return to Canberra Monday night with memories of the clubs’ most embarrassing night in history still fresh in their mind.
Last August the Raiders handed Brisbane a 56-0 drubbing on a night that re-wrote the record books.
However just seven current Broncos played that match, including the recalled Lagi Setu.
Setu has been named 18th man for this weekend after starting the season in the Queensland Cup.
All three Queensland-based teams will have live television coverage of their matches this weekend.
The Titans start the round on Channel Nine Friday night, while the Cowboys and Broncos are live on Fox Sports Saturday and Monday night respectively.
Gold Coast Titans vs. Souths, Friday 7:35pm Qld time, (Channel Nine, live)
Preston Campbell, Kevin Gordon, Mat Rogers, Joseph Tomane, David Mead, Greg Bird, Scott Prince (c), Luke Bailey, Nathan Friend, Brad Meyers, Anthony Laffranchi, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Matthew White, Sam Tagataese, Bodene Thompson, Riley Brown, Will Matthews (one to be omitted).
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Panthers, Saturday 8:30pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Ty Williams, John Williams, Ashley Graham, Willie Tonga, Michael Bani, Grant Rovelli, Johnathan Thurston (c), Matt Scott, Aaron Payne, Antonio Kaufusi, Scott Bolton, Steve Southern, Luke O’Donnell. Interchange: Anthony Watts, Steve Rapira, Willie Mason, Manase Manuokafoa, Carl Webb, James Tamou (two to be omitted).
Brisbane Broncos vs. Canberra, Monday 6pm Qld time, (Fox Sports, live)
Corey Norman, Antonio Winterstein, Gerard Beale, Israel Folau, Denan Kemp, Darren Lockyer (c), Peter Wallace, Nick Kenny, Andrew McCullough, Scott Anderson, Ben Te’o, Sam Thaiday, Corey Parker. Interchange: Alex Glenn, Matt Gillett, Josh McGuire, Mitchell Dodds, Lagi Setu (one to be omitted).
Gold Coast Titans Coach John Cartwright named Preston Campbell to play this weekend despite the fullback under an injury cloud.
Campbell was named in the 18 man squad to play the Rabbitohs in Sydney on Friday night but reports this morning suggest he may miss the trip.
After pulling off a series of big plays to set up a 24-18 Round One victory over the Warriors, Campbell suffered a heavy head knock late in the match and could not recall the afternoon’s game.
If ruled out Friday night, Campbell will be replaced at fullback by William Zillman.
After spending last season filling any necessary spot in the Titans backline, Zillman started the 2010 season in the Queensland Cup with new recruit Riley Brown claiming the utility role on the bench.
Zillman produced a blinder for feeder side Ipswich Jets that included two tries and 16 of the 17 players’ player votes.
Prop Matthew White is the only other addition to the squad that produced a scrappy come-from-behind win at Skilled Park last weekend.
White has been suffering a virus for the past three weeks and appears the man most likely to drop off a five man bench.
Cowboys unchanged
The North Queensland Cowboys are unchanged for their first home match of the season.
Coach Neil Henry may have the addition of hulking prop Carl Webb (calf) to face Penrith on Saturday night.
Named 18th man, Webb will have a fitness test on the injured calf that forced him out of last weekend’s exciting six point loss to Brisbane.
The Cowboys overcame a shocking start against the Broncos, in which they trailed 24-0, to come within a whisker of stealing a first round victory.
North Queensland host an open training session at Dairy Farmers Stadium on Friday.
Winterstein, Folau likely for Broncos
Coach Ivan Henjak backed winger Antonio Winterstein and centre Israel Folau to overcome minor injuries ahead of Monday nights’ game in Canberra.
Both men were injured against the Cowboys last week with Winterstein spending the entire second half sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Folau injured his shoulder scoring the opening Broncos try of the season but finished the game against the Cowboys.
The Broncos return to Canberra Monday night with memories of the clubs’ most embarrassing night in history still fresh in their mind.
Last August the Raiders handed Brisbane a 56-0 drubbing on a night that re-wrote the record books.
However just seven current Broncos played that match, including the recalled Lagi Setu.
