NRL Power Rankings Round 20

The Grubber has just submitted his report for Round 20 and the Warriors are the big movers this round, reaching 4th spot in the eyes of the Grubber as Cronulla fall way down below the hapless Panthers to reach the cellar in this weeks 'NRL Power Rankings' - Thanks once again to the Grubber for his unmistakable style of reporting; especially as he narrowly avoided flying coins this week as he braved proceedings at Parramatta Stadium!

1. Melbourne Storm: Probably a minor hiccup against the Roosters. They'll certainly hope so anyway. Poor control in the ruck area and a defence that failed to scramble is what cost them. Face a relatively easy task this week against Cronulla and surely won't be taken by surprise again. Don't quite deserve to lose their top spot on the Power Rankings just yet. Power score: 9/10, Odds that loss against the Roosters will cause anyone to question their premiership credentials: 100-1.

2. Manly Sea Eagles: Defeated another hoodoo this weekend with hard fought victory over Parramatta (hadn't won at Parramatta Stadium since 1997). Superior fitness and mental toughness is proving to be a major asset in tight matches and the class of Brett Stewart has been the difference for them in several victories this season. Power score: 8.5/10, Odds of any commentator giving Manly even a remote chance of winning the premiership: 100-1.

3. Parramatta Eels: Did everything right in the first half against Manly, but momentary lapses, and a limited recovery time from Monday night cost them at the back end. Remain a serious threat in this premiership and have all the guns to get the job done against Canterbury on Friday night. Power score: 8/10, Odds that fiscally challenged homeowners in Parramatta will be defaulting on their mortgages as a result of coin attacks on Monday players: 10-1.

4. New Zealand Warriors: Power in the pack and solid offensive execution in the backs is a winning formula for the Warriors at the moment. Add in excitement machine Wade McKinnon and the Warriors looks to have their most complete outfit since the Grand Final appearance in 2002. Power score: 8/10, Odds that the Warriors will crack the 12,000 mark for a home game this season: 5-1.

5. Wests Tigers: As predicted, the return of Marshall and Hodgson added sufficient firepower to blow the Cowboys off the park. Remains to be seen whether Tigers defence can stand up against a quality opposition (JT did look to be in bad shape) and it may not be tested a great deal given easy run home. Power score: 7.5/10, Odds that Laurie Nichols would have supported a merged club playing in a competition half owned by News Ltd: 100-1.

6. Canterbury Bulldogs: Had lady luck on their side against St George-Illawarra and with O'Meley, Mason and Ryan likely to miss Friday night's clash with Parramatta they could be in for a tough night. Younger players have stepped up before though and they may still prove hard to beat. Power score 7.5/10, Odds that Bulldogs players will use self-imposed nightclub ban as a motivation for adopting their now cliched "siege mentality" for this weekend's clash with the Eels: 2-1.

7. Sydney City Roosters: Outstanding go-forward and dummy half running had Melbourne on the back foot for most of the match. With a win against the Warriors and their relatively easy run home, they're not out of this race yet. Tactical refusal of the front office to comes to terms with Freddy may be sufficient motivation for the side to do it for their old mate. Power score: 7.5/10, Odds that Roosters v Souths clash in round 25 will somehow be crucial in the finals fate of at least one team: 3-1, and if so, it should make for a classic.

8. Brisbane Broncos: Did enough against a very ordinary Cronulla outfit. Don't look like quite the real deal at this stage however the return of Ennis and Hodges this week, and the commemorative nature of Sunday's clash with Manly should be enough to inspire them into a better performance. Power score: 7/10, Odds of a Manly player recreating Don McKinnon's effort from Round 1, 1988 and taking a leak on the field: 50-1.

9. South Sydney Rabbitohs: Continue to grind out victories in must win matches and will probably start as favourite in several of their remaining games. Tough attitude in defence isn't complemented with attacking flair however and this may be their downfall against decent opposition. Power score: 7/10, Odds of Lleyton Hewitt ever attending another Souths game: 20-1.

10. St George-Illawarra Dragons: Didn't quite do enough to overcome a depleted Bulldogs side and Saturday night's effort was probably indicative of their 2007 campaign - at times near enough, but never quite good enough. Power score: 6.5/10, Odds that Matthew Head will somehow leave the UK Super League and return to the Dragons: 10-1.

11. Canberra Raiders: Did the job against the "Ill Disciplined Panthers" (yes, the tag is back) but it's very hard to see them cracking the 8 despite their positioning. Also hard to see them making much of an impact once they're out of their own backyard but should prove to be a thorn in the side of clubs with claims in the remaining 5 rounds. Power score: 6.5/10, Odds of Ikin/Geyer/Gilbert commentary team lining up again: 10,000-1.

12. Gold Coast Titans: Their likely poor ladder finish doesn't really do justice to their previously solid season and it will be fascinating to see what they have left in the remaining fice rounds given that a top 8 finish looks extremely unlikely. Power score: 6/10, Odds of Scott Prince lining up Benji Marhsall in a season ending injury this Saturday night: 100-1.

13. North Queensland Cowboys: Forwards not going forward, brittle defence and an injured JT all make for a struggling football side. Probably wishing they could blame a sex scandal this year for their current form. Presented with a great opportunity to get things going again this weekend with the Raiders at Townsville. Power score: 5.5/10, Number of times since 2005 that the Cowboys have had 50 points put on them by the Tigers: Twice.

14. Penrith Panthers: Offered their usual late flurry of points once the game was beyond reach - and this time it really was. A lot of soul searching to be done in the off season by Elliott and his crew. Power score: 4/10, Number of times professional sports commentary teams have referred to one of their colleagues as "riding the ceramic bus": 1 and only (Friday night, Canberra v Penrith on Channel Nine).

15. Cronulla Sharks: Were woeful in attack and defence against Brisbane and it will surely take a miracle (or food poisoning of the Storm's top 25 players) for them to knock off competition leaders Melbourne on Monday. Alright, stranger things have happened - just can't remember any. Power score: 3.5/10, Odds that Ricky Stuart will overtake Brian Smith to claim the mantle of "coach that most players would least like to play under" after petulant outburst in wake of loss to Brisbane: 2-1.

16. Newcastle Knights: Nothing positive to say about this rabble at the moment and lamenting the loss of Johns and their late 90's performance enhancing program won't bring either of them back. Need to start muscling up in the line and working on set completion if they are to threaten again this season. Power score: 3.5/10, Number of Newcastle players who will play Origin next year: Probably none at this rate.

Yours in league,
The Grubber.

