Another long season is all but over and unfortunately it’s probably going to be remembered for the Melbourne Storm cheating drama. That aside, let’s take a look at five of the entertaining, enjoyable and positive events of this season.
5. Young Talent Time
This season we have seen the emergence of so many young superstars, future household names. We’ve seen Dugan, Hoffman, Gardner, Gillett, Croker, Fifita, Linnett, Waerea-Hargreaves and so many more make their mark. Throw in the Englishmen, Ellis in his second year and of course Sam Burgess who have really added to our competition. Even though it was a tough year at times for this Broncos supporter, it was also so very exciting thanks to the new talent on show.
4. Todd Carney
I was a doubter, heck I was a hater. I thought once Todd Carney made his umpteenth off-field mistake we should have shipped him out and marked him ‘never to play again’. The guy was a grub and tarnished the NRL with his off-field behaviour.
My how he’s turned things around. He seems remorseful and determined on and off the field to be successful ... and he has delivered. My hat is off to Todd Carney who has all but redeemed himself. His football talent was unquestionable, but he’s been an asset to our game off the field too.
While we’re here, huge congratulations to the Roosters too who had the wooden spoon this time last year. Regardless of Sunday’s result, they have had a stellar season.
3. Week One Finals
Anyone who watched that Saturday night 100 minute epic final between the Roosters and Tigers followed by a very entertaining Panthers and Raiders match would agree the entertainment was top draw. It was a brilliant night of rugby league and one fans won’t forget.
This night was a wonderful advertisement for our game and plain, old-fashioned good fun.
2. Canberra Raiders
It took a long time, but we finally saw the potential this side had explode onto the mainstream NRL arena. They dicked around for most of the year with inconsistent form and poor team selections but when it counted they finally got it right.
At the start of the year I predicted the Raiders to finish in the Top Four – they failed, but it was their own fault. I also predicted the Raiders would make a Grand Final in the next 2-3 years and I am extremely confident of this.
There is so much potential in this club it’s scary. If they stick together, this club could potentially become the next great side.
1. QUEENSLANDER!!
For my final point of the year how could I look anywhere else? This is the greatest Origin side we have ever seen and the scary part is, there are another five or six guys equally capable who can’t get a run.
I was lucky enough to be at all three games this year to witness Queensland’s ‘Maroon Wash’ in their historical Five-time Championship reign.
For Queenslander’s this was a really special season and while it’s good for the game to have a strong NSW side, even a winning one, this Queensland fan wouldn’t have it any other way!!
TIPPING
Tips – Dragons
Last Week – 1/2
Total – 111/200 (56%)
Thanks so much for reading this season. As always you can contact me on email (andrew.keyte@gmail.com), Twitter (@keyto316) and directly below.
Enjoy the Grand Final,
Keyto
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Epic GF encounter awaits
After seven months of intense competition the NRL Grand Final will see the minor premiers tackle the rags-to-riches fairy tailers in what should be a memorable match.
St George-Illawarra have been the best team for two years and have dominated the 2010 season since the first ball was kicked.
On the other side of the field stand the Roosters, a club in turmoil and holding the wooden spoon this time last year.
An intriguing battle awaits and now there only one question remains – who is going to win?
How the Dragons can win
If the Dragons play the way they have all season, it will keep them in the game. However this is a Grand Final and so often teams will need to find something extra to get over the line. That something extra has to be in attack.
Mark Gasnier may well hold the keys to success on Sunday. If he can get some early ball we may just see the Gasnier of old. The forwards will have to aim up and the Dragons will need Nathan Fien at his attacking best. If Jamie Soward holds his nerve, he’s good enough to steer the side to that elusive premiership.
How the Roosters can win
The Roosters need to find a way to get two tries in front – the earlier the better. If the game turns into an arm wrestle the Dragons will have the advantage. Not that the Roosters can’t hold their own as we saw three weeks ago against the Tigers. We’ve seen some good defence from the Chooks in the Finals and that must be on song this Sunday.
The Roosters have an x-factor to them – they can beat anyone and be beaten by anyone. They also have points in them which will definitely worry the Dragons. The forwards will try and bully their way to an advantage and if that happens then Pearce and Carney can send the likes of SKD away for plenty of points. They’ll need at least four tries which won’t be easy.
The Coaches
Now, this is a battle within a battle. Wayne Bennett and Brian Smith – two guys who don’t really know each other yet have a storied rivalry dating back nearly 20 years. It stems from when Bennett’s Broncos beat Smith’s Dragons in consecutive Grand Finals and has grown ever since.
Neither guy is likely to get involved this week but a quick look at their records tells a story. Bennett won six out of six GF’s with Brisbane while Smith is still chasing his first after four losing ARL/NRL and English Super League attempts.
The 2010 history
These two clubs met twice this season with the Dragons winning both. They got home 28-6 in Round 7 on ANZAC Day before finishing 19-12 winners in front of a packed SCG crowd in Round 22.
On both occasions the game broke down into an arm wrestle before the Dragons ran over the top of the Roosters in the second half.
Key Players
I like the Roosters forward pack – there’s a great mix of workers, aggression and solid first graders in there. A guy like Jared Waerea-Hargreaves can be a huge asset, he can also give away penalties, but if he’s on then so are the Roosters.
Shaun Kenny-Dowall in the centres is a huge weapon but he will be up against Matt Cooper while Gasnier must be used more by the Dragons. Across the backline Saints have the edge man-for-man but as a unit there’s more points in the Roosters.
This is really going to come down to a battle between the five-eighths ... Jamie Soward against Todd Carney. They must steer their sides around and make good decisions under pressure. It wouldn’t surprise me to see the winner of this earn the best on ground award.
Finally, never under-estimate Braith Anasta. He has been great all season and especially in the last six weeks. The Roosters skipper could be about to play the game of his life.
