NRL: Tony Archer to Referee Grand Final

By Adam Sutcliffe

NRL Grand Final Week, 2007
Tony Archer gets his shot at the Grand Final

The NRL's best referee Tony Archer has officially been awarded control of the NRL Grand Final for 2007. Staying true to form, the NRL and referee's boss Robert Finch have come up with the right decision here in choosing Archer to control Rugby League's biggest match. Assisting Tony Archer will be sideline officials (touch judges): Steve Chiddy and Russell Turner and controlling video decisions will be Bill Harrigan and Phil Cooley.

Tony Archer would have been rated no chance mid-season, with the likes of Sean Hampstead, Steven Clark and Paul Simpkins all experienced campaigners and looking the only contenders to fight for the big one.

2007 has seen the likes of Tony Archer and Shayne Hayne claw their way to the top of the whistleblower ranks, as the experienced men reach their twilight years. Speculation continues around the future of Steve Clark, the veteran referee is apparently receiving the nudge from officials to call it a day. With Clark having controlled over 300 games, his experience will be hard to replace. Unfortunately for Clark his attention to detail can sometimes cause him to 'over officiate' in games - earning him the nickname 'Terminator' in 2007.

For Archer, his fightback has been remarkable. Spending some time in reserve grade this year, he has found form at the right time and has done well to shut out club and media distractions. The part time Police prosecutor is following in the footsteps of former referee Bill Harrigan; he too was on the Police payroll and was regularly in control of Rugby League's biggest game.

Congratulations Tony 'Have a Chat' Archer - he'll certainly be up to the task on Sunday, he not only controls the game speed well, with limited intervention needed - he also has the respect of the players; something that other talented referees struggle to match.

Video Referee Lottery

By Adam Sutcliffe

NRL Grand Final Week, 2007
Video Referee: It's a Lottery

Video footage never lies. Right?

Well it never lies when used in criminal evidence, home movies or feature films - but somehow, when used in NRL Rugby League the tale of the video tape can sometimes tell white lies. Why is this so, how can a video lie? Well, if you find someone that knows the answer - give their details to the NRL; because they need this super sleuth to sort out inconsistencies with current video referee's. We are only days away from a Grand Final, and yet there are still video referee concerns - how often when your team scores a near certain try do you suddenly get nervous and fear a howler call from the video referee? This should never be the case; using video evidence the result should always be black and white.

In the two NRL Grand Final Qualifiers over the weekend, their were several occasions when the on-field referee's sent the decision upstairs to be judged by video assisted referees. In two particular cases; the Channel 9 commentary team actually stated - "This is a try; but the video referee won't allow this." - We hear this kind of comment, probably so often now we discard it. But think about it some more; how bad are the rules and video process when we rarely know if a try will or will not be awarded?

How can this be so? Take the Manly / Cowboys game firstly; there were several obstruction calls and in the opinion of NRLnews.com the referee's made the correct call in all cases. There was a Manly no-try that was border-line, however Justin Smith of the Cowboys did get hit by Anthony Watmough and at no stage was Smith trying to tackle the Manly dummy runner - he was interfered with an the decision was correctly sent down "No Try".

Regardless, we need to have the rules and decisions much more clear cut. Several commentators stated during the Manly/Cowboys game, that the try decision could go either way and they would be happy with either decision. That kind of situation simply does not reflect a professional sport. Sporting organisations in the USA and around the world would be laughing at us if they could see the state of the video refereeing rules in our game of Rugby League.

The decision on Sunday during the Storm / Eels clash in Melbourne probably left the most question marks over the video referee. While a try was correctly disallowed to Eel Kris Inu mid-way through the second half, when Inu crossed for a second time soon after - the video evidence was totally inconclusive. The footage could not prove either way if a try had been scored. The rules state that in a situation such as this; the benefit of the doubt must be awarded to the attacking team. For some reason this rule was not enforced and once again the viewing public and spectators were amazed.

It seems in some instances the rules of engagement might be the problem and certainly need review and alteration by the NRL; improving the this area would allow the video referee's to follow a much clearer process and remove the need for their personal judgement.