Setu has been named 18th man for this weekend after starting the season in the Queensland Cup.
All three Queensland-based teams will have live television coverage of their matches this weekend.
The Titans start the round on Channel Nine Friday night, while the Cowboys and Broncos are live on Fox Sports Saturday and Monday night respectively.
Gold Coast Titans vs. Souths, Friday 7:35pm Qld time, (Channel Nine, live)
Preston Campbell, Kevin Gordon, Mat Rogers, Joseph Tomane, David Mead, Greg Bird, Scott Prince (c), Luke Bailey, Nathan Friend, Brad Meyers, Anthony Laffranchi, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Matthew White, Sam Tagataese, Bodene Thompson, Riley Brown, Will Matthews (one to be omitted).
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Panthers, Saturday 8:30pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Ty Williams, John Williams, Ashley Graham, Willie Tonga, Michael Bani, Grant Rovelli, Johnathan Thurston (c), Matt Scott, Aaron Payne, Antonio Kaufusi, Scott Bolton, Steve Southern, Luke O’Donnell. Interchange: Anthony Watts, Steve Rapira, Willie Mason, Manase Manuokafoa, Carl Webb, James Tamou (two to be omitted).
Brisbane Broncos vs. Canberra, Monday 6pm Qld time, (Fox Sports, live)
Corey Norman, Antonio Winterstein, Gerard Beale, Israel Folau, Denan Kemp, Darren Lockyer (c), Peter Wallace, Nick Kenny, Andrew McCullough, Scott Anderson, Ben Te’o, Sam Thaiday, Corey Parker. Interchange: Alex Glenn, Matt Gillett, Josh McGuire, Mitchell Dodds, Lagi Setu (one to be omitted).
Friday, March 12, 2010
Preview Part Four
Hello readers and welcome to the final instalment of my 2010 NRL season preview. In this column I will discuss the four teams I believe could qualify at the top of the ladder this year. As per the previous discussions I will give a team motto, x-factor and general prediction.
SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS – Finals or BUST!!
Prediction – This has got to be the Bunnies year to shine. They have the best forward pack in the competition and developing halves. They’ll take a spot anywhere in the eight but top two is no way beyond them. If South Sydney don’t make the Finals they should dead-set pack up and move to Perth.
X-Factor – David Taylor and Sam Burgess – These two bulls have the potential to be serious ‘Bash Brothers’ for the Rabbitohs. They run hard, they hurt and they intimidate. They’ll run wide, set up tries, score tries and belt blokes – should be great for the viewer!!
MELBOURNE STORM – Maintain Perfection
Prediction – Every year we look at the ‘Outs’ and say the Storm can’t possibly stay on top yet every year they are as hard to beat as ever. The Storm know how to win big games and that’s invaluable. They might fall back in the pack a bit but they’ll be hard to beat in every game.
X-Factor – Adam Blair – This is a guy you’d love to play with and want to beat when you’re his opponent. Blair has that happy knack of lifting and inspiring his side with a big play. He will be a bit of a heartbeat and a real leader of this Melbourne side.
CANTERBURY BULLDOGS – Onwards and Upwards
Prediction – The Bulldogs of old are back and they should be a major player this season. Last year they fell apart with a late injury to Kimmorley. I would expect them to sit in the top four for pretty much the duration of the season.
X-Factor – Ben Roberts – Has had tremendous potential for a while and just started to make the turn last year. Playing another season alongside Kimmorley, who will drip-feed him more responsibility, will really help. I’m expecting a big season for the Kiwi representative.
CANBERRA RAIDERS – Our Time is NOW!!
Prediction – These guys have been quietly plugging along together in Canberra for a few years now. They’re a tight-knit group and should try and harness that siege mentality. If they get that, and can win away, they could become a really tough team to beat.
X-Factor – Josh Dugan – The best young fullback in the game without a doubt. He is physically tough and has good attacking awareness. Dugan has potential to be anything and I expect him to be a big part of whatever the Raiders end up doing in 2010.
So there you have it, my NRL Season predictions for season 2010. I can’t wait for the season to kick off Friday night, as I’m sure you all can’t either!! All season I’m available on email, andrew.keyte@gmail.com, or via the comment boards for your feedback.
