NRL News from Townsville
Cowboys end Manly Streak
North Queensland 30 def Manly 26
The score doesn't really reflect how the Cowboys dominated this match - skill, guile and unrelenting passion from the Cowboys saw them stop Manly in their tracks and provide the Eagles with their first loss this year.
The Cowboys unleashed some sensational set plays involving the Bowen boys and JT - but it was the unbreakable defence that ultimately won them the match. Early possession favoured the Manly boys, but forced kicks from Monaghan caused by frustration from the Cowboys defence saw Manly come away empty handed each time.
Its the first time an opposition pack has dominated the Manly forwards and Tronc, Southern and Cashmere deserve praise for a big effort. More respectable considering they were without Webb and O'Donnell.
Manly had some nice patches, mostly in broken play - but Stewart was thawted everytime he got room and scrambling from the Cowboys was desperate. Manly got close midway through the second half, but dropped ball and ill-discipline saw the Cowboys grab the momentum back and run away with the game.
The other exciting part for the Cowboys was the try results from set pieces. Scrum moves involving Jason Smith and limited tries from kicks - always makes the team and coach much more satisfied with the victory. For Manly - the opposite. Apart from the late consolation tries, several tries from kicks and some luck - aren't ideal in attack and they'll need to work on this area for better results moving forward.
Saturday 28 April 2007
NRL News Results
Another major upset:
Raiders demolish Penrith 34 - 18
The unpredictable results of NRL in 2007 continues, with the Raiders travelling to Penrith and putting the Panthers to the sword. Matt Elliot will have nightmares about his old side coming to town and putting the blow torch on; Penrith quite simply put in the worst effort of any team this year.
After playing so poorly, Penrith didn't even win the fight in the last 5 minutes. Thurling and Priddis got into a fight after a scrum, and after Priddis dished out a face slap - Thurling unloaded with a flurry of punches and smashed Priddis directly with at least two hits.
Priddis was stunned and tried to laugh it off - but the truth of the matter was he and his side were never in the hunt or fight.
Elliot will have a tough week of soul searching with club - confidence will be shot to pieces after this one. The Raiders meanwhile keep chipping away. Neil Henry while trying to find consistency - must be congratulated for finding the right tactics and having his players employ them to the letter.
NRL News Storm v Broncos
Melboure Storm 28 def Broncos 18
The Storm remains undefeated at Round 7 after a comfortable win over the Broncos in Brisbane. In a match which had plenty of errors early - the class of the Storm and passion to get revenge from the grand final loss last year, saw the Southerners storm home with Slater blistering in his pace. Brisbane have continued their poor run of form and remain in the NRL 2007 cellar at round 7. Some consistency is needed or the Broncos will fall shy of the top 8 this year.
NRL News Review Tigers v Bulldogs
Wests Tigers 34 def Bulldogs 18
What a turnaround! The week off had the Tigers jumping out of their skin and they blew the Dogs off the park with smart mobile forwards. The Tigers ran great angles all night and frustrated the Dogs from the first whistle.
Farrah winning man of the match and eating up dummy half meters at will, with halves Marshall and Morris combining well and choosing the right options. Wider out, Dean Collis was sensational - beating his opposite man regularly and scoring a double and setting up a 3rd try.
It was the Tigers of 2005. Not many errors, limited missed tackles and dynamic attack.
They have exposed the Bulldogs weakness, which has been coming to the surface in recent weeks - which is the rushing defence and its inability to adjust to second phase or wider forward hit ups. The Eels exposed this last week, but couldnt capitalize.
For the Dogs, the forwards let them down. Shrek, Mason and SBW were so hell bent on killing their opponents - that missed shoulder charges and ill-timing was letting their opponents gain meters and easy off-loads.
Cutler had a horror night. Dropping several high balls, and gifting 2 tries through lost balls in goal. I think we may see Utai back next week.
Sherwin was on the improve, setting up tries and grabbing a long 40/20 - and should keep Roberts at bay.
The Tigers now move to 6 points with the aid of last weeks bye - and gain good confidence.
Friday 27 April 2007
NRL Round 7 Prediction
This weekend is hosting some very nice match-ups. Some tough ones to pick,
only 2 real certainties.
Broncos v Storm
This will be a real test for the comeback Broncos. Melbourne have been
winning without being brilliant and the couldron will force them to
play some good Rugby League - otherwise the improving premiers will
knock them over. Broncos could cause an upset here.
Bulldogs v Wests Tigers
Doggies only just got home last week against the Eels. Having Sonny Bill
Williams back will add some muscle to their pack and Shrek will surely
be keen to get at the Tigers again. I think the Dogs will have too much
experience and strengh for the Tigers
Panthers v Canberra Raiders
Should be an easy victory here at home to Penrith. Much needed and surely
Elliot will want to get the goods over his old team. Canberra not good
enough at away venues.
Cowboys v Sea Eagles
Another date at Dairy Farmers. Cowboys will be keen to put things back
on track. I feel they will want this more than Manly, and Monaghan
discussions may have sidetracked Manly. Cowboys to get the goods.
Titans v Eels
The Gold Coast will play their usual carefree style, and have most of
their best players in this weeks side. I feel the Eels maybe a little
cautious after their stumble against the Bulldogs. The form of Finch
is a little heartening after some horror games - if the Eels start
well, they will win.
Rabbits v Warriors
What a clash this should be. The gutsy Souths outfit up against the
might of the Kiwi clan. Can the Warriors travel? I think they might
do this - as Souths have been only average in attack. Warriors by
a small margin.
Knights v Sharks
Monday night in Knightsville. A good test for the new Sharks. I think
the Knights at home - probably just a little too good for the Shire
boys. Should be a close encounter this one. Mullen due for a big one.
Rugby League club wins in ARL / Super League / NRL tournaments since 1908.