It all comes down to this ...
I think this game can be won in the first half, even the first 20 minutes. The Roosters need to at least stick with the Dragons because if they fall behind, Saints will choke them out.
However if the Roosters can get to a 10 or 12 point lead and maintain the rage, I don’t think the Dragons have the attack to score two or three consecutive tries in quick time to win the game.
If the Roosters can play from in front they can win, if they fall behind they can chase the points but I don’t think the opposition will let that happen.
If the Dragons get in front they will stay in front ... if they lead by six or more with 20 minutes to go and keep doing what they’ve done all year they’ll win the game fairly comfortably. But if they fall behind or start to panic (choke?), then it’s Game On!
Prediction
I’m really looking forward to this game ... the defensive kings against the great unknowns. I like the fairy tale aspect of the Roosters and individually I like a few of their players.
I just can’t go past the Dragons though in this one. They are a better team than last season and Bennett knows how to win these games. I’m expecting a reasonably low scoring game, maybe a 15-8 score line to Saints.
On the other hand I could see the Dragons putting on some late tries after a tight 60 minutes to blow the score out.
My official tip is St George-Illawarra by 7 points with the Roosters centre Shaun Kenny-Dowall pipping Brett Morris for the first try.
St George-Illawarra Dragons vs. Roosters, Sunday 4pm QLD, (Channel Nine, live).
Darius Boyd, Brett Morris, Mark Gasnier, Matt Cooper, Jason Nightingale, Jamie Soward, Ben Hornby (c), Neville Costigan, Dean Young, Michael Weyman, Beau Scott, Ben Creagh, Jeremy Smith Interchange: Nathan Fien, Trent Merrin, Matt Prior, Jarrod Saffy, Nick Emmett, Kyle Stanley, Jon Green, Luke Priddis (four to be omitted).
Sydney Roosters vs. Dragons, Sunday 4pm QLD, (Channel Nine, live).
Anthony Minichiello, Joseph Leilua, Kane Linnett, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Sam Perrett, Todd Carney, Mitchell Pearce, Jason Ryles, Jake Friend, Frank-Paul Nuuausala, Nate Myles, Mitchell Aubusson, Braith Anasta (c) Interchange: Martin Kennedy, Jared Waeara-Hargreaves, Daniel Conn, James Aubusson, Nick Kouparitsas, Tom Symonds, Lopini Paea, Phil Graham (four to be omitted).
Referees – Tony Archer and Shane Hayne
St George-Illawarra have been the best team for two years and have dominated the 2010 season since the first ball was kicked.
On the other side of the field stand the Roosters, a club in turmoil and holding the wooden spoon this time last year.
An intriguing battle awaits and now there only one question remains – who is going to win?
How the Dragons can win
If the Dragons play the way they have all season, it will keep them in the game. However this is a Grand Final and so often teams will need to find something extra to get over the line. That something extra has to be in attack.
Mark Gasnier may well hold the keys to success on Sunday. If he can get some early ball we may just see the Gasnier of old. The forwards will have to aim up and the Dragons will need Nathan Fien at his attacking best. If Jamie Soward holds his nerve, he’s good enough to steer the side to that elusive premiership.
How the Roosters can win
The Roosters need to find a way to get two tries in front – the earlier the better. If the game turns into an arm wrestle the Dragons will have the advantage. Not that the Roosters can’t hold their own as we saw three weeks ago against the Tigers. We’ve seen some good defence from the Chooks in the Finals and that must be on song this Sunday.
The Roosters have an x-factor to them – they can beat anyone and be beaten by anyone. They also have points in them which will definitely worry the Dragons. The forwards will try and bully their way to an advantage and if that happens then Pearce and Carney can send the likes of SKD away for plenty of points. They’ll need at least four tries which won’t be easy.
The Coaches
Now, this is a battle within a battle. Wayne Bennett and Brian Smith – two guys who don’t really know each other yet have a storied rivalry dating back nearly 20 years. It stems from when Bennett’s Broncos beat Smith’s Dragons in consecutive Grand Finals and has grown ever since.
Neither guy is likely to get involved this week but a quick look at their records tells a story. Bennett won six out of six GF’s with Brisbane while Smith is still chasing his first after four losing ARL/NRL and English Super League attempts.
The 2010 history
These two clubs met twice this season with the Dragons winning both. They got home 28-6 in Round 7 on ANZAC Day before finishing 19-12 winners in front of a packed SCG crowd in Round 22.
On both occasions the game broke down into an arm wrestle before the Dragons ran over the top of the Roosters in the second half.
Key Players
I like the Roosters forward pack – there’s a great mix of workers, aggression and solid first graders in there. A guy like Jared Waerea-Hargreaves can be a huge asset, he can also give away penalties, but if he’s on then so are the Roosters.
Shaun Kenny-Dowall in the centres is a huge weapon but he will be up against Matt Cooper while Gasnier must be used more by the Dragons. Across the backline Saints have the edge man-for-man but as a unit there’s more points in the Roosters.
This is really going to come down to a battle between the five-eighths ... Jamie Soward against Todd Carney. They must steer their sides around and make good decisions under pressure. It wouldn’t surprise me to see the winner of this earn the best on ground award.
Finally, never under-estimate Braith Anasta. He has been great all season and especially in the last six weeks. The Roosters skipper could be about to play the game of his life.
It all comes down to this ...
I think this game can be won in the first half, even the first 20 minutes. The Roosters need to at least stick with the Dragons because if they fall behind, Saints will choke them out.
However if the Roosters can get to a 10 or 12 point lead and maintain the rage, I don’t think the Dragons have the attack to score two or three consecutive tries in quick time to win the game.
If the Roosters can play from in front they can win, if they fall behind they can chase the points but I don’t think the opposition will let that happen.