However at other times, it seems the video referee is making the wrong call and refusing to follow the limited existing guidelines set out for them in the rules. Is it nerves? Does the pressure get too much in the video box? Why is there not more official scrutiny on these decisions that sometimes seem mind boggling? In this day and age of wagering on Rugby League - it's even more reason to get things absolutely black and white. The only person needing to employ personal judgement during an NRL game is the on-field referee.

We need to take away personal opinions from all video decisions; because as they say - "Video's Don't Lie" and the result should be pure process driven formality.

** The NRLnews.com team would like to pass on their condolences to the family and friends of legendary League caller Frank Hyde who passed away at the age of 91 yesterday. The former Rugby League player and commentator for 2SM for many years had a huge influence over Rugby League fans and will be remember by many for his classic catch cries such as "'it's long enough, it's high enough ...'."

NRL Finals: Power Rankings Week 3

NRL Finals Week 3, 2007
Power Rankings

We have arrived at the final two teams, Manly and Melbourne will contest Rugby League's biggest prize in 2007, after the Cowboys and Eels were swept aside - the two favourites winning through to the Grand Final.

The only certainty is that Tony Archer will referee the Grand Final, no other official has come within cooee of the man they call 'Have a Chat' - Archer earning his first shot at the big one for sure.

Here's how we saw the teams in Week 3:

1. Manly Sea Eagles: Have made top spot in the Power Rankings a week out from the Grand Final. They put in a comprehensive display on Saturday night and blew the Cowboys away after the early arm wrestle period. Built pressure beautifully and fired on all cylinders. Have able replacements for injured players; Brent Kite came through fine and Michael Monaghan will be cleared to play this week. Boast attacking prowess across the park and have defence that is even more rock solid than Melbourne's at the moment. Will probably start favourites this week in Sydney.
Power Ranking: 9.5/10
Odds of Manly unearthing another superstar like Michael Monaghan and trying to pension him off too early - 1000/1

2. Melbourne Storm: The minor premiers showed they too can play gritty and out muscled Parramatta in a real slug fest. Will be slightly concerned about their line being crossed 4 times in a match and have some minor injury worries with Billy Slater taking little part in yesterdays match. However, the Storm still got the points and are into the Grand Final for the second year. Biggest challenge for the Storm is playing away from Melbourne for the first time this finals series and will face a hostile Manly crowd. Their forward pack has stood the test this series and will be their biggest weapon against Manly.
Power Ranking: 9/10
Chances of the NRL supplying medical and mental health staff to Melbourne players and officials should they lose again in the Grand Final after being the best team all year - 50/1

3. Parramatta Eels: Fought valiantly against the fancied Storm on their own turf. Forward injuries hurt them during the match and the polish of their attack was again missing in a finals match. Created chances but couldn't capitalise on them. Focus for long periods proved a problem, Timana Tahu's brain snap penalty on Israel Folau turned the tide well against the Eels and they never recovered. It was their 6th Grand Final qualifier game in the past 10 years and the trend looks set to continue with the Eels making the Grand Final in both lower grades (Flegg and Reserves). Set to lose several players this year in; Tahu, Hindmarsh and Cannings - so will need to unearth some more talent to be competitive again in 2008.
Power Ranking: 8/10
Chances of Brian Smith breathing easier after his replacement coach and old troops fail at the final hurdle again, the year after he leaves - 2/1

4. North Queensland Cowboys: Injuries and long road trip were their undoing as many predicted. Were given a massive boost by the NRL, with Jonathan Thurston being handed a 'Get out of Jail Free Card' but still couldn't match the might of Manly. Their young fowards toiled hard again, preventing the flood gates opening - but it really was a mismatch. Still have potentially the most dangerous attacking individuals in the NRL, but will need to work hard on their defence next year. Losing Jason Smith and Paul Bowman for next year - so will lose valuable experience; a good season considering their horror injury run.
Power Ranking: 8/10
Chances of regional teams such as the Cowboys, Storm, Brisbane and Warriors continuing to succeed in Weeks 2 and 3 at the expense of Sydney teams in the years ahead under new Regional Finals rules? - High to Extreme.

