While it’s not the same as the Collingwood thing in the AFL (whatever that is), for decades every NRL fan has grown up to hate Manly. Their own fans have a saying, transferred onto a banner, stating “Nobody likes us, we don’t care”. You know what, I don’t hate Manly. I think they are Premiership Favourites and if they make the Grand Final, I hope they win.
Where’s the hate?
I live in Brisbane so we’re shielded away from the Sydney media frenzy unless we go looking for it online. We only really hear from Sydney when a story has a Queensland relevance, unless of course it’s a major story. But a regular run-of-the-mill ‘we hate Manly’ yarn won’t get a run here.
I tend to base my support of other players or teams based on what I personally see on the field or what I can see of their personality. From my viewing this year, there’s nothing to hate about Manly.
The rookie halves are wonderfully talented and conduct themselves outstandingly well in the media also. There’s a big fat guy who represents all the big fat guys in Australia, and does it in style through hard work and good times. You’ve got a hit man lurking out wide and the return of one of the better fullbacks in the competition. Then there’s a guy called T-Rex crushing blokes and scoring tries.
Yes there are a few players I don’t really care for in that squad but overall, I think Manly as a football team is great to watch every week. Even more importantly, the last two months has shown me they are going to take a heck of a lot of beating.
Siege Mentality
I must confess, this is my favourite mentality. The “us against the world”, true underdog story is a good one every time. Manly manufacture it deluxe, almost like the Maroons I guess, but it works. The Sea Eagles whinge about home grounds and administration and match allocation but it assists in their results. For that I say good luck.
Jamie Lyon can grind the gears with his questioning of referees but he’s not the most annoying in the competition by a long way (that would be Kurt Gidley, for those playing at home).
Rival teams and fans should focus on the winning rather than whinging about Manly’s whinging.
NRL Finals
Last week Manly were ropeable they had to play their final with the Cowboys at the Sydney Football Stadium. I agree they deserved a home ground advantage and the 8:30pm time slot was a shocker, but EVERY club agreed to this last year – Big games at the big stadiums.
As far as Sydney goes, I think we might see a loophole allowing grounds like Brookvale Oval to be used in Week 1 against a non-Sydney club.
I’m really torn on this McIntyre Finals system after the weekend. For starters, we have probably got the best 6 teams left standing in the Premiership Race. The Cowboys were busted and Newcastle ... no offence, but we should have just played a Top 7 this year.
The games last weekend were shit.
Apart from the Tigers and Dragons match, the rest didn’t really feel like a Final. The Warriors got pumped, Manly always looked likely if they got one try and Melbourne were just foxing by not putting 40 points on.
Maybe it is time to go with the AFL system to give us closer matches and to create a bit more equality. Would it have been fair for the Tigers, who won, to have to play the Minor Premiers this week? Ask the Broncos 2009 team about that one.
TIPPING
Tips – Tigers, Broncos
Last Week – 3/4
Total –124/196 (63%)
You can share your thoughts on email (andrew.keyte@gmail.com), Twitter (@keyto316) or comment below.
Have a great week,
Keyto
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Qld Teams - Lockyer's Final Show
Regardless of the result, Saturday night’s elimination semi final against the Dragons will be Darren Lockyer’s final match at Suncorp Stadium.
Fresh off a 40-10 thumping of the Warriors last week, the Broncos now face the defending premiers for the right to play Manly in Sydney in the Grand Final Qualifier.
Saturday will be the last stop in the Queensland leg of Lockyer’s season-long farewell tour with the loser of the match eliminated from the Telstra Premiership race.
In a fitting finale, Lockyer comes up against perhaps the single most influential man in his career – St George-Illawarra coach Wayne Bennett.
It was Bennett who introduced Lockyer to the world with the Broncos club when he was a teenager and moulded him into one of the best fullbacks to have played the game.
Then Bennett switched Lockyer into the halves where he was eventually to become one of the best five-eighths to have played the game.
Now Bennett will comprise a game plan to nullify Lockyer and effectively end his NRL career.
The Broncos are anticipating a near capacity 50,000 strong crowd at Suncorp Stadium for their
biggest game of the season.
In the corresponding match two years ago, a Greg Inglis try in the dying seconds won the match for Melbourne and ended Brisbane’s season.
Coach Anthony Griffin has named an unchanged side from last week to tackle the Dragons.
In their only other meeting this season, immediately following Origin II, the Broncos prevailed 21-14 at Suncorp Stadium.
Justin Hodges left training early today but is not expected to be any doubt for his personal battle with the Dragons’ Matt Cooper.
The Broncos will get captain-in-waiting Sam Thaiday back for next week’s match should they defeat the Dragons.
Saturday’s game kicks off shortly after 6:30pm and will be televised live on Channel Nine.
Cowboys in squads
Six North Queensland Cowboys have been included in representative squads following their disappointing exit from the competition last week.
Despite leading 8-0 at halftime against Manly, the Cowboys were comprehensively outplayed by the Premiership favourites to leak 42 unanswered points in the second half.
With their season over, attention now turns for some to the October Test matches and Four Nations tour to England.
Incumbents Johnathan Thurston and Matt Scott have been named in the Australian squad along with fullback Matt Bowen and Maroons centre Willie Tonga.
They will meet the rest of the squad in Sydney on Thursday before selectors name the Prime Ministers squad to face PNG on September 25.
Australian selectors overlooked former Queensland regulars Brent Tate, who played nine games at the end of the year after recovering from a knee injury, and Dallas Johnson, who returned to the NRL this year after spending 2010 in the English Super League.
Cowboys’ winger Kalifa Faifai Loa and impressive young prop James Tamou have been included in New Zealand’s train-on squad.