Cheers,
Keyto
SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS – Finals or BUST!!
Prediction – This has got to be the Bunnies year to shine. They have the best forward pack in the competition and developing halves. They’ll take a spot anywhere in the eight but top two is no way beyond them. If South Sydney don’t make the Finals they should dead-set pack up and move to Perth.
X-Factor – David Taylor and Sam Burgess – These two bulls have the potential to be serious ‘Bash Brothers’ for the Rabbitohs. They run hard, they hurt and they intimidate. They’ll run wide, set up tries, score tries and belt blokes – should be great for the viewer!!
MELBOURNE STORM – Maintain Perfection
Prediction – Every year we look at the ‘Outs’ and say the Storm can’t possibly stay on top yet every year they are as hard to beat as ever. The Storm know how to win big games and that’s invaluable. They might fall back in the pack a bit but they’ll be hard to beat in every game.
X-Factor – Adam Blair – This is a guy you’d love to play with and want to beat when you’re his opponent. Blair has that happy knack of lifting and inspiring his side with a big play. He will be a bit of a heartbeat and a real leader of this Melbourne side.
CANTERBURY BULLDOGS – Onwards and Upwards
Prediction – The Bulldogs of old are back and they should be a major player this season. Last year they fell apart with a late injury to Kimmorley. I would expect them to sit in the top four for pretty much the duration of the season.
X-Factor – Ben Roberts – Has had tremendous potential for a while and just started to make the turn last year. Playing another season alongside Kimmorley, who will drip-feed him more responsibility, will really help. I’m expecting a big season for the Kiwi representative.
CANBERRA RAIDERS – Our Time is NOW!!
Prediction – These guys have been quietly plugging along together in Canberra for a few years now. They’re a tight-knit group and should try and harness that siege mentality. If they get that, and can win away, they could become a really tough team to beat.
X-Factor – Josh Dugan – The best young fullback in the game without a doubt. He is physically tough and has good attacking awareness. Dugan has potential to be anything and I expect him to be a big part of whatever the Raiders end up doing in 2010.
So there you have it, my NRL Season predictions for season 2010. I can’t wait for the season to kick off Friday night, as I’m sure you all can’t either!! All season I’m available on email, andrew.keyte@gmail.com, or via the comment boards for your feedback.
Cheers,
Keyto
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
NRL Preview Part Three
Hello readers and welcome to my NRL season preview, part three of four. Today I’m looking at the teams I expect to finish 5th to 8th, in no particular order. Once again I will give a team motto, and x-factor and a prediction as seen through my eyes! As always any feedback is greatly appreciated.
PARRAMATTA EELS – Beware of second year syndrome
Prediction – Parramatta have brought some really good talent and there’s nothing to suggest they can’t be a major player. I think though they might find things tough at times and they may over-rely on a few key players.
X-Factor – Jarryd Hayne – After the season he had last year how could anyone bar Hayne be the key man this season? Opposition players and coaches will be after him and how he handles that will have a huge influence on the Eels’ season.
GOLD COAST TITANS – Moving Forward
Prediction – The Titans have improved every year in their short lifespan and will have very high expectations. I expect them to plod along as they have in the past, win their home games and play well enough on the road. They need to learn to win the really big games; they haven’t done that in the past.
X-Factor – Greg Bird – Has plenty to prove after his well-publicised off-field issues. He should prove a really good foil to Scott Prince and his toughness will be felt too. A good buy for the Titans.
St GEORGE-ILLAWARRA DRAGONS – No love, but who needs that.
Prediction – After from their own loyal fans, no one else really likes the Dragons (opposition, media, fans). That shouldn’t worry the Dragons but they will have a big target. I can’t see how they’ve strengthened their squad from last year and have lost a few guys too. All about attitude in 2010.
X-Factor – Jamie Soward – Talked up for Origin last year before going slightly off the boil. His ‘second year’ will be vital for the Dragons chances; has potential to do some very good things (and some bad).
NORTH QLD COWBOYS – Bound for Glory.