947 South Sydney Rabbitohs
910 St George Dragons
871 Balmain Tigers
792 Bulldogs
734 Manly Sea Eagles
734 Western Suburbs Magpies
678
621
583
463 Cronulla Sharks
387 Penrith Panthers
334
311
245
163 Glebe
153 Illawarra Steelers
143
136 NZ Warriors
112 St George Illawarra
102
73 Wests Tigers
53 Gold Coast (1988-1998)
47 University
30 Northern Eagles
25
24 Western Reds
13
13
9
7 Hunter Mariners
1
Thursday 26 April 2007
Sam Newman Sex Re-enactment with Air Hostess
Some footy humour here - I couldn't resist putting this video up even for NRL fans to see. Even though it's by the AFL guys - featuring AFL Footy Show funny guy Sam Newman - it's a classic. Newman decided to re-enact the Qantas sex in the toilet / lavatory saga where Ralph Fiennes the actor got up close and personal with Qantas Air Hostess Lisa Robertson. A fully see through - airline toilet / cubicle was built by Channel 9 and Newman hops in for a go. (Funny stuff starts about 30 - 40 seconds into the video)
Sam Newman is in trouble and copping plenty of press about this skit on the Channel 9 Melbourne Footy show. Some may find Newman's antics offensive but others may be rolling around the floor in laughter. You be the judge! Look at the video, and feel free to comment on the video in the shout box or using the comments option below this post.
Roosters finally get their first win for 2007
Congratulations must go to the Sydney City Roosters, who yesterday finally notched up a determined win against the depleted Dragons.
The Roosters started the game with an enthusiastic attitude, and they kept this determination going throughout the game. While not an overly exciting affair, and lacking some polished attacking rugby league - the Roosters can take full credit for improved defence and sheer will to win - which saw them move to 4 points on the NRL ladder, including the bye from the previous round.
The Roosters big names all stepped up, Anasta continuing his gutsy form - as did Mini and the damaging Anthony Tupou was always a handful for the Saints edge men.
I think Kenny-Dowell is a top signing for the Roosters. The young lanky kiwi is not scared of the tough work in-field and regularly goes looking for it. When he gets space he can turn on the afterburners, or if he is ambushed he can tackle bust - expect big things from the young man in the years ahead.
For the Saints it was a lacklusture showing. Sure, they have their usual thousand or so players on the sideline injured - but a certain amount of committment and effort is expected and I don't think they all put in 100%. New pivot Richie Rich spent most of the game sledging Braith Anasta - which obviously didn't work. And the failure to slow the Roosters play the ball absolutely cost Saints the game - the Roosters were rev'd up in every tackle and jumped to their feet getting good rolls going.
Coach Brown gets a lot of critism but really, when he only has limited cattle available to put on the field - their is only so much he can do. I don't know what it is with the Saints, but maybe it's time to put a brush through the top end players - to clean out the cobwebs? As many seem to injured almost permanently.
Wednesday 25 April 2007
NRL News
Sydney City Roosters backed heavily
Winless Sydney City Roosters are carrying the hopes of the nations punters today in the traditional Anzac Day clash at Aussie Stadium.
A massive betting plunge by punters yesterday on the Roosters, shows there is confidence the winless side can get their 1000th win - after being stranded on 999 for oh so long.
All betting agencies have taken large amounts of money; with one punter putting up $200,000 on the Roosters and predictions a total of $1 million could be taken in total just on the Roosters alone.
While the Roosters will be desperate to get the win, the Dragons - 1 win from 4 starts will also be just as keen to notch up some points and it should be an exciting clash.
NRL News feels this might be the time the Roosters finally break through and get the win. Anderson has put the heat on them during the week and expect them to come out firing in the clash.
Tuesday 24 April 2007
NRL News
Jason Ryles signs with Newcastle Knights
Speculation today that Jason Ryles has agreed to terms with the Knights for 2008 and beyond. Apparently Ryles is keeping this under wraps for the moment, for fear the press could hurt the already suffering Dragons team.
In more NRL contract news NZ Warriors half Michael Witt has agreed to new terms and the young ultility will be at the Warriors until the end of 2009. This is a nice boost for the club, which was seen strong improvement in the halves with Witt - something severely missing since Stacey Jones left the fold. Witt has had time at the Eels and Manly and hopefully has found a happy home in NZ.
Fears for the Cowboys has they lost a tough one to the Bunnies. Already without Webb and O'Donnell the Cowboys have now lost Fiumu and Graham - and quietly fear a form slump similar to last year after their comparitive explosive start. A tough few weeks ahead for the North Queenslanders.
Monday 23 April 2007
NRL News
Bunnies hold off clumbsy Cowboys
South Sydney 10 def Cowboys 6
A determined Souths outfit tonight held off a late flurry from the Cowboys to notch their 4th win of the season, moving to 8 competition points and well entrenched in the top 8.
In a match riddled with errors, both sides really struggled to get going and the heat possibly played a major part - with conditions in Townsville even hotter than usual.
Surprisingly the usually potent Cowboys were nullified in attack, and their frustration soon resulted in side to side running - as Thurston and Smith were heavily marked by the Rabbitohs defence.
Down 6-4 at half time the Rabbits got to the lead 15 minutes into the second half, through a sharp Merritt try. A neat little grubber from Joe Williams was snatched by Merritt under pressure and ground millimetres from the dead ball line.
With possession evenly spread, it was the simple grinding style of Souths that was the smarter option. The Cowboys after scoring first, looked like they might run away with it - but their harlem globe trotters style soon turned to tears after plenty of dropped ball. In contrast, Souths tucked it under the arm and played for field position - in the conditions, defintately the way to conserve energy and frustration.
There were moments when Souths got nervous towards the end, and made some silly errors - but Jason Taylor must be given credit for tactics and interchange - as he rotated nicely and had fresh legs at the death.
The Cowboys will need to regroup quickly as they face the unbeaten Manly Sea Eagles team next week - in what should be eye candy Rugby League.
