Wow, how good was last night Queensland fans!! The mighty Maroons opened their quest for a 5th straight series win with a pretty impressive win in trying conditions. I was there, live at the ground, in enemy territory (and torrential rain), and loved every minute of it.
Last week I spoke about tribalism and passion within the rugby league community. I highly recommend following your Origin team on an away trip – especially when your team is just about the greatest ever seen.
On the road
Gee it felt good boarding an early afternoon flight to Sydney with quite a few Queensland supporters all proudly wearing the gear. All you needed was a wink and a nudge, not even that, to know we were going as one to support our team. At this time of year, in the city of Brisbane, the rugby league community is united as one.
Landing in Sydney we knew it was enemy territory. For starters, it was WET and COLD!! I must confess though, I was disappointed in the Sydney-siders.
To get to where I was staying, I spent nearly an hour on trains, including 15 minutes standing on the platform at Central Station, in full Maroon gear and did NOT get heckled, gibed, ribbed or abused even once. Come on Sydney, really! If I showed up at Brisbane’s Central Station wearing Blue just hours before an Origin, I would cop plenty. Most in good fun of course, but there would be something at least!
There was a bit more fun waiting for a bus to take us to the ground. Within seconds of arriving at the bus stop we were told “Wrong bus, fellas!” followed by more grumbling as people squashed up to let “dirty Queenslanders” on board. Then though, we saw fellow Maroons and things were good. We were first off the bus and as we walked past, right up the back of our bus were two lonely Queenslanders who with a pat of the jersey and a thumbs up, united us all as one again.
ANZ Stadium
As I’ve said before, this was my first trip to Homebush and I quite enjoyed it. Yeah it’s a bit of a pain to get to with traffic and crowded trains, but once there I had no complaints. We were sitting in the official Queensland supporters section, with the brothers, and as we looked out across the stadium it did look pretty cool facing the sea of blue swallowing us.
I know what you’re thinking and the answer is yes, we got a tad wet. It “officially poured” in the early stages but with our trusty red ponchos we were actually reasonably comfortable. I loved it anyway – the rain, the cold, the blue, it all reminded us of where we were and what we’d come to do. I wouldn’t have had it any other way.
There was plenty of banter, booing, cheering and chanting as you’d expect. The camaraderie with these completed strangers bound only by football is pretty special. And chanting “na-na-na-na goodbye” as the Blues fans left the Eastern stand fairly early was pretty good fun too!
Beer – or lack of
ANZ Stadium ... what’s doing with this? Warning to Brisbane-based Queensland fans, you will be appalled at what I’m about to share.
The bars shut, yes SHUT, just minutes after halftime. Yep, no more beer for at least the last half hour of the game. From where we come from, Suncorp Stadium, that just does not happen. Especially at Origin time. There were plenty around us who made the trek down for the match and this didn’t sit well.
Sydney, you don’t get out of this either. With ANZ Stadium in the middle of nowhere we made our way into Sydney City, The Rocks to be specific. We got there at 11pm and the place was DEAD!! After the beer fiasco at the game, we wanted to celebrate our win and virtually everywhere was shut or wouldn’t let us in (not for being too drunk either). That doesn’t happen in Brisbane, we celebrate whether we win, lose or draw.
The Match
Yes there was a game on too last night and yes, we actually watched most of it (which doesn’t always happen during Origin). I thought Queensland were very good in tough conditions. I think we were far from our best but we were all over the Blues save the opening 10 minutes or so.
I thought Matt Ballin did a great job filling in at hooker while Dave Shillington and Matt Scott were very good in the forwards. ‘Slammin’ Sam Thaiday is the best forward in the game today bar none while Petero, JT and Locky are just sheer class.
For the Blues, they keep picking the wrong team and we keep laughing in their face. I feel sorry for Brett Kimmorley because he has probably played his last Origin and they’ll scapegoat him. I feel sorry for Jamal Idris ... I love watching this boy play but he is just not ready to face Greg Inglis at Origin level. NSW have one shot at us – they have to try and bash us. They need to start a fight early and play close to that aggressive line. That’s the only shot they have at winning, and I’m not even convinced that will work.
TIPPING
Tips – Dragons, Tigers, Brisbane, Cowboys, Storm, Penrith, Titans
Last Week – 4/5
Total – 43/81 (53%)
If you have any Origin thoughts to share, or anything else, please email (andrew.keyte@gmail.com), comment below or find me on Twitter (@keyto316).
Thanks for reading,
Keyto
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Qld Teams - 'Underdog' Maroons arrive in Sydney
The Queensland team has landed in enemy territory ahead of Origin I tomorrow night.
For the first time in three years the Maroons are likely to start as outsiders following a disruptive preparation.
Queensland has relished the ‘underdog’ tag since the Origin concept was born 26 years ago and will not be phased come kick-off at Sydney’s ANZ Stadium.
The Blues, who started as outsiders, have firmed towards favouritism following the withdrawal of Queensland hooker Cameron Smith.
The vice-captain, who has not played since injuring his elbow in the May 7 Test against New Zealand, officially withdrew himself on Saturday.
Premiership winning Manly hooker Matt Ballin, already with the squad, will debut following the last few seasons in the Queensland Emerging Origin system.
Ballin joins forward David Taylor and utility Cooper Cronk in winning their maiden Queensland caps.
Queensland traditionally struggle at ANZ Stadium but have won three of their past four matches at the venue.
Tomorrow night marks the first step in the Maroons quest for an unprecedented fifth straight series win.
Hannant signs with Brisbane
Former Queensland and Australian prop Ben Hannant will return to the Broncos in 2011 for his third stint with the club.
It was announced today Hannant, who left at the end of 2008 for the Bulldogs, has signed a four year deal to return to Brisbane for next season and beyond.
Hannant publicly stated a desire to return to Queensland due to home sicknesses one year short of his three year commitment to Canterbury.
He is currently sidelined with a knee injury but remains in contention to return to the Queensland side during the Origin series.
The Broncos today named an extended squad for their trip to Cronulla, who Brisbane beat 44-16 in Round Six, Saturday evening.
Following back-to-back wins and last weekend’s bye, the Broncos now sit 10th on the ladder and should have hooker Andrew McCullough and prop Nick Kenny back for the Sharks.
Kenny has twice aborted comebacks from a calf injury but hopes to take his place on the bench for the Cronulla re-match.
McCullough has not played since injuring a pectoral muscle in Round Seven against the Bulldogs but has been included on a seven man bench for the weekend.
The two first grade regulars, plus Corey Norman, join the squad that successfully downed the Titans two weeks ago.
Brisbane’s Origin trio of Darren Lockyer, Sam Thaiday and Israel Folau will be assessed prior to the Cronulla match.
Cowboys hosting Manly
After tough away trips to Sydney and Auckland, the North Queensland Cowboys are in Townsville to battle the Sea Eagles on Saturday night.
The team had last weekend off to think about their 24-12 loss to the Warriors and need to launch a mid-season revival to save their season.
Origin permitting, Johnathan Thurston should again captain the side after making a surprise comeback from a shoulder injury against the Warriors.
Luke O’Donnell and Carl Webb also returned in that match and have been named in an unchanged side to take on Manly.
Youngster Michael Morgan will again partner Thurston in the halves after two impressive NRL matches before the bye.
Steve Southern's season, and possibly Cowboys career, is over after he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in the Queensland Cup last weekend.
Southern is off contract at the end of the season and is at long odds to be retained in North Queensland.
The Cowboys won the corresponding match last year and hold a 4-3 advantage over Manly at Dairy Farmers Stadium.
Titans back home
Equal competition leaders Gold Coast Titans return to Skilled Park when they host the Roosters in Monday Night Football.
The Titans had a three game winning streak snapped by the Broncos before the bye but will look forward to playing their first match at home since Round 8.
Clinton Toopi, a late scratching with a knee injury against Brisbane, returns to the centres in place of Josh Graham.
That is the only change to the squad provided Queensland lock Ashley Harrison is fit to back up from the Origin opener.
It is the first time the Titans have hosted the Sydney Roosters at Skilled Park and the match will be broadcast live on Fox Sports.
The Broncos and Cowboys form Fox Sports Super Saturday from 5:30pm.
Meanwhile tomorrow night’s State of Origin kicks-off at 8pm on Channel Nine with the match the first event in the world to be broadcast in 3D on free-to-air television.