If the Dragons get in front they will stay in front ... if they lead by six or more with 20 minutes to go and keep doing what they’ve done all year they’ll win the game fairly comfortably. But if they fall behind or start to panic (choke?), then it’s Game On!
Prediction
I’m really looking forward to this game ... the defensive kings against the great unknowns. I like the fairy tale aspect of the Roosters and individually I like a few of their players.
I just can’t go past the Dragons though in this one. They are a better team than last season and Bennett knows how to win these games. I’m expecting a reasonably low scoring game, maybe a 15-8 score line to Saints.
On the other hand I could see the Dragons putting on some late tries after a tight 60 minutes to blow the score out.
My official tip is St George-Illawarra by 7 points with the Roosters centre Shaun Kenny-Dowall pipping Brett Morris for the first try.
St George-Illawarra Dragons vs. Roosters, Sunday 4pm QLD, (Channel Nine, live).
Darius Boyd, Brett Morris, Mark Gasnier, Matt Cooper, Jason Nightingale, Jamie Soward, Ben Hornby (c), Neville Costigan, Dean Young, Michael Weyman, Beau Scott, Ben Creagh, Jeremy Smith Interchange: Nathan Fien, Trent Merrin, Matt Prior, Jarrod Saffy, Nick Emmett, Kyle Stanley, Jon Green, Luke Priddis (four to be omitted).
Sydney Roosters vs. Dragons, Sunday 4pm QLD, (Channel Nine, live).
Anthony Minichiello, Joseph Leilua, Kane Linnett, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Sam Perrett, Todd Carney, Mitchell Pearce, Jason Ryles, Jake Friend, Frank-Paul Nuuausala, Nate Myles, Mitchell Aubusson, Braith Anasta (c) Interchange: Martin Kennedy, Jared Waeara-Hargreaves, Daniel Conn, James Aubusson, Nick Kouparitsas, Tom Symonds, Lopini Paea, Phil Graham (four to be omitted).
Referees – Tony Archer and Shane Hayne
Thursday, September 16, 2010
So, what have we learnt?
Saturday night I sat at home and watched an epic battle at the Sydney Football Stadium followed by a very entertaining dual at Penrith. I had nothing on either game, my team is gone and I wasn’t on the punt, so I didn’t care who won. That’s probably why last Saturday night was the best fun I’ve had in football for a long time. There are six teams remaining now and the title picture is a little clearer.
The teams to beat
One thing is abundantly clear – the Dragons are the team to beat this season. They took care of Manly easily. Yes it was a tad boring but nothing was going to beat the fun of Saturday night. As Wayne Bennett said though, they got the job done. They did it the same way they’ve done all year – a slow, methodical strangulation. The only concern I have about the Dragons is their ability to chase 10 or 12 points, but the challenge for the opposition is building that lead.
The Gold Coast Titans were very professional in their win last week and will be well rested for a final tilt come next weekend. I don’t want to see a Titans/Dragons Grand Final because it could be a real grind of a match – but I think this is the match up we’re headed for. The Titans this year have proven they can match Saints so their fate really does rest in their own hands.
Canberra Raiders are my favourite team to watch at the moment. Two months ago they had an aging winger playing halfback and the Raiders were shot ducks, another year of what could have been. But since picking a genuine halfback (what were they thinking earlier?) has turned their season. The only thing that will stop Canberra is themselves – mentally they have to deal with the fact they would have won 9 in a row to take the GF. I think they can do it, heck I would love to see them do it.
Wobbly boots
I’m worried about the Panthers. I have been on them all season but now I don’t think they will beat the Roosters next week. There’s just something missing and I’m not sure what. I don’t think it’s creativity, maybe a bit of mental toughness or even self belief. This is coupled now with some big injuries and the wheels might be about to fall off. I love the Panthers so I hope I’m wrong.
As much as I hate to say this but Wests Tigers might be busted. They too have had big injuries at the wrong time of the year and mentally it’s going to be very hard to back up from what happened last week. I think they lost that game the moment (53rd minute) Farah snapped a field goal to take the score to 15-8 I think. We could argue the bad refereeing decisions all week long but the fact is Wests are one loss away from death and they are facing the hottest team in the comp this weekend. I love both the Tigers and Raiders so I’m just going to sit back and enjoy a great game Friday night.
The great unknown
As has been the case all season, I have absolutely no idea about the Roosters. They weren’t in the contest for a long time against the Tigers and then just turned it on. That’s a good quality to have in any side and I think the Chooks can beat anyone on their day. They’ve got a good football team built around the workers Myles and Anasta, the impact of Frank-Paul and Waerea-Hargreaves, the elusiveness and power of SKD plus the freakish Carney. Honestly, I just don’t know if they can beat the Panthers, then beat the Titans, then win the comp – but they’ve certainly got the ability.
TIPPING
Tips – Raiders, Roosters
Last Week – 2/4
Total – 109/196 (56%)
That’s it for this week, any thoughts please share them on email (andrew.keyte@gmail.com), Twitter (@keyto316) or below. I am away on holidays from Saturday and will return in Grand Final week for some sort of 2010 review.
Cheers,
Keyto
The teams to beat
One thing is abundantly clear – the Dragons are the team to beat this season. They took care of Manly easily. Yes it was a tad boring but nothing was going to beat the fun of Saturday night. As Wayne Bennett said though, they got the job done. They did it the same way they’ve done all year – a slow, methodical strangulation. The only concern I have about the Dragons is their ability to chase 10 or 12 points, but the challenge for the opposition is building that lead.
The Gold Coast Titans were very professional in their win last week and will be well rested for a final tilt come next weekend. I don’t want to see a Titans/Dragons Grand Final because it could be a real grind of a match – but I think this is the match up we’re headed for. The Titans this year have proven they can match Saints so their fate really does rest in their own hands.