Souths will wait nervously to hear a report on Luke Stuart who was cited for kicking Matt Bowen in the head while contesting a lose ball. Penalties tonight went the way of the Cowboys 9-4.
NRL News
Rugby League discussions coming out of this weekend so far:
Manly remaining undefeated after 6 rounds. The Eagles have really come together as a unit and are defending that way consistently.
John Cartwright storming into the Video Referee's box to question a Manly try awarded after a blatent obstruction. Carty will find himself in hot water for this one - certainly a throw back to yesteryear as the former Penrith hardman went head hunting at Brookvale. I can imagine the little video referee cowering in the corner in the fetal position as big Carty yelled sweet nothings at him.
Jarryd Hayne from the Eels alledgedly shaking the goal posts during a Hazem El Masri attempt at Parramatta Stadium. Hayne was questioned about the incident after complaints - but denies involvement.
Newcastle continue to look good despite missing Andrew Johns. Interestly, the style of play and mood at Newcastle is not that of previous Brian Smith outfits. The vision of the dressing sheds from half time showed Smith roaming the room instructing the players - with all players standing and chatting between themselves. A far cry from the school teacher scenes of the past from Brian Smith sides.
South Sydney managing to hide from publicity leading into tonights Monday night blockbuster with North Queensland. The Bunnies after 3 wins and rock solid defence early - have lost their past 2 games and conceded an average of 26+ points a game in their last two outings. Taylor and his men will want to win tonight to keep the media at bay.
Penrith losing their way in 2007 after another loss. Facing Melbourne is always tough, but the Matt Elliot coached side - showed some good promise early and have gone off the rails in the past few weeks. Take away their last second win against the Broncos and the Panthers look even worse. Their must be some concern amongst Penrith faithful and they need some confidence fast.
West Tigers are enjoying the weekend off, after finally getting a win against the Sharks they need to focus as they face some tough opposition in the coming weeks. Opponents include: Bulldogs and Storm. The Tigers face a mammoth task, but should they get some wins against some big names - it will really set them back on the right path. Evergreen winger Jason Moodie seems to be finding the going pretty tough this year and is a yard or so off the pace, look for Sheens to keep him on the bench and possibly out of the top team as time moves on.
NZ Warriors also having the week off have the enviable position of being able to keep out of the Sydney media. The Warriors are looking the goods in 2007 and have been the team closest to knocking Manly off - after an unlucky loss at Brooky. The Warriors will enjoy the extra time to get over niggly injuries and be fresh for their assault next week on the Rabbitohs in Sydney.
Sunday 22 April 2007
NRL News on Sunday
Broncos crash Joey's Party
Broncos 20 def Knights 16
Info: The class of Lockyer got the the Broncos home after a valiant effort by the Knights. The Broncos weren't stunning but did enough to eclipse the clumsy Knights. Some poor mistakes cost the Knights badly and more focus could have seen them win this one. The crowd and the occasion added to the pressure, but the Broncos looked to want it more and did just that. Tony Carroll has picked up an injury, and the forwards from Brisbane did well to cover in his absence. Test stars did well to back up and for the Knights - Gidley was again the standout in everything he did. Mad Dog also put it a big effort, which was needed after some of his recent showings.
Dogs outlast Eels in thriller
Bulldogs 21 def Eels 18
Info: Missing SBW and Ben Roberts a rusty Bulldogs did enough to overcome the Eels. The Eels really would be kicking themselves after losing this one. Have near 60% possession in the first half and only leading by 4 was always a worrying sign. The Bulldogs hung tough and a rampant Willie Mason was the spring board for the Dogs revival. Sherwin got his shot in the top grade, but looked very rusty - it was a some energetic injections by Luke Patten to get the Dogs going and some nice hustle from Trent Cutler after a shocking early start for the youngster. Finch was a standout for the Eels after some poor showings and laid on the first try and scored the other through running plays. Dogs had the nerve in the clutch and the Eels pulled the wrong plays for the time.
Manly monster Titans
Manly 20 def Titans 6
Info: Manly's rock solid defence was finally complemented by stunning attack. Brilliant Eagles. Manly finally showed their attacking power today and totally outgunned the Titans in all departments. Orford made a safe return, and the Stewart brothers were in everything for the Eagles. The Titans looked rudderless at times and simply didn't have the spark, full credit for Manly for once again winning the forward battle and putting another team to the sword. The Titans will be keen to head home for some cooked meals and will face the hurting Eels on the Coast this week.
NRL News
Cronulla Sharks at home too good
Sharks 26 def Raiders 0
The Cronulla Sharks have proved too strong at Toyota Park for the scoreless Raiders last night - as they posted a comfy 26 to 0 win.
A blazing first half effort by Sharks centre Ben Pommeroy - scoring 3 tries and proving a menace out wide, allowed the Sharks to lay a good platform.
For the Raiders, more injuries in the forwards - with big man Michael Weymann picking up an ankle injury. The Raiders certainly missed the muscle and aggression of Neville Costigan and will need to lift for their big trip to Panthers town next week.
Cronulla Sharks 26 (B Pomeroy 3, I De Gois tries; L Covell 3 conversions, penalty goal) Canberra Raiders 0
Saturday 21 April 2007
NRL News
Storm slip past Panthers
Storm 30 def Panthers 20
Melbourne have held off a late Panthers fight back to win in slippery conditions at Olympic Park tonight. The Storm were out to 24 - 8 at one stage until the 'never say die' Panthers strung some tries togther and gave the undefeated NRL comp leaders a scare.
A big game from the Melbourne forwards really helped the speed men over come the opposition. An agressive showing from Storm forwards; featuring Crossman up against his old club - really stung the Panther pack.
Penrith were killed by their mistackle stats - 31 in total - simply too much arm grabbing and poor reads in defence to win the game. The penalities were in the Panthers favour for once, but this didn't help overall with other areas lacking.
