Brisbane Broncos fullback Josh Hoffman will make his long awaited return against Cronulla in Sydney on Friday night but two key forwards will be sidelined with injury.
Back-rower Ben Te’o re-fractured his arm, which had kept him out for six weeks, in last week’s 10-34 loss to Manly.
He faces another six weeks on the sideline while prop Nick Kenny picked up a shoulder injury in the same match.
However fullback Hoffman, who was set to push for New Zealand selection, will return after 10 weeks out with a fractured leg.
Hoffman left the field midway through the Round 3 match against the Titans with a corked shin and has faced a tough battle to prove his fitness.
Now healthy again, Hoffman slots straight back to his fullback position while admirable deputy Gerard Beale moves into the centres with Dale Copley back to the wing.
So impressive was Beale at fullback that he made the initial 19-man New Zealand squad for the Test Match earlier this month.
The Broncos also welcome back captain Darren Lockyer and forward leader Sam Thaiday after both failed to back up from last week’s Queensland Origin victory.
It will be Lockyer’s final club match in Sydney, apart from Finals, with the retiring star to miss the Round 17 match at Parramatta Stadium due to Origin duties.
The Broncos Round 16 away match against South Sydney will be played in Perth.
Scott Anderson starts at prop this week for the injured Kenny with former representative forward Dane Carlaw recalled to the bench.
Hooker Kurt Baptiste has been retained in the squad after an impressive debut against Manly with Corey Norman dropping back to the Under 20’s.
Brisbane has struggled with the sporadic appearances of their Origin stars, dropping their last three matches.
The Broncos face the lowly Sharks on Friday night and despite winning seven of the last 10 clashes between the clubs, struggle at Toyota Stadium with a less than 50 per cent winning ratio from 19 matches.
The game is live into Queensland on Channel Nine from 7:30pm Friday.
Rookie Srama retained
After a strong debut last week, 20-year-old hooker Matt Srama will start in Saturday’s home match against the Panthers.
Srama was a late inclusion for the 6-28 loss to the Bulldogs and impressed by playing 80 minutes with Coach John Cartwright telling the Titans website he thought Srama was their best player on the night.
He replaced the omitted Riley Brown and without another regular hooker in this week’s 19 man squad, Srama should expect to play the full match again.
The youngster is expected to be the club’s first choice hooker next season with regular started Nathan Friend to link with the Warriors from season 2012.
Queensland star Ashley Harrison returns to the side after he did not back up from Origin I against the Bulldogs.
His replacement Ben Ridge has been named on a six man bench which also includes former New Zealand centre Clinton Toopi.
After starting the year Toopi in the NRL, Toopi made way for the younger Esi Tonga but injuries could see him return this week.
Toopi has been named as cover for winger Steve Michaels and five-eighth William Zillman who both left last week’s match midway through the first half with concussion.
Centre Bodene Thompson is also batting a rib injury while Blues back-rower Greg Bird should start the game after coming off the bench following Origin I.
Gold Coast and Penrith have shared their four matches to date with two wins each but with each game of a high-scoring nature.
The clubs average a combined 55 points in matches played against each other with the Gold Coast prevailing 38-24 in the most recent clash just over one year ago.
Saturday’s match kicks off Fox Sports Super Saturday from 5:30pm.
Cooper replaces Tonga
A shoulder injury suffered in last week’s Origin match will sideline North Queensland centre Willie Tonga for at least six weeks.
As was the case for last week’s 20-6 win over the Roosters, back-row utility Gavin Cooper will replace Tonga for Sunday’s match against the Raiders in Canberra.
Cooper has found success in 2011 running off Johnathan Thurston down the Cowboys left edge and had few problems in the transition to left centre.
Another strong performance could see Cooper’s combination with Thurston elevate him to a Queensland jersey for Origin II with the Maroons facing a centre crisis.
With Tonga and Justin Hodges certain to miss the match on June 15, Queensland is sweating on Greg Inglis returning from a hip injury.
If that does not happen, coupled with injuries to Lote Tuqiri, Brent Tate and Ben Te’o, Cooper could be thrown into the mix.
Cowboys’ winger Ash Graham, who celebrated his 150th NRL match last week, could also be a contender.
The fourth-placed Cowboys will be wary of a Canberra side that has lifted themselves off the bottom of the table with back-to-backs wins before a bye last week.
Key playmaker Terry Campese could yet make a surprise first appearance of the season after suffering a knee injury in last year’s Finals series.
He was expected to be back for the Cowboys match but was not officially named by the Raiders today.
Leeson Ah Mau has been retained on the bench in an unchanged side with North Queensland’s match live on Fox Sports from 2pm Sunday.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Sharks, Friday 7:35pm, (Channel Nine, live)
Josh Hoffman, Dale Copley, Jack Reed, Gerard Beale, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (c), Peter Wallace, Ben Hannant, Andrew McCullough, Scott Anderson, Alex Glenn, Sam Thaiday, Corey Parker. Interchange: Kurt Baptiste, Dane Carlaw, Mitchell Dodds, David Hala.
Gold Coast Titans vs. Penrith, Saturday 5:30pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Preston Campbell, Steve Michaels, Esi Tonga, Bodene Thompson, David Mead, William Zillman, Scott Prince (c), Luke Bailey, Matt Srama, Michael Henderson, Greg Bird, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Matthew White, Ryan James, Sam Tagataese, Luke O’Dwyer, Ben Ridge, Clinton Toopi (two to be omitted).
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Canberra, Sunday 2pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Matthew Bowen, Ashley Graham, Antonio Winterstein, Gavin Cooper, Kalifa Faifai Loa, Ray Thompson, Johnathan Thurston (c), Matt Scott (c), Aaron Payne, James Tamou, Tariq Sims, Glenn Hall, Dallas Johnson. Interchange: James Segeyaro, Scott Bolton, Leeson Ah Mau, Ashton Sims.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Standouts from Origin I
The 2011 Origin opener has been run and won by the Maroons again! I can tell you Suncorp Stadium was buzzing last night and Caxton Street was thriving for hours afterwards. I was one of the 52,000 there last night and have watched the tape as well, so I’m going to share my thoughts on a few of the key players from both sides. These guys weren’t necessarily the best, but they stood out to me.
Darren Lockyer
This guy is the new King, he just bosses the game. Lockyer played last night like a man who owned Origin football. Even though Queensland struggled to score tries, Lockyer looked unflustered and in control. He proved that by sending the Maroons over for the match winning try.
It was almost as if Lockyer gave the Blues a sniff by allowing them to sneak ahead for just two or three minutes. Then decided well that’s enough, and ‘BANG’ he changes the match again. Just because he could.
I’m biased, but this guy is the best player I have ever seen.
Jamie Soward
I am a fan of Jamie Soward. Watching the tape this morning I couldn’t work out when or why it happened, but this guy has become a ‘must-watch’ for me. I was thrilled he got his chance on the grand stage and think he handled it reasonably well.
Soward though plays his best when he is the main man, when he runs the show. Last night Mitchell Pearce did that job and I thought it hurt the Blues. Not because Pearce did a bad job but because Pearce has a stronger weakness than Soward does ... if you know what I mean!
Both guys play the same role for their club but I think it would be better for all involved to have Soward running things in Origin II with Pearce playing that secondary role.
Beau Scott
I like the cut of his jib. He plays the game very hard and tough which from a fans point of view is great to watch. He seems like a guy you’d love to have next to you but hate to be opposing. He’s always up for a rumble too and just looks made for Origin, great to see.
Matt Scott and Petero Civoniceva
These guys set up the victory for mine, especially in the opening 10 minutes. They rolled through the Blues and seemingly ate up the metres with ease. They also seemed to follow each other and match their runs in some kind of competition.
Petero has been the best prop in the game throughout his career but the torch has been well and truly passed now.
However the big fella still pumped out 5 sit ups and a push up before the National Anthem which I thought was a nice touch!
Michael Ennis
People in Queensland hate this guy for his ‘grubby’ tactics. You know what, I love it! I love watching him play and similar to Beau Scott, he’s a guy I’d rather be with than against. I hope he never changes and that’s not a bad thing – he seems to revel in that villain role and again from a fans point of view, it’s great to watch.
He’s also an absolute champion off the field and that rates very highly in my book.
Changes for Origin II
The obvious ones for Queensland are a fully fit Greg Inglis or Justin Hodges to replace Dane Nielsen. He definitely held his own last night but it’s a ‘last-in-first-out’ policy which of course Matt Ballin found last year. But also like Ballin, when he’s needed again Nielsen will do the job.
I think the Maroons might look at their bench too just to get some more impact when Scott and Petero are off the field. Dave Shillington did that so well last year but he’s probably still going to be injured. I’d be considering Dave Taylor for either Lillyman or Parker – again not because they were bad but I think they need more impact.
As for the Blues they were fairly good in both attack and defence considering they had very few quality opportunities with the ball. They’ve got a bench problem too which is where Jamal Idris might come into it.
Also their front rowers didn’t really match it with Scott and Civoniceva so they might look towards a Dan Hunt or Michael Weyman from the Dragons.
Neither side needs to make mass changes for Origin II in about three weeks time but we’ll all watch the debates with interest. Origin II in three weeks time – Bring It!