Queensland vs. NSW, Wednesday 8pm ANZ Stadium, Sydney (Channel Nine, live).
Billy Slater, Darius Boyd, Greg Inglis, Willie Tonga, Israel Folau, Darren Lockyer (c), Johnathan Thurston, Matt Scott, Matt Ballin, Petero Civoniceva, Nate Myles, Sam Thaiday, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Cooper Cronk, David Shillington, David Taylor, Neville Costigan. 18th Man – Ben Te’o.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Cronulla, Saturday 5:30pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Josh Hoffman, Antonio Winterstein, Alex Glenn, Israel Folau, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (c), Peter Wallace, Shane Tronc, Ben Hunt, Lagi Setu, Ben Te’o, Sam Thaiday, Corey Parker. Interchange: Andrew McCullough, Matt Gillett, Mitchell Dodds, Nick Kenny, Ashton Sims, Corey Norman, Gerard Beale (three to be omitted).
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Manly, Saturday 7:30pm, (Fox Sports, live).
Matthew Bowen, John Williams, Ashley Graham, Willie Tonga, Michael Bani, Michael Morgan, Johnathan Thurston (c), Matt Scott, Aaron Payne, James Tamou, Scott Bolton, Willie Mason, Luke O’Donnell. Interchange: Anthony Watts, Leeson Ah Mau, Carl Webb, Antonio Kaufusi, Isaak Ah Mau (one to be omitted).
Gold Coast Titans vs. Roosters, Monday 7pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Preston Campbell, Kevin Gordon, Clinton Toopi, Joseph Tomane, David Mead, Greg Bird, Scott Prince (c), Luke Bailey, Nathan Friend, Michael Henderson, Anthony Laffranchi, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Matthew White, Brad Meyers, Sam Tagataese, William Zillman.
For the first time in three years the Maroons are likely to start as outsiders following a disruptive preparation.
Queensland has relished the ‘underdog’ tag since the Origin concept was born 26 years ago and will not be phased come kick-off at Sydney’s ANZ Stadium.
The Blues, who started as outsiders, have firmed towards favouritism following the withdrawal of Queensland hooker Cameron Smith.
The vice-captain, who has not played since injuring his elbow in the May 7 Test against New Zealand, officially withdrew himself on Saturday.
Premiership winning Manly hooker Matt Ballin, already with the squad, will debut following the last few seasons in the Queensland Emerging Origin system.
Ballin joins forward David Taylor and utility Cooper Cronk in winning their maiden Queensland caps.
Queensland traditionally struggle at ANZ Stadium but have won three of their past four matches at the venue.
Tomorrow night marks the first step in the Maroons quest for an unprecedented fifth straight series win.
Hannant signs with Brisbane
Former Queensland and Australian prop Ben Hannant will return to the Broncos in 2011 for his third stint with the club.
It was announced today Hannant, who left at the end of 2008 for the Bulldogs, has signed a four year deal to return to Brisbane for next season and beyond.
Hannant publicly stated a desire to return to Queensland due to home sicknesses one year short of his three year commitment to Canterbury.
He is currently sidelined with a knee injury but remains in contention to return to the Queensland side during the Origin series.
The Broncos today named an extended squad for their trip to Cronulla, who Brisbane beat 44-16 in Round Six, Saturday evening.
Following back-to-back wins and last weekend’s bye, the Broncos now sit 10th on the ladder and should have hooker Andrew McCullough and prop Nick Kenny back for the Sharks.
Kenny has twice aborted comebacks from a calf injury but hopes to take his place on the bench for the Cronulla re-match.
McCullough has not played since injuring a pectoral muscle in Round Seven against the Bulldogs but has been included on a seven man bench for the weekend.
The two first grade regulars, plus Corey Norman, join the squad that successfully downed the Titans two weeks ago.
Brisbane’s Origin trio of Darren Lockyer, Sam Thaiday and Israel Folau will be assessed prior to the Cronulla match.
Cowboys hosting Manly
After tough away trips to Sydney and Auckland, the North Queensland Cowboys are in Townsville to battle the Sea Eagles on Saturday night.
The team had last weekend off to think about their 24-12 loss to the Warriors and need to launch a mid-season revival to save their season.
Origin permitting, Johnathan Thurston should again captain the side after making a surprise comeback from a shoulder injury against the Warriors.
Luke O’Donnell and Carl Webb also returned in that match and have been named in an unchanged side to take on Manly.
Youngster Michael Morgan will again partner Thurston in the halves after two impressive NRL matches before the bye.
Steve Southern's season, and possibly Cowboys career, is over after he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in the Queensland Cup last weekend.
Southern is off contract at the end of the season and is at long odds to be retained in North Queensland.
The Cowboys won the corresponding match last year and hold a 4-3 advantage over Manly at Dairy Farmers Stadium.
Titans back home
Equal competition leaders Gold Coast Titans return to Skilled Park when they host the Roosters in Monday Night Football.
The Titans had a three game winning streak snapped by the Broncos before the bye but will look forward to playing their first match at home since Round 8.
Clinton Toopi, a late scratching with a knee injury against Brisbane, returns to the centres in place of Josh Graham.
That is the only change to the squad provided Queensland lock Ashley Harrison is fit to back up from the Origin opener.
It is the first time the Titans have hosted the Sydney Roosters at Skilled Park and the match will be broadcast live on Fox Sports.
The Broncos and Cowboys form Fox Sports Super Saturday from 5:30pm.
Meanwhile tomorrow night’s State of Origin kicks-off at 8pm on Channel Nine with the match the first event in the world to be broadcast in 3D on free-to-air television.
Queensland vs. NSW, Wednesday 8pm ANZ Stadium, Sydney (Channel Nine, live).
Billy Slater, Darius Boyd, Greg Inglis, Willie Tonga, Israel Folau, Darren Lockyer (c), Johnathan Thurston, Matt Scott, Matt Ballin, Petero Civoniceva, Nate Myles, Sam Thaiday, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Cooper Cronk, David Shillington, David Taylor, Neville Costigan. 18th Man – Ben Te’o.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Cronulla, Saturday 5:30pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Josh Hoffman, Antonio Winterstein, Alex Glenn, Israel Folau, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (c), Peter Wallace, Shane Tronc, Ben Hunt, Lagi Setu, Ben Te’o, Sam Thaiday, Corey Parker. Interchange: Andrew McCullough, Matt Gillett, Mitchell Dodds, Nick Kenny, Ashton Sims, Corey Norman, Gerard Beale (three to be omitted).
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Manly, Saturday 7:30pm, (Fox Sports, live).
Matthew Bowen, John Williams, Ashley Graham, Willie Tonga, Michael Bani, Michael Morgan, Johnathan Thurston (c), Matt Scott, Aaron Payne, James Tamou, Scott Bolton, Willie Mason, Luke O’Donnell. Interchange: Anthony Watts, Leeson Ah Mau, Carl Webb, Antonio Kaufusi, Isaak Ah Mau (one to be omitted).
Gold Coast Titans vs. Roosters, Monday 7pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Preston Campbell, Kevin Gordon, Clinton Toopi, Joseph Tomane, David Mead, Greg Bird, Scott Prince (c), Luke Bailey, Nathan Friend, Michael Henderson, Anthony Laffranchi, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Matthew White, Brad Meyers, Sam Tagataese, William Zillman.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Tribalism
I can’t speak for Sydney, but the air I’m breathing in Brisbane this week is wafting with State of Origin fever. It is the best time of year to be a Queensland or New South Wales fan as the anticipation of another series slowly bubbles away.
The passion among the players and fans makes interstate football and is responsible for the three biggest nights of the rugby league year. What I have noticed this season more than ever is the tribalism and passion around our game at club level.
We love our club
As mentioned previously I’m a first time Brisbane Broncos season member this year, and I love it. Even though the club has lost more games than they have won, I still have a passion for the club. I ride every up, every down, every tackle, every bombed try, every bad call, every injury, every loss and every win.
I believe my club is the best and we can win every match, no matter where we are on the ladder, who we have injured and who we are up against.
This is exactly the same at every other NRL club in the competition. The fans love their club and it is this passion and tribalism that builds the game.