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NRL Finals: Power Rankings Week 3

NRL Finals Week 3, 2007
Power Rankings

We have arrived at the final two teams, Manly and Melbourne will contest Rugby League's biggest prize in 2007, after the Cowboys and Eels were swept aside - the two favourites winning through to the Grand Final.

The only certainty is that Tony Archer will referee the Grand Final, no other official has come within cooee of the man they call 'Have a Chat' - Archer earning his first shot at the big one for sure.

Here's how we saw the teams in Week 3:

1. Manly Sea Eagles: Have made top spot in the Power Rankings a week out from the Grand Final. They put in a comprehensive display on Saturday night and blew the Cowboys away after the early arm wrestle period. Built pressure beautifully and fired on all cylinders. Have able replacements for injured players; Brent Kite came through fine and Michael Monaghan will be cleared to play this week. Boast attacking prowess across the park and have defence that is even more rock solid than Melbourne's at the moment. Will probably start favourites this week in Sydney.
Power Ranking: 9.5/10
Odds of Manly unearthing another superstar like Michael Monaghan and trying to pension him off too early - 1000/1

2. Melbourne Storm: The minor premiers showed they too can play gritty and out muscled Parramatta in a real slug fest. Will be slightly concerned about their line being crossed 4 times in a match and have some minor injury worries with Billy Slater taking little part in yesterdays match. However, the Storm still got the points and are into the Grand Final for the second year. Biggest challenge for the Storm is playing away from Melbourne for the first time this finals series and will face a hostile Manly crowd. Their forward pack has stood the test this series and will be their biggest weapon against Manly.
Power Ranking: 9/10
Chances of the NRL supplying medical and mental health staff to Melbourne players and officials should they lose again in the Grand Final after being the best team all year - 50/1

3. Parramatta Eels: Fought valiantly against the fancied Storm on their own turf. Forward injuries hurt them during the match and the polish of their attack was again missing in a finals match. Created chances but couldn't capitalise on them. Focus for long periods proved a problem, Timana Tahu's brain snap penalty on Israel Folau turned the tide well against the Eels and they never recovered. It was their 6th Grand Final qualifier game in the past 10 years and the trend looks set to continue with the Eels making the Grand Final in both lower grades (Flegg and Reserves). Set to lose several players this year in; Tahu, Hindmarsh and Cannings - so will need to unearth some more talent to be competitive again in 2008.
Power Ranking: 8/10
Chances of Brian Smith breathing easier after his replacement coach and old troops fail at the final hurdle again, the year after he leaves - 2/1

4. North Queensland Cowboys: Injuries and long road trip were their undoing as many predicted. Were given a massive boost by the NRL, with Jonathan Thurston being handed a 'Get out of Jail Free Card' but still couldn't match the might of Manly. Their young fowards toiled hard again, preventing the flood gates opening - but it really was a mismatch. Still have potentially the most dangerous attacking individuals in the NRL, but will need to work hard on their defence next year. Losing Jason Smith and Paul Bowman for next year - so will lose valuable experience; a good season considering their horror injury run.
Power Ranking: 8/10
Chances of regional teams such as the Cowboys, Storm, Brisbane and Warriors continuing to succeed in Weeks 2 and 3 at the expense of Sydney teams in the years ahead under new Regional Finals rules? - High to Extreme.

NRL Finals: Storm stand strong

NRL Finals Week 3, 2007
Melbourne Storm 26 def Parramatta 10

The NRL's most potent team didn't get the wobbles against the Eels in Melbourne tonight, running out winners 26 to 10 in a hard fought home battle for the Storm. In front of an impressive 30,000+ crowd in Melbourne, NRL officials would be happy with the response from the Southern state as they continue to play a big part in Rugby League plans.

The Eels launched out of the blocks well and threw everything at the Storm, Parramatta getting first points and looking to have the foundation they needed to go all the way against Melbourne. Their try coming through a well worked hands play, Tim Smith cutting out two players to position Grothe in the corner.

Physical impact and lightning speed was the order of this game, most certainly the quickest and most intense of the whole NRL Finals series in 2007. As the Storm started to get some quality ball, the talent and precision of the Melbourne side came to the forefront. The 2007 minor premiers building pressure and gaining a repeat set that ultimately saw them pierce the Eels line.