TIPPING
Tips – Broncos, Bulldogs, Newcastle, Cowboys, Melbourne, Tigers, Penrith
Last Week – 4/5
Total – 51/81 (63%)
Thanks for reading and if you want to chat anything rugby league hit me up on email (andrew.keyte@gmail.com), Twitter (@keyto316) or comment below.
See ya,
Keyto
Darren Lockyer
This guy is the new King, he just bosses the game. Lockyer played last night like a man who owned Origin football. Even though Queensland struggled to score tries, Lockyer looked unflustered and in control. He proved that by sending the Maroons over for the match winning try.
It was almost as if Lockyer gave the Blues a sniff by allowing them to sneak ahead for just two or three minutes. Then decided well that’s enough, and ‘BANG’ he changes the match again. Just because he could.
I’m biased, but this guy is the best player I have ever seen.
Jamie Soward
I am a fan of Jamie Soward. Watching the tape this morning I couldn’t work out when or why it happened, but this guy has become a ‘must-watch’ for me. I was thrilled he got his chance on the grand stage and think he handled it reasonably well.
Soward though plays his best when he is the main man, when he runs the show. Last night Mitchell Pearce did that job and I thought it hurt the Blues. Not because Pearce did a bad job but because Pearce has a stronger weakness than Soward does ... if you know what I mean!
Both guys play the same role for their club but I think it would be better for all involved to have Soward running things in Origin II with Pearce playing that secondary role.
Beau Scott
I like the cut of his jib. He plays the game very hard and tough which from a fans point of view is great to watch. He seems like a guy you’d love to have next to you but hate to be opposing. He’s always up for a rumble too and just looks made for Origin, great to see.
Matt Scott and Petero Civoniceva
These guys set up the victory for mine, especially in the opening 10 minutes. They rolled through the Blues and seemingly ate up the metres with ease. They also seemed to follow each other and match their runs in some kind of competition.
Petero has been the best prop in the game throughout his career but the torch has been well and truly passed now.
However the big fella still pumped out 5 sit ups and a push up before the National Anthem which I thought was a nice touch!
Michael Ennis
People in Queensland hate this guy for his ‘grubby’ tactics. You know what, I love it! I love watching him play and similar to Beau Scott, he’s a guy I’d rather be with than against. I hope he never changes and that’s not a bad thing – he seems to revel in that villain role and again from a fans point of view, it’s great to watch.
He’s also an absolute champion off the field and that rates very highly in my book.
Changes for Origin II
The obvious ones for Queensland are a fully fit Greg Inglis or Justin Hodges to replace Dane Nielsen. He definitely held his own last night but it’s a ‘last-in-first-out’ policy which of course Matt Ballin found last year. But also like Ballin, when he’s needed again Nielsen will do the job.
I think the Maroons might look at their bench too just to get some more impact when Scott and Petero are off the field. Dave Shillington did that so well last year but he’s probably still going to be injured. I’d be considering Dave Taylor for either Lillyman or Parker – again not because they were bad but I think they need more impact.
As for the Blues they were fairly good in both attack and defence considering they had very few quality opportunities with the ball. They’ve got a bench problem too which is where Jamal Idris might come into it.
Also their front rowers didn’t really match it with Scott and Civoniceva so they might look towards a Dan Hunt or Michael Weyman from the Dragons.
Neither side needs to make mass changes for Origin II in about three weeks time but we’ll all watch the debates with interest. Origin II in three weeks time – Bring It!
TIPPING
Tips – Broncos, Bulldogs, Newcastle, Cowboys, Melbourne, Tigers, Penrith
Last Week – 4/5
Total – 51/81 (63%)
Thanks for reading and if you want to chat anything rugby league hit me up on email (andrew.keyte@gmail.com), Twitter (@keyto316) or comment below.
See ya,
Keyto
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Qld Teams Rd 12 - Maroons hit Brisbane for Origin I
After spending the best part of a week in camp on the Gold Coast, the Queensland side arrived in Brisbane today ready for tomorrow night’s Origin Opener.
A near capacity crowd is expected at Suncorp Stadium as Queensland aims to start well in their attempt at a sixth-straight series win.
Both the Maroons and Blues have had trouble-free build-ups although plenty of barbs from ex-players and fans have been exchanged through the media.
Queensland is expected to start with the side named last week and have confirmed Willie Tonga will play right centre while debutant Dane Nielsen will battle Blues opposite Mark Gasnier on the left.
Test winger Jharal Yow Yeh will make his Origin debut and interchange players Corey Parker and Jacob Lillyman will return to the State arena after lengthy spells.
Queensland police today prevented the New South Wales side from driving their team bus down Caxton Street – a tradition new coach Ricky Stuart wanted to bring back.
The Blues arrived in Brisbane yesterday and will field five debutants tomorrow night.
Origin I kicks-off at 8pm and will be shown live on Channel Nine.
Broncos rest stars
Brisbane coach Anthony Griffin has again taken some initiative in omitting Origin stars Darren Lockyer, Sam Thaiday and Ben Hannant for Friday night’s match against Manly at Suncorp Stadium.
All three have slight injury concerns and the Broncos will not risk them by asking the players to back up 48 hours after Origin I.
Other Queensland players Corey Parker and Jharal Yow Yeh have been named on an extended bench and a decision on their fitness will likely be made on Friday.
Griffin did not allow the trio to play for the club the night after representing Australia earlier this month, although Yow Yeh was a late inclusion for the eventual 22-29 loss to Melbourne.
Alex Glenn, who lead the Under 20’s to the 2008 Grand Final, has been named captain of the young Brisbane side with the match the first of a double-header Friday night at Suncorp Stadium.
Ben Te’o, fresh off two tries for Queensland Cup side Wynnum Manly, makes his return after missing five matches with a fractured arm and will play lock.
Dane Gagai returns to the side on the wing while Dunamis Lui has been named to start in the back row.
It was hoped Josh Hoffman (corked shin) could return after nearly two months out but it has been pushed back at least another week.
Shea Moylan and Kurt Baptiste have been named in the squad to make their possible NRL debuts however both were late omissions for the Melbourne game as well.
In the absence of the resting Lockyer and the injured Ben Hunt (finger), Griffin has named exciting prospect Corey Norman to partner Peter Wallace in the halves.
Mitchell Dodds will start in the front row with Dane Carlaw recalled to the bench while Josh McGuire (eye) and Shane Tronc (neck) were not considered.
The match is a Manly home game meaning the Broncos may wear their white away strip for the clash.
The double header kicks off at 7pm however Channel Nine will show the match delayed from 7:30pm.
Titans name stars
The Gold Coast Titans will play their traditional second-leg match against Canterbury Bulldogs in the double-header.
The concept was originally proposed by the Bulldogs and they have ‘hosted’ Gold Coast in this match for each of the three years to date.
The Titans have named Origin stars Greg Bird and Ashley Harrison to back up however both will be assessed following tomorrow night’s game.
Bodene Thompson has recovered from a virus that kept him out of the Round 10 loss to Manly before the club enjoyed a bye last week.
Thompson replaces Joseph Tomane in the centres in the only change to the squad from their last start.
After spending some time in the Queensland Cup, reserve Sam Tagataese made a grand return to the NRL against Manly.
He pulled off a series of big hits on Sea Eagles playmaker Kieran Foran and will be expected to pressurise the Bulldogs halves in similar fashion.
The game is scheduled to start at 8:45pm, shortly after the conclusion of the Broncos-Manly match, with Channel Nine continuing their delayed broadcast.
The Titans and Bulldogs under 20’s will play in Sydney on Saturday afternoon.
Cowboys remember Faust
The North Queensland Cowboys will use Saturday night’s home match with the Roosters to honour former player Sam Faust who tragically lost his battle with leukaemia yesterday.
Faust, 26, bravely fought the disease for two years with members of the rugby league community trying to raise money to send him overseas for treatment.
NSW and Bulldogs hooker Michael Ennis was a leading contributor to the efforts while the Men of League group recently raised $22,000 at a race day.
Faust played 24 games for the club, including two finals, in 2007 and 2008 before the illness cut his career short.
He leaves behind a wife and three daughters.
The Cowboys, in fourth position, will hope to honour Faust’s life with their sixth consecutive home victory on Saturday night.
Queensland players Johnathan Thurston, Matt Scott and Willie Tonga have all been named in an unchanged squad to face the Roosters.
Leeson Ah Mau has been added to the bench after spending two weeks in the Queensland Cup.
Winger Ashley Graham will notch his 150th NRL game in a career that started with Parramatta before joining the Cowboys in 2006.
The game is live on Fox Sports and kicks-off at 7:30pm.
Queensland vs. NSW, Origin I, Wednesday 8pm, (Channel Nine, live).
Billy Slater, Darius Boyd, Dane Nielsen, Willie Tonga, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (c), Johnathan Thurston, Matt Scott, Cameron Smith, Petero Civoniceva, Nate Myles, Sam Thaiday, Ashley Harrison Interchange: Cooper Cronk, Corey Parker, Jacob Lillyman, Ben Hannant. 18th Man – Dave Taylor, Coach – Mal Meninga.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Manly, Friday 7pm, (Channel Nine, delayed 7:30pm)
Gerard Beale, Dane Gagai, Jack Reed, Dale Copley, Shea Moylan, Corey Norman, Peter Wallace, Mitchell Dodds, Andrew McCullough, Nick Kenny, Alex Glenn (c), Dunamis Lui, Ben Te’o. Interchange: Kurt Baptiste, Scott Anderson, Dane Carlaw, David Hala, Corey Parker, Jharal Yow Yeh (two to be omitted).