The full squad will assemble after the Grand Final and play a Test against the Cook Islands on October 6, before meeting Australia on October 16 in Newcastle.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Dragons, Saturday 6:30pm, (Channel Nine, live)
Gerard Beale, Dale Copley, Jack Reed, Justin Hodges, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (c), Peter Wallace, Josh McGuire, Andrew McCullough, Ben Hannant, Alex Glenn, Ben Te’o, Corey Parker. Interchange: Matt Gillett, Ben Hunt, Scott Anderson, David Hala.
Fresh off a 40-10 thumping of the Warriors last week, the Broncos now face the defending premiers for the right to play Manly in Sydney in the Grand Final Qualifier.
Saturday will be the last stop in the Queensland leg of Lockyer’s season-long farewell tour with the loser of the match eliminated from the Telstra Premiership race.
In a fitting finale, Lockyer comes up against perhaps the single most influential man in his career – St George-Illawarra coach Wayne Bennett.
It was Bennett who introduced Lockyer to the world with the Broncos club when he was a teenager and moulded him into one of the best fullbacks to have played the game.
Then Bennett switched Lockyer into the halves where he was eventually to become one of the best five-eighths to have played the game.
Now Bennett will comprise a game plan to nullify Lockyer and effectively end his NRL career.
The Broncos are anticipating a near capacity 50,000 strong crowd at Suncorp Stadium for their
biggest game of the season.
In the corresponding match two years ago, a Greg Inglis try in the dying seconds won the match for Melbourne and ended Brisbane’s season.
Coach Anthony Griffin has named an unchanged side from last week to tackle the Dragons.
In their only other meeting this season, immediately following Origin II, the Broncos prevailed 21-14 at Suncorp Stadium.
Justin Hodges left training early today but is not expected to be any doubt for his personal battle with the Dragons’ Matt Cooper.
The Broncos will get captain-in-waiting Sam Thaiday back for next week’s match should they defeat the Dragons.
Saturday’s game kicks off shortly after 6:30pm and will be televised live on Channel Nine.
Cowboys in squads
Six North Queensland Cowboys have been included in representative squads following their disappointing exit from the competition last week.
Despite leading 8-0 at halftime against Manly, the Cowboys were comprehensively outplayed by the Premiership favourites to leak 42 unanswered points in the second half.
With their season over, attention now turns for some to the October Test matches and Four Nations tour to England.
Incumbents Johnathan Thurston and Matt Scott have been named in the Australian squad along with fullback Matt Bowen and Maroons centre Willie Tonga.
They will meet the rest of the squad in Sydney on Thursday before selectors name the Prime Ministers squad to face PNG on September 25.
Australian selectors overlooked former Queensland regulars Brent Tate, who played nine games at the end of the year after recovering from a knee injury, and Dallas Johnson, who returned to the NRL this year after spending 2010 in the English Super League.
Cowboys’ winger Kalifa Faifai Loa and impressive young prop James Tamou have been included in New Zealand’s train-on squad.
The full squad will assemble after the Grand Final and play a Test against the Cook Islands on October 6, before meeting Australia on October 16 in Newcastle.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Dragons, Saturday 6:30pm, (Channel Nine, live)
Gerard Beale, Dale Copley, Jack Reed, Justin Hodges, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (c), Peter Wallace, Josh McGuire, Andrew McCullough, Ben Hannant, Alex Glenn, Ben Te’o, Corey Parker. Interchange: Matt Gillett, Ben Hunt, Scott Anderson, David Hala.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
My Own Dally M Awards
Last night Billy Slater was a worthy winner of the Dally M award for best player throughout the 2011 season. I can’t fault any of the award winners and can’t really justify why anyone else should have claimed a category. Today I name my team of the year – these guys aren’t necessarily the best in their position, but they are the ones I have enjoyed watching. Yep, a popularity contest!
Fullback – Josh Hoffman (Broncos)
It’s a real shame injury has punctuated his season but Hoffman showed enough in his 16 games to prove he is an absolute gem. He’s been a more than worthy heir to Karmichael Hunt and will be New Zealand’s main fullback for a long time. Great in defence, attack and counter-attack. Also wonderful at a live match to sit behind the posts and watch Hoffman organise defenders.
Wing – Akuila Uate (Rabbitohs)
He’s an excitement machine the NRL could build a marketing campaign on, not to mention a superstar player and, from all reports, a wonderful person too. Aku was probably the most feared NSW player this Origin series and will play for Australia in October. Best part is – the term ‘Uate Party’ will be in full song next year!
Centre – Steve Matai (Sea Eagles)
I know there’s a bit of rubbish in his game but I don’t care. Steve Matai is one guy I always look for when Manly play. I think his attack is underrated but Matai seems like the ideal guy you want to play alongside. Let’s just say I’d rather be with him than against him.
Five-Eighth – Darren Lockyer (Broncos)
Best player I’ve ever seen playing his final season – Enough Said.
Halfback – Daly Cherry-Evans (Sea Eagles)
I had seen a little bit and heard plenty about this guy last year in the Queensland Cup and DCE has lived up to the hype. I loved his enthusiasm, skill and coolness this year and it was really good to watch him live last week. Cherry-Evans was a deserved rookie of the year winner and a future Queensland Origin player.
Front Row – Josh McGuire (Broncos)
Anyone who calls himself “Big Show” after a couple of NRL games is a winner in my book! I loved watching his development this season and was thrilled he did so well playing 80 minutes last weekend. Having Petero at the club next year will do wonders for McGuire.
Hooker – Josh Reynolds (Bulldogs)
He was a late nomination but I really like the cut of his jib and needed to find a spot for him in my side. Reynolds looked like a real tenacious competitor and there is plenty to like in his game. I’m not sure where his best position is, but he should become a regular in the Bulldogs side next season.
Back Row – Tariq Sims (Cowboys)
I saw him play for the Broncos 20s last year and it’s been great to see him explode onto the NRL scene with the Cowboys. He’s strong, aggressive and skilful – the modern back-rower. Injury has cut short his season but Sims will play for NSW next year.