Wests Tigers Blitz Cowgirls

Wests Tigers 54 def Cowboys 10

Playing in front of a full house tonight at Leichhardt Oval, the Tigers have returned to some of their best form - putting on a clinic and really belittling the Cowboys with constant one way traffic.

Both sides were coming off 2 successive losses and desperately needed the points as finals time approaches. The Tigers making a real feast of the win, grabbing some valuable points differential out of the win - amazing the Tigers missing only 4 tackles all game.

After 10 minutes of game time it did look like this one would be a real arm wrestle - but the Tigers strung some good second phase play together and their forwards began punching through centre field. Keith Galloway in particular was outstanding in the engine room, skittling Cowboys defenders - noted defenders too in Sione Faumuina and Carl Webb were spewed out of Galloway's path as he charged through.

With the forwards winning the battle, the Tigers skills men did their part. Brett Hodgson returning to have some good touches, earning an early try assist to John Morris - this early touchdown typifying the missing urgency from the Cowboys.

As the Tigers rained bombs and grubbers down on the Cowboys - the Queenslanders just didn't seem to attack the football. Several times they let kicks bounce dangerously and rarely challenged the Tigers to 50/50 balls.

The Cowboys will be absolutely desperate next week against the Raiders and should do the Canberra boys in considering its away from the ACT fortress.

In the post match press conference, Cowboys coach Graham Murray wasn't pulling any punches - admitting the Cowboys are certainly in a slump and truly struggling with injuries across the board. For the Tigers; Sheens was obviously happy - but concerned the Cowboys weren't at the top of their game. Sheen's commenting on the form of Bryce Gibbs - the stocky prop getting good praise from his boss.

The Tigers travel to the Gold Coast next weekend and face the Titans - still smarting from their loss to Souths in the thriller on Saturday night.

Pos	Team	P	W	L	B	Streak5	F	A	Diff	Pts
1	Melbourne Storm	19	16	3	1	LWWWW	494	233	261	34
2	Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles	19	15	4	1	WWWWL	466	269	197	32
3	Parramatta Eels	19	11	8	1	LWWLW	431	384	47	24
4	New Zealand Warriors	19	10	9	1	WWWLW	448	337	111	22
5	Brisbane Broncos	19	10	9	1	WLWWW	421	329	92	22
6	The Bulldogs	19	10	9	1	WWLWW	438	390	48	22
7	Wests Tigers	19	10	9	1	WLLWW	440	414	26	22
8	North Queensland Cowboys	19	10	9	1	LLLWW	393	506	-113	22
9	South Sydney Rabbitohs	19	9	10	1	WWLLW	295	297	-2	20
10	Canberra Raiders	19	8	11	1	WLWLL	439	496	-57	18
11	Gold Coast Titans	19	8	11	1	LLLLL	333	419	-86	18
12	Sydney Roosters	19	8	11	1	WWWLL	322	495	-173	18
13	Newcastle Knights	19	8	11	1	LLLWL	342	534	-192	18
14	The Sharks	19	7	12	1	LLLLL	344	309	35	16
15	St George Illawarra Dragons	19	7	12	1	LWLWW	345	423	-78	16
16	Penrith Panthers	19	5	14	1	LLWLL	387	503	-116	12

NRL News

NRL warns Eels about Rowdy Crowd

A warning from the NRL today to rowdy Parramatta Eels fans; who yesterday took to throwing coins at Jamie Lyon in his return to his former home. Eels fans still angry at his disappearing act several years ago and subsequent defection to Manly to link up with Noel Cleal.

The NRL has put Parramatta Officials on notice regarding the behaviour and warned repeated incidents would result in a fine from the NRL body.

Manly Sea Eagles player Luke Williamson and a Manly trainer were hit by flying coins after they missed the original target - Jamie Lyon.

NRL News

Sharks Ponder their Future

The Cronulla Sharks once again have promised so much and delivered so little this year. When Ricky Stuart was appointed coach of the Sutherland Shire club - things looked positive for the men from Shark Park as the start of NRL 2007 neared.

While Cronulla don't have a team littered with superstars there is certainly enough talent in the ranks to make a good impression on the NRL. As the middle of the year rolled around, things were looking good for the Sharks - Ricky Stuart had the team playing some good football, Greg Bird, Paul Gallen and Luke Douglas were now big names and were disposing of quality opposition.

There were big wraps thrown the way of the Cronulla Sharks, Footy Show Panelist Matt Johns declaring - "this Cronulla side is the one that can finally win the competition!" Ok, so that kind of statement adds some pressure, so does the fact that Cronulla have never ever won a premiership - disappointing considering they have now been in the competition for such a long time.

Every NRL team does have to deal with pressure, for some reason the Sharks once again have just not coped with it in 2007. Sure, like other teams the Sharks have experienced large injury problems - but their performance against Manly last weekend showed what they are capable of. However, after their loss yesterday to an understrength Brisbane Broncos side - their season is now over, even winning all their remaining games might not get them into the NRL Top 8 Finals fray.

To compound the problem, the Sharks continue to have one of the worst crowd attendance figures in the NRL. Poor results over the past few years has seen their legion of fans simply fade away. Toyota Park, Shark Park, Caltex Field or Endeavour Field - whatever you want to call it used to be a fortress - with plenty of home town folk crowding into the smallish stadium with a grandstand that doubles as a leagues club. Friday and Saturday night games were always specials to sell-out and ensure Cronulla had huge support as their team rolled to another victory.

While the NRL Top 8 Final series may be lost to the Cronulla Sharks now - Ricky Stuart and his side had better start playing some highly entertaining football and not only win their remaining games - but give the Cronulla Sharks fans something to want to come back for next year - or there may be nothing left in years to come.

NRL News

Jamie Lyon has last laugh at Parra

The Manly Sea-Eagles have made second spot a fortress now, putting a massive table gap between themselves and the Eels on the NRL table with a thrilling 32-24 win against the Parramatta Eels at a vocal Parramatta Stadium today.

The Eagles scored six tries to four, in a gutsy win that featured a superior 2nd half thrust from the Manly side, with former Eel Jamie Lyon scoring twice in a total of a 4 try second half haul for the Sea Eagles.

Manly flanker Michael Robertson opened the scoring for the visitors in just the third minute, with a precision Matt Orford cross field kick finding the unmarked Robertson to score in the corner.

Sea-Eagles skipper Orford missed with his sideline conversion to leave Manly with an early 4-0 lead.

The visitors extended their lead in the 15th minute through try scoring machine Brett Stewart. Another Orford cut out found Robertson unmarked on the wing, with the flashy winger able to offload back inside for Stewart to dive over in the corner.