Gold Coast Titans vs. Bulldogs, Friday 8:45pm, (Channel Nine, delayed 9:20pm)
Preston Campbell, Steve Michaels, Esi Tonga, Bodene Thompson, David Mead, William Zillman, Scott Prince (c), Luke Bailey, Riley Brown, Michael Henderson, Greg Bird, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Matthew White, Ryan James, Sam Tagataese, Luke O’Dwyer.
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Roosters, Saturday 7:30pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Matthew Bowen, Ashley Graham, Antonio Winterstein, Willie Tonga, Kalifa Faifai Loa, Ray Thompson, Johnathan Thurston (c), Matt Scott (c), Aaron Payne, James Tamou, Gavin Cooper, Glenn Hall, Dallas Johnson. Interchange: James Segeyaro, Scott Bolton, Tariq Sims, Ashton Sims, Leeson Ah Mau (one to be omitted).
A near capacity crowd is expected at Suncorp Stadium as Queensland aims to start well in their attempt at a sixth-straight series win.
Both the Maroons and Blues have had trouble-free build-ups although plenty of barbs from ex-players and fans have been exchanged through the media.
Queensland is expected to start with the side named last week and have confirmed Willie Tonga will play right centre while debutant Dane Nielsen will battle Blues opposite Mark Gasnier on the left.
Test winger Jharal Yow Yeh will make his Origin debut and interchange players Corey Parker and Jacob Lillyman will return to the State arena after lengthy spells.
Queensland police today prevented the New South Wales side from driving their team bus down Caxton Street – a tradition new coach Ricky Stuart wanted to bring back.
The Blues arrived in Brisbane yesterday and will field five debutants tomorrow night.
Origin I kicks-off at 8pm and will be shown live on Channel Nine.
Broncos rest stars
Brisbane coach Anthony Griffin has again taken some initiative in omitting Origin stars Darren Lockyer, Sam Thaiday and Ben Hannant for Friday night’s match against Manly at Suncorp Stadium.
All three have slight injury concerns and the Broncos will not risk them by asking the players to back up 48 hours after Origin I.
Other Queensland players Corey Parker and Jharal Yow Yeh have been named on an extended bench and a decision on their fitness will likely be made on Friday.
Griffin did not allow the trio to play for the club the night after representing Australia earlier this month, although Yow Yeh was a late inclusion for the eventual 22-29 loss to Melbourne.
Alex Glenn, who lead the Under 20’s to the 2008 Grand Final, has been named captain of the young Brisbane side with the match the first of a double-header Friday night at Suncorp Stadium.
Ben Te’o, fresh off two tries for Queensland Cup side Wynnum Manly, makes his return after missing five matches with a fractured arm and will play lock.
Dane Gagai returns to the side on the wing while Dunamis Lui has been named to start in the back row.
It was hoped Josh Hoffman (corked shin) could return after nearly two months out but it has been pushed back at least another week.
Shea Moylan and Kurt Baptiste have been named in the squad to make their possible NRL debuts however both were late omissions for the Melbourne game as well.
In the absence of the resting Lockyer and the injured Ben Hunt (finger), Griffin has named exciting prospect Corey Norman to partner Peter Wallace in the halves.
Mitchell Dodds will start in the front row with Dane Carlaw recalled to the bench while Josh McGuire (eye) and Shane Tronc (neck) were not considered.
The match is a Manly home game meaning the Broncos may wear their white away strip for the clash.
The double header kicks off at 7pm however Channel Nine will show the match delayed from 7:30pm.
Titans name stars
The Gold Coast Titans will play their traditional second-leg match against Canterbury Bulldogs in the double-header.
The concept was originally proposed by the Bulldogs and they have ‘hosted’ Gold Coast in this match for each of the three years to date.
The Titans have named Origin stars Greg Bird and Ashley Harrison to back up however both will be assessed following tomorrow night’s game.
Bodene Thompson has recovered from a virus that kept him out of the Round 10 loss to Manly before the club enjoyed a bye last week.
Thompson replaces Joseph Tomane in the centres in the only change to the squad from their last start.
After spending some time in the Queensland Cup, reserve Sam Tagataese made a grand return to the NRL against Manly.
He pulled off a series of big hits on Sea Eagles playmaker Kieran Foran and will be expected to pressurise the Bulldogs halves in similar fashion.
The game is scheduled to start at 8:45pm, shortly after the conclusion of the Broncos-Manly match, with Channel Nine continuing their delayed broadcast.
The Titans and Bulldogs under 20’s will play in Sydney on Saturday afternoon.
Cowboys remember Faust
The North Queensland Cowboys will use Saturday night’s home match with the Roosters to honour former player Sam Faust who tragically lost his battle with leukaemia yesterday.
Faust, 26, bravely fought the disease for two years with members of the rugby league community trying to raise money to send him overseas for treatment.
NSW and Bulldogs hooker Michael Ennis was a leading contributor to the efforts while the Men of League group recently raised $22,000 at a race day.
Faust played 24 games for the club, including two finals, in 2007 and 2008 before the illness cut his career short.
He leaves behind a wife and three daughters.
The Cowboys, in fourth position, will hope to honour Faust’s life with their sixth consecutive home victory on Saturday night.
Queensland players Johnathan Thurston, Matt Scott and Willie Tonga have all been named in an unchanged squad to face the Roosters.
Leeson Ah Mau has been added to the bench after spending two weeks in the Queensland Cup.
Winger Ashley Graham will notch his 150th NRL game in a career that started with Parramatta before joining the Cowboys in 2006.
The game is live on Fox Sports and kicks-off at 7:30pm.
Queensland vs. NSW, Origin I, Wednesday 8pm, (Channel Nine, live).
Billy Slater, Darius Boyd, Dane Nielsen, Willie Tonga, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (c), Johnathan Thurston, Matt Scott, Cameron Smith, Petero Civoniceva, Nate Myles, Sam Thaiday, Ashley Harrison Interchange: Cooper Cronk, Corey Parker, Jacob Lillyman, Ben Hannant. 18th Man – Dave Taylor, Coach – Mal Meninga.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Manly, Friday 7pm, (Channel Nine, delayed 7:30pm)
Gerard Beale, Dane Gagai, Jack Reed, Dale Copley, Shea Moylan, Corey Norman, Peter Wallace, Mitchell Dodds, Andrew McCullough, Nick Kenny, Alex Glenn (c), Dunamis Lui, Ben Te’o. Interchange: Kurt Baptiste, Scott Anderson, Dane Carlaw, David Hala, Corey Parker, Jharal Yow Yeh (two to be omitted).
Gold Coast Titans vs. Bulldogs, Friday 8:45pm, (Channel Nine, delayed 9:20pm)
Preston Campbell, Steve Michaels, Esi Tonga, Bodene Thompson, David Mead, William Zillman, Scott Prince (c), Luke Bailey, Riley Brown, Michael Henderson, Greg Bird, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Matthew White, Ryan James, Sam Tagataese, Luke O’Dwyer.
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Roosters, Saturday 7:30pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Matthew Bowen, Ashley Graham, Antonio Winterstein, Willie Tonga, Kalifa Faifai Loa, Ray Thompson, Johnathan Thurston (c), Matt Scott (c), Aaron Payne, James Tamou, Gavin Cooper, Glenn Hall, Dallas Johnson. Interchange: James Segeyaro, Scott Bolton, Tariq Sims, Ashton Sims, Leeson Ah Mau (one to be omitted).
Thursday, May 19, 2011
It's now or never for the Blues
State of Origin is here for another season and the build up hasn’t been without controversy and talking points. Both sides are strong, as always, but after five long years I truly believe this is a series New South Wales simply MUST win.
Form side
The New South Wales Dragons, ah, Blues have named a very strong side for Origin I despite including five debutants. I’m very happy to see Jamie Soward getting a run because he’s been a very good player for the last 18 months. The stack of Dragons will only help the side because let’s face it, the Dragons are winners.
I think selecting Josh Dugan over Jarryd Hayne was a brave decision but a good one. Both players are in about the same class and it was a fifty-fifty call that now has to be stuck with for the series. I agree you couldn’t pick the other one on the wing however Penrith’s Mick Gordon should have had the gig had he not suffered a serious knee injury last weekend.
The Jamal Idris non-selection is baffling considering he was good enough to play for Australia less than two weeks earlier. That’s the NSW selectors for you.
There should be some tries amongst this group and I think they’ll need at least four per game to beat Queensland. The Blues also have some mongrel back in their forwards too which definitely helps.
‘Depleted’ Maroons
Plenty has been made about the injuries to Justin Hodges and Greg Inglis who, along with Brent Tate, form three of Queensland’s top four choice centres. Prop David Shillington is a big loss in my opinion considering he was almost the Maroons best forward last year. But the guys coming in will do a good job. Corey Parker and Jacob Lillyman are better players than last time while Dane Nielsen is a decent player from a very successful Melbourne Storm club.