An injury cloud hangs over Luke Priddis who seemed to be playing hurt after an ankle problem in the first half.
For the Storm, it was a top shelf showing from hooker Smith after backing up and halfback Cronk - both scoring tries and laying on some fine attacking movements for their team mates. Cronk showing good awareness in attack and great footspeed to exploit the tired Penrith forwards.
NRL news looks forward to the Storm v Cowboys and Storm v Manly as these games should be classic's for this year.
NRL News Team
Australia vs NZ Rugby League Test Match
Broncos connection clicks to bury the Kiwi's
The Kangaroos put the cleaners through the Kiwis last night - as they put on five tries to one to give New Zealand a 24-point lesson in the Anzac Test match.
Leading 6-0 at the break, the Kangaroos came out firing in the second period as halves combination Johnathan Thurston and Darren Lockyer engineered a lively attacking display to finish off the tiring Kiwis 30-6.
Melbourne Storm centre Matt King, playing out on the Kangaroos wing, scooped up the football after Kiwis number seven Ben Roberts spilt a high bomb from Lockyer to score seven minutes into the second half, before Brent Tate (52nd minute), and Karmichael Hunt (76) shot the Kangaroos out to an unassailable 24-6 lead.
Tate, close to best on ground, then finished off the evening with a brilliant break on the right-hand edge before putting in a cheeky in-field kick to find skipper and Broncos team-mate Lockyer at the try-line as the champion five-eighth put the finishing touches on a dominant performance from Australia.
New Zealand managed to score a consolation try when Manu Vatuvei pounced on a grubber from Simon Mannering on the left-hand edge in the 68th minute, but it was little more than academic as the Kangaroos coasted to victory.
Earlier, tireless back rower Nathan Hindmarsh burst onto a sublimely-timed short-ball from Thurston in the 19th minute to score the only try of the half, with Thurston's conversion making it 6-0.
Thurston took the ball to the line on the fifth play and passed selectively from a host of options to pick up Hindmarsh running back towards the ruck on a dangerous angle, before the Parramatta Eels big man crashed over to score close to the goal-posts.
Thurston shot at goal in the final minute of the first half after Australia were awarded a penalty for a high shot on Lockyer, but his effort drifted short and wide of the goal-posts.
The Kiwis muscled up early with a hammering tackle to flatten Broncos full-back Hunt on his first ball-carry, with Penrith back rower Tony Puletua in the thick of the action in the opening sets.
Man-of-the-match Hunt starred for the Kangaroos with a crafty all-round performance combining strength and footwork from the back with his sharp playmaking ability in combination with Lockyer threatening the New Zealand defence on numerous occasions.
Hunt's opposite, one-game Parramatta custodian Krisnan Inu, was tested heavily by Australia's kicking raids but stood up to the challenge consistently and demonstrated plenty of courage, taking a horrendous high ball from Lockyer under pressure with aplomb.
Bulldogs team-mates Willie Mason and Sonny Bill Williams were involved in a minor scuffle as tempers flared in the opening period but the incident was nothing more than a friendly exchange.
New Zealand were imposing in defence and drove the ball forward with plenty of purpose and passion, but were ultimately outclassed by Australia's superior attacking ability.
The Kiwis had numerous opportunities to hit back with dynamic five-eighth Benji Marshall an ever-present for his side, but poor handling cost them dearly close to the try-line as they were stymied time and time again by the Kangaroos.
Australia 30 (N Hindmarsh, M King, B Tate, K Hunt, D Lockyer tries; J Thurston 5 conversions)
New Zealand 6 (M Vatuvei try; B Marshall conversion)
Friday 20 April 2007
NRL waits as Rugby Union timebomb ticks
John Chelsea
Debate rages in Rugby Union ranks this week after Stirling Mortlock goes public with frustration over Rugby Union's poaching of Rugby League players.
The ARU has been grabbing headlines and telling anyone who cared how happy they were about snaring more Rugby League wingers. From the big raid years ago of Wendell Sailor, Lote Tiqiri and Matt Rogers - to recent raids on backs such as Timana Tahu and Clinton Schifcovske.
It seems NRL officials have made the right move by not entering into bidding wars for the wingers.
"Enough is enough," Mortlock told a business luncheon on the eve of the Brumbies' Super 14 derby with the Western Force .
"It's pretty frustrating for a lot of the guys this year.
"There's a few guys in our team who are coming off contract and being told that they're not worth as much as they were worth last time they signed and then, in the same sentence, the ARU are looking at signing up league wingers.
"It just doesn't make sense." Mortlock said.
We really are only talking and wing positions and outside backs - surely the ARU has enough talent in these departments. The poaching does give the ARU valuable headlines which they don't regularly get and does inject a household player name into stale ARU sides, but after the initial hit - the side effects must be quite concerning.
With Stirling Mortlock going public this week over ARU player anger, he is only saying what many ARU players have been feeling privately for some time. Reducing wages for the mid-tier players will only build frustration and see potential star players walk away from Union at some stage.
David Gallop and his team at the NRL are to be congratulated on their handling of the poaching. The NRL refused to buy into any bidding wars, and apart from a few clubs trying to pull togher a war chest - the NRL executives must have sensed the ARU would eventually be bitten by the snarings. The NRL also must have felt comfortable in the fact that they have such a talent pool at junior levels - that a new star is injecting into the fray.
When Lote decided not to return to League or when Timana decided to jump ship - the NRL simply unearths someone like Israel Folau, Chase Stanley or Krisnan Inu - who after only one game of NRL was able to earn a place in the star studded Kiwi Test side.
Tick..... Tick...... Tick.....Tick......Tick.....