Opposition Fans
I don’t think there is a more satisfying moment as a rugby league supporter than wearing all of your gear and watching your team win at someone else’s home ground. It can be a tough gig but it is well worth it.
Last year I did just this when the Broncos defeated the Titans in Week One of the finals down at Skilled Park. It was a daunting environment to be in – on the train surrounded by Titans fans and sitting on our own up in the stands. Then of course you leave the ground totally ecstatic with the win but well aware you were surrounded by 10 Titans at any one time!
It goes both ways though. The Warriors defeated the Broncos up here in the early rounds and I met some New Zealanders in the pub afterwards. I’d rarely seen a group of people so happy after a Round 3 NRL match. While I was pretty down at the Broncos playing poorly that afternoon, seeing these people so happy showed me the range of emotions this game has and why we love it so much.
Origin I
I can’t do a column without commenting on the State of Origin sides for the opening match in Sydney next week – one where I will be there, my first trip to ANZ Stadium, proudly in my Queensland jersey!
The Blues have a decent team, as they often do, but have some puzzling inclusions. Jamie Lyon has been the form centre in the competition over 10 Rounds but is playing pivot. They have a genuine centre on the bench instead of a utility – keeping in mind Luke Lewis could play centre if necessary.
There’s no Paul Gallen which all Queenslanders are both astounded and relieved at. Jarryd Hayne is on the wing but that was a tough position to be in and I think they will compromise by playing him at fullback for ‘half the match’ when Idris is on.
As for the Queensland side, it more or less picked itself. Israel Folau could not be ignored after two massive games and the rest of the backs are incumbents. I would have had Brent Tate over Tonga but have no complaints.
The forwards look strong even without Price, Crocker and Johnson. I had a personal preference for the Warriors’ Michael Luck in the side but am happy enough with Costigan. I think David Taylor is ready for Origin and we made the right call waiting until now for his debut.
We now have another five days of building this match and stirring up the passion and tribalism before the kick-off on Wednesday night. I can’t wait!
TIPPING
Tips – Tigers, Eels, Warriors, Canberra, Penrith
Last Week – 4/8
Total – 39/76 (51%)
Thanks for reading again and as always I’m on Twitter (@keyto316), email (andrew.keyte@gmail.com) or comment below.
Enjoy the Origin and go the Maroons,
Keyto
The passion among the players and fans makes interstate football and is responsible for the three biggest nights of the rugby league year. What I have noticed this season more than ever is the tribalism and passion around our game at club level.
We love our club
As mentioned previously I’m a first time Brisbane Broncos season member this year, and I love it. Even though the club has lost more games than they have won, I still have a passion for the club. I ride every up, every down, every tackle, every bombed try, every bad call, every injury, every loss and every win.
I believe my club is the best and we can win every match, no matter where we are on the ladder, who we have injured and who we are up against.
This is exactly the same at every other NRL club in the competition. The fans love their club and it is this passion and tribalism that builds the game.
Opposition Fans
I don’t think there is a more satisfying moment as a rugby league supporter than wearing all of your gear and watching your team win at someone else’s home ground. It can be a tough gig but it is well worth it.
Last year I did just this when the Broncos defeated the Titans in Week One of the finals down at Skilled Park. It was a daunting environment to be in – on the train surrounded by Titans fans and sitting on our own up in the stands. Then of course you leave the ground totally ecstatic with the win but well aware you were surrounded by 10 Titans at any one time!
It goes both ways though. The Warriors defeated the Broncos up here in the early rounds and I met some New Zealanders in the pub afterwards. I’d rarely seen a group of people so happy after a Round 3 NRL match. While I was pretty down at the Broncos playing poorly that afternoon, seeing these people so happy showed me the range of emotions this game has and why we love it so much.
Origin I
I can’t do a column without commenting on the State of Origin sides for the opening match in Sydney next week – one where I will be there, my first trip to ANZ Stadium, proudly in my Queensland jersey!
The Blues have a decent team, as they often do, but have some puzzling inclusions. Jamie Lyon has been the form centre in the competition over 10 Rounds but is playing pivot. They have a genuine centre on the bench instead of a utility – keeping in mind Luke Lewis could play centre if necessary.
There’s no Paul Gallen which all Queenslanders are both astounded and relieved at. Jarryd Hayne is on the wing but that was a tough position to be in and I think they will compromise by playing him at fullback for ‘half the match’ when Idris is on.
As for the Queensland side, it more or less picked itself. Israel Folau could not be ignored after two massive games and the rest of the backs are incumbents. I would have had Brent Tate over Tonga but have no complaints.
The forwards look strong even without Price, Crocker and Johnson. I had a personal preference for the Warriors’ Michael Luck in the side but am happy enough with Costigan. I think David Taylor is ready for Origin and we made the right call waiting until now for his debut.
We now have another five days of building this match and stirring up the passion and tribalism before the kick-off on Wednesday night. I can’t wait!
TIPPING
Tips – Tigers, Eels, Warriors, Canberra, Penrith
Last Week – 4/8
Total – 39/76 (51%)
Thanks for reading again and as always I’m on Twitter (@keyto316), email (andrew.keyte@gmail.com) or comment below.
Enjoy the Origin and go the Maroons,
Keyto
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Qld Teams - Maroons name Smith, debutants for Origin I
Injured Storm hooker Cameron Smith has been named in the Queensland squad for State of Origin I in Sydney next week.
Smith has not played since injuring his elbow in Australia’s Test match win over New Zealand just over two weeks ago.
He will be given until Saturday to prove his fitness as the Maroons embark on their campaign for an unprecedented fifth straight series win.
Smith has played 19 consecutive Origins for Queensland dating back to Game III of the 2003 series.
Uncapped Manly hooker Matt Ballin has been added to the squad as a shadow player for Smith.
Fellow rookies David Taylor and Cooper Cronk will make their Origin debuts after being named on the bench.
Johnathan Thurston, who returned last week from a shoulder injury, will once again partner Darren Lockyer in the halves.
Maroons captain Lockyer has announced this will be his final series for Queensland and sited the chance to finish with five consecutive series was a motivating factor.
Israel Folau’s seemingly pending NRL departure has been overlooked and he will again team with Darius Boyd on the wings.
Greg Inglis and Cowboy Willie Tonga are the centres with Billy Slater, as expected, named at fullback.
Nate Myles earns a recall after missing Game III last year for an off-field incident with his club side Sydney Roosters.
Myles partners one of the form forwards of the competition, Sam Thaiday, in the back row with Titan Ashley Harrison to play lock.
Cowboys prop Matt Scott joins veteran Petero Civoniceva in the front row.
The bench is comprised of Cronk, Taylor, Australian prop David Shillington and Dragons back-rower Neville Costigan.
Form Broncos back-rower Ben Te’o has been named as 18th man.
The team this year is without regular forwards Dallas Johnson (England) and injured pair Steve Price and Michael Crocker – neither of whom have played an NRL match this season.
Queensland head into camp today and will likely head to Sydney on Tuesday next week.
Blues bypass Qld Teams
New South Wales named their 17 man squad for the series opener during Monday Night Football last night.
The squad ignored the claims of the five Queensland-based representatives from the annual NSW City vs. Country match in Port Macquarie 10 days ago.
Titans five-eighth Greg Bird, thought to be in the mix for either the pivot, lock or bench position, was over-looked while back-row pair Anthony Laffranchi and Mark Minichiello were never discussed as serious Origin I options.
Willie Mason was talked about as earning an Origin re-call following a strong six weeks with the Cowboys.
However he has been overlooked with most of the forwards from Game III last season retained.
Cowboys lock Luke O’Donnell returned in New Zealand on the weekend from a knee injury suffered in City-Country.
With limited game time in the last six weeks due to injury and suspension, O’Donnell was always considered an unlikely starter for the first Origin match.
Weekend off in Queensland
With all Origin players unavailable at club level, the Titans, Broncos and Cowboys all have the first of two ‘byes’ this weekend.
The week off comes at a handy time for the Gold Coast who have been patchy, yet winning, during the past few weeks.
A three game winning streak came to a thudding halt last weekend with the Broncos running out convincing 28-6 winners in the derby match at Suncorp Stadium.
On the back of consecutive, impressive victories, Brisbane will hope to have hooker Andrew McCullough (pectoral) and prop Nick Kenny (calf) fit for their Round 12 match with Cronulla in two weeks.