Lock –Michael Crocker (Rabbitohs)
An old favourite of mine and it’s been great to watch him in a new role – the old head amongst a group of young, flamboyant Rabbitohs. Injuries hammered their season but Crocker, with Ben Ross, largely held things together. That, plus the great unknown, made their matches must-see TV.
Rookie – DCE (Sea Eagles), special mention Jack Reed (Broncos)
Jack Reed comes in a respectable second for my rookie award. He’s done a fabulous job with the Broncos and is proof there is still room for regular “footballers” in the NRL. He was one Inglis or Hodges failed fitness test away from a Queensland debut this season in my opinion and will push hard next year. Reed isn’t the flashiest or the prettiest player in the league, but he will be a damn fine one.
TIPPING
Tips – Tigers, Broncos, Cowboys, Storm
Last Week – 6/8
Total –121/192 (63%)
Enjoy the Finals,
Keyto
Fullback – Josh Hoffman (Broncos)
It’s a real shame injury has punctuated his season but Hoffman showed enough in his 16 games to prove he is an absolute gem. He’s been a more than worthy heir to Karmichael Hunt and will be New Zealand’s main fullback for a long time. Great in defence, attack and counter-attack. Also wonderful at a live match to sit behind the posts and watch Hoffman organise defenders.
Wing – Akuila Uate (Rabbitohs)
He’s an excitement machine the NRL could build a marketing campaign on, not to mention a superstar player and, from all reports, a wonderful person too. Aku was probably the most feared NSW player this Origin series and will play for Australia in October. Best part is – the term ‘Uate Party’ will be in full song next year!
Centre – Steve Matai (Sea Eagles)
I know there’s a bit of rubbish in his game but I don’t care. Steve Matai is one guy I always look for when Manly play. I think his attack is underrated but Matai seems like the ideal guy you want to play alongside. Let’s just say I’d rather be with him than against him.
Five-Eighth – Darren Lockyer (Broncos)
Best player I’ve ever seen playing his final season – Enough Said.
Halfback – Daly Cherry-Evans (Sea Eagles)
I had seen a little bit and heard plenty about this guy last year in the Queensland Cup and DCE has lived up to the hype. I loved his enthusiasm, skill and coolness this year and it was really good to watch him live last week. Cherry-Evans was a deserved rookie of the year winner and a future Queensland Origin player.
Front Row – Josh McGuire (Broncos)
Anyone who calls himself “Big Show” after a couple of NRL games is a winner in my book! I loved watching his development this season and was thrilled he did so well playing 80 minutes last weekend. Having Petero at the club next year will do wonders for McGuire.
Hooker – Josh Reynolds (Bulldogs)
He was a late nomination but I really like the cut of his jib and needed to find a spot for him in my side. Reynolds looked like a real tenacious competitor and there is plenty to like in his game. I’m not sure where his best position is, but he should become a regular in the Bulldogs side next season.
Back Row – Tariq Sims (Cowboys)
I saw him play for the Broncos 20s last year and it’s been great to see him explode onto the NRL scene with the Cowboys. He’s strong, aggressive and skilful – the modern back-rower. Injury has cut short his season but Sims will play for NSW next year.
Lock –Michael Crocker (Rabbitohs)
An old favourite of mine and it’s been great to watch him in a new role – the old head amongst a group of young, flamboyant Rabbitohs. Injuries hammered their season but Crocker, with Ben Ross, largely held things together. That, plus the great unknown, made their matches must-see TV.
Rookie – DCE (Sea Eagles), special mention Jack Reed (Broncos)
Jack Reed comes in a respectable second for my rookie award. He’s done a fabulous job with the Broncos and is proof there is still room for regular “footballers” in the NRL. He was one Inglis or Hodges failed fitness test away from a Queensland debut this season in my opinion and will push hard next year. Reed isn’t the flashiest or the prettiest player in the league, but he will be a damn fine one.
TIPPING
Tips – Tigers, Broncos, Cowboys, Storm
Last Week – 6/8
Total –121/192 (63%)
Enjoy the Finals,
Keyto
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Qld Teams Qual. Final - Hodges returns as Thaiday suspended
The Brisbane Broncos will welcome back strike centre Justin Hodges for Saturday’s Qualifying Final against the Warriors at Suncorp Stadium.
However his return from a two week hamstring injury has been dimmed slightly with news Sam Thaiday will miss two matches for a dangerous tackle and fullback Josh Hoffman’s season is over with a knee injury.
Thaiday could have challenged the grading at the judiciary however had he failed the ban would have increased to three matches – possibly ruling him out for the Grand Final.
The Broncos finished third after their 18-10 win against Manly on the weekend and now host the sixth-placed Warriors.
Brisbane could possibly secure a free passage to the Grand Final Qualifier with a win however history is against them.
Six times in the past eight seasons the sixth-placed side has upset the third-finished hosts.
Brisbane did it themselves to the Gold Coast Titans just two years ago and just last month escaped with a 21-20 win over the Warriors at Suncorp Stadium.
Coach Anthony Griffin has been forced into some changes this weekend with Hodges slotting straight back into his right centre position.
His past two injury-ravaged years should have Hodges primed for a big Finals series, especially after fears his latest hamstring injury against the Knights in Round 24 could have ended his 2011 season.
Hodges replacement for the past fortnight, Ben Te’o, moves to his favoured back row position in place of the suspended Thaiday.
With Hoffman out for the Finals series Gerard Beale will move back to fullback – a position he excelled in at the start of the season.
Beale was in such good form at the back for the Broncos that he found himself in the New Zealand squad for the Test Match in May.
The vacant wing spot will be filled by Dale Copley, who has already played 14 NRL games this season in the Broncos back line.
Ben Hannant, as he ended up doing last week, will start in the front row with Scott Anderson playing from the bench.
David Hala has been named in the squad after he was replaced by Mitchell Dodds last week – however Dodds was not used at all during the match.