Canberra Raiders are my favourite team to watch at the moment. Two months ago they had an aging winger playing halfback and the Raiders were shot ducks, another year of what could have been. But since picking a genuine halfback (what were they thinking earlier?) has turned their season. The only thing that will stop Canberra is themselves – mentally they have to deal with the fact they would have won 9 in a row to take the GF. I think they can do it, heck I would love to see them do it.
Wobbly boots
I’m worried about the Panthers. I have been on them all season but now I don’t think they will beat the Roosters next week. There’s just something missing and I’m not sure what. I don’t think it’s creativity, maybe a bit of mental toughness or even self belief. This is coupled now with some big injuries and the wheels might be about to fall off. I love the Panthers so I hope I’m wrong.
As much as I hate to say this but Wests Tigers might be busted. They too have had big injuries at the wrong time of the year and mentally it’s going to be very hard to back up from what happened last week. I think they lost that game the moment (53rd minute) Farah snapped a field goal to take the score to 15-8 I think. We could argue the bad refereeing decisions all week long but the fact is Wests are one loss away from death and they are facing the hottest team in the comp this weekend. I love both the Tigers and Raiders so I’m just going to sit back and enjoy a great game Friday night.
The great unknown
As has been the case all season, I have absolutely no idea about the Roosters. They weren’t in the contest for a long time against the Tigers and then just turned it on. That’s a good quality to have in any side and I think the Chooks can beat anyone on their day. They’ve got a good football team built around the workers Myles and Anasta, the impact of Frank-Paul and Waerea-Hargreaves, the elusiveness and power of SKD plus the freakish Carney. Honestly, I just don’t know if they can beat the Panthers, then beat the Titans, then win the comp – but they’ve certainly got the ability.
TIPPING
Tips – Raiders, Roosters
Last Week – 2/4
Total – 109/196 (56%)
That’s it for this week, any thoughts please share them on email (andrew.keyte@gmail.com), Twitter (@keyto316) or below. I am away on holidays from Saturday and will return in Grand Final week for some sort of 2010 review.
Cheers,
Keyto
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Qld Teams - Free pass perfect for Titans
Barring a training mishap, the Gold Coast Titans should be fully fit in two weeks when they challenge for their maiden Grand Final appearance.
Following their professional 28-16 win over the Warriors at Skilled Park last Friday, the Titans earned a week off following losses by the second-placed Panthers and third-placed Tigers on Saturday.
Gold Coast will play the winner of Saturday’s night’s Roosters vs. Panthers match in two weeks at Suncorp Stadium for a place in the 2010 Grand Final.
The Titans players and coaching staff agree the bye is ideal with so many players carrying niggling injuries.
Fullback Preston Campbell should be fully recovered from a hamstring injury by Friday week’s Preliminary Final to ensure a virtually fully fit squad.
Scott Prince is carrying a shoulder bump while prop Luke Bailey played 53 minutes against the Warriors without painkilling injections for a broken thumb.
Titans quartet Greg Bird, Anthony Laffranchi, Ashley Harrison and Steve Michaels all join Prince with minor shoulder complaints while Mat Rogers is still being hampered by a hip problem.
All were likely to play this weekend if required meaning they should be certain starters in two weeks.
The Titans did lose both games following byes this season but with a crowd of at least 40,000 people expected at Suncorp Stadium for the Preliminary Final, they will start favourites to qualify for the Grand Final no matter who they face.
Broncos, Cowboys feeders in Grand Final
While the NRL squads are already looking ahead to 2011, the Brisbane Broncos and North Queensland Cowboys feeder clubs meet in the Queensland Cup Grand Final on Sunday.
Norths Devils (Broncos) and Northern Pride (Cowboys) face off at Suncorp Stadium in the Decider following good wins on the weekend.
The Cowboys had both their feeder sides in the Preliminary Finals but their other side Mackay were sent packing with a 56-12 walloping dished out by the Devils.
Northern Pride had to work a little harder but were equalling impressive in defeating minor premiers Souths Logan 28-8 last Sunday.
The Devils side will likely contain Broncos 2006 Premiership winning halfback Shane Perry and having finished second in the regular season may start slight favourites.
The Pride will boast Cowboy 2010 squad members Michael Bani, Clint Amos and Nick Slyney while Ty Williams was a late withdrawal on the weekend due to injury.
Former NRL players Rod Jensen and Chris Sheppard are also key members of the team.
The Queensland Rugby League is planning a big day of entertainment including three Grand Finals.
The main event Queensland Cup Grand Final kicks off at 2pm and will be broadcast live into Queensland on ABC1 and ABC local radio.
Authors Note – I am on holidays next week and will return in two weeks on Tuesday 28 September with a Grand Final preview.
Following their professional 28-16 win over the Warriors at Skilled Park last Friday, the Titans earned a week off following losses by the second-placed Panthers and third-placed Tigers on Saturday.
Gold Coast will play the winner of Saturday’s night’s Roosters vs. Panthers match in two weeks at Suncorp Stadium for a place in the 2010 Grand Final.
The Titans players and coaching staff agree the bye is ideal with so many players carrying niggling injuries.
Fullback Preston Campbell should be fully recovered from a hamstring injury by Friday week’s Preliminary Final to ensure a virtually fully fit squad.
Scott Prince is carrying a shoulder bump while prop Luke Bailey played 53 minutes against the Warriors without painkilling injections for a broken thumb.
Titans quartet Greg Bird, Anthony Laffranchi, Ashley Harrison and Steve Michaels all join Prince with minor shoulder complaints while Mat Rogers is still being hampered by a hip problem.
All were likely to play this weekend if required meaning they should be certain starters in two weeks.