The momentum flow for the Storm allowed them to jump up to out to a 4 point lead after their second try, a stylish Cooper cronk effort, stepping the tired Eels forwards centre field and skipping over. Fast running and direction from Cameron Smith and bench player Crocker saw the Storm come charging over the Eels in the final minutes of the first half.

After the early onslaught by the Eels forwards, injuries to Moi Moi and Cayless took the sting out of the Eels and the reserves for Melbourne were making their impact. Jeremy Smith, Jeff Lima and Michael Crocker playing big parts in the Storms late first half surge.

With half time fast approaching, the Storm were on a big roll - skittling the Eels all over the park. Parramatta like a prize boxer down for the count; fortunately for the Eels the half time siren rang - getting them safely over the line.

In the second half Parramatta again launched out of the blocks well. The Eels getting repeat sets, again showing physical intent and eventually getting over in the corner through Joel Reddy - the Eels successful again through a hands play, working the numbers and catching the Storm short on the edge.

In a critical period in the game with the scores locked up, a poor play by Timana Tahu gave the Storm a much needed penalty and repeat set which saw them score immediately after a kick off through a beautiful short ball from Greg Inglis to Ryan Hoffman, the rangy forward busting the tackle of Finch and Cayless to sprint away and setup Matt King for the try. In a tough, close fought battle the sudden 8 point lead was a big leg up for the Storm.

The quality of Melbourne continued to show through; they were winning the tough onslaught battle the Eels were giving them - but more importantly they were beating their own demons. They refused to get nervous or drop their bundle.

As Billy Slater limped from the field, there was a slight hope for the Eels. Parramatta mounted several waves of attack on the Melbourne line. Flanker Kris Inu getting over the line twice, but was denied by the video referee. The second time the Eels looked to be hard done by, video replays inconclusive and a benefit of the doubt call seemed certain - but the Storm weren't to be denied and got the call they wanted.

Dallas Johnson, Ryan Hoffman and Michael Crocker were the stand outs for the Storm. In a tough close quarters battle, the glamour players took a backrow seat to the tough men and the Storm troops rolled up their sleeves and fought out the game in the middle.

A late try to Matt King on 80 minutes was a good confidence spring board for the Storm, who will have a big job ahead of them against Manly. Referee Tony Archer again having a good game and looks an even money favourite to adjudicate the NRL Grand Final.

The Grand Final will be the first time the Storm have played outside Melbourne in the finals series and Manly supporters will be out in full force. Some injury worries will have Craig Bellamy worried, but on todays performance the Storm have showed they can win gritty as well as flashy. The NRL McIntrye system has produced the ultimate result as Team 1 plays Team 2 in the Grand Final and the best two sides will fight out the big one.

Bring on Sunday evening, it should be a classic battle with both sides having the touches of brilliance and the hard men to tough it out in the middle. Injury worries look to be even across both sides; the Sydney support looks to be the main difference as we look to the big one.

NRL Finals: Storm v Eels Preview

NRL Finals Week 3, 2007
Storm v Eels Preview

The Storm are certainties say the punters; can Hagan's Hero's pull off another upset win?

All the stats say Melbourne are unbeatable; but the Eels know a slow, stop - start match will help them. Kicking for touch, or even kicking dead in goal will stop the return power and flow of Billy Slater. Slater's thrust gives Melbourne their platform; as Cameron Smith takes over from there.

Melbourne can also be dragged into the trenches by aggression. Rattling and antagonising them as the Eels did a few weeks ago does take their minds of free flowing rugby league and the likes of Crocker and Jeremy Smith are prone to react.


Here's how the game shapes up:

LOCATION: Telstra Dome, 4:00pm AEST, Sunday September 23, 2007

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 18, Storm 11, Eels 7

LAST TIME: Storm 14 – Eels 10, Olympic Park, round 23, 2007

COVERAGE: Channel Nine (live), ABC Radio, 2GB

MEDICAL ROOM: The Storm will be at full strength for this Sunday’s grand final qualifier, with only reserve prop Antonio Kaufusi (knee) unavailable. Five-eighth Greg Inglis (back) and prop Ben Cross (hamstring) both return to the starting side after missing week one of the semi-finals through injury.