A loss for the Broncos is unlikely to end their season with both the Cowboys and Knights needing to defeat Manly and Melbourne respectively to eliminate Brisbane.
Saturday’s match will be available live on Channel Nine from 6:30pm.
Johnson returns
Former Maroons lock Dallas Johnson has recovered from concussion and will take his place for North Queensland’s sudden-death Qualifying Final against Manly in Sydney on Saturday night.
Johnson took a nasty head knock two weeks ago and as a precaution did not play in the 6-18 loss to the Warriors in New Zealand last week.
However he is in no doubt to miss the Cowboys first match at the Sydney Football Stadium in over a year.
North Queensland lost four of their last five matches to slip down into seventh position on the ladder and now face the second-placed Sea Eagles.
A loss will end the Cowboys season however victory will ensure they not only stay alive in the competition, but get to play next week’s match in Queensland.
North Queensland defeated Manly 22-20 at home in Round Eight this year before losing 4-24 without their Origin representatives back in Round 14.
Coach Neil Henry has moved Johnson straight back into the starting side with Scott Bolton dropping to a five man bench.
Leeson Ah Mau has been omitted to accommodate Johnson with Cory Paterson named 18th man.
The Cowboys head into camp today as they prepare for their first finals appearance in 2007, where ironically they lost to Manly and were eliminated.
Saturday’s match will immediately follow the Broncos game live on Channel Nine with kick-off scheduled for 8:30pm.
Titans in train-on
Four Gold Coast Titans, including retiring veteran Preston Campbell, have been named in the combined Prime Ministers XIII and Australian train-on squad.
Campbell, William Zillman and Origin duo Ashley Harrison and Greg Bird are part of the 34 man squad with a chance to represent their country in the coming weeks.
The Prime Ministers XIII, coached by Mal Meninga, plays the Kumuls in Papua New Guinea on September 25 before the Australian Kangaroos squad is named on October 3.
Campbell is more likely to push for a spot against PNG while Zillman, clearly the Titans best player in a horror season, could cap a fine individual year with representative honours.
Bird will be strongly considered for a place in the Australian side while Harrison will need to prove he has overcome an elbow injury that ruled him out of the Titans’ last seven games.
The squad assembles in Sydney next week and will be expanded as teams are eliminated throughout the Finals series.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Warriors, Saturday 6:30pm, (Channel Nine, live)
Gerard Beale, Dale Copley, Jack Reed, Justin Hodges, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (c), Peter Wallace, Josh McGuire, Andrew McCullough, Ben Hannant, Alex Glenn, Ben Te’o, Corey Parker. Interchange: Matt Gillett, Ben Hunt, Scott Anderson, David Hala.
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Manly, Saturday 8:30pm, (Channel Nine, live)
Matthew Bowen, Ashley Graham, Brent Tate, 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, Jason Taumalolo, Ashton Sims, Cory Paterson (one to be omitted).
However his return from a two week hamstring injury has been dimmed slightly with news Sam Thaiday will miss two matches for a dangerous tackle and fullback Josh Hoffman’s season is over with a knee injury.
Thaiday could have challenged the grading at the judiciary however had he failed the ban would have increased to three matches – possibly ruling him out for the Grand Final.
The Broncos finished third after their 18-10 win against Manly on the weekend and now host the sixth-placed Warriors.
Brisbane could possibly secure a free passage to the Grand Final Qualifier with a win however history is against them.
Six times in the past eight seasons the sixth-placed side has upset the third-finished hosts.
Brisbane did it themselves to the Gold Coast Titans just two years ago and just last month escaped with a 21-20 win over the Warriors at Suncorp Stadium.
Coach Anthony Griffin has been forced into some changes this weekend with Hodges slotting straight back into his right centre position.
His past two injury-ravaged years should have Hodges primed for a big Finals series, especially after fears his latest hamstring injury against the Knights in Round 24 could have ended his 2011 season.
Hodges replacement for the past fortnight, Ben Te’o, moves to his favoured back row position in place of the suspended Thaiday.
With Hoffman out for the Finals series Gerard Beale will move back to fullback – a position he excelled in at the start of the season.
Beale was in such good form at the back for the Broncos that he found himself in the New Zealand squad for the Test Match in May.
The vacant wing spot will be filled by Dale Copley, who has already played 14 NRL games this season in the Broncos back line.
Ben Hannant, as he ended up doing last week, will start in the front row with Scott Anderson playing from the bench.
David Hala has been named in the squad after he was replaced by Mitchell Dodds last week – however Dodds was not used at all during the match.
A loss for the Broncos is unlikely to end their season with both the Cowboys and Knights needing to defeat Manly and Melbourne respectively to eliminate Brisbane.
Saturday’s match will be available live on Channel Nine from 6:30pm.
Johnson returns
Former Maroons lock Dallas Johnson has recovered from concussion and will take his place for North Queensland’s sudden-death Qualifying Final against Manly in Sydney on Saturday night.
Johnson took a nasty head knock two weeks ago and as a precaution did not play in the 6-18 loss to the Warriors in New Zealand last week.
However he is in no doubt to miss the Cowboys first match at the Sydney Football Stadium in over a year.
North Queensland lost four of their last five matches to slip down into seventh position on the ladder and now face the second-placed Sea Eagles.
A loss will end the Cowboys season however victory will ensure they not only stay alive in the competition, but get to play next week’s match in Queensland.
North Queensland defeated Manly 22-20 at home in Round Eight this year before losing 4-24 without their Origin representatives back in Round 14.
Coach Neil Henry has moved Johnson straight back into the starting side with Scott Bolton dropping to a five man bench.
Leeson Ah Mau has been omitted to accommodate Johnson with Cory Paterson named 18th man.
The Cowboys head into camp today as they prepare for their first finals appearance in 2007, where ironically they lost to Manly and were eliminated.
Saturday’s match will immediately follow the Broncos game live on Channel Nine with kick-off scheduled for 8:30pm.