The Titans did lose both games following byes this season but with a crowd of at least 40,000 people expected at Suncorp Stadium for the Preliminary Final, they will start favourites to qualify for the Grand Final no matter who they face.
Broncos, Cowboys feeders in Grand Final
While the NRL squads are already looking ahead to 2011, the Brisbane Broncos and North Queensland Cowboys feeder clubs meet in the Queensland Cup Grand Final on Sunday.
Norths Devils (Broncos) and Northern Pride (Cowboys) face off at Suncorp Stadium in the Decider following good wins on the weekend.
The Cowboys had both their feeder sides in the Preliminary Finals but their other side Mackay were sent packing with a 56-12 walloping dished out by the Devils.
Northern Pride had to work a little harder but were equalling impressive in defeating minor premiers Souths Logan 28-8 last Sunday.
The Devils side will likely contain Broncos 2006 Premiership winning halfback Shane Perry and having finished second in the regular season may start slight favourites.
The Pride will boast Cowboy 2010 squad members Michael Bani, Clint Amos and Nick Slyney while Ty Williams was a late withdrawal on the weekend due to injury.
Former NRL players Rod Jensen and Chris Sheppard are also key members of the team.
The Queensland Rugby League is planning a big day of entertainment including three Grand Finals.
The main event Queensland Cup Grand Final kicks off at 2pm and will be broadcast live into Queensland on ABC1 and ABC local radio.
Authors Note – I am on holidays next week and will return in two weeks on Tuesday 28 September with a Grand Final preview.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
How the rest can beat the best
One thing all NRL fans agree upon is the St George-Illawarra Dragons are THE team to beat in season 2010. From Round One they have been the pace setters and league leaders and it’s been up to the 15 other teams to find a way to knock them off. The Dragons are well deserved Premiership favourites in my eyes, but what’s it going to take from the other seven clubs standing to knock the Dragons off?
West Tigers
These guys are the best bet to beat Saints in my opinion. We know about their attack, but in the back half of the season Wests defence has been very good too. They’ve held some pretty good sides like the Titans, Storm, Panthers and Canberra to three tries or less over the last few months. I think the Tigers have a real shot at taking this title.
Penrith Panthers
I love watching this side play because, as I’ve said, they’re a real throw back club with a team of footballers rather than athletes. I like the mix of youth and experience and all they need is belief. Their attack outscores the Dragons, but the defence will win Penrith the game.
Gold Coast Titans
The experience at this club and their ‘never-say-die’ attitude is the Titans greatest asset. They’ve beaten the Dragons before and will get in an arm wrestle. Gold Coast won’t blow the Dragons away, but if they hang tough it will come down to someone producing a match winning play.
Warriors
These guys are still a relatively unknown to me. I don’t know if they can beat the Dragons, but I’d love to see them try. The Warriors would have to play to their strengths but whether they have the creativity to break down the Dragons remains to be seen.
Sydney Roosters
When they get their attack firing the Roosters worry everyone. The Dragons don’t panic though and would probably win another arm wrestle. The Roosters would really need to aim up and try and bully their way to a win – I’m not certain they have that in them yet.
Canberra Raiders
Well, these are the guys who know how to beat the Dragons – they’ve been doing it for 10 years. Canberra play that ‘in-your-face’ style against the Dragons and for the Raiders, it works. Canberra would need to bring the aggression, fight to the death and use their big men to intimidate before the backs do their sparkling things.
Manly Sea Eagles
Unfortunately, this is the one side I don’t think can beat the Dragons. Manly just don’t have the troops, their form has been mixed all year and they’re on wobbly legs. The Eagles have a one in ten shot on Sunday, and I can’t see it coming off.
The Dragons – 2010 success beckons?
So far I have seen nothing to suggest the Dragons won’t be there challenging for the title. They look near the top of their game and ready to peak. I think there are a few teams capable of beating the Dragons, but in this season I don’t see it happening.
However, this is the NRL and we’ve seen so many wonderful things happen this year already!
TIPPING
Tips – Titans, Tigers, Panthers, Dragons
Last Week – 5/8
Total – 107/192 (56%)
To share your thoughts please email me (andrew.keyte@gmail.com), tweet me (@keyto316) or comment below.
Enjoy the Finals,
Keyto
West Tigers
These guys are the best bet to beat Saints in my opinion. We know about their attack, but in the back half of the season Wests defence has been very good too. They’ve held some pretty good sides like the Titans, Storm, Panthers and Canberra to three tries or less over the last few months. I think the Tigers have a real shot at taking this title.
Penrith Panthers
I love watching this side play because, as I’ve said, they’re a real throw back club with a team of footballers rather than athletes. I like the mix of youth and experience and all they need is belief. Their attack outscores the Dragons, but the defence will win Penrith the game.
Gold Coast Titans
The experience at this club and their ‘never-say-die’ attitude is the Titans greatest asset. They’ve beaten the Dragons before and will get in an arm wrestle. Gold Coast won’t blow the Dragons away, but if they hang tough it will come down to someone producing a match winning play.
Warriors
These guys are still a relatively unknown to me. I don’t know if they can beat the Dragons, but I’d love to see them try. The Warriors would have to play to their strengths but whether they have the creativity to break down the Dragons remains to be seen.
Sydney Roosters
When they get their attack firing the Roosters worry everyone. The Dragons don’t panic though and would probably win another arm wrestle. The Roosters would really need to aim up and try and bully their way to a win – I’m not certain they have that in them yet.
Canberra Raiders
Well, these are the guys who know how to beat the Dragons – they’ve been doing it for 10 years. Canberra play that ‘in-your-face’ style against the Dragons and for the Raiders, it works. Canberra would need to bring the aggression, fight to the death and use their big men to intimidate before the backs do their sparkling things.