Queensland still has a very strong squad capable of taking this series but without Hodges, Inglis, Shillington and a guy like Israel Folau they suddenly look beatable. Well, at least, more beatable than the impossible force of the last few years.
Why the Blues need it
I remember years ago where Origin was a real struggle for Queensland. We took some beatings and lost four series in a row at one point. Plenty of the games we did win were dead rubbers as well.
I imagine the NSW people are going through the same thing and let me tell you, the fans would be desperate this year. They will see a weaker Queensland team and a strong Blues team. There’s all the Tommy Raudonikis propaganda and a ‘bring back the hate’ campaign.
The Blues have a whole new regime under Ricky Stuart and this is his side – if they lose this series it will be a crushing blow. Even if it’s just for the fans, the Blues need this more than Queensland (which makes a change to Origins past).
It won’t be easy, but I think the Blues simply must win Origin I or they’ll face a sixth straight series loss.
However ...
Having said that, I’m tipping Queensland 3-nil!
Yes the Maroons have some injuries but they are still a very strong unit with extra motivation this year. Darren Lockyer is retiring but don’t underestimate January’s Floods either – there’s still emotion attached to that and when they were happening all everyone was looking forward to was Origin I on May 25.
We’re almost here and the Maroons will be ready to play ... it should be one heck of a series.
TIPPING
Tips – Bulldogs, Tigers, Warriors, Roosters, Parramatta
Last Week – 3/8
Total – 47/76 (62%)
That’s all from me but of course you can send me emails (Andrew.keyte@gmail.com), tweets (@keyto316) or comments below.
Go Queensland,
Keyto
Form side
The New South Wales Dragons, ah, Blues have named a very strong side for Origin I despite including five debutants. I’m very happy to see Jamie Soward getting a run because he’s been a very good player for the last 18 months. The stack of Dragons will only help the side because let’s face it, the Dragons are winners.
I think selecting Josh Dugan over Jarryd Hayne was a brave decision but a good one. Both players are in about the same class and it was a fifty-fifty call that now has to be stuck with for the series. I agree you couldn’t pick the other one on the wing however Penrith’s Mick Gordon should have had the gig had he not suffered a serious knee injury last weekend.
The Jamal Idris non-selection is baffling considering he was good enough to play for Australia less than two weeks earlier. That’s the NSW selectors for you.
There should be some tries amongst this group and I think they’ll need at least four per game to beat Queensland. The Blues also have some mongrel back in their forwards too which definitely helps.
‘Depleted’ Maroons
Plenty has been made about the injuries to Justin Hodges and Greg Inglis who, along with Brent Tate, form three of Queensland’s top four choice centres. Prop David Shillington is a big loss in my opinion considering he was almost the Maroons best forward last year. But the guys coming in will do a good job. Corey Parker and Jacob Lillyman are better players than last time while Dane Nielsen is a decent player from a very successful Melbourne Storm club.
Queensland still has a very strong squad capable of taking this series but without Hodges, Inglis, Shillington and a guy like Israel Folau they suddenly look beatable. Well, at least, more beatable than the impossible force of the last few years.
Why the Blues need it
I remember years ago where Origin was a real struggle for Queensland. We took some beatings and lost four series in a row at one point. Plenty of the games we did win were dead rubbers as well.
I imagine the NSW people are going through the same thing and let me tell you, the fans would be desperate this year. They will see a weaker Queensland team and a strong Blues team. There’s all the Tommy Raudonikis propaganda and a ‘bring back the hate’ campaign.
The Blues have a whole new regime under Ricky Stuart and this is his side – if they lose this series it will be a crushing blow. Even if it’s just for the fans, the Blues need this more than Queensland (which makes a change to Origins past).
It won’t be easy, but I think the Blues simply must win Origin I or they’ll face a sixth straight series loss.
However ...
Having said that, I’m tipping Queensland 3-nil!
Yes the Maroons have some injuries but they are still a very strong unit with extra motivation this year. Darren Lockyer is retiring but don’t underestimate January’s Floods either – there’s still emotion attached to that and when they were happening all everyone was looking forward to was Origin I on May 25.
We’re almost here and the Maroons will be ready to play ... it should be one heck of a series.
TIPPING
Tips – Bulldogs, Tigers, Warriors, Roosters, Parramatta
Last Week – 3/8
Total – 47/76 (62%)
That’s all from me but of course you can send me emails (Andrew.keyte@gmail.com), tweets (@keyto316) or comments below.
Go Queensland,
Keyto
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Qld Teams Rd 11 - Parker recalled as Inglis sidelined
Veteran Bronco lock Corey Parker has ended six years in Origin exile by gaining a spot on Queensland’s bench for next week’s opener at Suncorp Stadium.
Parker played the last of his three Origin matches in 2005 but his irresistible club form has demanded selectors find a place for him in the 17 man squad.
Having recently re-signed at the Broncos Parker, 29, has developed into a genuine leader at the club and his high quality work-rate will be well suited to Origin I.
Parker is joined on the bench by fellow Origin returnee Jacob Lillyman, with the Warriors forward playing the last of his four games in 2008.
Lillyman this season has developed into a front rower and been seen as Steve Price’s replacement at the New Zealand-based club.
Their inclusions have forced David Taylor out of the team in the only unforced change from last season’s successful whitewash squad - but he has been named 18th man.
However in a major blow to Queensland’s bid for a sixth straight Origin series, gun centre Greg Inglis was ruled out last night with a hip injury.
Inglis undertook hip surgery in the off-season and suffered a reoccurrence early in the May 6 Test Match against New Zealand.
The ruling came just days after his expected centre partner Justin Hodges tore a hamstring in Brisbane’s loss to Penrith on Friday night.
While both are hopeful of playing some role in the series, there is a strong chance they could join fellow Queensland centre Brent Tate in missing all three games through injury.
Nielsen debuts
The injury crisis has given Melbourne Storm centre Dane Nielsen a chance to debut for Queensland next week.
Nielsen, 25, is in his fourth season at the Storm and last year cemented his place in a star-studded backline.
He beat Titans pair William Zillman and Steve Michaels to the vacant backline spot with Darius Boyd and Jharal Yow Yeh walk up starters for the wing positions.
Cowboys centre Willie Tonga, who would have been unlucky to miss selection to a fully fit Inglis and Hodges, claims the other centre spot and his combination with Johnathan Thurston is likely to be a major attacking weapon.
Matt Scott completes the Cowboys representatives while the Broncos are contributing five players with captain Darren Lockyer joining Parker, Yow Yeh, Sam Thaiday and Ben Hannant.
Harrison retained
Titans back-rower Ashley Harrison has held off a challenge from the Cowboys Dallas Johnson despite mixed club form in 2011.
Maroons veteran Johnson was unable to force his way into the winning team after playing the 2010 season in the English Super League however his form at the Cowboys left him close to selection and likely the next in line should a position become available.
Harrison has struggled at times in a poorly performed Gold Coast side however his Origin credentials and past performances were strong enough to ensure he was retained.
Team-mate Greg Bird is in the New South Wales side and they are the only two Titans to feature in next week’s Origin opener.
NRL Byes
The three Queensland-based NRL sides all have the weekend off after a tough 10-week start to the season.
The Cowboys and Broncos enter the bye in fourth and fifth position having both won seven games and lost three.
North Queensland came from behind to defeat Parramatta 40-26 last weekend and extended their unbeaten run at Dairy Farmers Stadium to five matches.
Meanwhile the Broncos turned in a very flat performance on Friday night against a hot Penrith side as Brisbane slipped to their second straight loss.
After losing 12-16 to Manly last night, the Gold Coast sit in 15th position with just three wins and play seven of their next 10 matches away from home.
Queensland vs. NSW, Origin I, Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday May 25th.
Billy Slater (Melbourne Storm), Darius Boyd (St George-Illawarra Dragons), Dane Nielsen (Melbourne Storm), Willie Tonga (North Queensland Cowboys), Jharal Yow Yeh (Brisbane Broncos), Darren Lockyer (captain, Brisbane Broncos), Johnathan Thurston (North Queensland Cowboys), Matt Scott (North Queensland Cowboys), Cameron Smith (Melbourne Storm), Petero Civoniceva (Penrith Panthers), Nate Myles (Sydney Roosters), Sam Thaiday (Brisbane Broncos), Ashley Harrison (Gold Coast Titans). Interchange: Cooper Cronk (Melbourne Storm), Ben Hannant (Brisbane Broncos), Jacob Lillyman (Warriors), Corey Parker (Brisbane Broncos). 18th Man - David Taylor (South Sydney Rabbitohs).
Parker played the last of his three Origin matches in 2005 but his irresistible club form has demanded selectors find a place for him in the 17 man squad.
Having recently re-signed at the Broncos Parker, 29, has developed into a genuine leader at the club and his high quality work-rate will be well suited to Origin I.
Parker is joined on the bench by fellow Origin returnee Jacob Lillyman, with the Warriors forward playing the last of his four games in 2008.
Lillyman this season has developed into a front rower and been seen as Steve Price’s replacement at the New Zealand-based club.
Their inclusions have forced David Taylor out of the team in the only unforced change from last season’s successful whitewash squad - but he has been named 18th man.