The Cowboys will use the free week to desperately re-group and try to salvage their season.
North Queensland slumped to their seventh loss of the season when they were beaten 24-12 by the Warriors last week.
As they have done regularly throughout the year, the Cowboys gave their opposition a big lead and could do little to run it down late in the match.
Anchored towards the bottom of the ladder, the Cowboys will need a mid-season revival if they hope to play Finals football for the first time in three years.
With Thurston, O’Donnell and Carl Webb returning against the Warriors to join the likes of Aaron Payne and Matt Bowen, the Cowboys should be virtually at full strength for their next match.
Origin I will be broadcast live on Channel Nine from 7:30pm on Wednesday May 26th, from ANZ Stadium in Sydney.
New South Wales vs. QLD, Origin I, May 26th ANZ Stadium, Sydney (Channel Nine, live).
Kurt Gidley (captain, Newcastle), Jarryd Hayne (Parramatta), Matt Cooper (St George-Illawarra), Timana Tahu (Parramatta), Brett Morris (St George-Illawarra), Jamie Lyon (Parramatta), Brett Kimmorley (Canterbury-Bankstown), Michael Weyman (St George-Illawarra), Michael Ennis (Canterbury-Bankstown), Josh Perry (Manly), Trent Waterhouse (Penrith), Ben Creagh (St George-Illawarra), Anthony Watmough (Manly). Interchange: Jamal Idris (Canterbury-Bankstown), Tom Learoyd-Lahrs (Canberra), Luke Lewis (Penrith), Brett White (Melbourne).
Queensland vs. NSW, Origin I, May 26th ANZ Stadium, Sydney (Channel Nine, live).
Billy Slater (Melbourne), Darius Boyd (St George-Illawarra), Greg Inglis (Melbourne), Willie Tonga (North Queensland), Israel Folau (Brisbane), Darren Lockyer (captain, Brisbane), Johnathan Thurston (North Queensland), Matt Scott (North Queensland), Cameron Smith (Melbourne), Petero Civoniceva (Penrith), Nate Myles (Roosters), Sam Thaiday (Brisbane), Ashley Harrison (Gold Coast). Interchange: Cooper Cronk (Melbourne), David Shillington (Canberra), David Taylor (South Sydney), Neville Costigan (St George-Illawarra). 18th Man – Ben Te’o (Brisbane), Matt Ballin (Manly – Shadow Player for Smith).
Smith has not played since injuring his elbow in Australia’s Test match win over New Zealand just over two weeks ago.
He will be given until Saturday to prove his fitness as the Maroons embark on their campaign for an unprecedented fifth straight series win.
Smith has played 19 consecutive Origins for Queensland dating back to Game III of the 2003 series.
Uncapped Manly hooker Matt Ballin has been added to the squad as a shadow player for Smith.
Fellow rookies David Taylor and Cooper Cronk will make their Origin debuts after being named on the bench.
Johnathan Thurston, who returned last week from a shoulder injury, will once again partner Darren Lockyer in the halves.
Maroons captain Lockyer has announced this will be his final series for Queensland and sited the chance to finish with five consecutive series was a motivating factor.
Israel Folau’s seemingly pending NRL departure has been overlooked and he will again team with Darius Boyd on the wings.
Greg Inglis and Cowboy Willie Tonga are the centres with Billy Slater, as expected, named at fullback.
Nate Myles earns a recall after missing Game III last year for an off-field incident with his club side Sydney Roosters.
Myles partners one of the form forwards of the competition, Sam Thaiday, in the back row with Titan Ashley Harrison to play lock.
Cowboys prop Matt Scott joins veteran Petero Civoniceva in the front row.
The bench is comprised of Cronk, Taylor, Australian prop David Shillington and Dragons back-rower Neville Costigan.
Form Broncos back-rower Ben Te’o has been named as 18th man.
The team this year is without regular forwards Dallas Johnson (England) and injured pair Steve Price and Michael Crocker – neither of whom have played an NRL match this season.
Queensland head into camp today and will likely head to Sydney on Tuesday next week.
Blues bypass Qld Teams
New South Wales named their 17 man squad for the series opener during Monday Night Football last night.
The squad ignored the claims of the five Queensland-based representatives from the annual NSW City vs. Country match in Port Macquarie 10 days ago.
Titans five-eighth Greg Bird, thought to be in the mix for either the pivot, lock or bench position, was over-looked while back-row pair Anthony Laffranchi and Mark Minichiello were never discussed as serious Origin I options.
Willie Mason was talked about as earning an Origin re-call following a strong six weeks with the Cowboys.
However he has been overlooked with most of the forwards from Game III last season retained.
Cowboys lock Luke O’Donnell returned in New Zealand on the weekend from a knee injury suffered in City-Country.
With limited game time in the last six weeks due to injury and suspension, O’Donnell was always considered an unlikely starter for the first Origin match.
Weekend off in Queensland
With all Origin players unavailable at club level, the Titans, Broncos and Cowboys all have the first of two ‘byes’ this weekend.
The week off comes at a handy time for the Gold Coast who have been patchy, yet winning, during the past few weeks.
A three game winning streak came to a thudding halt last weekend with the Broncos running out convincing 28-6 winners in the derby match at Suncorp Stadium.
On the back of consecutive, impressive victories, Brisbane will hope to have hooker Andrew McCullough (pectoral) and prop Nick Kenny (calf) fit for their Round 12 match with Cronulla in two weeks.
The Cowboys will use the free week to desperately re-group and try to salvage their season.
North Queensland slumped to their seventh loss of the season when they were beaten 24-12 by the Warriors last week.
As they have done regularly throughout the year, the Cowboys gave their opposition a big lead and could do little to run it down late in the match.
Anchored towards the bottom of the ladder, the Cowboys will need a mid-season revival if they hope to play Finals football for the first time in three years.
With Thurston, O’Donnell and Carl Webb returning against the Warriors to join the likes of Aaron Payne and Matt Bowen, the Cowboys should be virtually at full strength for their next match.
Origin I will be broadcast live on Channel Nine from 7:30pm on Wednesday May 26th, from ANZ Stadium in Sydney.
New South Wales vs. QLD, Origin I, May 26th ANZ Stadium, Sydney (Channel Nine, live).
Kurt Gidley (captain, Newcastle), Jarryd Hayne (Parramatta), Matt Cooper (St George-Illawarra), Timana Tahu (Parramatta), Brett Morris (St George-Illawarra), Jamie Lyon (Parramatta), Brett Kimmorley (Canterbury-Bankstown), Michael Weyman (St George-Illawarra), Michael Ennis (Canterbury-Bankstown), Josh Perry (Manly), Trent Waterhouse (Penrith), Ben Creagh (St George-Illawarra), Anthony Watmough (Manly). Interchange: Jamal Idris (Canterbury-Bankstown), Tom Learoyd-Lahrs (Canberra), Luke Lewis (Penrith), Brett White (Melbourne).
Queensland vs. NSW, Origin I, May 26th ANZ Stadium, Sydney (Channel Nine, live).
Billy Slater (Melbourne), Darius Boyd (St George-Illawarra), Greg Inglis (Melbourne), Willie Tonga (North Queensland), Israel Folau (Brisbane), Darren Lockyer (captain, Brisbane), Johnathan Thurston (North Queensland), Matt Scott (North Queensland), Cameron Smith (Melbourne), Petero Civoniceva (Penrith), Nate Myles (Roosters), Sam Thaiday (Brisbane), Ashley Harrison (Gold Coast). Interchange: Cooper Cronk (Melbourne), David Shillington (Canberra), David Taylor (South Sydney), Neville Costigan (St George-Illawarra). 18th Man – Ben Te’o (Brisbane), Matt Ballin (Manly – Shadow Player for Smith).
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Is it all about that money, money (yeah, yeah)?
“I don’t care too much for money, money can’t buy me love” – The Beatles. Is this phrase ringing truer in rugby league, even amongst all the salary cap, representative payments and strike action? Earlier this week we had Johnathan Thurston re-sign with the NRL just hours after reports Mark Gasnier was poised for a rugby league return.
Does that mean then we are seeing a slight change in attitude towards skipping the code for big money elsewhere? In the last four years we have seen Wendell Sailor, Mat Rogers, Lote Tuqiri and Timana Tahu all leave the code only to return – for much less money.