Parramatta will be without the services of centre Ben Smith and fullback Luke Burt for the remainder of the season, with both stars suffering from knee injuries. Joel Reddy has again been named in the centres, while interchange hooker PJ Marsh will play despite being hampered by a broken thumb.

FORM: The Storm take a six-match winning streak into this preliminary final clash, including a 40-0 demolition of the injury-ravaged Brisbane Broncos in week one of the finals. The minor premiers have racked up a staggering 128 points and kept their opponents to a total of 12 points in their past three matches.

The Eels have showed that they are more than just a flashy attacking unit over the past fortnight, grinding out wins over the Warriors and the Bulldogs. The highly underrated Parramatta forward pack has dominated their rivals over the past fortnight, with Fuifui Moimoi, Nathan Cayless and both the Hindmarsh brothers paving the way for a first up 12-10 victory over the Warriors in week one of the finals, followed by a resounding 25-6 win over a fearsome Bulldogs unit last weekend. With the Eels pack laying the foundations up front, Parramatta’s highly skilful backline is just starting to click into gear, with Timana Tahu, Krisnan Inu and Jarryd Hayne looking particularly dangerous.

KEY MATCH-UPS:

Cameron Smith vs Mark Riddell/PJ Marsh

Widely regarded as the best number nine in the game, Smith provides the Storm with a surprise third attacking option aside from creative halves Cooper Cronk and Greg Inglis. Possessing the best dummy half kicking game in the NRL, Smith’s vast array of attacking skills are complemented by his terrier like defence. The tenacious Test hooker was at his dominant best against the Broncos in week one of the finals with 17 runs (seven dummy half runs) for 109 metres, with 36 tackles, one line break and four kicks in play. Smith's kicking game and creativity around the ruck gives Melbourne another X-Factor over the Eels. Look for Smith to dart out of dummy half late in each half and expose the tiring Eels forwards.

The hooking combination of Mark Riddell and PJ Marsh is one of the most lethal in the NRL. A big factor in getting the Eels high intensity, rolling ruck going, Riddell and Marsh’s ability to know when to scoot or pass from the dummy half position offers the Eels a valuable third attacking option aside from their dynamic halves. Both rakes carved the Bulldogs up through the middle of the ruck last weekend, and they will play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of this match. For the Eels, it all starts up front, where Moimoi has delivered major grunt to the pack. His explosive running game is hard for the opposition to handle, allowing Marsh and Riddell to create all sorts of problems around the ruck area. Their rapid play-the-balls then allow Parramatta's speed men the space to apply their skill.

Israel Folau vs Timana Tahu

Folau is regarded by many as the next Mal Meninga. Not only can he break tackles in a similar fashion to the former Australian captain, but he would also have to be the most effective NRL player in the air. The 18-year-old has been a revelation in his debut season, crossing for a club-record 21 tries in 2007. He possesses all the vital ingredients associated with being a first-class centre, with his size, skill and pace dazzling many in his short career. Folau’s defensive skills are sure to be tested this Sunday by Tahu in what shapes as being an intriguing contest.

Tahu has been in damaging form since returning from a troublesome hamstring injury, with the rugby union bound centre showcasing his breathtaking skills and brutal defence, reinforcing why many experts regard him as the NRL’s best centre. Tahu is making the most of every week he has left in league – he was devastating against the Dogs last weekend with 18 runs for 184 metres, with five tackle breaks, a line break, try assist and try. The explosive Eels centre has the ability to beat an opponent with raw speed, dazzling footwork or brute strength.

VERDICT: The Eels have the firepower in the backline to more than match the Storm but they will be coming up against a brick wall in this clash – the Storm concede the least amount of points (11.1), tries (1.8), line breaks (2.9) and metres (1,259) per game. A feature of Parramatta’s game this season has been their ability to climb over the top of the majority of their opponents in the final 20 minutes of their matches. However, Melbourne has conceded just one try in the final 20 minutes of their past 11 matches. Since late June, only the Roosters have cracked Melbourne's defence (in round 20) in the final quarter of a game. During that crucial final 20 minutes, St George Illawarra, Souths, Newcastle, Canberra, Cronulla, Brisbane (twice), Parramatta, Bulldogs and Gold Coast could not crack the Storm's defensive line to score.In a match that is expected to be dictated by defence and the ability to perform under pressure, the experience and class of Smith and Cronk should prove to be the difference.