However in a major blow to Queensland’s bid for a sixth straight Origin series, gun centre Greg Inglis was ruled out last night with a hip injury.
Inglis undertook hip surgery in the off-season and suffered a reoccurrence early in the May 6 Test Match against New Zealand.
The ruling came just days after his expected centre partner Justin Hodges tore a hamstring in Brisbane’s loss to Penrith on Friday night.
While both are hopeful of playing some role in the series, there is a strong chance they could join fellow Queensland centre Brent Tate in missing all three games through injury.
Nielsen debuts
The injury crisis has given Melbourne Storm centre Dane Nielsen a chance to debut for Queensland next week.
Nielsen, 25, is in his fourth season at the Storm and last year cemented his place in a star-studded backline.
He beat Titans pair William Zillman and Steve Michaels to the vacant backline spot with Darius Boyd and Jharal Yow Yeh walk up starters for the wing positions.
Cowboys centre Willie Tonga, who would have been unlucky to miss selection to a fully fit Inglis and Hodges, claims the other centre spot and his combination with Johnathan Thurston is likely to be a major attacking weapon.
Matt Scott completes the Cowboys representatives while the Broncos are contributing five players with captain Darren Lockyer joining Parker, Yow Yeh, Sam Thaiday and Ben Hannant.
Harrison retained
Titans back-rower Ashley Harrison has held off a challenge from the Cowboys Dallas Johnson despite mixed club form in 2011.
Maroons veteran Johnson was unable to force his way into the winning team after playing the 2010 season in the English Super League however his form at the Cowboys left him close to selection and likely the next in line should a position become available.
Harrison has struggled at times in a poorly performed Gold Coast side however his Origin credentials and past performances were strong enough to ensure he was retained.
Team-mate Greg Bird is in the New South Wales side and they are the only two Titans to feature in next week’s Origin opener.
NRL Byes
The three Queensland-based NRL sides all have the weekend off after a tough 10-week start to the season.
The Cowboys and Broncos enter the bye in fourth and fifth position having both won seven games and lost three.
North Queensland came from behind to defeat Parramatta 40-26 last weekend and extended their unbeaten run at Dairy Farmers Stadium to five matches.
Meanwhile the Broncos turned in a very flat performance on Friday night against a hot Penrith side as Brisbane slipped to their second straight loss.
After losing 12-16 to Manly last night, the Gold Coast sit in 15th position with just three wins and play seven of their next 10 matches away from home.
Queensland vs. NSW, Origin I, Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday May 25th.
Billy Slater (Melbourne Storm), Darius Boyd (St George-Illawarra Dragons), Dane Nielsen (Melbourne Storm), Willie Tonga (North Queensland Cowboys), Jharal Yow Yeh (Brisbane Broncos), Darren Lockyer (captain, Brisbane Broncos), Johnathan Thurston (North Queensland Cowboys), Matt Scott (North Queensland Cowboys), Cameron Smith (Melbourne Storm), Petero Civoniceva (Penrith Panthers), Nate Myles (Sydney Roosters), Sam Thaiday (Brisbane Broncos), Ashley Harrison (Gold Coast Titans). Interchange: Cooper Cronk (Melbourne Storm), Ben Hannant (Brisbane Broncos), Jacob Lillyman (Warriors), Corey Parker (Brisbane Broncos). 18th Man - David Taylor (South Sydney Rabbitohs).
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Carney for Origin? Not on my watch
Todd Carney was set to play State of Origin football this season and dare I say it, was set to play a starring role. However those plans went down the toilet when he fell off the wagon. Now he’s back in the NRL but that doesn’t give him a free pass to our greatest game of all.
No Origin, Todd
In case you missed it, the last chance specialist Todd Carney is back and ready to roll for the Roosters on Sunday. Carney has spent the last few weeks, I guess, rehabilitating himself from his most recent ‘alcohol-related incident’. Let me clear up a few things:
• With his track record, I thought Carney was a grub and wouldn’t have been disappointed to see him shipped off overseas never to return to the NRL again.
• Last year he won me back – he got off the drink, cleaned up his act, grew up and rightfully won the player of the year award. He turned a corner and showed me he wasn’t a grub.
• Then he fell off the wagon – REPEATEDLY. My opinion doesn’t matter, but I already gave him a third and fourth chance by changing my opinion on him last year.
• I understand how playing football can ‘help’ him beat his addiction, but it also helped caused it.
• I struggle though to understand how an alcoholic, with massive problems, can be ready to go back to work after only two or three weeks.
• With that said ...
I can accept Carney playing for the Roosters I guess, if playing will help him get better then fine. I hope he plays and plays well. If he falls off the wagon again that’s a topic for a different column.
But I don’t think he should be playing Origin this year.
Disrepute
I believe the NRL should step in (they won’t) and say yes Carney can play NRL as part of his rehabilitation, but he can’t play in our showpiece event. The fact of the matter is, illness or not, Carney has repeatedly damaged the whole game by his off-field antics. You can argue the seriousness of what he’s done etc, but he has damaged the game over the years and I don’t think he should be rewarded for that.
Let him get himself clean and sober and prove himself, again, to everyone. If he can kick the habit then sure, this time next year I’d be fine with him playing for New South Wales.
The argument ‘for’
Carney is the reigning Dally M Medallist – the highest individual honour in the NRL and he would have played State of Origin this season. Yes players make mistakes off the field and yes sometimes these shouldn’t be considered when selecting rep teams. But Carney is a repeat offender.
Queensland showed a bit of leadership two years ago by punting Nate Myles after he took a shit in a corridor. Myles was a Maroons regular and one of the best performers throughout this dynasty but he was dropped immediately. His indiscretion didn’t happen on an Origin watch but rather a Roosters one (hhmm).
Myles to his absolute credit repaired his image somewhat, stayed clean and forced his way back through his football. Carney must do the same.
The Competition
If I’m Jamie Soward or Jarrod Mullen I would feel disgusted if Carney gets selected ahead of me for Origin I. Soward and Mullen are both near the top of their games this season and are playing in good teams. Both have had plenty of years in the NRL in which neither has had a major (or minor) off-field incident.
Both guys deserve selection but only one will get a spot in the team. If I was either guy, I would be disappointed if I lost out to the other but that’s the way it goes. That’s what selectors are for. But if I lost out to Todd Carney, who’s seemingly spent more time getting in trouble than on the actual field this year ... I would be furious.
Carney will play
My gut feeling says Todd Carney will play a role for New South Wales in the 2011 State of Origin series. I don’t think it will be in Origin I but if the Blues get injuries, or they lose (again), he will be called upon.
I don’t agree with it, but there’s nothing officially stopping Carney from playing.
TIPPING
Tips – Dragons, Brisbane, Melbourne, Tigers, Cowboys, Knights, Roosters, Manly
Last Week – 2/4
Total – 44/68 (65%)
Another week done and as always you can chat with me on email (andrew.keyte@gmail.com), Twitter (@keyto316) or comment below.
Cheers,
Keyto
No Origin, Todd
In case you missed it, the last chance specialist Todd Carney is back and ready to roll for the Roosters on Sunday. Carney has spent the last few weeks, I guess, rehabilitating himself from his most recent ‘alcohol-related incident’. Let me clear up a few things:
• With his track record, I thought Carney was a grub and wouldn’t have been disappointed to see him shipped off overseas never to return to the NRL again.
• Last year he won me back – he got off the drink, cleaned up his act, grew up and rightfully won the player of the year award. He turned a corner and showed me he wasn’t a grub.
• Then he fell off the wagon – REPEATEDLY. My opinion doesn’t matter, but I already gave him a third and fourth chance by changing my opinion on him last year.
• I understand how playing football can ‘help’ him beat his addiction, but it also helped caused it.
• I struggle though to understand how an alcoholic, with massive problems, can be ready to go back to work after only two or three weeks.
• With that said ...
I can accept Carney playing for the Roosters I guess, if playing will help him get better then fine. I hope he plays and plays well. If he falls off the wagon again that’s a topic for a different column.
But I don’t think he should be playing Origin this year.
Disrepute
I believe the NRL should step in (they won’t) and say yes Carney can play NRL as part of his rehabilitation, but he can’t play in our showpiece event. The fact of the matter is, illness or not, Carney has repeatedly damaged the whole game by his off-field antics. You can argue the seriousness of what he’s done etc, but he has damaged the game over the years and I don’t think he should be rewarded for that.
Let him get himself clean and sober and prove himself, again, to everyone. If he can kick the habit then sure, this time next year I’d be fine with him playing for New South Wales.
The argument ‘for’
Carney is the reigning Dally M Medallist – the highest individual honour in the NRL and he would have played State of Origin this season. Yes players make mistakes off the field and yes sometimes these shouldn’t be considered when selecting rep teams. But Carney is a repeat offender.
Queensland showed a bit of leadership two years ago by punting Nate Myles after he took a shit in a corridor. Myles was a Maroons regular and one of the best performers throughout this dynasty but he was dropped immediately. His indiscretion didn’t happen on an Origin watch but rather a Roosters one (hhmm).
Myles to his absolute credit repaired his image somewhat, stayed clean and forced his way back through his football. Carney must do the same.