Wednesday 18 April 2007
Melbourne Storm vs Penrith Panthers:
The Storm have only been average in the first few rounds, but their average is a class above the rest. I have a feeling they will fire on all cylinders in this game and put the blow torch on Penrith. Penrith will need to improve discipline to ensure they don't lose by a truck load. After Burt cut the Panthers to pieces last week, expect Billy Slater to do more of the same. Melbourne comfortably.
Cronulla Sharks vs Canberra Raiders:
Both these teams are so much better at home, this time Cronulla get the home ground - and have shown improvement each week. Canberra on the other hand have been inconsistent and face some injury concerns. The Sharks will be too strong at home.
Manly Sea Eagles vs Gold Coast Titans:
Brookvale is the home of this anticipated clash - with the flamboyant Titans facing the gutsy and brick wall like Manly team. I think this might go the Titans way, as it's very hard to defend against the likes of Presto and Prince - and Manly might get hurt with the second phase play. Titans in a close one.
Tuesday 17 April 2007
NRL Coaches
Should NRL teams KISS or RISK?
Adam Sutcliffe and Peter Roy
The margin between wining and losing NRL Rugby League games these days is extremely thin. Coaches know all to well - that an incorrect play the ball, a marginally forward dummy half pass or a penalty swings the momentum and throws out many game plans intended from the outset of the game.
KISS Method - Keep it simple stupid. No disrespect intended to NRL players here, this is a well known business mentality and can be applied to modern day NRL. The idea of simple, error free football - such as one out plays, only kicking on tackle 5 or limiting long or extended passing movements reduces the chance of errors.
Ok, so this style isn't going to get you 30+ points in a game - but what it does mean, that through more possession and hopefully with a good kicking game; a team should have better field position and will reduce the other teams chances of scoring, through lack of ball.
Apply this theory to say the Roosters. If the Chooks were facing Melbourne, their chances of winning on current form are next to none. If the Roosters employ a KISS style of game, so they hit it up from dummy half and employ one out hit-ups and secure the ball on every attacking play. And then if they are lucky enough to receive some dropped ball, penalties or poor kicks from Melbourne - they have such a better chance of winning.
Its not for all teams and it's certainly hard to prevent all players from giving away penalties, or dropping the ball or pushing the miracle pass - but it makes sense and the simple equation means less chance of errors and thus more possession.
An example of this method was employed by the Parramatta Eels in Round 3 against the Tigers. The Eels coming off two losses and struggling for confidence, played a very simple style of Rugby League. Every tackle, another forward would hit it up, then a dummy half run, another hit up and then a kick on play 5. Sure, it's dour, grinding football - but it allowed Parramatta to retain possession and build confidence after 2 heavy losses in Round 1 and 2. On the flip side, you had the Tigers - throwing flick passess, throwing long passes that got intercepted and chipping and chancing their arm on various tackles within the set. Parramatta on this night scored tries from a Wests dropped ball and an intercept - they did the basics and were in a position to capitalize on the errors from Wests Tigers.
Result - on this occasion the simple style won out. Parramatta then increased their tempo and style in Round 4 against Canberra and upped it again in Round 5 resulting in some nice length of the field plays against Penrith; as they moved away from the basic KISS style of play.
RISK Method - this style of football was pioneered by Penrith in 2003 and perfected by the Tigers team of 2005. Put simply, throwing plenty of passes and keeping the ball alive at all costs and hoping to outscore the competitor no matter how many points conceded.
While very exciting to watch - exactly as the name says its 'risky' - the failure of fancy or long passes can sometimes mean an intercept and instantly conceding points. While there are certain times to employ this style, such as when playing a team with tightly compressed defence, where it makes sense to swing it wide and roll the dice. It makes even more sense to employ this style; when a team is high on confidence.
So here you have a high level explanation of the two contrasting styles, but this is only the tip of the iceberg. Today's coaching teams and strategists get even more granular with their planning.
In the KISS style of play, the coach must ensure the team employing the tactic is careful not to concede penalties and hence roll away from the tackled player safely, their marker defence must be directly square and testing the referee on the 10m is a big no-no. To keep this up for 80m takes intense fitness and high bench rotation.
For the RISK method the opposite is true, tacklers will test the referee early and see how long they can pin the attacker down or trim a few meteres in defence as Steve Clark looks the other way.
This leads to the referee factor. The tactical analysis and planning in todays NRL is so wide ranging that coaches know which referees they can push the boundaries with and which referees that are much more strict and will punish quickly for infringements.
This is why Bill Harrigan was such a decorated referee, because coaches never knew what they were going to get - some days you got 'Entertainment Bill' who let games flow and ensured the crowd saw free flowing football; but on other days you got 'Policeman Bill' who would come down hard on anything illegal and have the sin-bin full of naughty boys.
We see games won by every week now by a field goal, or lost by a conceded penalty or even lost by an incorrect video decision? Who would have thought with the aid of a video - it could still go wrong?
As you go crazy over your tips each week, one things for sure: The Roosters really should - KISS - KEEP IT SIMPLE STUPID.