Manly Sea Eagles
Unfortunately, this is the one side I don’t think can beat the Dragons. Manly just don’t have the troops, their form has been mixed all year and they’re on wobbly legs. The Eagles have a one in ten shot on Sunday, and I can’t see it coming off.
The Dragons – 2010 success beckons?
So far I have seen nothing to suggest the Dragons won’t be there challenging for the title. They look near the top of their game and ready to peak. I think there are a few teams capable of beating the Dragons, but in this season I don’t see it happening.
However, this is the NRL and we’ve seen so many wonderful things happen this year already!
TIPPING
Tips – Titans, Tigers, Panthers, Dragons
Last Week – 5/8
Total – 107/192 (56%)
To share your thoughts please email me (andrew.keyte@gmail.com), tweet me (@keyto316) or comment below.
Enjoy the Finals,
Keyto
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Qld Teams - Titans name injured brigade
The Gold Coast Titans have as many as seven players in doubt for Friday’s Qualifying Final with the Warriors at Skilled Park.
Preston Campbell (hamstring) and Luke Bailey (thumb) are the biggest inclusions, both hopeful of returning from recent lay-offs.
After missing the past three matches, Campbell returns to fullback pushing William Zillman back to the wing and Jordan Atkins on to a six man bench.
Meanwhile Bailey, who missed last week, will partner Anthony Laffranchi in the front row with Matthew White returning to the bench.
Campbell and Bailey face fitness tests on Thursday with Atkins and Luke O’Dwyer the likely replacements.
The Titans secured the home final with an exciting 21-18 win over Wests Tigers last week but it came at a cost.
Captain Scott Prince missed part of the game with a shoulder injury but returned to pilot the side home and will play this weekend.
Centre Steve Michaels (shoulder), forward Brad Meyers (ribs) and lock Ashley Harrison (broken nose) all finished the match injured with only Harrison certain at this stage to face the Warriors.
Five-eighth Mat Rogers is still struggling with a rib injury but, like Prince, is considered a near guaranteed starter this weekend.
The Titans have not lost to the Warriors since 2007 with victories this season in Auckland (28-20) six weeks ago and at Skilled Park (24-18) in Round One.
Another win for the Titans will either give them a week off, pending results, or another Queensland-based match in Week Two.
NQ feeders’ alive
In what’s been a horror season for the North Queensland Cowboys NRL side, there is plenty of hope for the future.
The Cowboys under 20’s and both Queensland Cup sides are still in the hunt for premiership success.
The 20’s finished fourth and face the Sydney Roosters this weekend while feeder clubs Northern Pride and Mackay Cutters are down to the final four Queensland Cup sides.
The Pride finished the regular season in third position and downed fifth-placed Wynnum-Manly last Sunday.
They now face minor premiers Souths Logan, Canberra’s feeder club, for a spot in the Grand Final.
In one of the biggest upsets of the season, the sixth-placed Mackay eliminated defending premiers Sunshine Coast with a precision perfect 14-4 ambush last weekend.
The Cutters scraped into the Finals on points differential after winning half their games this season and were expected to be little threat to the Sea Eagles feeder club.
However in blustery conditions the Cutters perfectly executed their game plan to win away from home to now sit one win from the Grand Final.
They face the Broncos feeder club Norths Devils on Saturday with the Grand Final to be held at Suncorp Stadium a week from Sunday.
Both semi finals this weekend will be broadcast live into Queensland on ABC1 from 2pm.
Cowboy stars Johnathan Thurston, Willie Tonga and Matt Scott were all included in the Australian squad but Thurston (foot) and Tonga (groin) will face fitness tests.
Big night for Gillett
Brisbane’s most impressive youngster Matt Gillett is the favourite to take home the NRL rookie of the year award at tonight’s Dally M awards.
Gillett came from nowhere to play 21 (of a possible 24) NRL games and scored 11 tries this season.
So obscure was the 22-year-old Gillett, he was not even included in the 2010 Broncos media guide and looked set to play out the year in the Queensland Cup.
However his versatility proved invaluable to the Broncos with him spending time in the back-row, centre, wing and five-eighth to see him touted as a future Queensland star.
Gillett faces tough competition tonight from Sharks fullback Nathan Gardner, Eels forward Justin Horo and Manly halfback Trent Hodkinson.
Karmichael Hunt was the last Bronco to win the award in 2004.
Meanwhile after missing the last month of NRL competition, in which the Broncos lost all four matches to limp out of Finals contention, Darren Lockyer puts his injured ribs under the microscope tomorrow.
Lockyer yesterday was named in the Australian train-on squad for October’s Four Nations series but must first prove his fitness.
Last week Lockyer declared he would have been fit for this weekend so it is expected he will once again lead Australia in the end of year tournament.
Sam Thaiday is the only other Bronco in the squad while young backs Alex Glenn and Antonio Winterstein earned call-ups to the New Zealand squad.
Fellow youngsters Andrew McCullough and Jharal Yow Yeh join Gillett and veteran lock Corey Parker in the Prime Minister’s XIII train-on squad.
That team will be finalised on Monday and play Papua New Guinea in an exhibition match next month.
Gold Coast Titans vs. Warriors, Friday 7:35pm, (Channel Nine, live).
Preston Campbell, Kevin Gordon, Steve Michaels, Clinton Toopi, William Zillman, Mat Rogers, Scott Prince (c), Luke Bailey, Nathan Friend, Anthony Laffranchi, Greg Bird, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Michael Henderson, Brad Meyers, Matthew White, Bodene Thompson, Luke O’Dwyer, Jordan Atkins (two to be omitted).
Preston Campbell (hamstring) and Luke Bailey (thumb) are the biggest inclusions, both hopeful of returning from recent lay-offs.