The Competition
If I’m Jamie Soward or Jarrod Mullen I would feel disgusted if Carney gets selected ahead of me for Origin I. Soward and Mullen are both near the top of their games this season and are playing in good teams. Both have had plenty of years in the NRL in which neither has had a major (or minor) off-field incident.
Both guys deserve selection but only one will get a spot in the team. If I was either guy, I would be disappointed if I lost out to the other but that’s the way it goes. That’s what selectors are for. But if I lost out to Todd Carney, who’s seemingly spent more time getting in trouble than on the actual field this year ... I would be furious.
Carney will play
My gut feeling says Todd Carney will play a role for New South Wales in the 2011 State of Origin series. I don’t think it will be in Origin I but if the Blues get injuries, or they lose (again), he will be called upon.
I don’t agree with it, but there’s nothing officially stopping Carney from playing.
TIPPING
Tips – Dragons, Brisbane, Melbourne, Tigers, Cowboys, Knights, Roosters, Manly
Last Week – 2/4
Total – 44/68 (65%)
Another week done and as always you can chat with me on email (andrew.keyte@gmail.com), Twitter (@keyto316) or comment below.
Cheers,
Keyto
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Qld Teams Rd 10 - Lockyer back to face Panthers
Darren Lockyer heads a host of changes to the Brisbane Broncos side with coach Anthony Griffin re-calling his representative stars to face Penrith on Friday night.
A bold Griffin made the unique move of resting his Test Match stars for last weeks’ 22-29 loss to Melbourne – the game played just 24 hours after Australia defeated New Zealand on the Gold Coast.
Only winger Jharal Yow Yeh backed up for the Broncos however fullback Gerard Beale also played having missed final New Zealand team selection.
With Lockyer, Justin Hodges, Sam Thaiday and Ben Hannant watching from the sidelines, the young Broncos pushed a star-studded Melbourne Storm to the limit before a late field goal and try in the final seconds resulted in Brisbane’s second defeat of the season.
It also ended a seven game winning streak for Brisbane but all four are back in their regular positions to face Penrith away on Friday night – just six weeks after the Broncos beat the Panthers 18-10 at Suncorp Stadium.
Hannant’s return sees Mitchell Dodds drop back to the bench while Dane Carlaw and Dunamis Lui return to the Queensland Cup.
With Shane Tronc (neck) and Josh McGuire (eye) on the injured list, young prop David Hala has been retained on the bench after impressing against the Storm.
Ben Hunt injured a finger in the last match and his utility role will be filled by Corey Norman.
With the bye next weekend there is a chance Hunt will miss just one match while Tronc, McGuire, fullback Josh Hoffman (corked shin) and back-rower Ben Te’o (broken arm) will all push for selection in Round 12.
Friday’s Round 10 match against Penrith will be live into Queensland from 7:30pm on Channel Nine.
Cowboys eye Five
The North Queensland Cowboys will aim for their fifth straight home victory at Dairy Farmers Stadium when they host Parramatta on Saturday night.
A four game NRL winning streak came to a thudding halt on Sunday when a conservative Cowboys struggled to score points against the defending Premiers St George-Illawarra.
The final 8-22 scoreline befitted the contest with the Cowboys only try coming to captain Johnathan Thurston in the final minute.
Thurston’s sideline conversion took him past Josh Hannay to become North Queensland Cowboys’ highest points-scorer with 883 career points to date.
On Saturday night North Queensland face a return clash with Parramatta after the Eels snuck home 22-20 in Sydney six weeks ago.
Coach Neil Henry has made just one change to his side with Glenn Hall returning from a corked thigh.
His late withdrawal meant Tariq Sims started the match against the Dragons and hooker James Segeyaro played from the bench.
Both have been named on a five man bench for the Parramatta game on Saturday night.
With a bye next weekend, a win over the 11th-placed Eels could see North Queensland firmly entrenched in the top four heading into the Origin period.
Kick-off is at 7:30pm Saturday and will be available on Fox Sports Viewers Choice application.
Bailey Returns
Titans prop Luke Bailey will celebrate signing a new two year contract by returning from a neck injury against Manly on Monday night.
The Titans announced today Bailey, with 15 Origins for New South Wales and four Tests for Australia to his name, will stay at the club until the end of 2013.
That news helps off-set last weeks’ surprise retirement of foundation player Brad Meyers due to injury.
Meyers played 177 NRL games (75 for Gold Coast), 51 English Super League matches, three Origins for Queensland and four Tests for Australia in a distinguished career.
The announcement came after a wrist injury ruled him out for the remainder of the 2011 season.
The Titans season is possibly on the line Monday night against a Manly side who appear to be a genuine Premiership contender.
With a bye next weekend, the 14th-placed Titans need a victory over a strong Sea Eagles side to keep in touch with the top eight.
Bailey was a late absentee from the disappointing 14-34 loss to the Warriors and with Monday’s game with Manly the Titans third straight home match, victory is crucial.
The front-rower is the only addition to the squad with his replacement Michael Henderson dropping back to a five man bench.
Monday’s match is live on Fox Sports with kick-off at 7pm.
Meanwhile Queensland State of Origin preparations hit full swing next week with the side for the May 25 series opener to be announced on Tuesday.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Penrith, Friday 7:30pm, (Channel Nine, live)
Gerard Beale, Dale Copley, Jack Reed, Justin Hodges, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (c), Peter Wallace, Ben Hannant, Andrew McCullough, Nick Kenny, Alex Glenn, Sam Thaiday, Corey Parker (c). Interchange: Corey Norman, Scott Anderson, Mitchell Dodds, David Hala.
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Eels, Saturday 7:30pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Matthew Bowen, Ashley Graham, Antonio Winterstein, Willie Tonga, Kalifa Faifai Loa, Ray Thompson, Johnathan Thurston (c), Matt Scott (c), Aaron Payne, James Tamou, Gavin Cooper, Glenn Hall, Dallas Johnson. Interchange: Scott Bolton, Leeson Ah Mau, Tariq Sims, Ashton Sims, James Segeyaro (one to be omitted).
Gold Coast Titans vs. Manly, Monday 7pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Preston Campbell, Steve Michaels, Esi Tonga, Bodene Thompson, David Mead, William Zillman, Scott Prince (c), Luke Bailey, Riley Brown, Matthew White, Greg Bird, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Michael Henderson, Ryan James, Ben Ridge, Luke O’Dwyer, Kayne Lawton (one to be omitted).
A bold Griffin made the unique move of resting his Test Match stars for last weeks’ 22-29 loss to Melbourne – the game played just 24 hours after Australia defeated New Zealand on the Gold Coast.
Only winger Jharal Yow Yeh backed up for the Broncos however fullback Gerard Beale also played having missed final New Zealand team selection.
With Lockyer, Justin Hodges, Sam Thaiday and Ben Hannant watching from the sidelines, the young Broncos pushed a star-studded Melbourne Storm to the limit before a late field goal and try in the final seconds resulted in Brisbane’s second defeat of the season.
It also ended a seven game winning streak for Brisbane but all four are back in their regular positions to face Penrith away on Friday night – just six weeks after the Broncos beat the Panthers 18-10 at Suncorp Stadium.
Hannant’s return sees Mitchell Dodds drop back to the bench while Dane Carlaw and Dunamis Lui return to the Queensland Cup.
With Shane Tronc (neck) and Josh McGuire (eye) on the injured list, young prop David Hala has been retained on the bench after impressing against the Storm.
Ben Hunt injured a finger in the last match and his utility role will be filled by Corey Norman.
With the bye next weekend there is a chance Hunt will miss just one match while Tronc, McGuire, fullback Josh Hoffman (corked shin) and back-rower Ben Te’o (broken arm) will all push for selection in Round 12.
Friday’s Round 10 match against Penrith will be live into Queensland from 7:30pm on Channel Nine.
Cowboys eye Five
The North Queensland Cowboys will aim for their fifth straight home victory at Dairy Farmers Stadium when they host Parramatta on Saturday night.
A four game NRL winning streak came to a thudding halt on Sunday when a conservative Cowboys struggled to score points against the defending Premiers St George-Illawarra.
The final 8-22 scoreline befitted the contest with the Cowboys only try coming to captain Johnathan Thurston in the final minute.
Thurston’s sideline conversion took him past Josh Hannay to become North Queensland Cowboys’ highest points-scorer with 883 career points to date.
On Saturday night North Queensland face a return clash with Parramatta after the Eels snuck home 22-20 in Sydney six weeks ago.
Coach Neil Henry has made just one change to his side with Glenn Hall returning from a corked thigh.
His late withdrawal meant Tariq Sims started the match against the Dragons and hooker James Segeyaro played from the bench.
Both have been named on a five man bench for the Parramatta game on Saturday night.
With a bye next weekend, a win over the 11th-placed Eels could see North Queensland firmly entrenched in the top four heading into the Origin period.
Kick-off is at 7:30pm Saturday and will be available on Fox Sports Viewers Choice application.
Bailey Returns
Titans prop Luke Bailey will celebrate signing a new two year contract by returning from a neck injury against Manly on Monday night.
The Titans announced today Bailey, with 15 Origins for New South Wales and four Tests for Australia to his name, will stay at the club until the end of 2013.
That news helps off-set last weeks’ surprise retirement of foundation player Brad Meyers due to injury.