NRL Teams Round 6 named
SATURDAY
MELBOURNE STORM v PENRITH PANTHERS at Olympic Park, 5.30pm
STORM: Billy Slater, Steve Turner, Matt King, Anthony Quinn, Israel Folau, Matt Geyer, Cooper Cronk, Garret Crossman, Cameron Smith, Brett White, Antonio Kaufusi, Ryan Hoffman, Dallas Johnson. Interchange: Sam Tagataese, Jeff Lima, Ben Cross, Russell Aitken. PANTHERS: Rhys Wesser, Michael Gordon, Michael Jennings, Luke Lewis, Luke Rooney, Peter Wallace, Craig Gower (c), Joel Clinton, Luke Priddis, Frank Puletua, Frank Pritchard, Tony Puletua, Nathan Smith. Interchange: Junior Moors, Matthew Cross, Mark O'Halloran, Paul Aiton, Bryan Norrie, Tim Grant (two to be omitted). Referee: Steve Clark
THE SHARKS v CANBERRA RAIDERS at Toyota Park, 7.30pm
SHARKS: Brett Kearney, David Simmons, Ben Pomeroy, Fraser Anderson, Luke Covell, Adam Dykes, Brett Kimmorley (c), Phil Leuluai, Kevin Kingston, Luke Douglas, Paul Gallen, Lance Thompson, Greg Bird. Interchange: Craig Stapleton, Ben Ross, Reece Williams, Isaac De Gois, Brett Seymour (one to be omitted). RAIDERS: William Zillman, Colin Best, Phil Graham, Adrian Purtell, Brett Kelly, Todd Carney, Michael Dobson, Scott Logan, Lincoln Withers, Dane Tilse, Neville Costigan, Glen Turner, Alan Tongue (c). Interchange: Ben Jones, Michael Weyman, Tom Learoyd-Lahrs, Trevor Thurling. Referee: Jason Robinson
SUNDAY
MANLY SEA EAGLES v GOLD COAST TITANS at Brookvale Oval, 2pm
SEA EAGLES: Brett Stewart, Michael Robertson, Steve Bell, Jamie Lyon, Chris Hicks, Travis Burns, Michael Monaghan, Jason King, Matt Ballin, Brent Kite (c), Anthony Watmough, Glenn Stewart, Luke Williamson. Interchange: Clint Halden, Glenn Hall, George Rose, Mark Bryant. TITANS: Preston Campbell, Lelea Paea, Mat Rogers, Brett Delaney, Jake Webster, Matt Hilder, Scott Prince (c), Luke Bailey (c), Clint Amos, Brad Meyers, Anthony Laffranchi, Mark Minichello, Josh Graham. Interchange: Kris Kahler, Michael Hodgson, Gavin Cooper, Nathan Friend. Referee: Tony Archer
PARRAMATTA EELS v BULLDOGS at Parramatta Stadium, 3pm
EELS: Luke Burt, Jarryd Hayne, Ben Smith, Timana Tahu, Eric Grothe, Brett Finch, Tim Smith, Nathan Cayless (c), PJ Marsh, Fuifui Moimoi, Nathan Hindmarsh, Ian Hindmarsh, Daniel Wagon. Interchange: Blake Green, Josh Cordoba, Aaron Cannings, Feleti Mateo. BULLDOGS: Luke Patten, Hazem El Masri, Daryl Millard, Willie Tonga, Trent Cutler, Daniel Holdsworth, Ben Roberts, Mark O'Meley, Corey Hughes, Willie Mason, Sonny Bill Williams, Andrew Ryan (c), Reni Maitua. Interchange: Dallas McIlwain, Chris Armit, Kane Cleal, Lee Te Maari. Referee: Sean Hampstead
NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS v BRISBANE BRONCOS at EnergyAustralia Stadium, 7pm
KNIGHTS: Kurt Gidley, James McManus, George Carmont, Brad Tighe, Todd Polglase, Daniel Abraham, Jarrod Mullen, Josh Perry, Danny Buderus (c), Clint Newton, Steve Simpson, Cory Paterson, Daniel Tolar. Interchange: Riley Brown, Adam Woolnough, Matthew White, Kirk Reynoldson, Reegan Tanner, Adam MacDougall (two to be omitted). Note: Jarrod Mullen to wear No.18 jersey with the No.7 jersey 'retired' for the round in honour of Andrew Johns. BRONCOS: Karmichael Hunt, Steve Michaels, Tonie Carroll, Justin Hodges, Brent Tate, Darren Lockyer (c), Shane Perry, Dane Carlaw, Shaun Berrigan, Petero Civoniceva, David Stagg, Brad Thorn, Greg Eastwood. Interchange: Nick Kenny, Ben Hannant, Ian Lacey, Sam Thaiday, Mick Ennis (one to be omitted) Referee: Shayne Hayne
MONDAY
NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS v SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS at Dairy Farmers Stadium, 7pm COWBOYS: Matt Bowen, Brenton Bowen, Ashley Graham, Paul Bowman, Neil Sweeney, Jason Smith, Johnathan Thurston (c), Matthew Scott, Aaron Payne, Shane Tronc, Steve Southern, Jacob Lillyman, Justin Smith. Interchange: David Faiumu, Scott Bolton, Sione Faumuina, Ray Cashmere. RABBITOHS: David Peachey, Nathan Merritt, Nigel Vagana, Shannon Hegarty, Reece Simmonds, Jeremy Smith, Joe Williams, Peter Cusack (c), Daniel Irvine, Roy Asotasi, Luke Stuart, David Fa'alogo, Dean Widders. Interchange: Shane Rigon, John Sutton, Manase Manuokafoa, Jaiman Lowe. Referee: Ben Cummins
BYE: New Zealand Warriors, St George Illawarra Dragons, Sydney Roosters, Wests Tigers.
Pressure on Craig Gower Mounting
As the men from Penrith struggle with 2 back to back lossess - the Penrith Panthers supporters have turned nasty on the teams website. It seems fans are unhappy with the form of Gower at the start of 2007 and believe the talented Penrith halfback's heart may not really be in it for his club anymore. The Panthers Interactive website has had many posts specifically about Gower, his current form and the halfbacks approach to NRL in the past season.
After an off field incident earlier this year and last years Pearce family disaster - Craig Gower had the Penrith captaincy taken away from him and many believe this has seen the drop in form and subsequent loss of interest from the no. 7
It's never easy for the headline players to constantly face the scrutiny of fans and media when their team is losing, but Craig Gower can thank the Roosters for taking the limelight away from him and the Panthers. The winless Roosters again came up without the goods in Canberra, after being torn apart by the boom youngster Todd Carney.
Gower has faced all this before, and it may be a case of water off a ducks back - but Penrith must be flush with cash to spend under the salary cap and it will be interesting to follow developments in this area as the year progresses. If Craig really isn't happy doing what he is doing, we may see some mid season movement at Penrith, which only a few weeks ago seemed a happy and cheerful place under Matt Elliot after some nice wins. Once again, just a week of football can change it all - as it really is such a long time.