Orford again missed from nearly the identical position, keeping the Sea-Eagles 8 points ahead.

Parramatta winger Eric Grothe swung the momentum the Eels way in 18th minute, steamrolling Michael Robertson with a trademark Grothe run - the giant winger then palming off four Manly defenders in a spectacular 40 metre burst.

Rookie Eels winger Krisnan Inu converted from out wide to close the gap to 8-6.

The Eels took the lead in the 28th minute, with a sublime Tim Smith chip giving Ben Smith a mismatch one on one contest in the air against Matt Orford - Ben Smith taking the kick and scoring in one motion. Inu converting for the Eels to lead 12-8.

The Eels were having a good majority of the possession and finally were turning it into points - however it seemed Manly were able to score with much more ease. Touching down whenever the Eagles had a even a sniff of the Manly line. Field position looking the key to winning this game from very early on.

A Manly error gave the Eels prime field position as the possession rate to Parramatta continued to grow, with Eels custodian Jarrad Hayne steping through some lost Sea-Eagles defence to score under the posts in the 32nd minute.

Inu getting the easy conversion from in front to setup an 18-8 lead, the scores remaining the same into the half time break. The score looking certain to change with both sides showing their prowess in attack, and surely Hagan would not have been too confident with only a 10 point lead.

Manly came out of the sheds firing, with two early touchdowns in the second half, with Steve Menzies and Brent Kite going over for scrambling tries to give the Manly Sea Eagles a small 20-18 lead in the 50th minute.

In what was a gripping second forty minutes with both sides going try for try, Eels winger Inu flew into the corner for a converted try in the 55th minute to get the lead back for the Eels and seemingly setting the scene for a local victory, only for Manly to quickly hit back hard three minutes later through a Jamie Lyon try.

It was impossible to tell who would end up on top, the local and vocal crowd seemed certain to roar the Eels home - but a gutsy and defensively sound Eagles outfit refused to budge.

Both sides continuing to unleash some impressive football over the final twenty minutes, with Manly centre Lyon wrapping up the match with his second four pointer in the 72nd minute.

The Eels have to back up quickly and face the strength of the Canterbury Bulldogs at Telstra Stadium next Friday night, while the Sea-Eagles travel to Suncorp Stadium next Sunday to meet the injury ravaged Brisbane Broncos.

Manly Sea-Eagles 32
Tries: Jamie Lyon 2, Michael Robertson, Brett Stewart, Steve Menzies, Brent Kite
Goals: Matt Orford 4

Parramatta Eels 24
Tries: Eric Grothe, Ben Smith, Jarrad Hayne, Krisnan Inu
Goals: Krisnan Inu 4

Brisbane Broncos 30 def Cronulla Sharks 16

BRISBANE Broncos will have to sweat on medical reports on two more players after Tonie Carroll and David Stagg were injured in the 30-16 win over the Sharks at Suncorp Stadium.

With captain Darren Lockyer and Brent Tate both out for the rest of the season and Australia fullback Karmichael Hunt battling to get back for the finals, Brisbane's depth will be further tested should Carroll (neck/shoulder) or Stagg (ankle) or both be ruled out for extended periods.

Carroll looked in trouble when the medicab came onto the field in the 44th minute.

But after being inspected by the team doctor, he got to his feet and walked to the sideline.

Stagg's body was twisted backwards in a 57th minute incident in which he tried to save teammate Steve Michael from being pushed into touch.

Brisbane scored five converted tries and always looked in control.

Its goal line defence was outstanding in the first half, especially when they turned up in numbers to drive Sharks winger David Simmons into touch after defending for three sets of six.

Brisbane's third try to forward Dane Carlaw came off the back of successive crunching tackles from Carroll who twice drove Sharks attackers backwards into the turf.

Tries to winger Michaels in the seventh minute, Corey Parker (ninth minute) and Carlaw (27th minute) gave Brisbane a comfortable 18-4 lead at half-time.

The Sharks' only first-half points came from a try to speedy replacement Isaac De Gois who cashed in a perfect pass from Adam Dykes to score in the 22nd minute.

De Gois finished with two tries while Dykes scored a try from dummy half in the 69th minute.

AAP

NRL News

Channel 9 Chases Laurie Daley

Reports today that Channel 9 are chasing FOX Sports commentator Laurie Daley in an effort to sure up their Rugby League stocks for 2008.

Laurie Daley is the no.2 man over at FOX Sports behind the very talented Warren Smith. Daley not only calling the premier Monday Night NRL game on FOX, but also co-hosting the NRL on FOX program on Wednesday nights - a show that enjoys a much stronger following among NRL enthusiasts than the variety based Footy Show on Channel 9.

Reports suggest Channel 9 want Laurie Daley to co-host the Footy Show with Matthew Johns in 2008 - meaning long time host Paul Vautin could be lost to the show altogether. The Footy Show on Channel 9 has endured horror ratings for several years now, with many serious NRL fans switching off - as Channel 9 continue to show a variety style Footy Show; where games, singing and topical affairs are discussed and NRL analysis is hardly touched on.

FOX has been setting the standard for NRL commentary and weekly shows - leading the way with the likable Warren Smith and supported by a panel including: Wayne Pearce, Gary Freeman, Gordon Tallis and Adrian Lam. The success for FOX lying in the fact they televise a stack of 'live' games and follow it up with weekly informative NRL programming - such as NRL Teams on Tuesdays, NRL on FOX Wednesdays and Super League on Thursdays attracting a strong following among diehard NRL folk.

Channel 9 were also given a scare on Friday night as no. 2 commentator Andrew Voss was struck down mid-game with food poisoning. The commentary left to novice off-siders Ben Ikin and Mark Geyer - as the public was again treated to comedy capers and amateurism rather than quality NRL calling.

Not only is Channel 9 finding things hard, the Continuous Call team on Radio 2GB are also struggling too - not only with the Brohman and Fulton feud - but with keeping on the topic of NRL. Similar to the Channel 9 Footy Show - The Continuous Call team including Ray Hadlee, Bob Fulton and Darryl Brohman continue to talk less football every week; preferring to chat about dagwood dogs, the pecking order of their crew and all things non-NRL related for hours on end. Opposition over at the ABC must be thanking their lucky stars as the public tune into real NRL analysis with Warren Ryan and the team.

NRL News

Super Saturday NRL Results

Game 1: Warriors 52 def Knights 10

The NZ Warriors were dynamic in Auckland last night, putting the foot on the gas pedal immediately to splice open the Knights and continue on with it through out the match.