Prediction – I think we should see the Cowboys return to their glory days of 4 or 5 years ago. They’ve got a good forward pack and the world’s best halfback. Matt Bowen is a loss early but they have some quality backs – another team where attitude will play a huge role in their season.
X-Factor – Willie Mason – The big fella got a second (or third) chance when the Cowboys gave him a lifeline. He should be back at his best after spending most of last year recovering from a serious knee injury. Has the potential to be back at his highest representative level while having relative anonymity.
That’s it for today and tomorrow I will give you my top four – including one pretty big surprise team. I can be reached through the comments on this page or at andrew.keyte@gmail.com.
Talk to you soon,
Keyto
PARRAMATTA EELS – Beware of second year syndrome
Prediction – Parramatta have brought some really good talent and there’s nothing to suggest they can’t be a major player. I think though they might find things tough at times and they may over-rely on a few key players.
X-Factor – Jarryd Hayne – After the season he had last year how could anyone bar Hayne be the key man this season? Opposition players and coaches will be after him and how he handles that will have a huge influence on the Eels’ season.
GOLD COAST TITANS – Moving Forward
Prediction – The Titans have improved every year in their short lifespan and will have very high expectations. I expect them to plod along as they have in the past, win their home games and play well enough on the road. They need to learn to win the really big games; they haven’t done that in the past.
X-Factor – Greg Bird – Has plenty to prove after his well-publicised off-field issues. He should prove a really good foil to Scott Prince and his toughness will be felt too. A good buy for the Titans.
St GEORGE-ILLAWARRA DRAGONS – No love, but who needs that.
Prediction – After from their own loyal fans, no one else really likes the Dragons (opposition, media, fans). That shouldn’t worry the Dragons but they will have a big target. I can’t see how they’ve strengthened their squad from last year and have lost a few guys too. All about attitude in 2010.
X-Factor – Jamie Soward – Talked up for Origin last year before going slightly off the boil. His ‘second year’ will be vital for the Dragons chances; has potential to do some very good things (and some bad).
NORTH QLD COWBOYS – Bound for Glory.
Prediction – I think we should see the Cowboys return to their glory days of 4 or 5 years ago. They’ve got a good forward pack and the world’s best halfback. Matt Bowen is a loss early but they have some quality backs – another team where attitude will play a huge role in their season.
X-Factor – Willie Mason – The big fella got a second (or third) chance when the Cowboys gave him a lifeline. He should be back at his best after spending most of last year recovering from a serious knee injury. Has the potential to be back at his highest representative level while having relative anonymity.
That’s it for today and tomorrow I will give you my top four – including one pretty big surprise team. I can be reached through the comments on this page or at andrew.keyte@gmail.com.
Talk to you soon,
Keyto
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Preview part 2
G’day again folks and welcome to my NRL season 2010 preview, part two of four today. Once again you can reach me through the various feedback forms. The focus for now though is on the four teams (in no particular order) I believe will finish close to the top eight, but won’t quite make it to September. Again I have a team motto, and X-factor player and a brief prediction of how I think the season will pan out.
BRISBANE BRONCOS – Rebuild, maintain culture
Prediction – Write the Broncos off at your peril but I just think they lack a bit of class this year. Very young side and lacking recognised game-breakers. The forwards are also a bit of a worry. Brisbane will be thereabouts as always, but won’t quite make it.
X-Factor – Tim Smith – One of many ‘second chance players’ for this season but this bad boy faces the toughest challenge. Probably won’t start any games early in the season, but will be a more than handy asset.
PENRITH PANTHERS – Punch above your weight
Prediction – Potential to be a real hot and cold team, as they were last year. They’ll beat some good sides but find ways to lose against teams they should beat. And that’s why they won’t make the eight, but gosh I hope they do!!
X-Factor – Luke Walsh – He is the chief footballer in a team off football players. Penrith don’t have many athletes but they have genuine rugby league players and Walsh, at halfback, is one of the better ones. Should steer this side well and does have a big play in him.
SYDNEY ROOSTERS – Must Win More Games!