Stay tuned later tonight, as NRL News examines the team line ups and reports on who's in and who's out.
NRL News
Monday 16 April 2007
NRL News
No substitute for Brute Strength
As much as this is exciting to watch, nothing gets fans more pumped up or vocal than a massive defensive hit. Even todays fans, who see a more policed game and less physical intent - still love to see the big hits and rough stuff come into play. (Who can forget Ray Warren's famous words "Awwwwww CRUNCH") - it's not just heavy hitting in defence - but also brutal front on aggressive attack is also loved by the NRL fans. A Grothe style run where the tackler gets flattened or Carl Webb running like a wild mad man and knocking defenders over like ten pins.
Now I'd be thinking about staying alive , rather take my chances with a beast such as Wiki.
Sonny Bill Williams and Candice Falzon in Toilet?
Dunny Bill Williams!?
The aftermath of the Sonny Bill Williams and Candice Falzon toilet saga is a sad Falzon going into hiding with her parents to escape the intense media spotlight. What really was an innocent photo snapped in the mens cubicle at the Clovelly Hotel has turned into a nightmare for Sonny Bill and Candice.
Candice spoke for the first time about the situation, and in tears the sportswoman said "I've made a mistake and I am very sorry about it".
"Nothing happened, it's been blown out of proportion" Falzon pleaded.
Some of the Bulldogs squad, including Williams, Willie Mason, Ben Roberts and Reni Matua, chose to have some quiet beers at one of their regular spots - the Clovelly Hotel, which was pumping at the time due to a large influx of customers trying to escape the rain.
Falzon has a history of sports stars in her life; and it's been reported she had flings with: Braith Anasta, Matt Henjack, David Carney and possibly Daniel MacPherson of Neighbours fame.
It was also reported that Falzon had also spent time that night with Bulldogs half Ben Roberts, and spent some time on the dance floor and got very up close and personal with the Doggies rookie.
Sonny Bill Williams is also in damage control, trying to keep his relationship with Kiwi girl Gemma Shaw in tact after the photos from Clovelly went public.
It's a shame for Sonny Bill Williams to have been brought into the spotlight again, as all reports from the Clovelly hotel suggest he is always friendly and polite and never gets rowdy when drinking. Sadly in this age, anything of interest will well and truely spread like wildfire - and so we have DunnyGate or Dunny Bill Williams!
NRL Results and Updated NRL Table
by NRL News
This weekend has seem NRL tipsters go crazy, after some topsy turvey results. Here are Sundays and Mondays results: Click HERE for updated NRL Table and Points Ladder.
Canberra 37 def Roosters 28 The Raiders again showed how brutal in attack they can be at home. After a bad, ill-disciplined start - once the Raiders got some ball they showed some flair across the park. Carney is a future rep player, this guy at the age of 20 oozes class and the outside backs aren't scared to throw it around. The Roosters are so close to clicking they can smell it, still committing silly errors - but trying so hard. Braith again best on field for the Roosters and their next win is only around the corner. Really need more in the forwards.
Wests 14 def Cronulla 12 A very dour affair at Campbelltown stadium, really the Tigers were lucky to snatch this game. They enjoyed more possession and simply couldn't produce a try - mainly through poor last tackle options. They didn't build pressure and went for the kill too early. Cronulla are slugging away and were unlucky not to bag the win, their defence must get a wrap and Kimmorley is playing with confidence - Greg Bird still unstoppable - this could be a good year for the Sharks.
Newcastle 23 def Souths 22 Heartstopper on the Central Coast, Newcastle performing very well after losing Joey. After a shaky start and a poor call from officials on a Souths no-try - this was just the ticket the Knights needed. Kicking away and snatching the win. The Knights are a team that can win most close games, if they get a sniff they will generally win. Be interesting to see how Souths bounce back after 2 losses on the trot.
Warriors 34 def Cowboys 14 NZ have really setup Mt Smart to be a graveyard this year. Playing amazing footy at home, NRL teams will be scared to travel there for sure. Beat the bench mark and maybe they can transfer the confidence into their away games. Witt and Crockett have been great buys and the forwards are still unstoppable.
Sunday 15 April 2007
NRL News
Mystery ex-player to return to NRL
As mentioned on the Channel 9 Footy Show by media man Danny Wiedler - there is mail around Rugby League circles that an ex-player is ready to return to the NRL. A very interesting comment indeed. NRL News put the feelers out this week and found the player most likely to return would be Brad Fittler. Apparently Fittler is in top shape due to his coaching role at the Roosters and he would easily slot into the top side without too much hassle. In terms of salary cap, if Fittler accepts match payments it would affect the Roosters situation. Fittler at pivot, Pearce at half an Braith at lock - it could be just the setup the Roosters need. Lets see if NRL News is right on the money with this one. Time will tell.
Saturday 14 April 2007
NRL Bulldogs - Manly Sea Eagles
Manly 16 def Bulldogs 14
Manly wins war at Telstra Stadium
A gutsy defensive effort by the Manly Sea Eagles allowed them to see off the fancied Bulldogs tonight in a grinding war of attrition at Telstra Stadium.