After missing the past three matches, Campbell returns to fullback pushing William Zillman back to the wing and Jordan Atkins on to a six man bench.
Meanwhile Bailey, who missed last week, will partner Anthony Laffranchi in the front row with Matthew White returning to the bench.
Campbell and Bailey face fitness tests on Thursday with Atkins and Luke O’Dwyer the likely replacements.
The Titans secured the home final with an exciting 21-18 win over Wests Tigers last week but it came at a cost.
Captain Scott Prince missed part of the game with a shoulder injury but returned to pilot the side home and will play this weekend.
Centre Steve Michaels (shoulder), forward Brad Meyers (ribs) and lock Ashley Harrison (broken nose) all finished the match injured with only Harrison certain at this stage to face the Warriors.
Five-eighth Mat Rogers is still struggling with a rib injury but, like Prince, is considered a near guaranteed starter this weekend.
The Titans have not lost to the Warriors since 2007 with victories this season in Auckland (28-20) six weeks ago and at Skilled Park (24-18) in Round One.
Another win for the Titans will either give them a week off, pending results, or another Queensland-based match in Week Two.
NQ feeders’ alive
In what’s been a horror season for the North Queensland Cowboys NRL side, there is plenty of hope for the future.
The Cowboys under 20’s and both Queensland Cup sides are still in the hunt for premiership success.
The 20’s finished fourth and face the Sydney Roosters this weekend while feeder clubs Northern Pride and Mackay Cutters are down to the final four Queensland Cup sides.
The Pride finished the regular season in third position and downed fifth-placed Wynnum-Manly last Sunday.
They now face minor premiers Souths Logan, Canberra’s feeder club, for a spot in the Grand Final.
In one of the biggest upsets of the season, the sixth-placed Mackay eliminated defending premiers Sunshine Coast with a precision perfect 14-4 ambush last weekend.
The Cutters scraped into the Finals on points differential after winning half their games this season and were expected to be little threat to the Sea Eagles feeder club.
However in blustery conditions the Cutters perfectly executed their game plan to win away from home to now sit one win from the Grand Final.
They face the Broncos feeder club Norths Devils on Saturday with the Grand Final to be held at Suncorp Stadium a week from Sunday.
Both semi finals this weekend will be broadcast live into Queensland on ABC1 from 2pm.
Cowboy stars Johnathan Thurston, Willie Tonga and Matt Scott were all included in the Australian squad but Thurston (foot) and Tonga (groin) will face fitness tests.
Big night for Gillett
Brisbane’s most impressive youngster Matt Gillett is the favourite to take home the NRL rookie of the year award at tonight’s Dally M awards.
Gillett came from nowhere to play 21 (of a possible 24) NRL games and scored 11 tries this season.
So obscure was the 22-year-old Gillett, he was not even included in the 2010 Broncos media guide and looked set to play out the year in the Queensland Cup.
However his versatility proved invaluable to the Broncos with him spending time in the back-row, centre, wing and five-eighth to see him touted as a future Queensland star.
Gillett faces tough competition tonight from Sharks fullback Nathan Gardner, Eels forward Justin Horo and Manly halfback Trent Hodkinson.
Karmichael Hunt was the last Bronco to win the award in 2004.
Meanwhile after missing the last month of NRL competition, in which the Broncos lost all four matches to limp out of Finals contention, Darren Lockyer puts his injured ribs under the microscope tomorrow.
Lockyer yesterday was named in the Australian train-on squad for October’s Four Nations series but must first prove his fitness.
Last week Lockyer declared he would have been fit for this weekend so it is expected he will once again lead Australia in the end of year tournament.
Sam Thaiday is the only other Bronco in the squad while young backs Alex Glenn and Antonio Winterstein earned call-ups to the New Zealand squad.
Fellow youngsters Andrew McCullough and Jharal Yow Yeh join Gillett and veteran lock Corey Parker in the Prime Minister’s XIII train-on squad.
That team will be finalised on Monday and play Papua New Guinea in an exhibition match next month.
Gold Coast Titans vs. Warriors, Friday 7:35pm, (Channel Nine, live).
Preston Campbell, Kevin Gordon, Steve Michaels, Clinton Toopi, William Zillman, Mat Rogers, Scott Prince (c), Luke Bailey, Nathan Friend, Anthony Laffranchi, Greg Bird, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Michael Henderson, Brad Meyers, Matthew White, Bodene Thompson, Luke O’Dwyer, Jordan Atkins (two to be omitted).
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Monday Night Football is here to stay
About 15 minutes after the brilliant finish to the Bulldogs/Panthers game earlier this week, I jumped on Twitter and asked ‘what are we going to do next Monday’? I started the year as a Monday Night Football (MNF) hater but as season 2010 wore on it quickly became regular viewing.
Why the hate for MNF
When we returned to regular Monday night fixtures a few years ago, I didn’t care for it. I liked having all games done and a completely updated ladder by 6pm Sunday so we could spend Monday de-briefing and discussing the big issues of the weekend. Then Tuesday would roll around and we’d start it all again.
The fans had other things, better things, to do on a Monday night than watch or attend the football. Many had work or school the next day which removed all social aspects of an NRL match. They might be having dinner, watching other shows and just simply had no room to incorporate a fourth rugby league night (day).
I was very much in this group at the start of the year. I had other things to do Monday nights and I was more likely to throw the game on the radio or take sporadic score updates online. However as this season moved on, I would start doing these other things while tuning in to watch MNF. More often than not, MNF would take precedence as the game progressed.
New found love
Fox Sports deserve enormous credit for what they have done with MNF this year. They have made every game – whether it be top of the table, bottom of the table, first against last or Origin generated sub-teams – Fox has made each Monday night an event.