Prediction – The Roosters are a team coming off a dead-set embarrassing 2009. What’s more, they haven’t been competitive on the field for longer. They’ve had a clean out and should do better, but I feel 2011 might be a better year.
X-Factor – Todd Carney – It seems all his sins are forgiven and he will be a key member of this side, likely at fullback. For all the class he shows on the field he lacks it off the field. Hopefully we read more about Carney the star player than Carney the grub; rep footy not out of the question.
MANLY SEA EAGLES – Stop the rot
Prediction – The Eagles have been on a slippery slope since this time last year with their 2009 season launch. Still harbouring a 2008 Grand Final hangover, have lost their halfback and captain too. I can’t see them finishing better than mid-table.
X-Factor – Kieran Foran – This Kiwi half made a strong few showings last year and was part of the New Zealand squad at the end of the season. Not sure where he’ll play, but should be in the top 17 and will do some good things.
I’ll be back tomorrow with a look at the bottom four of the best eight teams I believe will contest the 2010 Premiership. As always feel free to comment below or email me at andrew.keyte@gmail.com.
Chat again tomorrow,
Keyto
BRISBANE BRONCOS – Rebuild, maintain culture
Prediction – Write the Broncos off at your peril but I just think they lack a bit of class this year. Very young side and lacking recognised game-breakers. The forwards are also a bit of a worry. Brisbane will be thereabouts as always, but won’t quite make it.
X-Factor – Tim Smith – One of many ‘second chance players’ for this season but this bad boy faces the toughest challenge. Probably won’t start any games early in the season, but will be a more than handy asset.
PENRITH PANTHERS – Punch above your weight
Prediction – Potential to be a real hot and cold team, as they were last year. They’ll beat some good sides but find ways to lose against teams they should beat. And that’s why they won’t make the eight, but gosh I hope they do!!
X-Factor – Luke Walsh – He is the chief footballer in a team off football players. Penrith don’t have many athletes but they have genuine rugby league players and Walsh, at halfback, is one of the better ones. Should steer this side well and does have a big play in him.
SYDNEY ROOSTERS – Must Win More Games!
Prediction – The Roosters are a team coming off a dead-set embarrassing 2009. What’s more, they haven’t been competitive on the field for longer. They’ve had a clean out and should do better, but I feel 2011 might be a better year.
X-Factor – Todd Carney – It seems all his sins are forgiven and he will be a key member of this side, likely at fullback. For all the class he shows on the field he lacks it off the field. Hopefully we read more about Carney the star player than Carney the grub; rep footy not out of the question.
MANLY SEA EAGLES – Stop the rot
Prediction – The Eagles have been on a slippery slope since this time last year with their 2009 season launch. Still harbouring a 2008 Grand Final hangover, have lost their halfback and captain too. I can’t see them finishing better than mid-table.
X-Factor – Kieran Foran – This Kiwi half made a strong few showings last year and was part of the New Zealand squad at the end of the season. Not sure where he’ll play, but should be in the top 17 and will do some good things.
I’ll be back tomorrow with a look at the bottom four of the best eight teams I believe will contest the 2010 Premiership. As always feel free to comment below or email me at andrew.keyte@gmail.com.
Chat again tomorrow,
Keyto
Monday, March 8, 2010
2010 Preview - Part 1
Hello everyone and welcome to rugby league season 2010. My name is Andrew Keyte and I will be back this year with weekly columns, previews and match reports for Sports Australia and my blog site. Like last year I welcome your feedback and hope to have some interesting topics to discuss.
To begin this season I have a four-part season preview to release over the next four days as we prepare for Round One on Friday night. For each team I will give a brief season prediction, a look at their ‘X-Factor’ player and assign a team motto I think they should each follow.
Remember these are just my thoughts so take them with a grain of salt. Feel free to leave your own comments or drop me an email at andrew.keyte@gmail.com with your thoughts. I’ll kick-off with my opinion on the bottom four teams, in no particular order, for season 2010.
WESTS TIGERS – Lote = RATINGS (but not Finals)
Prediction – Same story as the last few years, the Tigers are a flamboyant team with plenty of flair but lack consistency. They get out-muscled in the forwards too often and questionable halves. Great off-field team and a few interesting recruits but won’t, unfortunately, make the eight.