Meyers played 177 NRL games (75 for Gold Coast), 51 English Super League matches, three Origins for Queensland and four Tests for Australia in a distinguished career.
The announcement came after a wrist injury ruled him out for the remainder of the 2011 season.
The Titans season is possibly on the line Monday night against a Manly side who appear to be a genuine Premiership contender.
With a bye next weekend, the 14th-placed Titans need a victory over a strong Sea Eagles side to keep in touch with the top eight.
Bailey was a late absentee from the disappointing 14-34 loss to the Warriors and with Monday’s game with Manly the Titans third straight home match, victory is crucial.
The front-rower is the only addition to the squad with his replacement Michael Henderson dropping back to a five man bench.
Monday’s match is live on Fox Sports with kick-off at 7pm.
Meanwhile Queensland State of Origin preparations hit full swing next week with the side for the May 25 series opener to be announced on Tuesday.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Penrith, Friday 7:30pm, (Channel Nine, live)
Gerard Beale, Dale Copley, Jack Reed, Justin Hodges, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (c), Peter Wallace, Ben Hannant, Andrew McCullough, Nick Kenny, Alex Glenn, Sam Thaiday, Corey Parker (c). Interchange: Corey Norman, Scott Anderson, Mitchell Dodds, David Hala.
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Eels, Saturday 7:30pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Matthew Bowen, Ashley Graham, Antonio Winterstein, Willie Tonga, Kalifa Faifai Loa, Ray Thompson, Johnathan Thurston (c), Matt Scott (c), Aaron Payne, James Tamou, Gavin Cooper, Glenn Hall, Dallas Johnson. Interchange: Scott Bolton, Leeson Ah Mau, Tariq Sims, Ashton Sims, James Segeyaro (one to be omitted).
Gold Coast Titans vs. Manly, Monday 7pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Preston Campbell, Steve Michaels, Esi Tonga, Bodene Thompson, David Mead, William Zillman, Scott Prince (c), Luke Bailey, Riley Brown, Matthew White, Greg Bird, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Michael Henderson, Ryan James, Ben Ridge, Luke O’Dwyer, Kayne Lawton (one to be omitted).
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Does the ANZAC Test cheapen the NRL?
Well the it-doesn’t-matter-what-day-we-play ANZAC Test will be held tomorrow night on the Gold Coast and this year, for the first time, I’ve got mixed feelings. Over the years I’ve been in the minority by generally supporting a Test Match this early in the season. But this year it’s a bit different.
Broncos Team
The thing that changed for me was the announcement of the Brisbane Broncos team on Tuesday to face Melbourne on the weekend – just 24 hours after the Test Match. Of the six players named for the rep game, not a single one was included in the Broncos side. Common practice is for these players to be named and assessed on game day but the coach more or less said “nope, they won’t play”.
This has since changed slightly with Gerard Beale certain to play for Brisbane after missing final NZ selection. Unless they get injured, Ben Hannant and Jharal Yow Yeh should play too.
However I will be very surprised if Darren Lockyer, Sam Thaiday and Justin Hodges back up to face the Storm. All three will play for Queensland and have a long season to go, so they likely won’t be risked.
Disappointment
I’m going to this game on Saturday because in my opinion, the Broncos vs. Storm at Suncorp Stadium is a marquee game not to be missed. I guess we could question why such a blockbuster was scheduled for this weekend, but I wasn’t even thinking about that when I arranged to attend the game.
Then Tuesday afternoon I was disappointed to see the Broncos side especially when Melbourne named their rep players. The Broncos stars may well end up playing, but I’m not banking on it.
What about the NRL
Potentially, because of the Test Match and NRL match scheduling; our top-of-the-table showcase could turn into a mauling with a star-studded Melbourne against the baby Broncos. It all comes back to that argument we have every year about representative stand alone games, byes and player burnout etc.
I don’t have a better solution – as mentioned I’ve been a supporter and just accept it. Growing up following the Broncos I know what the rep season does to my team so I’m used to it. But as a fan paying money to watch what I hoped to be a massive game, I’ll be disappointed if both sides aren’t at full strength and sides are ‘resting’ players.
The answer however, is a pineapple. I want the Test Match and the only way to keep the NRL at full strength is to scrap it. As a fan I don’t want four weekends (one Test and three Origins) without some sort of club football.
So in this case, I will go to Suncorp Stadium and cheer whoever is wearing the Broncos jersey. And I will still back them to knock over the Storm!
Gallipoli Test
It was reported this morning that both Australia and New Zealand are very keen on playing a Test Match on ANZAC Day in Gallipoli. This match is pencilled in for 2015 to mark the centenary of the troop’s famous landing.
I think this is a wonderful idea and if it happens, this could be one of the best things rugby league has ever done.
I’m all for it and would happily accept an NRL free weekend as a trade-off. I really do hope things can be worked out for this match and I would definitely try and attend – as would thousands of rugby league fans.
TIPPING
Tips – Brisbane, Gold Coast, Dragons, Manly
Last Week – 7/8
Total – 42/64 (66%)
That’s all for this week but if you want a chat find me on Twitter (@keyto316), email (andrew.keyte@gmail.com) of comment below.
Enjoy the weekend,
Keyto
Broncos Team
The thing that changed for me was the announcement of the Brisbane Broncos team on Tuesday to face Melbourne on the weekend – just 24 hours after the Test Match. Of the six players named for the rep game, not a single one was included in the Broncos side. Common practice is for these players to be named and assessed on game day but the coach more or less said “nope, they won’t play”.
This has since changed slightly with Gerard Beale certain to play for Brisbane after missing final NZ selection. Unless they get injured, Ben Hannant and Jharal Yow Yeh should play too.
However I will be very surprised if Darren Lockyer, Sam Thaiday and Justin Hodges back up to face the Storm. All three will play for Queensland and have a long season to go, so they likely won’t be risked.
Disappointment
I’m going to this game on Saturday because in my opinion, the Broncos vs. Storm at Suncorp Stadium is a marquee game not to be missed. I guess we could question why such a blockbuster was scheduled for this weekend, but I wasn’t even thinking about that when I arranged to attend the game.
Then Tuesday afternoon I was disappointed to see the Broncos side especially when Melbourne named their rep players. The Broncos stars may well end up playing, but I’m not banking on it.
What about the NRL
Potentially, because of the Test Match and NRL match scheduling; our top-of-the-table showcase could turn into a mauling with a star-studded Melbourne against the baby Broncos. It all comes back to that argument we have every year about representative stand alone games, byes and player burnout etc.
I don’t have a better solution – as mentioned I’ve been a supporter and just accept it. Growing up following the Broncos I know what the rep season does to my team so I’m used to it. But as a fan paying money to watch what I hoped to be a massive game, I’ll be disappointed if both sides aren’t at full strength and sides are ‘resting’ players.
The answer however, is a pineapple. I want the Test Match and the only way to keep the NRL at full strength is to scrap it. As a fan I don’t want four weekends (one Test and three Origins) without some sort of club football.
So in this case, I will go to Suncorp Stadium and cheer whoever is wearing the Broncos jersey. And I will still back them to knock over the Storm!
Gallipoli Test
It was reported this morning that both Australia and New Zealand are very keen on playing a Test Match on ANZAC Day in Gallipoli. This match is pencilled in for 2015 to mark the centenary of the troop’s famous landing.
I think this is a wonderful idea and if it happens, this could be one of the best things rugby league has ever done.
I’m all for it and would happily accept an NRL free weekend as a trade-off. I really do hope things can be worked out for this match and I would definitely try and attend – as would thousands of rugby league fans.
TIPPING
Tips – Brisbane, Gold Coast, Dragons, Manly
Last Week – 7/8
Total – 42/64 (66%)
That’s all for this week but if you want a chat find me on Twitter (@keyto316), email (andrew.keyte@gmail.com) of comment below.
Enjoy the weekend,
Keyto
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Qld Teams Rd 9 - Baby Broncos face Storm
Broncos coach Anthony Griffin has pulled a surprise selection move by not naming his six Test Match representatives to face Melbourne at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday night.
Captain Darren Lockyer, Sam Thaiday, Justin Hodges, Ben Hannant, Jharal Yow Yeh and Gerard Beale have reportedly been told they will not be required to back up for the Broncos just 24 hours after the Test Match.
While assessments made Saturday morning may clear some stars for the top-of-the-table Storm game, the three biggest names are unlikely to play.
Thaiday has carried a groin injury all season, Hodges has had well documented injury problems while the 34-year-old Lockyer may struggle to play three games in eight days.
Fullback Beale, considered an outsider to win a spot in New Zealand’s final side on Friday night, will play if he misses Test selection.
With State of Origin around the corner, coach Griffin has taken this unusual measure to help manage player burnout.
Conversely, Storm coach Craig Bellamy today named both City-Country and his six Test players, including superstar trio Billy Slater, Cameron Smith and Cooper Cronk, in the side to face Brisbane.
The Broncos 18 man squad includes three debutants plus a host of NRL returns.
Under 20’s hooker Kurt Baptiste could join Queensland Cup backs Shea Moylan (Wynnum) and Justin Hunt (Redcliffe) in making NRL debuts.
Scott Anderson returns from a six week absence due to a calf injury and is joined on the five man bench by forwards Dunamis Lui and David Hala – both who have played just a handful of NRL games.