Melbourne Storm Team
Billy Slater, Steve Turner, Matt King, Israel Folau, Anthony Quinn, Greg Inglis, Cooper Cronk, Ben Cross, Cameron Smith (c), Brett White, Clint Newton, Ryan Hoffman, Dallas Johnson
Bench: Jeremy Smith, Matt Geyer, Michael Crocker, Jeff Lima, James Aubusson, Garret Crossman

Parramatta Eels Team
Jarryd Hayne, Krisnan Inu, Joel Reddy, Timana Tahu, Eric Grothe, Brett Finch, Tim Smith, Nathan Cayless (c), Mark Riddell, Fuifui Moimoi, Nathan Hindmarsh, Ian Hindmarsh, Feleti Mateo
Bench: PJ Marsh, Josh Cordoba, Chad Robinson, Daniel Wagon

NRL Finals: Might of Manly too much

By Adam Sutcliffe

NRL Finals Week 3, 2007
Manly Sea Eagles 28 def North Queensland Cowboys 6

Their consistency wasn't harmed one bit by the weeks rest, the Manly machine rolled on tonight - beating the Cowboys and showing no signs of going into their shells regardless of the magnitude of the match they are contesting.

With some late withdrawals for the Cowboys prior to kick off, with Jason Smith and Carl Webb unable to start - many thought the Cowboys would crack early. In reality it took about 50 minutes, the usually flashy Cowboys doing well just to hang on early, dodging bullets every 5 minutes as they saved tries and had others saved by the video referee.

With plenty of possession and well built pressure on the Cowboys early on, Manly looked certain to score several times but amazingly they could only produce a 6 point lead after a tonne of ball and field position.

The man of the hour was Michael Monaghan. The man Manly so desperately wanted to off-load only a few years ago was precise and controlled in his actions; making massive metres from dummy half and firing off some dangerous kicks - 1 of which earning a 40/20 result.

With the momentum all Manly's way, the only concern was their problems when the Cowboys did get a set on their line. The Cowboys had two attacking sets in Manly territory and both times they scored, the first time - the try was disallowed; but with seconds to go in the half the Cowboys crashed over to tie things up with 40 minutes to go.

At half time, golden point looked a chance - with the Cowboys gaining some confidence and Manly shellshocked at only achieving 6-6 after so much attacking ball. Any thoughts of a continuing arm wrestle were blown away early, with Anthony Watmough charging over the line from a tap penalty. An opportunists try, a little bit similar to a Darren Senter special several years ago - sneaking over the line after a quick tap. This play shattered the confidence of the Cowboys, for the second time - they had their pants pulled down by a close range, soft try.

Once they hit the lead again, the weight of the world was lifted from Manly's backs. The line breaks being achieved by Michael Monaghan were now been followed up by explosive Watmough runs and the kicking game of Matt Orford was stepped up a notch - turning the screws on the Cowboys. While refereee Paul Simpkins had a poor game that probably hurt the Cowboys with several bad calls, most certainly the better team won - Manly clearly the better team as they have been for most of 2007.

When Manly play expansive and uptempo, they put on more points.. Whenever they tried to get aggressive and overplay their hand - they invited the Cowboys into the game. Steve Matai again struggled in the centres, his aggressive up and in defence opened spaces for the Cowboys - but North Queensland couldn't take advantage.

The Maroon machine clicked into gear by the 60th minute, putting on sublime attacking plays and carving up the Cowboys in all departments. Even when the Cowboys broke the Manly line, scrambling cover defence snuffed out most raids. Manly are very similar to the Storm in that they have a squad of talented players, all playing their part and smothering the likes of Bowen and Thurston. Even new winger Michael Bani handled his late call up for Chris Hicks with ease; the speedy flanker safe in defence and looked elusive with the ball in his hand.

Whenever Thurston ran to the line or paused to position a kick, Matt Orford was all over him - a one on one steal by Orford on Thurston over the Manly line was typical of the effort by the man they call the Ox.