The Warriors forwards are simply unstoppable right now, Steve Price and Ruben Wiki battering rams for which other teams have no answer. As they roll forward with good play the ball and ruck speed - the remainder of the team are falling in beautifully behind them. Halves Grant Roveli and Michael Witt are directing the outside backs to perfection - choosing the right options - as fullback Wade McKinnon remains one of the best players in the NRL at present.

Warriors coach Ivan Cleary would also be delighted with the Warriors defence - the NZ men keeping the Knights to only 10 points in a comprehensive display. The Warriors face the Roosters in Sydney next weekend for what should be a blockbuster - given the Roosters current form.

Game 2: South Sydney 20 def Titans 14



South Sydney turned a massive corner last night, these days they seem to be in the habit of winning. They were able to pull this game from the jaws of defeat, through solid attitude and good defence. Taylor has his men believing - the Bunnies raced out to a lead, scoring two tries but missing the costly conversions. Souths had plenty of ball and their attack initially was impressive, they did tend to lose their way on final tackle options as the game wore on and this allowed the Titans to get a sniff - through Bailey and improved forward muscle the Titans were well and truly back into the game at half time.

As the arm wrestle ensued in the second half - it was a patient and believing South Sydney side that were able to pinch a try late in the piece. Half back Paea continues to be a good choice in the middle and South Sydney coach Jason Taylor has been justified in his decision to use Nathan Merritt at fullback for the Bunnies. The win keeps Souths well and truly in the hunt for the NRL finals Top 8 series in 2007.

Game 3: Bulldogs 28 def Dragons 24



It was an unconvincing win for the for the Bulldogs; facing the much improved Dragons at WIN stadium. The Bulldogs were carved up mid field early on and looked shell shocked for much of the first half. Jason Ryles for the Dragons in particular looked the best he has in years - the much maligned and injured forward put his hand up and did the hard stuff - helped the Dragons establish a big lead in this match.

Jamie Soward was simply untouchable at times, the Dragons halfback regularly stepping through the Bulldogs line with fancy footwork and troubling the retreating forwards plenty.
In the end - the experience and patience of the Bulldogs shone through. Some crafty tries to old stager Hazem El Masri in the second half sparked the Dogs and they simply waited for the Dragons mistake - coming in the 73rd minute, with the young Saints letting a bomb bounce and spilling the pill for the Dogs to claim an unexpected win after the early play going against them.

NRL News

The NRL - For Money or Love?

By Adam Sutcliffe

The NRL should it be run for money or Love? Well as we look at both mainstream Sydney newspapers this morning it seems the game is about both.

These days when you read a newspaper article about Rugby League - there is usually a hidden agenda and a touch of politics behind which house publishes it.

Solicitor, ARL and NRL Director Colin Love coming under fire from News Limited publications about his large pay packets and legal bills to the Rugby League establishment. News journalist Josh Massoud going on the attack and hammering Love alleging 'conflict of interest' between his legal practice, it's ties to Rugby League at various levels and his most recent post as World Cup Tournament Director.

Now if you look at the stories in today's Sydney Morning Herald sport section - you will see a very different side to the Rugby League World Cup / Colin Love story. The Herald reports on the upcoming Rugby League World Cup and states 'The World Cup is set to be the first major rugby league event held in Australia for a decade with no News Ltd involvement - a fact that has antagonised the media giant, who formed a 50:50 partnership with the ARL to run the NRL as a compromise to end the Super League war.

The Herald publication also publishing comments from the RLIF (Rugby League International Federation) - that point out this World Cup is expected to draw the most revenue in Cup history and the wage that Colin Love is drawing is on par with performance and results.

Is this a mere co-incidence that because News Limited aren't involved with this World Cup and are unable to enjoy gate takings and revenue - that they should go on the attack and discredit the current organiser in Colin Love?

It wouldn't be the first time the News Limited house has played politics over Rugby League - they like to give it to Phil Gould almost weekly, firing barbs at the Channel 9 and SMH journo.

The News Limited group form part of the NRL partnership and are able to draw down large sums of money each year from the partnership. They do however subsidize many NRL clubs to varying degrees - putting some money back into the game. Theres no question that without the backing of News Limited the game of NRL wouldn't survive.

Problem is, the News Limited folks know this and tend to play the role of the school yard bully on a regular basis - possessing strong powers of the press to get their point across in political fashion.

The News Limited articles suggest Colin Love should perform his World Cup role for free. Now let's get real here folks, perform the role for free? They suggest that there would be many people who would take on the role out of 'love for the game'. Yes, maybe you might get Uncle Bill who runs the Under 6's Rugby League team at St Mary's to take on the job - sure, he would have the skills, knowledge, connections and efficiency to run a multi-national tournament?

Seriously, some of the stuff coming out of the News Limited house is scary. So when you read an article about your NRL team or your favourite player - make sure you get all the facts before totally believing what the Newspapers say. Because it's never black and white.

NRL News

Roosters stun Storm in grinder

Sydney Roosters 26 def Melbourne Storm 16

The Sydney Roosters have pulled off the upset of the NRL 2007 season tonight with a hard fought, grinding win over NRL leaders the Melbourne Storm.

Roosters coach Brad Fittler now equals the current NRL record for sequential wins by a coach taking over mid-season. He shares the record with former Manly coach Peter Sharp, who jointly holds the record after taking over from Bob Fulton at Manly in 1999.

Fittler had the Roosters primed for this contest, they bolted out of the gates and played a physical, committed style for which the Melbourne Storm had no answer. Man of the match Braith Anasta spoke after the match about the belief Freddy Fittler has instilled in the club, as they sent the Storm home with their tails between their legs. The Roosters handing other clubs a blueprint for how to beat the Melbourne Storm - through a controlled game of simplicity, gang tackling and good field position - through smart touch finders from tackle 5.

First Half:
The Roosters started the game with the expected enthusiasm, hitting the Storm with brutal front on defence and gang tackling in most cases. With speed off the defence line and numbers into tackles - the Roosters looked similar to yesteryear when they pioneered the brutal gang tackle style.

The Storm seemed a little put off the Roosters style and through frustration and lack of possession they gave away a couple of penalties that kept the Roosters on the early roll.

The Roosters began to take advantage of their early possession, touching down through Anthony Topou on a nice wide movement, then a 5m charge from Ashley Harrison saw them score again near the posts, after a good dummy run from Craig Wing that drew several Storm tacklers.