For those without pay television, Fox gave MNF the absolute full treatment. They had a one hour, panel discussion preview show, a range of pre and post-match interviews, press conferences, expert tips and analysis plus a full three man plus sideline broadcast team.
Triple M is the official radio broadcasters for MNF and also does a wonderful job. They are a bit unconventional in their style but that’s what makes it entertaining. Football is just a game and Triple M doesn’t mind having fun across their two hour show. They still present the facts and call the action as it is seen but they do it with a smile and this really comes across through the radio.
Throw in a social media aspect, Twitter, and there’s fun to be had. Because Monday night is not a good social evening, more people are at home following the football. The best and easiest way for social interaction during the game is Twitter. People take to it and have some fun.
This fun aspect across three mediums has, in my opinion, helped carve MNF a special place in the NRL landscape.
The Future
I have to acknowledge two serious shortcomings Monday Night Football does face. Firstly, I don’t think the players like it. Having to sit through the entire weekend before finally playing is not an easy thing to do. Many guys have been quoted saying it can mess with their routine and can be challenging to get their heads around.
Also, the home fans don’t seem to like it that much either as shown in crowd figures. I would severely doubt any club’s highest crowd of the year came on a Monday night – actually I reckon the MNF crowds would probably rank near the bottom at all clubs.
As a Broncos season member I really enjoyed our lone MNF home game against the Roosters about six weeks ago. It was new, different and a good night out. However I am also exceptionally glad we only had to do it once.
Despite that, Monday Night Football is here to stay beyond the next TV deal. I believe Fox get good ratings for it making the weekly broadcast a winner. Fans might complain about the influence Fox and Channel Nine have over match allocation, but in this case I’m happy for Fox to maintain their Monday night timeslot.
We tend to forget sometimes just what Fox Sports does for our game. A heck of a lot of revenue comes from these guys, they broadcast every game live (when possible), they have implemented things like Viewers Choice, mid-week replays and classic matches. They do a wonderful job broadcasting our game and if they want MNF, I’m happy for them to have it.
And I’m more than happy to watch it.
But, the big question – what the heck are we all going to do next Monday?!?
TIPPING
Tips – Titans, Broncos, Eels, Panthers, Roosters, Storm, Manly, Dragons
Last Week – 4/8
Total – 102/184 (55%)
That’s all for this week and don’t forget to email (andrew.keyte@gmail.com), Twitter (@keyto316) or comment below.
Good luck to your team this week,
Keyto
Why the hate for MNF
When we returned to regular Monday night fixtures a few years ago, I didn’t care for it. I liked having all games done and a completely updated ladder by 6pm Sunday so we could spend Monday de-briefing and discussing the big issues of the weekend. Then Tuesday would roll around and we’d start it all again.
The fans had other things, better things, to do on a Monday night than watch or attend the football. Many had work or school the next day which removed all social aspects of an NRL match. They might be having dinner, watching other shows and just simply had no room to incorporate a fourth rugby league night (day).
I was very much in this group at the start of the year. I had other things to do Monday nights and I was more likely to throw the game on the radio or take sporadic score updates online. However as this season moved on, I would start doing these other things while tuning in to watch MNF. More often than not, MNF would take precedence as the game progressed.
New found love
Fox Sports deserve enormous credit for what they have done with MNF this year. They have made every game – whether it be top of the table, bottom of the table, first against last or Origin generated sub-teams – Fox has made each Monday night an event.
For those without pay television, Fox gave MNF the absolute full treatment. They had a one hour, panel discussion preview show, a range of pre and post-match interviews, press conferences, expert tips and analysis plus a full three man plus sideline broadcast team.
Triple M is the official radio broadcasters for MNF and also does a wonderful job. They are a bit unconventional in their style but that’s what makes it entertaining. Football is just a game and Triple M doesn’t mind having fun across their two hour show. They still present the facts and call the action as it is seen but they do it with a smile and this really comes across through the radio.
Throw in a social media aspect, Twitter, and there’s fun to be had. Because Monday night is not a good social evening, more people are at home following the football. The best and easiest way for social interaction during the game is Twitter. People take to it and have some fun.
This fun aspect across three mediums has, in my opinion, helped carve MNF a special place in the NRL landscape.
The Future
I have to acknowledge two serious shortcomings Monday Night Football does face. Firstly, I don’t think the players like it. Having to sit through the entire weekend before finally playing is not an easy thing to do. Many guys have been quoted saying it can mess with their routine and can be challenging to get their heads around.
Also, the home fans don’t seem to like it that much either as shown in crowd figures. I would severely doubt any club’s highest crowd of the year came on a Monday night – actually I reckon the MNF crowds would probably rank near the bottom at all clubs.
As a Broncos season member I really enjoyed our lone MNF home game against the Roosters about six weeks ago. It was new, different and a good night out. However I am also exceptionally glad we only had to do it once.
Despite that, Monday Night Football is here to stay beyond the next TV deal. I believe Fox get good ratings for it making the weekly broadcast a winner. Fans might complain about the influence Fox and Channel Nine have over match allocation, but in this case I’m happy for Fox to maintain their Monday night timeslot.
We tend to forget sometimes just what Fox Sports does for our game. A heck of a lot of revenue comes from these guys, they broadcast every game live (when possible), they have implemented things like Viewers Choice, mid-week replays and classic matches. They do a wonderful job broadcasting our game and if they want MNF, I’m happy for them to have it.
And I’m more than happy to watch it.
But, the big question – what the heck are we all going to do next Monday?!?
TIPPING
Tips – Titans, Broncos, Eels, Panthers, Roosters, Storm, Manly, Dragons
Last Week – 4/8
Total – 102/184 (55%)
That’s all for this week and don’t forget to email (andrew.keyte@gmail.com), Twitter (@keyto316) or comment below.
Good luck to your team this week,
Keyto
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