Money, Money, Money
Let’s not kid ourselves, most of the players leaving the NRL to play rugby union (or AFL) don’t do it for the challenge – a large part of the reason is the money. They can earn so much more playing other codes and sometimes in foreign countries. I have said here before that I don’t blame them. If their NRL contract is up then fair enough, they can leave.
There’s big money issues in our game today with reasonable claims from the players for wanting more. The fact of the matter is rugby league is played in a very small part of Australia (plus a city in New Zealand and the tip of England). On the other hand rugby union is a global sport. The NRL simply cannot produce the same cash as these other competitions.
I can see a solution to help the players earn more here in the NRL. These things go hand-in-hand: Raise the minimum wage and off-set this cost by allowing players to earn as many non-club sponsor third party payments they can get. The other option is centrally contracting the top 20-25 players to the NSWRL, QRL or NZRL.
Love of the Game
On a positive note, all of these defectors seem to return because they miss rugby league. The other codes are very different and most fans I speak to seem to think these guys get bored in rugby union, and I agree.
Thurston re-signed partly because he loves playing for the Cowboys while Gasnier got bored in rugby. Rogers came back because he loves the game, Tahu was not used by the Waratahs and Tuqiri was pushed out but is now re-born. We all know how much Wendell has loved being back.
I think it is great to have these guys back and I would put money on Karmichael Hunt, Sonny Bill Williams and Israel Folau returning to the NRL in the future.
Rep Ban
While yes it is great to have them all back, I don’t think we should reward the players that leave our game only to return for a swansong, redemption or whatever. I propose that anyone who defects from NRL to another code before returning – be banned from all representative rugby league for as many seasons as they were away.
For example, Gasnier was away all of last year and half of this season. That means he would be ineligible for all City-Country, Origin and Tests until the 2011 Four Nations series at the end of next season.
Timana Tahu would not play rep football until 2012 while we wouldn’t see Lote Tuqiri in a Queensland jersey until around 2016 after missing the last seven NRL season.
I think that can be only fair to those who remain loyal to the wonderful game of rugby league.
TIPPING
Tips – Bulldogs, Broncos, Warriors, Storm, Roosters, Tigers, Panthers, Manly
Last Week – 3/4
Total – 35/68 (51%)
That’s it from me for this week and don’t forget NSW Origin team named during Monday Night Football with the Maroons to follow on Tuesday. If you have anything to share, or a complaint, reach me directly on Twitter (@keyto316), email on andrew.keyte@gmail.com or comment below.
Thanks for reading,
Keyto
Does that mean then we are seeing a slight change in attitude towards skipping the code for big money elsewhere? In the last four years we have seen Wendell Sailor, Mat Rogers, Lote Tuqiri and Timana Tahu all leave the code only to return – for much less money.
Money, Money, Money
Let’s not kid ourselves, most of the players leaving the NRL to play rugby union (or AFL) don’t do it for the challenge – a large part of the reason is the money. They can earn so much more playing other codes and sometimes in foreign countries. I have said here before that I don’t blame them. If their NRL contract is up then fair enough, they can leave.
There’s big money issues in our game today with reasonable claims from the players for wanting more. The fact of the matter is rugby league is played in a very small part of Australia (plus a city in New Zealand and the tip of England). On the other hand rugby union is a global sport. The NRL simply cannot produce the same cash as these other competitions.
I can see a solution to help the players earn more here in the NRL. These things go hand-in-hand: Raise the minimum wage and off-set this cost by allowing players to earn as many non-club sponsor third party payments they can get. The other option is centrally contracting the top 20-25 players to the NSWRL, QRL or NZRL.
Love of the Game
On a positive note, all of these defectors seem to return because they miss rugby league. The other codes are very different and most fans I speak to seem to think these guys get bored in rugby union, and I agree.
Thurston re-signed partly because he loves playing for the Cowboys while Gasnier got bored in rugby. Rogers came back because he loves the game, Tahu was not used by the Waratahs and Tuqiri was pushed out but is now re-born. We all know how much Wendell has loved being back.
I think it is great to have these guys back and I would put money on Karmichael Hunt, Sonny Bill Williams and Israel Folau returning to the NRL in the future.
Rep Ban
While yes it is great to have them all back, I don’t think we should reward the players that leave our game only to return for a swansong, redemption or whatever. I propose that anyone who defects from NRL to another code before returning – be banned from all representative rugby league for as many seasons as they were away.
For example, Gasnier was away all of last year and half of this season. That means he would be ineligible for all City-Country, Origin and Tests until the 2011 Four Nations series at the end of next season.
Timana Tahu would not play rep football until 2012 while we wouldn’t see Lote Tuqiri in a Queensland jersey until around 2016 after missing the last seven NRL season.
I think that can be only fair to those who remain loyal to the wonderful game of rugby league.
TIPPING
Tips – Bulldogs, Broncos, Warriors, Storm, Roosters, Tigers, Panthers, Manly
Last Week – 3/4
Total – 35/68 (51%)
That’s it from me for this week and don’t forget NSW Origin team named during Monday Night Football with the Maroons to follow on Tuesday. If you have anything to share, or a complaint, reach me directly on Twitter (@keyto316), email on andrew.keyte@gmail.com or comment below.
Thanks for reading,
Keyto
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Qld Teams - Triple threat Broncos return
Peter Wallace, Matt Gillett and Antonio Winterstein are back to bolster the Broncos ahead of Friday night’s showdown with the Gold Coast Titans.
The Suncorp Stadium clash between the two south-east Queensland rivals will kick-off an explosive Heritage Round ahead of State of Origin selection early next week.
Halfback Wallace and first-year utility Gillett missed three weeks with identical knee injuries suffered against Cronulla in Round Six.
Winger Winterstein has missed two weeks with a hamstring injury and will return on the left flank.
Prop Nick Kenny, originally named last week before withdrawing the day before the big 36-14 upset win over the Storm, hopes to return Friday from a calf injury.
The big returns coincide with hardworking lock Corey Parker’s 200th NRL match.
After debuting as a prop in 2001, the versatile Parker has become a valuable goal-kicking lock forward.
The young Broncos were glowing after comprehensively defeating a star-studded Melbourne side in their first outing at new home AAMI Park.
Unfortunately with the four regular first graders returning for the Titans game, Brisbane coach Ivan Henjak could find no room for rookies Dale Copley and Michael Spence to back up from last week’s heroics.
Corey Norman, who shone in the halves on Sunday, has been named 18th man for this weekend.
Regular halfback Wallace resumes his duties against the Titans while Ben Hunt, as he did against Storm, will play hooker.
Prop Scott Anderson suffered an elbow ligament injury against Melbourne and will miss the next three weeks.
Lagi Setu pushes up into the front row while utility back and occasional dummy-half Gerard Beale is the first member of a five man bench.
Fullback Josh Hoffman spent most of the second half against Melbourne on his way to hospital with fears he had broken ribs.
However scans cleared the young custodian of serious injury and he declared himself a “certain starter” on the Broncos website.
Titans expect tussle
The Gold Coast Titans will prepare for a tough match, with two of the last four meetings between the clubs at Suncorp Stadium finishing in golden point wins to Brisbane.
The Titans will also have memories of the last meeting between the clubs in which Brisbane ran out 40-32 winners at Skilled Park in week one of the 2009 finals.
Coach John Cartwright again named an unchanged 17 as his side chase their fourth consecutive victory.
Last week the Titans won a high-scoring thriller 38-36 against the Knights in Newcastle to share the competition lead with St George-Illawarra.
Preston Campbell suffered a minor knee injury but is expected to be fit for the Broncos on Friday night.
The match is expected to attract a large crowd ahead of Round 11 byes for both clubs.
Thurston re-signs
Cowboys captain Johnathan Thurston announced in Sydney this morning he had committed to the club until the end of the 2013 season.
In a major boost for the team, and the NRL, Thurston turned his back on lucrative rugby union offers to stay with rugby league.
Currently sidelined with a shoulder injury, Thurston is hopeful of being named in the Queensland side next Tuesday for Origin I on May 26th.
Last night the Cowboys produced a good performance without their leader to upset the Roosters 32-14 in Sydney.
It was the clubs third win in their past 17 matches in New South Wales and their third win of the season.
The victory also marked the long awaited return of fullback Matt Bowen from a nine month knee injury lay-off.