When the Roosters scored again through John Williams out wide, the score was 20-0 to the Sydney City Roosters and Melbourne were absolutely shell-shocked. Fittler's game plan looked to be going well, the Roosters finding touch on most final tackles - keeping Anthony Quinn busy in his corner.

The possession evened out slightly towards the end of the first half, the Storm getting some quality ball from penalties and managing to score a scrappy try off a Rooster fumble late in the half. The Roosters defence answering all that the Storm could throw at them in the first period.

Second Half:
The Roosters maintained their up-tempo and committed style of play and continued to dig in for the second half. As the half wore on, it became a grinding war of attrition - the flamboyant Melbourne Storm seemingly lost, in a style of game they aren't used to. Used to leading by big margins in most matches, the Storm didn't know how to handle the dog fight and changed their style.

Instead of their usual pinpoint kicks and sweeping, precise attacking plays - the Storm chipped too early, threw hospital passes and sent their wide men into touch. The Roosters also struggled with 5th tackle options - but were doing enough in defence and adjusted to the arm wrestle much better than the Storm did.

The clock became the Storms enemy, they pushed the envelope and just couldn't remain calm in the face of a defeat. The outcome and reluctance of the Storm to adjust to a grinding style game of NRL - will play on the mind of Craig Bellamy and his officials. A style that is always seen in semi-finals and grand finals in the NRL.

Match 2; Canberra Stadium

Canberra Raiders 34 def Penrith Panthers 30

It was scrappy in patches, a quality of NRL certainly a few pegs down from the previous Roosters and Storm clash - but flashes of brilliance from the Raiders and a minute occasional sprinkling from the Panthers gave some excitement to fans.

The Raiders continue to win well at home, the scoreline flattering the Panthers who ran in 2 late tries. The Panthers will certainly deserve their wooden spoon this year - the Matt Elliott coached side looking woeful on many occasions. Silly offloads, dropped ball and a continuing lapse in concentration at crucial times will see Penrith struggle to win any more games this season.

Reports after the game suggest their were racial slurs made by the Canberra crowd towards the Penrith team and Panthers officials have lodged an official complain with the NRL over the matter.

The full match report courtesy of AAP is below:

CANBERRA were denied three tries by the video referee but still managed to hold out National Rugby League cellar dwellers Penrith 34-30 at Canberra Stadium tonight.

Video ref Chris Ward refused Raiders centre Colin Best twice in the first half while replacement forward Tom Learoyd-Lahrs was ruled to have been held up after dashing 25 metres to cross the line early in the second half.

But it did not stop the Raiders, who have struggled with consistency throughout the season, from maintaining their strong home record in a game where the score board failed to show the true extent of Canberra's dominance.

Penrith held the lead only once, in the first half, before the Raiders grabbed two late tries to head 18-10 at the break.

A hat-trick to centre Phil Graham and moments of individual brilliance from five-eighth Todd Carney and winger Bronx Goodwin help inspire the Raiders to a convincing win.

Goodwin left Penrith's Richie Williams bright red with embarrassment in the first half when he snuck under Williams' watch to ground a down field kick as the Panthers fullback stood over it, waiting for the ball to run dead.

In the second half, Carney showed what the Raiders have missed for a good portion of the season when he stepped around a string of Panthers defenders and sprinted 40 metres to score.

While Best was twice denied his centre partner Graham was red hot in just his second match back from a lengthy injury lay-off.

As good centres do, Graham was always in the right place to finish off work started in the middle of the field by Carney and halfback Michael Dobson.

Penrith came home strongly in the final 10 minutes with three tries against lacklustre Canberra defence, but it will be little consolation for coach Matt Elliott in his first game back at the capital since leaving the Raiders at the end of last season.

Freddy discusses his chances against the Storm

An interview with Brad Fittler before tonights NRL clash with the Melbourne Storm. 'Freddy' talks about what he has changed at the Roosters since taking over from Chris Anderson and discusses his chances against the Storm and how he plans to deal with the Melbourne juggernaut.

Brad Fittler is currently 2 wins fro 2 wins as the Sydney Roosters coach, a win tonight would see Brad Fittler equal the record currently held by former NRL coach Peter Sharp (Manly 1999) - as the most wins in sequence after taking over during a mid-season coach change.

Can Freddy weather the Storm?

Can Freddy Fittler continue his magical coaching run? Will his players continue to respond and believe they can topple the might of the Melbourne Storm? It makes for great theatre and with the match being played in Sydney, if the Roosters get a positive start - then they are a chance to certainly compete with the form side of the NRL. Last week the Sharks and Broncos proved how lowly rated teams can still have a chance of winning, with possession, discipline and some luck - allowing any given NRL team on their day to compete closely in a contest.
Referee Sean Hampstead's style will probably suit the free flowing game of the Melbourne Storm, however their continued winning streak must be unsettling nerves in the Storm camp - with similarities to last years run.

The Roosters has a good head to head stat with 7 wins over the Storm and 8 wins for Melbourne.

2007 form for both teams is as follows; with the Storm only dropping 2 matches all season.

Roosters: LLLLLBWLWLWLWWLLLWW
Storm: WWWWWWWLWWLWWWWBWWW

The Storm continue to have the ability to win even with several key players missing and as those players start to return to the squad, they are looking extremely formidable.

Individual player contests:

The combination of Craig Wing and Braith Anasta in the halves has seen the Roosters look much more structured and is working better than previous combinations earlier in 2007, however their opponents in Cooper Cronk and Greg Inglis will be tough to match. Cronk and Inglis are young and daring - it will be an interesting match-up with the hold stagers of Wing and Anasta.

Both teams have impressive backs rows in Anthony Tupou, Craig Fitzgibbon and Ashley Harrison (along with Nate Myles on the bench) for Sydney City up against the Storm's Origin backrowers Ryan Hoffman and Dallas Johnson.

Lopini Paea has easily been the Roosters best forward - piercing the line at will and earning a starting spot under Fittler and match-up with Ben Cross and Brett White should be a cracker.

The worries for the Roosters will be in the outside backs where their slightly in-experienced members face the quality of Geyer, King, Turner, Folau and Slater.

Fittler has settled the halves problem with the experience of Wing and Anasta - giving the Roosters much more direction, however its the passion and enthusiasm that has lifted the Sydney City club to the two previous wins.

Fittler and his squad know that if they can take down the no.1 side in the NRL in Melbourne - then both players and coach will received the kudos they crave.

Fittlers use of the interchange has been impressive so far - with bench players getting into the action much earlier than under Anderson. Myles, Nutley and Sa having key roles in the game from the bench tonight.