Titans in train-on
Four Gold Coast Titans, including retiring veteran Preston Campbell, have been named in the combined Prime Ministers XIII and Australian train-on squad.
Campbell, William Zillman and Origin duo Ashley Harrison and Greg Bird are part of the 34 man squad with a chance to represent their country in the coming weeks.
The Prime Ministers XIII, coached by Mal Meninga, plays the Kumuls in Papua New Guinea on September 25 before the Australian Kangaroos squad is named on October 3.
Campbell is more likely to push for a spot against PNG while Zillman, clearly the Titans best player in a horror season, could cap a fine individual year with representative honours.
Bird will be strongly considered for a place in the Australian side while Harrison will need to prove he has overcome an elbow injury that ruled him out of the Titans’ last seven games.
The squad assembles in Sydney next week and will be expanded as teams are eliminated throughout the Finals series.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Warriors, Saturday 6:30pm, (Channel Nine, live)
Gerard Beale, Dale Copley, Jack Reed, Justin Hodges, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (c), Peter Wallace, Josh McGuire, Andrew McCullough, Ben Hannant, Alex Glenn, Ben Te’o, Corey Parker. Interchange: Matt Gillett, Ben Hunt, Scott Anderson, David Hala.
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Manly, Saturday 8:30pm, (Channel Nine, live)
Matthew Bowen, Ashley Graham, Brent Tate, 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, Jason Taumalolo, Ashton Sims, Cory Paterson (one to be omitted).
Thursday, September 1, 2011
The greatest player I have ever seen
On Sunday I will be one of more than 50,000 Brisbane fans to officially pay tribute to retiring superstar Darren Lockyer. All the rugby league I have ever watched has been in the Lockyer era and it will be quite surreal knowing he won’t be there anymore. Put simply – Darren Lockyer is the best in this business I have had the pleasure to watch with my own eyes.
Debut Season
When I was about 10 years old we used to go to the old Brisbane ANZ Stadium to watch the Broncos play – the year this began was 1995. That also happened to be the year a skinny blonde kid from Roma debuted at the great club as well.
My first Lockyer memory is of him kicking an easy goal late in a match and telling my grandparents, “Hey Darren Lockyer is on, this new kid is pretty good”. Of course I was the kid and how would I know talent, but I must have heard it somewhere and that judge was fairly good!
Lockyer has played in every team I have loved ever since.
Fullback Evolution
As I grew older I was able to watch rugby league differently and truly work out which players had talent and who the stars were. It was pretty obvious Darren Lockyer was one of these. I believe guys like Tim Brasher and Brett Mullins paved the way for fullbacks like Lockyer.
But it took the great Locky to pave that road in a whole new direction to where things are today. Look at the Slater’s, Hayne’s, Dugan’s and Barba’s in our competition – these excitement machines largely developed from the way Lockyer evolved the fullback position.
He was safe and brave in defence but also came with a renewed X-Factor in attack. Fullback wasn’t just there to chime into a backline movement; the position became a weapon and focal point of attack. He was a rare custodian with a genuine kicking game and played like another halfback.
Today they all do it, but Lockyer is the one who got that ball rolling.
State of Origin
The one memory every Queenslander has is Darren Lockyer swooping on a loose ball in the year 2006 to steal a game from the Blues and secure our first series win in four years. There was talk of the death of Origin should NSW win four years in a row.
That play not only saved Queensland, but it sent the Blues on a six year losing streak!
Locky is the most capped Queensland player and we all have a lifetime of memories. He is easily the most influential Maroon since Wally Lewis and some might even say he is the new king.
Lockyer was rarely rattled in the toughest competition and could always find a match winning play when it was needed. He has left a lasting legacy on Queenslanders everywhere.
The best twice
Few players have the honour of being crowned the best player in their position for a significant length of time. Even less have had that honour twice.
At a time where Darren Lockyer was still the best fullback in the game, his mentor Wayne Bennett decided to make his star the best five-eighth in the game too. While it took time, I think it’s fair to say eventually Lockyer could lay claim to being the best in that position too.
It seemed a natural transition but it wasn’t the case – there were some tough games and it probably took two seasons to really come good. We’ve seen other fullbacks try the switch and fail in the years since.
That’s another testament to Lockyer’s great skill, character and determination and to be honest, most will probably remember him as a great five-eighth rather than the great fullback. To me he is just the great player.
Leadership
Finally I believe the hallmarks of a champion are the influence they have not only on team mates, but on the fans as well. It’s obvious that Lockyer has had a massive bearing on hundreds of careers and thousands of fans.
While maybe he was never perfect, the man just commands respect and that’s largely because he respects people back. Only a true star can have a stellar 16 year career relatively incident free.
Darren Lockyer is a superstar, a legend, a champion, a hero and a gentleman. He is the best in the world at what he does and will be missed next year. But on Sunday we will all celebrate.
After that – there’s a championship to win!
TIPPING
Tips – Newcastle, Dragons, Warriors, Tigers, Gold Coast, Bulldogs, Brisbane, Melbourne
Last Week – 6/8
Total –115/184 (63%)
See you later,
Keyto
Debut Season
When I was about 10 years old we used to go to the old Brisbane ANZ Stadium to watch the Broncos play – the year this began was 1995. That also happened to be the year a skinny blonde kid from Roma debuted at the great club as well.
My first Lockyer memory is of him kicking an easy goal late in a match and telling my grandparents, “Hey Darren Lockyer is on, this new kid is pretty good”. Of course I was the kid and how would I know talent, but I must have heard it somewhere and that judge was fairly good!
Lockyer has played in every team I have loved ever since.
Fullback Evolution
As I grew older I was able to watch rugby league differently and truly work out which players had talent and who the stars were. It was pretty obvious Darren Lockyer was one of these. I believe guys like Tim Brasher and Brett Mullins paved the way for fullbacks like Lockyer.