Bowen’s return helped offset the loss of Luke O’Donnell, who hyper-extended his knee in City-Country and will miss another two weeks at least.
Coach Neil Henry named the same 17 to take on the Warriors in New Zealand on Saturday.
Leeson Ah Mau will again start at lock while young forward Dane Hogan is set to play his second NRL game from the bench.
Halfback Michael Morgan was good on debut against the Roosters and has been retained.
The Cowboys also have the bye in Round 11 and leave for Auckland on Thursday.
The match will be broadcast live on Fox Sports from 5:30pm Saturday.
Friday night’s blockbuster between Brisbane and Gold Coast is live on Channel Nine from 7:30pm in Queensland.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Titans, Friday 7:35pm, (Channel Nine, live)
Josh Hoffman, Antonio Winterstein, Alex Glenn, Israel Folau, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (c), Peter Wallace, Shane Tronc, Ben Hunt, Lagi Setu, Ben Te’o, Sam Thaiday, Corey Parker. Interchange: Gerard Beale, Matt Gillett, Mitchell Dodds, Nick Kenny, Corey Norman (one to be omitted).
Gold Coast Titans vs. Broncos, Friday 7:35pm, (Channel Nine, live)
Preston Campbell, Kevin Gordon, Clinton Toopi, Joseph Tomane, David Mead, Greg Bird, Scott Prince (c), Luke Bailey, Nathan Friend, Brad Meyers, Anthony Laffranchi, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Matthew White, Michael Henderson, Sam Tagataese, William Zillman.
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Warriors, Saturday 5:30pm, (Fox Sports, live).
Matthew Bowen, John Williams, Ashley Graham, Willie Tonga, Michael Bani, Grant Rovelli, Michael Morgan, Matt Scott, Aaron Payne, James Tamou, Scott Bolton, Willie Mason, Leeson Ah Mau. Interchange: Anthony Watts, Dane Hogan, Manase Manuokafoa, Antonio Kaufusi.
The Suncorp Stadium clash between the two south-east Queensland rivals will kick-off an explosive Heritage Round ahead of State of Origin selection early next week.
Halfback Wallace and first-year utility Gillett missed three weeks with identical knee injuries suffered against Cronulla in Round Six.
Winger Winterstein has missed two weeks with a hamstring injury and will return on the left flank.
Prop Nick Kenny, originally named last week before withdrawing the day before the big 36-14 upset win over the Storm, hopes to return Friday from a calf injury.
The big returns coincide with hardworking lock Corey Parker’s 200th NRL match.
After debuting as a prop in 2001, the versatile Parker has become a valuable goal-kicking lock forward.
The young Broncos were glowing after comprehensively defeating a star-studded Melbourne side in their first outing at new home AAMI Park.
Unfortunately with the four regular first graders returning for the Titans game, Brisbane coach Ivan Henjak could find no room for rookies Dale Copley and Michael Spence to back up from last week’s heroics.
Corey Norman, who shone in the halves on Sunday, has been named 18th man for this weekend.
Regular halfback Wallace resumes his duties against the Titans while Ben Hunt, as he did against Storm, will play hooker.
Prop Scott Anderson suffered an elbow ligament injury against Melbourne and will miss the next three weeks.
Lagi Setu pushes up into the front row while utility back and occasional dummy-half Gerard Beale is the first member of a five man bench.
Fullback Josh Hoffman spent most of the second half against Melbourne on his way to hospital with fears he had broken ribs.
However scans cleared the young custodian of serious injury and he declared himself a “certain starter” on the Broncos website.
Titans expect tussle
The Gold Coast Titans will prepare for a tough match, with two of the last four meetings between the clubs at Suncorp Stadium finishing in golden point wins to Brisbane.
The Titans will also have memories of the last meeting between the clubs in which Brisbane ran out 40-32 winners at Skilled Park in week one of the 2009 finals.
Coach John Cartwright again named an unchanged 17 as his side chase their fourth consecutive victory.
Last week the Titans won a high-scoring thriller 38-36 against the Knights in Newcastle to share the competition lead with St George-Illawarra.
Preston Campbell suffered a minor knee injury but is expected to be fit for the Broncos on Friday night.
The match is expected to attract a large crowd ahead of Round 11 byes for both clubs.
Thurston re-signs
Cowboys captain Johnathan Thurston announced in Sydney this morning he had committed to the club until the end of the 2013 season.
In a major boost for the team, and the NRL, Thurston turned his back on lucrative rugby union offers to stay with rugby league.
Currently sidelined with a shoulder injury, Thurston is hopeful of being named in the Queensland side next Tuesday for Origin I on May 26th.
Last night the Cowboys produced a good performance without their leader to upset the Roosters 32-14 in Sydney.
It was the clubs third win in their past 17 matches in New South Wales and their third win of the season.
The victory also marked the long awaited return of fullback Matt Bowen from a nine month knee injury lay-off.
Bowen’s return helped offset the loss of Luke O’Donnell, who hyper-extended his knee in City-Country and will miss another two weeks at least.
Coach Neil Henry named the same 17 to take on the Warriors in New Zealand on Saturday.
Leeson Ah Mau will again start at lock while young forward Dane Hogan is set to play his second NRL game from the bench.
Halfback Michael Morgan was good on debut against the Roosters and has been retained.
The Cowboys also have the bye in Round 11 and leave for Auckland on Thursday.
The match will be broadcast live on Fox Sports from 5:30pm Saturday.
Friday night’s blockbuster between Brisbane and Gold Coast is live on Channel Nine from 7:30pm in Queensland.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Titans, Friday 7:35pm, (Channel Nine, live)
Josh Hoffman, Antonio Winterstein, Alex Glenn, Israel Folau, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (c), Peter Wallace, Shane Tronc, Ben Hunt, Lagi Setu, Ben Te’o, Sam Thaiday, Corey Parker. Interchange: Gerard Beale, Matt Gillett, Mitchell Dodds, Nick Kenny, Corey Norman (one to be omitted).
Gold Coast Titans vs. Broncos, Friday 7:35pm, (Channel Nine, live)
Preston Campbell, Kevin Gordon, Clinton Toopi, Joseph Tomane, David Mead, Greg Bird, Scott Prince (c), Luke Bailey, Nathan Friend, Brad Meyers, Anthony Laffranchi, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Matthew White, Michael Henderson, Sam Tagataese, William Zillman.
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Warriors, Saturday 5:30pm, (Fox Sports, live).
Matthew Bowen, John Williams, Ashley Graham, Willie Tonga, Michael Bani, Grant Rovelli, Michael Morgan, Matt Scott, Aaron Payne, James Tamou, Scott Bolton, Willie Mason, Leeson Ah Mau. Interchange: Anthony Watts, Dane Hogan, Manase Manuokafoa, Antonio Kaufusi.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Everything Rep - Marshall, Folau, Future
Benji Marshall, once the greatest myth in rugby league, is now a guy who could lead New Zealand into an era of greatness. We got a sniff of this at the World Cup in 2008, Australia couldn’t beat them during the Four Nations last year and now Benji Marshall is on the crest of reaching his potential and more.
Two years ago Marshall was an enigma, a phantom. Here was a kid with all the skills in the world but couldn’t put two games together. That was because he either mixed his brilliance with trash, or he got injured.
The injuries have been well documented over the years and Marshall gained the reputation as a brittle player who could not defend. What’s more, he probably deserved that too. He seemed to spend more time in the casualty ward than the football field and when he was there, Marshall tended to defend on the wing or at fullback to minimise his tackling (and consequently injuries).
My word, how all that has changed in 18 months.
Today Marshall is the New Zealand captain. He is the first man picked in that side and probably the first picked for the Wests Tigers. He has wonderful moments of bravado and attacking flair, capable of producing tries from absolutely anywhere. He also is beginning to take control of matches. He has learnt how to be a genuine 80 minute match winner rather than a freakish ‘pull-it-out-of-his-arse’ match winner. He can defend. He is durable – the constant injuries are a thing of the past.
Benji Marshall is now a wonderful talent of our game. The myth of this talent has been dispelled because now Marshall is delivering. If he holds his form and plays the full season for the Tigers, they are a Premiership Contender.
If Marshall brings his ‘A’ game on Friday night, New Zealand is a massive chance to defeat Australia as well.