X-Factor – Tim Moltzen – Great potential in a young player, the question is where to play him? Has spent time in the backs and the halves but I reckon fullback is the best bet.
NEW ZEALAND WARRIORS – Let the coach sleep at night
Prediction – Coach Cleary to be the first sacking of the season. It’s going to be a tough year; they’ve lost some of that home intimidation and will struggle away. Need an attitude overhaul and MUST WIN MORE GAMES in Australia.
X-Factor – Joel Moon – This has to be Moon’s year. He moved to the Warriors for a chance at five-eighth and didn’t show a lot in limited opportunities last year. He has been around the top grade long enough and it’s almost now or never.
CRONULLA SHARKS - 2010 can’t be any worse than 2009
Prediction – Look, I would love to see the Sharkies do well. And they need to – financially they have to win games. I just can’t see it happening, not enough class across the field. They are turning and will have a better year, but at least 18 months away from being genuine contenders.
X-Factor – Anthony Tupou – A change of club and return to his old coach should do wonders for a guy who has been way below his potential in recent years. I won’t be surprised to see him back at representative level again this season.
NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS – Drug free for a year!
Prediction – They sacked the coach last year, players possibly going to jail, heart and soul man Gidley is injured ... but they have spirit. They’ll need it all because the Knights are my favourite for the wooden spoon.
X-Factor – Jarrod Mullen – He is the only bright spark in Newcastle at the moment and will have Andrew Johns-like pressure on his shoulders.
Tomorrow I will have a look at the four teams who in my opinion will have decent years, but just miss out on the final eight. Until them you can send me an email or leave comments below. Talk to you all again soon.
Cheers,
Keyto
To begin this season I have a four-part season preview to release over the next four days as we prepare for Round One on Friday night. For each team I will give a brief season prediction, a look at their ‘X-Factor’ player and assign a team motto I think they should each follow.
Remember these are just my thoughts so take them with a grain of salt. Feel free to leave your own comments or drop me an email at andrew.keyte@gmail.com with your thoughts. I’ll kick-off with my opinion on the bottom four teams, in no particular order, for season 2010.
WESTS TIGERS – Lote = RATINGS (but not Finals)
Prediction – Same story as the last few years, the Tigers are a flamboyant team with plenty of flair but lack consistency. They get out-muscled in the forwards too often and questionable halves. Great off-field team and a few interesting recruits but won’t, unfortunately, make the eight.
X-Factor – Tim Moltzen – Great potential in a young player, the question is where to play him? Has spent time in the backs and the halves but I reckon fullback is the best bet.
NEW ZEALAND WARRIORS – Let the coach sleep at night
Prediction – Coach Cleary to be the first sacking of the season. It’s going to be a tough year; they’ve lost some of that home intimidation and will struggle away. Need an attitude overhaul and MUST WIN MORE GAMES in Australia.
X-Factor – Joel Moon – This has to be Moon’s year. He moved to the Warriors for a chance at five-eighth and didn’t show a lot in limited opportunities last year. He has been around the top grade long enough and it’s almost now or never.
CRONULLA SHARKS - 2010 can’t be any worse than 2009
Prediction – Look, I would love to see the Sharkies do well. And they need to – financially they have to win games. I just can’t see it happening, not enough class across the field. They are turning and will have a better year, but at least 18 months away from being genuine contenders.
X-Factor – Anthony Tupou – A change of club and return to his old coach should do wonders for a guy who has been way below his potential in recent years. I won’t be surprised to see him back at representative level again this season.
NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS – Drug free for a year!
Prediction – They sacked the coach last year, players possibly going to jail, heart and soul man Gidley is injured ... but they have spirit. They’ll need it all because the Knights are my favourite for the wooden spoon.
X-Factor – Jarrod Mullen – He is the only bright spark in Newcastle at the moment and will have Andrew Johns-like pressure on his shoulders.
Tomorrow I will have a look at the four teams who in my opinion will have decent years, but just miss out on the final eight. Until them you can send me an email or leave comments below. Talk to you all again soon.
Cheers,
Keyto
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