Prop Josh McGuire suffered an eye injury against the Bulldogs and was not considered for selection.
Corey Norman returns to fullback, a position he started the 2010 season at, while Dane Gagai is back on the wing after six weeks out injured and playing Under 20’s.
Ben Hunt will partner Peter Wallace in the halves while Nick Kenny and Mitchell Dodds start in the front row with Dane Carlaw dropping to the back row.
Corey Parker will captain the side in Lockyer’s absence for what is always a hard match against their Melbourne rivals.
The Storm holds a 16-11 winning record against Brisbane but last played at Suncorp Stadium in 2009 – a match Brisbane won 16-14 in Round Two.
A young Broncos side defeated Melbourne 36-14 in the corresponding match last season which marked the star-studded Storm’s first loss since the salary cap scandal.
Saturday’s match will be live on Fox Sports with a big crowd expected for the 7:30pm kick-off.
Titans’ Friend-less
Minor shoulder surgery will sideline Gold Coast Titans hooker Nathan Friend for at least a few weeks as his side prepares to host the Warriors on Sunday.
The blow comes just a few days after Friend became the first Titan to register 100 NRL games for the club.
He missed the Titans opening four games of the season with a shoulder problem and his absence was noted as a contributing factor to the sides’ poor start to the year.
Coach John Cartwright has recalled Riley Brown, who deputised previously for Friend, while including Under 20’s hooker Kayne Lawton on a five man bench.
Preston Campbell made a successful return from a knee injury in the Titans hard fought 24-13 win over the Roosters last week.
The Titans only representative player, Mark Minichiello (City), has been named to back up on Sunday as the Gold Coast look to build momentum with their second of three consecutive home matches.
Greg Bird has been included despite being ruled out of the City-Country game while the Warriors could have as many as five players backing up from Friday’s Test, also at Skilled Park.
Sunday’s match will be live on Fox Sports from 2pm.
Cowboys face Premiers
On a four game winning streak, the Cowboys will get a clear picture of where their season is at when they face St George-Illawarra at Kogarah Oval in Sydney on Sunday.
The Dragons, leading the competition and displaying the same Premiership-winning traits as last year, are on a six game winning streak of their own.
Cowboys coach Neil Henry has included Australian players, and Cowboys co-captains, Johnathan Thurston and Matt Scott in his unchanged side for the Dragons.
Hooker Aaron Payne suffered an elbow injury in last week’s 22-20 win over Manly however his likely replacement, rookie James Segeyaro, has not been included in the team.
The Dragons won the only clash between the sides last year, 33-8 at WIN Stadium in Wollongong, but overall the sides have shared their matches with 10 wins apiece.
Sunday’s game begins at 3pm but will be broadcast on Channel Nine delayed from 4pm.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Storm, Saturday 7:30pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Corey Norman, Dane Gagai, Jack Reed, Dale Copley, Shea Moylan, Ben Hunt, Peter Wallace, Nick Kenny, Andrew McCullough, Mitchell Dodds, Alex Glenn, Dane Carlaw, Corey Parker (c). Interchange: Kurt Baptiste, Scott Anderson, Dunamis Lui, David Hala, Justin Hunt (one to be omitted).
Gold Coast Titans vs. Warriors, Sunday 2pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Preston Campbell, Steve Michaels, Esi Tonga, Bodene Thompson, David Mead, William Zillman, Scott Prince (c), Luke Bailey, Riley Brown, Matthew White, Greg Bird, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Michael Henderson, Ryan James, Ben Ridge, Luke O’Dwyer, Kayne Lawton (one to be omitted).
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Dragons, Sunday 3pm, (Channel Nine, delayed 4pm)
Matthew Bowen, Ashley Graham, Antonio Winterstein, Willie Tonga, Kalifa Faifai Loa, Ray Thompson, Johnathan Thurston (c), Matt Scott (c), Aaron Payne, James Tamou, Gavin Cooper, Glenn Hall, Dallas Johnson. Interchange: Scott Bolton, Leeson Ah Mau, Tariq Sims, Ashton Sims.
Captain Darren Lockyer, Sam Thaiday, Justin Hodges, Ben Hannant, Jharal Yow Yeh and Gerard Beale have reportedly been told they will not be required to back up for the Broncos just 24 hours after the Test Match.
While assessments made Saturday morning may clear some stars for the top-of-the-table Storm game, the three biggest names are unlikely to play.
Thaiday has carried a groin injury all season, Hodges has had well documented injury problems while the 34-year-old Lockyer may struggle to play three games in eight days.
Fullback Beale, considered an outsider to win a spot in New Zealand’s final side on Friday night, will play if he misses Test selection.
With State of Origin around the corner, coach Griffin has taken this unusual measure to help manage player burnout.
Conversely, Storm coach Craig Bellamy today named both City-Country and his six Test players, including superstar trio Billy Slater, Cameron Smith and Cooper Cronk, in the side to face Brisbane.
The Broncos 18 man squad includes three debutants plus a host of NRL returns.
Under 20’s hooker Kurt Baptiste could join Queensland Cup backs Shea Moylan (Wynnum) and Justin Hunt (Redcliffe) in making NRL debuts.
Scott Anderson returns from a six week absence due to a calf injury and is joined on the five man bench by forwards Dunamis Lui and David Hala – both who have played just a handful of NRL games.
Prop Josh McGuire suffered an eye injury against the Bulldogs and was not considered for selection.
Corey Norman returns to fullback, a position he started the 2010 season at, while Dane Gagai is back on the wing after six weeks out injured and playing Under 20’s.
Ben Hunt will partner Peter Wallace in the halves while Nick Kenny and Mitchell Dodds start in the front row with Dane Carlaw dropping to the back row.
Corey Parker will captain the side in Lockyer’s absence for what is always a hard match against their Melbourne rivals.
The Storm holds a 16-11 winning record against Brisbane but last played at Suncorp Stadium in 2009 – a match Brisbane won 16-14 in Round Two.
A young Broncos side defeated Melbourne 36-14 in the corresponding match last season which marked the star-studded Storm’s first loss since the salary cap scandal.
Saturday’s match will be live on Fox Sports with a big crowd expected for the 7:30pm kick-off.
Titans’ Friend-less
Minor shoulder surgery will sideline Gold Coast Titans hooker Nathan Friend for at least a few weeks as his side prepares to host the Warriors on Sunday.
The blow comes just a few days after Friend became the first Titan to register 100 NRL games for the club.
He missed the Titans opening four games of the season with a shoulder problem and his absence was noted as a contributing factor to the sides’ poor start to the year.
Coach John Cartwright has recalled Riley Brown, who deputised previously for Friend, while including Under 20’s hooker Kayne Lawton on a five man bench.
Preston Campbell made a successful return from a knee injury in the Titans hard fought 24-13 win over the Roosters last week.
The Titans only representative player, Mark Minichiello (City), has been named to back up on Sunday as the Gold Coast look to build momentum with their second of three consecutive home matches.
Greg Bird has been included despite being ruled out of the City-Country game while the Warriors could have as many as five players backing up from Friday’s Test, also at Skilled Park.
Sunday’s match will be live on Fox Sports from 2pm.
Cowboys face Premiers
On a four game winning streak, the Cowboys will get a clear picture of where their season is at when they face St George-Illawarra at Kogarah Oval in Sydney on Sunday.
The Dragons, leading the competition and displaying the same Premiership-winning traits as last year, are on a six game winning streak of their own.
Cowboys coach Neil Henry has included Australian players, and Cowboys co-captains, Johnathan Thurston and Matt Scott in his unchanged side for the Dragons.
Hooker Aaron Payne suffered an elbow injury in last week’s 22-20 win over Manly however his likely replacement, rookie James Segeyaro, has not been included in the team.
The Dragons won the only clash between the sides last year, 33-8 at WIN Stadium in Wollongong, but overall the sides have shared their matches with 10 wins apiece.
Sunday’s game begins at 3pm but will be broadcast on Channel Nine delayed from 4pm.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Storm, Saturday 7:30pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Corey Norman, Dane Gagai, Jack Reed, Dale Copley, Shea Moylan, Ben Hunt, Peter Wallace, Nick Kenny, Andrew McCullough, Mitchell Dodds, Alex Glenn, Dane Carlaw, Corey Parker (c). Interchange: Kurt Baptiste, Scott Anderson, Dunamis Lui, David Hala, Justin Hunt (one to be omitted).
Gold Coast Titans vs. Warriors, Sunday 2pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Preston Campbell, Steve Michaels, Esi Tonga, Bodene Thompson, David Mead, William Zillman, Scott Prince (c), Luke Bailey, Riley Brown, Matthew White, Greg Bird, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Michael Henderson, Ryan James, Ben Ridge, Luke O’Dwyer, Kayne Lawton (one to be omitted).
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Dragons, Sunday 3pm, (Channel Nine, delayed 4pm)
Matthew Bowen, Ashley Graham, Antonio Winterstein, Willie Tonga, Kalifa Faifai Loa, Ray Thompson, Johnathan Thurston (c), Matt Scott (c), Aaron Payne, James Tamou, Gavin Cooper, Glenn Hall, Dallas Johnson. Interchange: Scott Bolton, Leeson Ah Mau, Tariq Sims, Ashton Sims.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
