Preview Part Four

Hello readers and welcome to the final instalment of my 2010 NRL season preview. In this column I will discuss the four teams I believe could qualify at the top of the ladder this year. As per the previous discussions I will give a team motto, x-factor and general prediction.


SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS – Finals or BUST!!
Prediction – This has got to be the Bunnies year to shine. They have the best forward pack in the competition and developing halves. They’ll take a spot anywhere in the eight but top two is no way beyond them. If South Sydney don’t make the Finals they should dead-set pack up and move to Perth.
X-Factor – David Taylor and Sam Burgess – These two bulls have the potential to be serious ‘Bash Brothers’ for the Rabbitohs. They run hard, they hurt and they intimidate. They’ll run wide, set up tries, score tries and belt blokes – should be great for the viewer!!


MELBOURNE STORM – Maintain Perfection
Prediction – Every year we look at the ‘Outs’ and say the Storm can’t possibly stay on top yet every year they are as hard to beat as ever. The Storm know how to win big games and that’s invaluable. They might fall back in the pack a bit but they’ll be hard to beat in every game.
X-Factor – Adam Blair – This is a guy you’d love to play with and want to beat when you’re his opponent. Blair has that happy knack of lifting and inspiring his side with a big play. He will be a bit of a heartbeat and a real leader of this Melbourne side.

CANTERBURY BULLDOGS – Onwards and Upwards
Prediction – The Bulldogs of old are back and they should be a major player this season. Last year they fell apart with a late injury to Kimmorley. I would expect them to sit in the top four for pretty much the duration of the season.
X-Factor – Ben Roberts – Has had tremendous potential for a while and just started to make the turn last year. Playing another season alongside Kimmorley, who will drip-feed him more responsibility, will really help. I’m expecting a big season for the Kiwi representative.


CANBERRA RAIDERS – Our Time is NOW!!
Prediction – These guys have been quietly plugging along together in Canberra for a few years now. They’re a tight-knit group and should try and harness that siege mentality. If they get that, and can win away, they could become a really tough team to beat.
X-Factor – Josh Dugan – The best young fullback in the game without a doubt. He is physically tough and has good attacking awareness. Dugan has potential to be anything and I expect him to be a big part of whatever the Raiders end up doing in 2010.

So there you have it, my NRL Season predictions for season 2010. I can’t wait for the season to kick off Friday night, as I’m sure you all can’t either!! All season I’m available on email, andrew.keyte@gmail.com, or via the comment boards for your feedback.

Cheers,
Keyto