But it took the great Locky to pave that road in a whole new direction to where things are today. Look at the Slater’s, Hayne’s, Dugan’s and Barba’s in our competition – these excitement machines largely developed from the way Lockyer evolved the fullback position.
He was safe and brave in defence but also came with a renewed X-Factor in attack. Fullback wasn’t just there to chime into a backline movement; the position became a weapon and focal point of attack. He was a rare custodian with a genuine kicking game and played like another halfback.
Today they all do it, but Lockyer is the one who got that ball rolling.
State of Origin
The one memory every Queenslander has is Darren Lockyer swooping on a loose ball in the year 2006 to steal a game from the Blues and secure our first series win in four years. There was talk of the death of Origin should NSW win four years in a row.
That play not only saved Queensland, but it sent the Blues on a six year losing streak!
Locky is the most capped Queensland player and we all have a lifetime of memories. He is easily the most influential Maroon since Wally Lewis and some might even say he is the new king.
Lockyer was rarely rattled in the toughest competition and could always find a match winning play when it was needed. He has left a lasting legacy on Queenslanders everywhere.
The best twice
Few players have the honour of being crowned the best player in their position for a significant length of time. Even less have had that honour twice.
At a time where Darren Lockyer was still the best fullback in the game, his mentor Wayne Bennett decided to make his star the best five-eighth in the game too. While it took time, I think it’s fair to say eventually Lockyer could lay claim to being the best in that position too.
It seemed a natural transition but it wasn’t the case – there were some tough games and it probably took two seasons to really come good. We’ve seen other fullbacks try the switch and fail in the years since.
That’s another testament to Lockyer’s great skill, character and determination and to be honest, most will probably remember him as a great five-eighth rather than the great fullback. To me he is just the great player.
Leadership
Finally I believe the hallmarks of a champion are the influence they have not only on team mates, but on the fans as well. It’s obvious that Lockyer has had a massive bearing on hundreds of careers and thousands of fans.
While maybe he was never perfect, the man just commands respect and that’s largely because he respects people back. Only a true star can have a stellar 16 year career relatively incident free.
Darren Lockyer is a superstar, a legend, a champion, a hero and a gentleman. He is the best in the world at what he does and will be missed next year. But on Sunday we will all celebrate.
After that – there’s a championship to win!
TIPPING
Tips – Newcastle, Dragons, Warriors, Tigers, Gold Coast, Bulldogs, Brisbane, Melbourne
Last Week – 6/8
Total –115/184 (63%)
See you later,
Keyto
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Qld Teams Rd 26 - Cowboys' date with destiny
A post-Origin slump and injuries to key players have left the North Queensland Cowboys in a precarious position ahead of their clash with the Warriors in New Zealand.
The Cowboys enter Saturday evening’s match knowing a win could see them secure fourth position but a loss could see them slip to the sudden-death seventh place come the end of the round.
While it was not pretty, North Queensland did secure a 28-20 win over Cronulla last week but poor form the month prior has left them in a dog fight with four teams for the highest positions on the ladder.
Currently the Cowboys are level on competition points with Wests Tigers, but have a 17 point for-and-against difference to make up.
The Dragons sit just one point behind the Cowboys while the Warriors, with a 35 point superior differential, will leap frog the Townsville club with a win Saturday night.
A seventh place finish will bring a sudden death away match with either Manly or Brisbane in the first week of the Finals.
Coach Neil Henry has recalled Ashton Sims and Cory Paterson to a five man bench for the trip.
They will cover the loss of rookie of the year contender Tariq Sims who had his season ended with a broken leg last week.
His brother Ashton returns after resting a knee injury while Paterson was omitted from the Sharks match.
Dallas Johnson is being monitored after suffering a nasty concussion last week.
Saturday’s crucial match will be live on Fox Sports from 5:30pm.
Titans’ spoon battle
The Gold Coast Titans host Parramatta on Saturday night where the loser will carry the 2011 wooden spoon mantle.
In what has been a horror season for the Titans they will at least have a chance at Skilled Park to shed that unwanted tag while also farewelling a number of foundation players.
Preston Campbell, the Titans initial signing, will retire from the NRL following the match while forward Anthony Laffranchi will continue his career in England.
Fans will also get the chance to farewell injured duo Nathan Friend, who is joining the Warriors, and popular forward Brad Meyers who retired during the season because of injury.
It has been a wretched year for the Gold Coast with injuries and poor form dominating their season.
However a host of new signings and young talent will bring a fresh squad into the 2012 season and the Titans will look to enter that on the back of a victory over Parramatta.
The side is unchanged from the one beaten 10-39 by Wests Tigers last night.
Saturday’s match will be available live on Fox Sports from 7:30pm.
Brisbane farewell Lockyer
Sunday’s match between the Broncos and Manly at Suncorp Stadium is sold out as the club officially farewells retiring superstar Darren Lockyer.
The club is planning a massive celebration for the NRL’s most experienced player and all 52,000 tickets have been sold well in advance.
While Brisbane is guaranteed a home final in Week One, they could also play two more Finals at Suncorp Stadium if they keep winning.
The most likely scenario is the Broncos will finish third and host the sixth placed team at 6:30pm on Saturday week.
However a big win over Manly will prop the Broncos up to second meaning they will host the seventh placed side and earn a second week bye with a victory.
The Broncos and Sea Eagles have 85 points differential separating them; meaning Brisbane would need to win by 43 points to overtake Manly.
On face value that scenario looks highly unlikely however the Sea Eagles will be without several key players due to injury and suspension following last week’s ugly brawl against the Storm.
The Broncos only have Justin Hodges absent for the match but the star centre is anticipating a Week One Finals comeback from a hamstring injury.
Coach Anthony Griffin has kept the same side that disposed of South Sydney 22-10 last weekend.
Sunday’s match has a special 4pm kick-off and will be broadcast live on Channel Nine.