Israel Folau
So, was Izzy Folau left out of the Test because of his impending rugby league departure or was he simply not picked because of form?
I tend to think it is a bit of both – in my opinion while a player is still in our game he should be eligible for all regular season representative teams, regardless of where they will be next season.
Having said that, I don’t think Folau warrants Test selection on his current form. I have watched every Broncos game this season (on TV or live at the ground) and Folau isn’t in the top centres in the competition. That’s not to say he would let Australia down, because he won’t, but I believe we selected better options.
I have covered or watched the last three Manly matches and can tell you Jamie Lyon is playing head and shoulders above Folau in that right centre position. Lyon deserves his selection on form alone and I think the selectors made the right call.
If it did come down to a choice between Folau and Lyon, I’m sure the futures of both men influenced the decision. And I’m fine with that too.
Rep Weekend
Big debate in Sydney has been about the 13 guys forced to backup from rep games merely 24 hours afterwards in the Manly vs. St George match. I have a possible solution to avoid this problem – let’s make a weekend out of it.
There are a couple of things we’ll have to do – tweak the season schedule to either extend a week or remove one of the byes (considering all teams get the bye during this rep weekend). Also, to suit the broadcasters we need to try and get a minimum of 6 games for the weekend.
Here is my proposed schedule with all NRL teams forced to release players selected in various teams, subject to independent medical tests.
Friday Night Ch 9 – Australia vs. New Zealand
Saturday 5:30pm FOX – PNG vs. Samoa (Match played in PNG if broadcast etc can be arranged)
Saturday 7:30pm FOX – Tonga vs. Fiji (The four islander teams to play each other in alternate years).
Sunday 2pm FOX – Under 20’s Australia vs. Under 20’s New Zealand
Sunday 4pm Ch9 – NSW City vs. NSW Country
Monday Night FOX – Legends of League Charity match (similar concept used in AFL)
Another possible Saturday night match is Indigenous Australia vs. New Zealand Maori
TIPPING
Tips – Manly, Gold Coast, Brisbane, Roosters
Last Week – 4/8
Total – 32/64 (50%)
Thanks for reading everyone and don’t forget you can contact me directly on email at andrew.keyte@gmail.com or through the comment section below. I’m also on Twitter (@keyto316) and Facebook.
Cheers,
Keyto
Two years ago Marshall was an enigma, a phantom. Here was a kid with all the skills in the world but couldn’t put two games together. That was because he either mixed his brilliance with trash, or he got injured.
The injuries have been well documented over the years and Marshall gained the reputation as a brittle player who could not defend. What’s more, he probably deserved that too. He seemed to spend more time in the casualty ward than the football field and when he was there, Marshall tended to defend on the wing or at fullback to minimise his tackling (and consequently injuries).
My word, how all that has changed in 18 months.
Today Marshall is the New Zealand captain. He is the first man picked in that side and probably the first picked for the Wests Tigers. He has wonderful moments of bravado and attacking flair, capable of producing tries from absolutely anywhere. He also is beginning to take control of matches. He has learnt how to be a genuine 80 minute match winner rather than a freakish ‘pull-it-out-of-his-arse’ match winner. He can defend. He is durable – the constant injuries are a thing of the past.
Benji Marshall is now a wonderful talent of our game. The myth of this talent has been dispelled because now Marshall is delivering. If he holds his form and plays the full season for the Tigers, they are a Premiership Contender.
If Marshall brings his ‘A’ game on Friday night, New Zealand is a massive chance to defeat Australia as well.
Israel Folau
So, was Izzy Folau left out of the Test because of his impending rugby league departure or was he simply not picked because of form?
I tend to think it is a bit of both – in my opinion while a player is still in our game he should be eligible for all regular season representative teams, regardless of where they will be next season.
Having said that, I don’t think Folau warrants Test selection on his current form. I have watched every Broncos game this season (on TV or live at the ground) and Folau isn’t in the top centres in the competition. That’s not to say he would let Australia down, because he won’t, but I believe we selected better options.
I have covered or watched the last three Manly matches and can tell you Jamie Lyon is playing head and shoulders above Folau in that right centre position. Lyon deserves his selection on form alone and I think the selectors made the right call.
If it did come down to a choice between Folau and Lyon, I’m sure the futures of both men influenced the decision. And I’m fine with that too.
Rep Weekend
Big debate in Sydney has been about the 13 guys forced to backup from rep games merely 24 hours afterwards in the Manly vs. St George match. I have a possible solution to avoid this problem – let’s make a weekend out of it.
There are a couple of things we’ll have to do – tweak the season schedule to either extend a week or remove one of the byes (considering all teams get the bye during this rep weekend). Also, to suit the broadcasters we need to try and get a minimum of 6 games for the weekend.
Here is my proposed schedule with all NRL teams forced to release players selected in various teams, subject to independent medical tests.
Friday Night Ch 9 – Australia vs. New Zealand
Saturday 5:30pm FOX – PNG vs. Samoa (Match played in PNG if broadcast etc can be arranged)
Saturday 7:30pm FOX – Tonga vs. Fiji (The four islander teams to play each other in alternate years).
Sunday 2pm FOX – Under 20’s Australia vs. Under 20’s New Zealand
Sunday 4pm Ch9 – NSW City vs. NSW Country
Monday Night FOX – Legends of League Charity match (similar concept used in AFL)
Another possible Saturday night match is Indigenous Australia vs. New Zealand Maori
TIPPING
Tips – Manly, Gold Coast, Brisbane, Roosters
Last Week – 4/8
Total – 32/64 (50%)
Thanks for reading everyone and don’t forget you can contact me directly on email at andrew.keyte@gmail.com or through the comment section below. I’m also on Twitter (@keyto316) and Facebook.
Cheers,
Keyto
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Qld Teams - Stars prepare for Rep season
Eight of the best players from the three Queensland-based NRL clubs will hope to back up following Friday night’s start to the representative season.
Broncos captain Darren Lockyer plays his 51st Test when he leads the Kangaroos against New Zealand at Melbourne’s brand new AAMI Park stadium.
Lockyer will be joined by Broncos team mate Sam Thaiday while utility Alex Glenn has been named in the 18-man Kiwi squad for what would be his International debut.
Meanwhile Titans trio Greg Bird, Anthony Laffranchi and Mark Minichiello plus Cowboys pair Willie Mason and Luke O’Donnell will play the annual New South Wales City vs. Country match in Port Macquarie on Friday night.
O’Donnell will play his first game in a month after missing the Cowboys past three games due to suspension.
The clubs will hope the eight stars get through their respective matches unscathed to back up for NRL football across the weekend.
Titans shoot for trifecta
The Gold Coast Titans, for the second time this year, will aim for their third consecutive victory when they face Newcastle on Sunday.
Captain Scott Prince made a successful return from a broken thumb in last weekend’s 38-24 win over Penrith.
He returned at halfback with Preston Campbell pushed to fullback and William Zillman shuffled to the bench.
Coach John Cartwright has retained the same 17 man squad for the away clash with the Knights.
The Titans have lost both clashes at Energy Australia Stadium and will aim to maintain their position towards the top of the 2010 ladder with a maiden win.
Newcastle is coming off an impressive come-from-behind 30-22 win over the Broncos at Suncorp Stadium last weekend.
Kenny returns
Broncos prop Nick Kenny is named to return from a calf injury in Sunday’s match against Melbourne.
Kenny suffered a back injury a month ago leading up to the Round 5 match with the Dragons before blowing his calf muscle on the eve of the Broncos Round 6 match with Cronulla.
He has been named on a five man bench for the Melbourne Storm’s opening match at their new home AAMI Park.
Coach Ivan Henjak has shuffled his forwards around to face the red-hot Melbourne Storm.
Youngsters Mitchell Dodds and Dunamis Lui join Kenny on the bench with Scott Anderson and Lagi Setu named to start the match.
Corey Norman and the returning Gerard Beale make up the remainder of the interchange troops.
Ben Te’o returns to the centres with Steve Michaels NRL homecoming cut short after just the one appearance.
The Broncos have lost their last two matches and, desperately needing a win to stay in touch with the top eight, could not face the Storm at a worse time.
Since effectively being kicked out of the competition for mass salary cap breaches, Melbourne has hammered the Warriors (40-6) and Cowboys (34-6) in consecutive weeks.