Manly: The Manly side of 2007 is still undefeated after a solid showing tonight, and interestingly they still have Orford, Menzies and Matai out injured. Manly saw plenty of ball in this match, due to the Dogs giving away the pill on early tackles and having to defend for long periods. I thought Manly really should have scored more points with the ball they had, very similar to last week when they played the Warriors - but full credit to them, they won the game with brutal and relentless defence. Monaghan continues to be the standout player for Manly, with creative attack and impressive defence - at one stage hitting Sonny Bill Williams with a jolting tackle and forcing the ball loose. Monaghan is not far behind the form of Jonathan Thurston, and that's a big call. The Manly forwards tonight really contained Willie, Shrek and SBW - and full credit must go to them. Kite was pushing over the advantage line constantly and Choc Watmough was doing the same. Jamie Lyon marked SBW all night and rarely let him move, an impressive effort as SBW is such a handfull. Manly's backs I felt were a little quiet, with Brett Steward not given much room to move and Chris Hicks making some poor decisions at times and coughed some ball. The kicking game from Manly was near perfect. Several times the Eagles were pinned in their own 30m area, and classy clearing kicks from Burns and Monaghan got them out of strife. This was also combined by an impressive short kicking game, proving the winner for Manly in the end - as Monaghan chipped over the top and regathered (Phil Blake Style) and sent Steve Bell in for the try. The Eagles face the Titans next week in what should be a great battle of defence vs attack.
Bulldogs: Too much dropped ball. I have rarely seen the Bulldogs surrender such ball, they turned it over often and on early tackles. In the first half the Dogs had less then 45% of the ball, and a completion rate of 50% - it was amazing they were still in the game, lucky they defended stoutly or it was shut the gate. Sonny Bill is still finding his rhythm, he looks stunning at times - but then goes missing or throws a silly pass. Willie was penetrating tonight, however Shrek was his usual aggressive self and always made yards and punished in defence. Ben Roberts is playing well at half, but found it hard behind the forwards tonight - I can understand why he is keeping Sherwin out of the top grade - Folkes is on to a future star here. But other then McCalwain the rest of the side were very average, even the General was a little quiet - the Dogs won't walk away totally without confidence, which is lucky - as they face the inform Eels at Parramatta next week in what should be a top game.
Summary: Bulldogs gave away too much ball, and wasted too much energy in defence. The Eagles, while a little stunted in attack - did enough in defence and had just enough guts and spark to win the game. When the Eagles play at their best, it will be impressive. The Dogs won't lose sleep over this one - big game next week against the Eels.
Manly 16 (M Robertson, C Hicks, S Bell tries; J Lyon 2 conversions)
Bulldogs 14 (D McIlwain, SB Williams tries; H El Masri 2 conversions, 1 penalty)
NRL News Rugby League
NRL Melbourne Storm - St George Illawarra Dragons
Storm 24 def Dragons 10
Melbourne do Dragons in 2nd Gear
The Melbourne Storm tonight took the 2 points from the trip to Oki Jubilee stadium tonight, but only after some tense moments as the young and out of form Dragons kept in the match until late in the back end.
St George Illawarra Dragons: Showed a more committed attitude tonight, and were much improved from their previous outing against the Cronulla Sharks. The forward pack showed more punch, with Poore and Payne really revving up and getting over the advantage line - a tough ask against the premier Melbourne Storm pack. Cooper really went looking for work tonight and assisted many times and was able to create room with his link ups with Hornby. Hornby was at his usual best, making the correct decisions most times and forcing the defence to hang back and wait his moves. Probably the negative in the Saints side at the moment is the defence of Ritchie 'Rich' Williams. While looking solid in attack, Ritchie Rich does plenty of arm grabbing in tackles and let the opposition through on several occasions. Some poor ball control really erased any chance the Saints had of winning, especially on a night where they COULD have won - due to plenty of Melbourne mistakes and gift penalties. You rarely get chances like that against the Storm. Severely missing Young, Gaz and Head - I felt dropping Head to reserve grade was a touch over the top and the Saints should have him at 7 and Hornbag at 6. Poor kicking game saw the Saints hand Billy Slater so much ball on the full, and they then had to try and stop him slicing through the broken defence line! Kudos must go to Josh Morris who had an impressive game at the back, nice positional play and supreme attacking raids as he chimed into the Dragons backline - bagging a try and outgunning Billy Slater for pace which is a rare feat.
Melbourne Storm: Wow, how many Melbourne Storm forwards can you name without reading their team line-up? I bet not many! These forwards aren't household names in NSW and QLD, but they are putting in a massive performance each week. Guys like Hoffman, Johnston, Lima, White and Kafusi are playing power games and really are a handfull for opposition teams. I think when the Storm face the likes of the Bulldogs and Souths it will be such a tense forward battle - bring it on. Slater was slick again tonight, and the Dragons continued to kick to him on the full - bombing Slater failed badly and he cut the Dragons up very well in broken field. Matt Geyer had an off night dropping some ball and giving away brain explosion penalties that nearly let the Dragons get back into the game. Israel Falou continues to grow and grow, some punishing defence from the youngster and a dynamic kick regather try for the Storm is ensuring he has a role in the side for the future. The Storm still have room for improvement and when they click - the score could really be anything. A slight injury scare to Cameron Smith as his leg got buckled back in goal, more info through the week on this.
Summary: Dragons are simply not of first grade quality at the moment. Too many rookies means not enough experience, with their regular cast of thousands injured - it puts the Dragons in a rebuilding type phase and while they have some young guns - their time will be in 1 or 2 years from now. The Storm meanwhile are winning, but not even playing near their best. Belamy will hammer the Storm this week on their discipline and the next few games will see them really rise and rise.
Melbourne 24 (S Turner 2 I Falou, M King, A Quinn tries ; C Smith 1, S Turner conversions)
St George Illawarra 10 (W Naiqama, J Morris tries; W Naiqama conversion)
NRL News Rugby League
NRL Rugby League
Gold Coast Titans 28 def Brisbane Broncos 18
The Gold Coast Titans have defeated the Broncos at Suncorp in front of a big Queensland crowd. Many of the supporters being pro-Titans; the young side played extremely confidently and this win will certainly place them in good stead going forward. Now in the top 8 with 3 wins from 5 games, John Cartwright and his team look to have done a stellar job with the new side. The Broncos meanwhile stay in the cellar of the NRL 2007 ladder and things get worse as they lose several key players for rep duty this week.
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