Cameron Smith is the overall key to this match - if the Roosters can nullify the best hooker in th world; they will be well on their way to winning this one.

NRL News

Cayless on leave after losing mother

Sadly last night the mother of Nathan and Jason Cayless; Marlene Cayless passed away.

Parramatta forward and captain Nathan Cayless has been given permission to take indefinite leave from all Eels training and matches. The Eels have indicated they will wear black armbands in this weekends match against Manly as a mark of respect for the passing of Mrs Cayless.

Our thoughts are with the Cayless family at this sad time and hope the media respect their privacy at this difficult time.

NRL News

NRL Judiciary: Donnelly ok, Friend gone

The NRL Judiciary tonight found in favour of Ian Donnelly, exonerating him of his grapple tackle charge - the Gold Coast Titans forward is now free to play in this weekends match against Souths. Teammate Nathan Friend however was found guilty of a high tackle and will miss the crucial match.

NRL News

ARU chases Josh Hannay

Former Queensland Origin centre Josh Hannay is reportedly being chased by Rugby Union ranks for a position in their code next year.

ARU officials are keen to poach another star to partner Timana Tahu in the centres next year and with Rugby Union quality stocks remaining low - the mail is the ARU will swoop on the available Hannay.

Josh Hannay recently cut from the Cronulla Sharks after an unhappy stint this year would be ideally suited to the Union game - his size and defensive efficiency a much needed boost to struggling ARU stocks.

NRL News

Joel Monaghan signs with Raiders

Sydney Rooster Joel Monaghan has today signed with former club the Canberra Raiders and will return home to the ACT and play with the Green Machine for the next 3 years.

The move home for the younger Monaghan brother will hopefully assist the Raiders in attracting other NRL talent to the Nationals Capital in the coming years. Something that has been almost impossible in recent years.

NRL Power Rankings for Round 19

The Grubber returns today with his weekend review, an NRL Power Rankings that sees the Gold Coast Titans flounder to the bottom of the list and the Parramatta Eels sneak up into second place according to the Grubber.

Danny Wiedler also cops the wrath of the Grubber as Sonny Bill Williams was taken down by 'Danny Whistleblower' this week on a Channel 9 news story.

NRL Power Rankings: after Round 19, 2007 (By The Grubber)

1. Melbourne Storm: The juggernaut continues to roll on and it seems that only a breakout of the ebola virus within their playing ranks will prevent them from claiming the premiership. Every other side looks to be playing for second right now. Power score: 9.5/10, Odds that Melbourne will host a ticker tape parade for the Storm a la the Sydney Swans in 2005: 1000-1.

2. Parramatta Eels: Winning in Brisbane is always a tough prospect - Lockyer or not. They did it with aplomb, despite a late charge from the home side. Smith seems to be settling into some kind of consistency and if he is prepared to take on the line the Eels should prosper. Will be tough at home this Sunday against old rivals Manly. Power score: 8.5/10, Odds that Tooheys will revisit their clash "Manly and Parra" ad from the mid 80's: We wish.

3. New Zealand Warriors: Right now the most consistent side in the NRLEM (National Rugby League Excluding Melbourne). Blew the Tigers off the park on Sunday with great second phase play and good control of the ruck area. Power score: 8.5/10, Odds that Paul Simpkins will be asked to front at an Auckland home game any time soon: 100-1.

4. Canterbury Bulldogs: Looked slick against Gold Coast and their dominant forward pack will be crucial to their success in a tough run home. Hard to see them not being able to get the necessary victories to secure a finals berth. Power score 8/10, Odds that SBW would ever talk to Danny Wielder (aka Ronald McDonald) about his career as suggested by Nine news on Monday night: 1000-1.

5. Manly Sea Eagles: Beat the "Curse of the Cement Truck" in a hard fought win against a gutsy Sharks side. Will need to limit their handling errors and play better football around the ruck though if they are to have a chance of knocking off another hoodoo by beating Parramatta at Parramatta in this weekend's match of the round. Power score: 7.5/10, Odds of Parramatta giving Manly any kind of pre-game training field at all: 100-1.

6. South Sydney Rabbitohs: Were at their dour best against the Cowboys and their resolute defence managed to cruel one of the most explosive offensive sides in the NRL. Face an easy run home and their destiny is in their own hands at this stage. Power score: 7.5/10, Odds of Russell Crowe starring in "The Sum of Us" remake with Dean Widders.

7. Brisbane Broncos: Made it hard for themselves by giving away an early lead to the Eels and will rue their lack of intensity at the beginning of the game. Not the same side without Karmichael Hunt and Darren Lockyer and will need Michael Ennis to be at his absolute best (whatever that is) in order to challenge for a top 4 spot. Power score: 7/10, Odds of Wayne Bennett hanging on in Brisbane if they miss the 8 (despite his contract running until 2008): 20-1.

8. North Queensland: Not giving their fans a great deal of hope at the moment and without a home final their premiership campaign may well be sunk. Defence needs tightening up if they are to match the top sides. Power score: 7/10, Crowd figure at Leichhardt last time North Queensland played there: 4,724.

9. Wests Tigers: Return of Benji Marshall and Brett Hodgson should resurrect their season and the more experienced players will need to do everything they can to settle down the rookies. Remains to be seen whether safety first football is within their bag of tricks. Power score: 7/10, Odds that Brett Hodgson will be pensioned off to England: 3-1.

10. Sydney City Roosters: Showed real class to play for the full 80 minutes to beat Newcastle. Friday night will prove how much staying power there is in "let's do it for Freddy". Only a remote finals chance but their recent resurgence should bring a reasonable crowd against Melbourne. Power score: 6.5/10, Odds that Fittler will tour with the All Golds at the end of year: Not as much of a long shot as you might think.

11. St George-Illawarra: Return of Mark Gasnier seemed to inspire the troops in manner of Brad Fittler coaching the Roosters. Look to have a lot of depth in their backline and may prove a later season annoyance for top 8 sides much like Newcastle in 2005. Power score: 6/10, Odds that Nathan Brown will sound out David Peachey in the off season about a return to the NRL: 5-1.

12. Penrith Panthers: Were sloppy offensively and defensively in their loss to the Dragons. Flat out trying to avoid the spoon with the resurgence of the Roosters and St George-Illawarra and will be relying on another Bulldogs salary cap rort to climb off the bottom. Power score: 5.5/10, Odds that another high profile Penrith forward will depart the club before the end of the season: 10-1.