The Storm has won eight of the last 10 matches between the two clubs with the only blemishes coming early last season and in the 2006 Grand Final.
Cowboys call up cavalry
Aaron Payne and Luke O’Donnell have both been named to return from three week sabbaticals in the Cowboys’ Monday night match with the Roosters in Sydney.
O’Donnell will represent City on Friday night after serving his three match suspension while Payne has been sidelined for the same period with an ankle injury.
However their returns have been offset by the news Johnathan Thurston will miss at least three weeks with a new shoulder problem.
The injury is unrelated to the shoulder and back damage that saw him sidelined earlier in the season.
His place at halfback for the Roosters match has been taken by under 20’s captain Michael Morgan, who will make his NRL debut.
John Williams returns to first grade on the wing with Ashley Graham replacing Will Tupou in the centres.
Anthony Watts and new Warriors 2011 signing Steve Rapira move back to a seven man bench.
Steve Southern (leg) and Ray Thompson (shoulder) have joined a growing injury ward; one still housing Matt Bowen (knee) for another few weeks.
The Cowboys won both matches with the Roosters in 2009 and will hope to recapture some of that winning formula this weekend.
That match will be live on Fox Sports from 7pm Monday night.
Sunday sees the Titans live on Fox Sports from 2pm while the Broncos match with the Storm will be on a one hour delay from 4pm on Channel Nine.
Gold Coast Titans vs. Knights, Sunday 2pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Preston Campbell, Kevin Gordon, Clinton Toopi, Joseph Tomane, David Mead, Greg Bird, Scott Prince (c), Luke Bailey, Nathan Friend, Brad Meyers, Anthony Laffranchi, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Matthew White, Michael Henderson, Sam Tagataese, William Zillman.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Storm, Sunday 3pm, (Channel Nine, delayed 4pm)
Josh Hoffman, Denan Kemp, Ben Te’o, Israel Folau, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (c), Ben Hunt, Shane Tronc, Alex Glenn, Scott Anderson, Lagi Setu, Sam Thaiday, Corey Parker. Interchange: Corey Norman, Nick Kenny, Mitchell Dodds, Dunamis Lui, Gerard Beale (one to be omitted).
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Roosters, Monday 7pm, (Fox Sports, live).
Shannon Gallant, John Williams, Ashley Graham, Willie Tonga, Michael Bani, Grant Rovelli, Michael Morgan, Matt Scott, Aaron Payne, James Tamou, Scott Bolton, Willie Mason, Luke O’Donnell. Interchange: Anthony Watts, Steve Rapira, Leeson Ah Mau, Antonio Kaufusi, Clint Amos, Manase Manuokafoa, Dane Hogan (three to be omitted).
Authors Note – League commentator Mark Geyer is this week asking for rugby league fans to fill out the annual Rugby League Week players’ poll. He is interested comparing what the players think with what the fans are saying. If you would like to take part in the quick survey please email me, andrew.keyte@gmail.com, and I will pass on the details.
Broncos captain Darren Lockyer plays his 51st Test when he leads the Kangaroos against New Zealand at Melbourne’s brand new AAMI Park stadium.
Lockyer will be joined by Broncos team mate Sam Thaiday while utility Alex Glenn has been named in the 18-man Kiwi squad for what would be his International debut.
Meanwhile Titans trio Greg Bird, Anthony Laffranchi and Mark Minichiello plus Cowboys pair Willie Mason and Luke O’Donnell will play the annual New South Wales City vs. Country match in Port Macquarie on Friday night.
O’Donnell will play his first game in a month after missing the Cowboys past three games due to suspension.
The clubs will hope the eight stars get through their respective matches unscathed to back up for NRL football across the weekend.
Titans shoot for trifecta
The Gold Coast Titans, for the second time this year, will aim for their third consecutive victory when they face Newcastle on Sunday.
Captain Scott Prince made a successful return from a broken thumb in last weekend’s 38-24 win over Penrith.
He returned at halfback with Preston Campbell pushed to fullback and William Zillman shuffled to the bench.
Coach John Cartwright has retained the same 17 man squad for the away clash with the Knights.
The Titans have lost both clashes at Energy Australia Stadium and will aim to maintain their position towards the top of the 2010 ladder with a maiden win.
Newcastle is coming off an impressive come-from-behind 30-22 win over the Broncos at Suncorp Stadium last weekend.
Kenny returns
Broncos prop Nick Kenny is named to return from a calf injury in Sunday’s match against Melbourne.
Kenny suffered a back injury a month ago leading up to the Round 5 match with the Dragons before blowing his calf muscle on the eve of the Broncos Round 6 match with Cronulla.
He has been named on a five man bench for the Melbourne Storm’s opening match at their new home AAMI Park.
Coach Ivan Henjak has shuffled his forwards around to face the red-hot Melbourne Storm.
Youngsters Mitchell Dodds and Dunamis Lui join Kenny on the bench with Scott Anderson and Lagi Setu named to start the match.
Corey Norman and the returning Gerard Beale make up the remainder of the interchange troops.
Ben Te’o returns to the centres with Steve Michaels NRL homecoming cut short after just the one appearance.
The Broncos have lost their last two matches and, desperately needing a win to stay in touch with the top eight, could not face the Storm at a worse time.
Since effectively being kicked out of the competition for mass salary cap breaches, Melbourne has hammered the Warriors (40-6) and Cowboys (34-6) in consecutive weeks.
The Storm has won eight of the last 10 matches between the two clubs with the only blemishes coming early last season and in the 2006 Grand Final.
Cowboys call up cavalry
Aaron Payne and Luke O’Donnell have both been named to return from three week sabbaticals in the Cowboys’ Monday night match with the Roosters in Sydney.
O’Donnell will represent City on Friday night after serving his three match suspension while Payne has been sidelined for the same period with an ankle injury.
However their returns have been offset by the news Johnathan Thurston will miss at least three weeks with a new shoulder problem.
The injury is unrelated to the shoulder and back damage that saw him sidelined earlier in the season.
His place at halfback for the Roosters match has been taken by under 20’s captain Michael Morgan, who will make his NRL debut.
John Williams returns to first grade on the wing with Ashley Graham replacing Will Tupou in the centres.
Anthony Watts and new Warriors 2011 signing Steve Rapira move back to a seven man bench.
Steve Southern (leg) and Ray Thompson (shoulder) have joined a growing injury ward; one still housing Matt Bowen (knee) for another few weeks.
The Cowboys won both matches with the Roosters in 2009 and will hope to recapture some of that winning formula this weekend.
That match will be live on Fox Sports from 7pm Monday night.
Sunday sees the Titans live on Fox Sports from 2pm while the Broncos match with the Storm will be on a one hour delay from 4pm on Channel Nine.
Gold Coast Titans vs. Knights, Sunday 2pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Preston Campbell, Kevin Gordon, Clinton Toopi, Joseph Tomane, David Mead, Greg Bird, Scott Prince (c), Luke Bailey, Nathan Friend, Brad Meyers, Anthony Laffranchi, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Matthew White, Michael Henderson, Sam Tagataese, William Zillman.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Storm, Sunday 3pm, (Channel Nine, delayed 4pm)
Josh Hoffman, Denan Kemp, Ben Te’o, Israel Folau, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (c), Ben Hunt, Shane Tronc, Alex Glenn, Scott Anderson, Lagi Setu, Sam Thaiday, Corey Parker. Interchange: Corey Norman, Nick Kenny, Mitchell Dodds, Dunamis Lui, Gerard Beale (one to be omitted).
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Roosters, Monday 7pm, (Fox Sports, live).
Shannon Gallant, John Williams, Ashley Graham, Willie Tonga, Michael Bani, Grant Rovelli, Michael Morgan, Matt Scott, Aaron Payne, James Tamou, Scott Bolton, Willie Mason, Luke O’Donnell. Interchange: Anthony Watts, Steve Rapira, Leeson Ah Mau, Antonio Kaufusi, Clint Amos, Manase Manuokafoa, Dane Hogan (three to be omitted).
Authors Note – League commentator Mark Geyer is this week asking for rugby league fans to fill out the annual Rugby League Week players’ poll. He is interested comparing what the players think with what the fans are saying. If you would like to take part in the quick survey please email me, andrew.keyte@gmail.com, and I will pass on the details.
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