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Warriors, Saturday 5:30pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Matthew Bowen, Ashley Graham, Brent Tate, 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, Jason Taumalolo, Ashton Sims, Cory Paterson (one to be omitted).
Gold Coast Titans vs. Eels, Saturday 7:30pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Jordan Rankin, Steve Michaels, Esi Tonga, Clinton Toopi, David Mead, William Zillman, Preston Campbell (c), Luke Bailey, Matt Srama, Matthew White, Anthony Laffranchi, Mark Minichiello, Greg Bird. Interchange: Brenton Lawrence, Will Matthews, Bodene Thompson, Luke O’Dwyer.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Sea Eagles, Sunday 4pm, (Channel Nine, live)
Josh Hoffman, Gerard Beale, Jack Reed, Ben Te’o, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (c), Peter Wallace, Josh McGuire, Andrew McCullough, Scott Anderson, Alex Glenn, Sam Thaiday, Corey Parker. Interchange: Matt Gillett, Ben Hunt, Ben Hannant, David Hala.
The Cowboys enter Saturday evening’s match knowing a win could see them secure fourth position but a loss could see them slip to the sudden-death seventh place come the end of the round.
While it was not pretty, North Queensland did secure a 28-20 win over Cronulla last week but poor form the month prior has left them in a dog fight with four teams for the highest positions on the ladder.
Currently the Cowboys are level on competition points with Wests Tigers, but have a 17 point for-and-against difference to make up.
The Dragons sit just one point behind the Cowboys while the Warriors, with a 35 point superior differential, will leap frog the Townsville club with a win Saturday night.
A seventh place finish will bring a sudden death away match with either Manly or Brisbane in the first week of the Finals.
Coach Neil Henry has recalled Ashton Sims and Cory Paterson to a five man bench for the trip.
They will cover the loss of rookie of the year contender Tariq Sims who had his season ended with a broken leg last week.
His brother Ashton returns after resting a knee injury while Paterson was omitted from the Sharks match.
Dallas Johnson is being monitored after suffering a nasty concussion last week.
Saturday’s crucial match will be live on Fox Sports from 5:30pm.
Titans’ spoon battle
The Gold Coast Titans host Parramatta on Saturday night where the loser will carry the 2011 wooden spoon mantle.
In what has been a horror season for the Titans they will at least have a chance at Skilled Park to shed that unwanted tag while also farewelling a number of foundation players.
Preston Campbell, the Titans initial signing, will retire from the NRL following the match while forward Anthony Laffranchi will continue his career in England.
Fans will also get the chance to farewell injured duo Nathan Friend, who is joining the Warriors, and popular forward Brad Meyers who retired during the season because of injury.
It has been a wretched year for the Gold Coast with injuries and poor form dominating their season.
However a host of new signings and young talent will bring a fresh squad into the 2012 season and the Titans will look to enter that on the back of a victory over Parramatta.
The side is unchanged from the one beaten 10-39 by Wests Tigers last night.
Saturday’s match will be available live on Fox Sports from 7:30pm.
Brisbane farewell Lockyer
Sunday’s match between the Broncos and Manly at Suncorp Stadium is sold out as the club officially farewells retiring superstar Darren Lockyer.
The club is planning a massive celebration for the NRL’s most experienced player and all 52,000 tickets have been sold well in advance.
While Brisbane is guaranteed a home final in Week One, they could also play two more Finals at Suncorp Stadium if they keep winning.
The most likely scenario is the Broncos will finish third and host the sixth placed team at 6:30pm on Saturday week.
However a big win over Manly will prop the Broncos up to second meaning they will host the seventh placed side and earn a second week bye with a victory.
The Broncos and Sea Eagles have 85 points differential separating them; meaning Brisbane would need to win by 43 points to overtake Manly.
On face value that scenario looks highly unlikely however the Sea Eagles will be without several key players due to injury and suspension following last week’s ugly brawl against the Storm.
The Broncos only have Justin Hodges absent for the match but the star centre is anticipating a Week One Finals comeback from a hamstring injury.
Coach Anthony Griffin has kept the same side that disposed of South Sydney 22-10 last weekend.
Sunday’s match has a special 4pm kick-off and will be broadcast live on Channel Nine.
North Queensland Cowboys vs. Warriors, Saturday 5:30pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Matthew Bowen, Ashley Graham, Brent Tate, 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, Jason Taumalolo, Ashton Sims, Cory Paterson (one to be omitted).
Gold Coast Titans vs. Eels, Saturday 7:30pm, (Fox Sports, live)
Jordan Rankin, Steve Michaels, Esi Tonga, Clinton Toopi, David Mead, William Zillman, Preston Campbell (c), Luke Bailey, Matt Srama, Matthew White, Anthony Laffranchi, Mark Minichiello, Greg Bird. Interchange: Brenton Lawrence, Will Matthews, Bodene Thompson, Luke O’Dwyer.
Brisbane Broncos vs. Sea Eagles, Sunday 4pm, (Channel Nine, live)
Josh Hoffman, Gerard Beale, Jack Reed, Ben Te’o, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (c), Peter Wallace, Josh McGuire, Andrew McCullough, Scott Anderson, Alex Glenn, Sam Thaiday, Corey Parker. Interchange: Matt Gillett, Ben Hunt, Ben Hannant, David Hala.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Where did it all go wrong?
South Sydney’s winning run has created a renewed excitement as we head towards the Finals with now nine teams trying to fit into eight spots. But there are seven teams out of the Premiership race and today I will have a look at just why that may be the case.
Bulldogs – Who Knows!
So technically if they win their last two matches the Bulldogs may scrape in but this is a serious long shot and one, quite frankly, the Bulldogs do not deserve. They brought an entire new team for this season and started well before it all fell to bits. Obviously there were off field issues with the coach getting sacked, but this roster should have done better. The new look team just hasn’t gelled for the full season but maybe they’ll be better for next year.