13. Canberra Raiders: Never quite got into their groove against Melbourne and a spate of penalties cost them dearly. A week to week proposition right now, but the finals appears to be out of reach. Power score: 5.5/10, Percentage of times Canberra 1) makes the finals or 2) avoids the spoon every time some idiot columnist writes them off: 100%.

14. Cronulla Sharks: Rickies spare parts Sharks really stepped up against Manly on Friday night and may challenge some of their regular first graders for their spots. On the line this weekend for a finals berth. Power score: 5/10, Amount of free tickets Cronulla will give away to get more than 5000 fans to their home games: 10,000.

15. Newcastle Knights: In danger of missing the finals through poor execution and inability to focus for the duration of a match. Absence of Danny Buderus isn't helping their cause. Hard to see what impact they could have even if they do make the 8. Power score: 4/10, Odds that Andrew Johns will overcome "neck" injury in manner of 2003 season to make a return: 10-1.

16. Gold Coast Titans: Inevitable lack of depth seems to taken its toll on the fledgling club and they will be up against it on Saturday night. Have fought gallantly to get this far but will be praying for the season to end if they lose this weekend. Power score: 4/10, Odds of "Titanic Struggle" headline surfacing this weekend if Gold Coast can nail a tight victory: 2-1.

Yours in League,
The Grubber

Bronco Blast Backfires

The outbursts by Brisbane Broncos coach Wayne Bennett and players Petero Civoniceva and Darren Lockyer who claimed Eel Jarryd Hayne had feigned injury - backfired badly today when the NRL match review committee cleared Jarryd Hayne and approached the Broncos with a 'please explain' over their player Michael Ennis.

Michael Ennis was brushed by Eel Fui Fui Moi Moi after getting a kick away, Ennis going down injured then quickly taking a peek at the referee before remaining down.

When no penalty was given to the Broncos, Ennis quickly rejoined his defensive line and showed no ill-effects.

The move comes more as a slap in the face for Bennett and the Broncos who were insistent their side do not feign injury to attract penalties. The jury is still out on Jarryd Hayne - but the Broncos certainly should not be the ones pointing the finger.

It was surprising to see even Darren Lockyer who wasn't even on the field come out and attack Hayne - the Broncos obviously felt strongly about the issue, if they are serious about the situation then half back Michael Ennis should be dropped from this weeks line-up.

NRL News

NRL Round 20 Teams Lineups 2007

NRL teams - round 20, 2007

Below; teams and lineups for NRL round 20, 2007(all times AEST):

FRIDAY
SYDNEY ROOSTERS v MELBOURNE STORM at Sydney Football Stadium, 7.30pm
ROOSTERS: Sam Perrett, Amos Roberts, Mitchell Aubusson, Joel Monaghan, John Williams, Braith Anasta, Craig Wing, David Shillington, Heath L'Estrange, Lopini Paea, Anthony Tupou, Craig Fitzgibbon (captain), Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Danny Nutley, Nate Myles, Setimata Sa, Shane Shackleton.
STORM: Billy Slater, Steve Turner, Matt King, Matt Geyer, Israel Folau, Greg Inglis, Cooper Cronk, Ben Cross, Cameron Smith, Brett White, Jeremy Smith, Ryan Hoffman, Dallas Johnson. Interchange: Jeff Lima, Adam Blair, Clint Newton, Anthony Quinn, James Aubusson, Garret Crossman (two to be omitted).
Referee: Sean Hampstead

CANBERRA RAIDERS v PENRITH PANTHERS at Canberra Stadium, 7.30pm
RAIDERS: William Zillman, David Milne, Phil Graham, Colin Best, Bronx Goodwin, Todd Carney, Michael Dobson, Troy Thompson, Lincoln Withers, Scott Logan, Nigel Plum, Glen Turner, Alan Tongue (captain). Interchange: Marshall Chalk, Dane Tilse, Josh Miller, Michael Weyman, Joe Picker, Ryan Hinchcliffe, Tom Learoyd-Lahrs (three to be omitted)
PANTHERS: Richie Williams, Geoff Daniela, Michael Jennings, Maurice Blair, Nick Youngquest, Peter Wallace, Craig Gower (captain), Frank Puletua, Keith Peters, Bryan Norrie, Frank Pritchard, Tony Puletua, Nathan Smith. Interchange: Tim Grant, Matthew Bell, Mark Halloran, Joel Clinton, Paul Aiton (one to be omitted).
Referee: Paul Simpkins

SATURDAY
NEW ZEALAND WARRIORS v NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS at EnergyAustralia Stadium, 7.30pm
WARRIORS: Wade McKinnon, Michael Crockett, Jerome Ropati, Simon Mannering, Manu Vatuvei, Michael Witt, Grant Rovelli, Sam Rapira, George Gatis, Steve Price (captain), Ruben Wiki, Logan Swann, Micheal Luck. Interchange: Wairangi Koopu, Evarn Tuimavave, Epalahame Lauaki, Nathan Fien.
KNIGHTS: Kurt Gidley, James McManus, George Carmont, Adam MacDougall, Cooper Vuna, Brad Tighe, Luke Walsh, Mitchell Sargent, Terence Seu Seu, Adam Woolnough, Steve Simpson, Cory Paterson, Zeb Taia. Interchange: Michael Young, Kirk Reynoldson, Jesse Royal, Daniel Tolar, Daniel Abraham (one to be omitted).
Referee: Jared Maxwell

ST GEORGE ILLAWARRA DRAGONS v BULLDOGS at WIN Stadium, 7.30pm
DRAGONS: Ben Hornby (captain), Jason Nightingale, Chase Stanley, Matt Cooper, Josh Morris, Mark Gasnier (captain), Jamie Soward, Justin Poore, Simon Woolford, Jason Ryles, Beau Scott, Chris Houston, Ben Creagh. Interchange: Adam Peek, Rangi Chase, Dan Hunt, Corey Payne, Lagi Setu (one to be omitted).
BULLDOGS: Luke Patten, Hazem El Masri, Daryl Millard, Willie Tonga, Cameron Phelps, Ben Roberts, Brent Sherwin, Jarrad Hickey, Corey Hughes, Chris Armit, Sonny Bill Williams, Andrew Ryan (captain), Reni Maitua. Interchange: Adam Perry, Nick Kouparitsas, Brad Morrin, Fred Briggs.
Referee: Ben Cummins
SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS v GOLD COAST TITANS at Telstra Stadium, 7.30pm
RABBITOHS: Nathan Merritt, Fetuli Talanoa, Nigel Vagana, Shannon Hegarty, Paul Mellor, Ben Rogers, Eddie Paea, Peter Cusack (captain), Issac Luke, Roy Asotasi (captain), John Sutton, David Fa'alogo, Dean Widders. Interchange: Shane Rigon, Luke Stuart, Shannan McPherson, Scott Geddes.
TITANS: Chris Walker, Jake Webster, Luke O'Dwyer, Brett Delaney, Smith Samau, Preston Campbell, Josh Lewis, Luke Bailey (captain), Nathan Friend, Ian Donnelly, Anthony Laffranchi, Mark Minichiello, Luke Swain. Interchange: Matt Hilder, Daniel Conn, Gavin Cooper, Josh Graham, Kris Kahler, James Stosic (two to be omitted).
Referee: Gavin Badger

SUNDAY
BRISBANE BRONCOS v SHARKS at Suncorp Stadium, 2pm
BRONCOS: Denan Kemp, Steve Michaels, Darius Boyd, Nick Emmett, Craig Frawley, Tonie Carroll, Michael Ennis, Ben Hannant, Shaun Berrigan, Petero Civoniceva (captain), Corey Parker, Brad Thorn, Greg Eastwood. Interchange: Dane Carlaw, Dave Taylor, Nick Kenny, Sam Thaiday, Ian Lacey, Shane Perry (two to be omitted).
SHARKS: Mitch Brown, David Simmons, Ben Pomeroy, Fraser Anderson, Luke Covell, Henry Perenara, Brett Seymour, Luke Douglas, Kevin Kingston, Craig Stapleton, Paul Gallen, Cameron Ciraldo, Reece Williams. Interchange: Eddie Su'a, Jacob Selmes, Dayne Weston, Isaac De Gois.
Referee: Steve Clark

PARRAMATTA EELS v MANLY SEA EAGLES at Parramatta Stadium, 3pm
EELS: Jarryd Hayne, Krisnan Inu, Ben Smith, Timana Tahu, Eric Grothe, Brett Finch, Tim Smith, Nathan Cayless (captain), Mark Riddell, Fuifui Moimoi, Nathan Hindmarsh, Ian Hindmarsh, Feleti Mateo. Interchange: PJ Marsh, Josh Cordoba, Chad Robinson, Aaron Cannings, Weller Hauraki (one to be omitted).
SEA EAGLES: Brett Stewart, Michael Robertson, Steve Bell, Steve Matai, Chris Hicks, Jamie Lyon, Matt Orford (captain), Mark Bryant, Michael Monaghan, Brent Kite, Anthony Watmough, Glenn Stewart, Luke Williamson. Interchange: Glenn Hall, Adam Cuthbertson, Steve Menzies, Jack Afamasaga.
Referee: Tony Archer

MONDAY
WESTS TIGERS v NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS at Leichhardt Oval, 7pm
TIGERS: Brett Hodgson (captain), Daniel Fitzhenry, Dean Collis, Paul Whatuira, Chris Lawrence, John Morris, Benji Marshall, Keith Galloway, Robbie Farah, Bryce Gibbs, Taniela Tuiaki, Chris Heighington, Liam Fulton. Interchange: Ben Galea, Dene Halatau, Bronson Harrison, Ben Te'o.
COWBOYS: Matt Bowen, Scott Minto, Ashley Graham, Paul Bowman, Brenton Bowen, Ben Farrar, Johnathan Thurston (captain), Ray Cashmere, Aaron Payne, Carl Webb, Sam Faust, Justin Smith, Sione Faumuina. Interchange: David Faiumu, Scott Bolton, Matt Bartlett, Matthew Scott.
Referee: Shayne Hayne

NRL News

Luke Stuart stays at South Sydney in 2008

South Sydney have resigned 30 year old prop Luke Stuart for 2008. The ageless forward has played 113 first grade NRL games for the Bunnies, and reached the milestone of first Souths player to hit 100 NRL games since the South Sydney club were re-instated. The big man probably looks closer to 40 years old these days, but who could blame him - anyone involved with South Sydney in the past few years has surely aged at twice the speed.

Stuart explained how he continues to enjoy his time at Souths and the exciting prospect of finals football seems closer than in previous years.

The big positive for Luke Stuart is not only his tireless work ethic in the engine room, but in this day and age - his durability is key. While other forwards are dropping like flies - Stuart keeps on keeping on, rarely losing game time through injury.

NRL News

Walk the line - NRL Ruck fiasco

With plenty of talk in NRL circles about the ruck, wrestling in the tackle and markers not square - the major problem actually seems to be the tackled player regularly walking forward off the mark to play the ball quicker.

Most matches now we see players walk and crawl forward hoping it will remove the tacklers quicker.

The problems created from this are two fold; it virtually gives the markers no chance of getting square, removing their chance of a fair shot at the dummy half or first receiver. It also greatly reduces the 10m distance between the attacking and defendng teams - making the game more of a slugfest and less of a spectacle for viewers.

Years ago, any advancement off the mark would result in an instant penalty. Even some of the old chesnuts, such as: planting the ball before the player gets to his feet and falling over as the ball is played - regularly go unpunished at present.

I understand that the game needs to flow and too many penalties are frustrating - but the state of the ruck at the moment is a debacle and needs to be addressed.

NRL News

NRL Table after Round 19, 2007

After Round 19 of the NRL, the competition ladder looks even more interesting. The Bunnies, Titans and Newcastle will be desperate for a win this week to keep in touch. Meanwhile the Cowboys need to keep winning, as their points difference is so bad they can't afford a table tie with any other Top 8 team at present. Wests Tigers face the Cowboys on Monday night at Leichhardt in what should be a must see match. The Eels will challenge Manly for a more secure spot in the top of 8 and the Roosters, Dragons and Raiders amazingly have a chance to make things interesting if they are able to upset their rivals and sneak onto 18 points. The Bunnies will face the Titans in another clash that will shape the Top 8, as do the Warriors and Knights - a massive road trip for Newcastle.

1		Storm	16	2	1	271	34
2		Sea Eagles	14	4	1	189	30
3		Eels	11	7	1	55	24
4		Cowboys	10	8	1	-69	22
5		Broncos	9	9	1	78	20
6		Warriors	9	9	1	69	20
7		Bulldogs	9	9	1	44	20
8		Tigers	9	9	1	-18	20
9		Rabbitohs	8	10	1	-8	18
10		Titans	8	10	1	-80	18
11		Knights	8	10	1	-150	18
12		Sharks	7	11	1	49	16
13		Raiders	7	11	1	-61	16
14		Dragons	7	11	1	-74	16
15		Roosters	7	11	1	-183	16
16		Panthers	5	13	1	-112	12