Penrith – Distractions
There’s an obvious communication issue at the club between players and management, as highlighted by Petero Civoniceva this week. A popular coach was sacked and another popular coach was overlooked. We’ve had a star player in Michael Jennings out of form and getting up to (minor) off-field mischief. There’s been a guy swiping doctors’ prescription pads plus a challenging injury toll. A tough year for the club but following the on-going overhaul, they should be better next year.
Roosters – Attitude
About a month ago I wrote the Roosters Grand Final appearance last year was beginning to look like a fluke. They have been better in the last two weeks but for the majority of the season, the Roosters attitude has flat out stunk. They’ve got guys in that club that seem more interested in drinking and partying then winning games. It’s not helped either by a protective-management – as seen with the entire Todd Carney saga this season. I feel sorry for Braith Anasta because they need guys at that club to follow his leadership – which is top shelf.
Sharks – Talent
Same old story for Cronulla this year – they just don’t have the talent across the club to compete every week with the best sides. They have a good attitude and tremendous heart throughout the side, but their best 17 would be in the bottom three of the NRL. Their team is decent but, Gallen aside, there are no superstars. They do have a couple of potential stars, but not yet. Unfortunately I can’t see much changing for them next season.
Raiders – Desire
I think this is the greatest disappointment of the season. After last year, Canberra had no excuses for missing the top eight this year. They were rightly predicted to finish top four. Sure Terry Campese was out but he came back mid-season. Yes he got re-injured but the damage was done because the Raiders had dropped the ball before he returned anyway. They have a very talented side but perhaps they lack the desire to knuckle down in the hard times. A shit year like this should fix the problem for the 2012 season.
Titans – Age
Too old, too slow. The modern game has passed this side by in a matter of only six months. Remember they were one win from the Grand Final last year? Now, with virtually the same squad, they are battling for the wooden spoon. They are getting a squad overhaul for next season and they needed it. The Titans need to be winning because the Gold Coast fans, across all sports, don’t support losers. The Titans also need Scott Prince back to his best next season which I expect will happen. Don’t fear Gold Coast fans, this has been a bump in the road but 2012 should be successful.
Eels – Points
I admire the fact Parramatta rarely gave up in their matches and only had one or two significant blow-outs. Their attitude and defence was creditable but they couldn’t win the tight matches. However this experience should help them next year. The Eels had a new coach with a very questionable roster this season. Parramatta recruited ‘Dad’s Army’ and most of them won’t be at the club next year. The signings of Chris Sandow, Willie Tonga and Ben Roberts could be outstanding and nothing less than a top eight finish will be good enough in season 2012.
TIPPING
Tips – Manly, Roosters, Newcastle, Cowboys, Canberra, Dragons, Broncos, Tigers
Last Week – 6/8
Total –109/176(62%)
Thanks for reading,
Keyto
Bulldogs – Who Knows!
So technically if they win their last two matches the Bulldogs may scrape in but this is a serious long shot and one, quite frankly, the Bulldogs do not deserve. They brought an entire new team for this season and started well before it all fell to bits. Obviously there were off field issues with the coach getting sacked, but this roster should have done better. The new look team just hasn’t gelled for the full season but maybe they’ll be better for next year.
Penrith – Distractions
There’s an obvious communication issue at the club between players and management, as highlighted by Petero Civoniceva this week. A popular coach was sacked and another popular coach was overlooked. We’ve had a star player in Michael Jennings out of form and getting up to (minor) off-field mischief. There’s been a guy swiping doctors’ prescription pads plus a challenging injury toll. A tough year for the club but following the on-going overhaul, they should be better next year.
Roosters – Attitude
About a month ago I wrote the Roosters Grand Final appearance last year was beginning to look like a fluke. They have been better in the last two weeks but for the majority of the season, the Roosters attitude has flat out stunk. They’ve got guys in that club that seem more interested in drinking and partying then winning games. It’s not helped either by a protective-management – as seen with the entire Todd Carney saga this season. I feel sorry for Braith Anasta because they need guys at that club to follow his leadership – which is top shelf.
Sharks – Talent
Same old story for Cronulla this year – they just don’t have the talent across the club to compete every week with the best sides. They have a good attitude and tremendous heart throughout the side, but their best 17 would be in the bottom three of the NRL. Their team is decent but, Gallen aside, there are no superstars. They do have a couple of potential stars, but not yet. Unfortunately I can’t see much changing for them next season.
Raiders – Desire
I think this is the greatest disappointment of the season. After last year, Canberra had no excuses for missing the top eight this year. They were rightly predicted to finish top four. Sure Terry Campese was out but he came back mid-season. Yes he got re-injured but the damage was done because the Raiders had dropped the ball before he returned anyway. They have a very talented side but perhaps they lack the desire to knuckle down in the hard times. A shit year like this should fix the problem for the 2012 season.
Titans – Age
Too old, too slow. The modern game has passed this side by in a matter of only six months. Remember they were one win from the Grand Final last year? Now, with virtually the same squad, they are battling for the wooden spoon. They are getting a squad overhaul for next season and they needed it. The Titans need to be winning because the Gold Coast fans, across all sports, don’t support losers. The Titans also need Scott Prince back to his best next season which I expect will happen. Don’t fear Gold Coast fans, this has been a bump in the road but 2012 should be successful.
Eels – Points
I admire the fact Parramatta rarely gave up in their matches and only had one or two significant blow-outs. Their attitude and defence was creditable but they couldn’t win the tight matches. However this experience should help them next year. The Eels had a new coach with a very questionable roster this season. Parramatta recruited ‘Dad’s Army’ and most of them won’t be at the club next year. The signings of Chris Sandow, Willie Tonga and Ben Roberts could be outstanding and nothing less than a top eight finish will be good enough in season 2012.
TIPPING
Tips – Manly, Roosters, Newcastle, Cowboys, Canberra, Dragons, Broncos, Tigers
Last Week – 6/8
Total –109/176(62%)
Thanks for reading,
Keyto
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