Manly have the complete arsenal to dominate their opponent in the Grand Final, from the speed and injection of Brett Stewart, to the guidance of Monaghan / Orford, to the mobile power of Watmough on the fringe and finally the punch of Kite centre field - it's power across the park that will have the other sides worried.

Manly will need to monitor some injury issues this week, Michael Monaghan copping a head knock and feeling the ill effects. Steve Matai injuring his shoulder and ankle, but returning to the game late. Niggling problems for Orford and Menzies should be no problem for the Eagles, both men continuing on and showing no discomfort during the game.

The farewelled Cowboys can hang their heads high, their young makeshift forward pack well beaten but showed experience above their years to hold the score as low as they did. Marker defence really hurt the Cowboys, they let Monaghan and co steal too many easy yards and the attacking platform that followed was like a charge of the light brigade as the skillful Manly side backed up everywhere.

After the win, Des Hasler and the Manly officials did a good job of keeping a lid on things - getting the team into the sheds quickly and throwing a wet blanket over celebrations. The experienced Hasler and his assistants knowing all too well that a controlled intensity is needed and will try hard not to let his players lose focus. Chris Hicks will be doing everything in his power to prove himself for next week, but his able replacement Michael Bani has given coach Des Hasler a big selection headache by playing so well tonight. Do Manly change a winning side? Does Hicks deserve his Grand Final shot on form throughout the year?

While Manly don't know who their opponents are; if it's the Melbourne Storm as expected - the Eagles have the likes of Michael Monaghan and Steve Menzies who I believe are the ideal men for the big game atmosphere of a grand final. Monaghan is cool under pressure and keeps things rolling along, much like his opposite Cameron Smith and the ageless Steve Menzies has been there many times before and knows whats required. The presence alone of these two men will allow their skillful teammates to do their job without getting swept away in the moment or cracking under pressure.

It will be a relaxed Manly side watching tomorrows final Grand Final qualifier between the Storm and Eels. I'm sure their hoping for a long, belting and bruising affair between their two rivals.

Manly's 'BK Joke' is a Joke

Why?

That must be the question Des Hasler and the rest of the world would be asking Peter Peters after Zorba decided to start a rumor about Ben Kennedy suiting up for Manly against the Cowboys tomorrow night.

In a season where Manly have done everything right; they have played good consistent Rugby League, kept pace with the Melbourne Storm better than anyone else and most importantly kept right away from news headlines that might distract them or give their enemy ammunition.

So now, 24 hours out from their first sudden death game of the season Peter Peters opens his trap and puts his club right under the spotlight. Zorba is doing he best to dethrone Denis Fitzgerald as the NRL's biggest trouble maker for their own clubs. It is simply mind boggling that he would even consider such a prank.

The little gimmick smacks of complacency. While Manly don't want to be too intense, the joking around gives off the impression they are taking this game lightly and shows little if any respect for the North Queensland Cowboys.

As the Cowboys arrive in Sydney, surely a player or club official will grab hold of the Manly prank and use it for their own motivation.

While a prank might seem trivial to some, little slip up's like this certainly have an effect of the mindset of clubs.

Zorba would certainly be on the phone apologising to Des Hasler tonight, as the Manly club released an official retraction today after realising the magnitude of the situation.

Lets just hope Carl Webb hasn't gotten word of the prank, as the wounded wrecking machine rarely needs anymore motivation to rip apart opposing forward packs. Manly might wish they had BK if big Carl fires up and Peter Peters will be in immediate Police protection as Manly fans bay for his blood, should the Eagles slip up.

NRL Finals: Week 3 Team Reviews

By Adam Sutcliffe

The weekend with no second chances. It's crunch time for every team, with more pressure on NRL front runners; the Melbourne Storm and the Manly Sea Eagles.

Melbourne and Manly have been this years success stories; both teams realistically a class above everyone else during NRL 2007. Both well coached, possessing strong skills across their entire first grade squads, meaning they don't rely on a single or small few players to get them over the line every week.

In changes to the McIntyre Finals System this year, the top ranked sides continue to earn 'regional' home finals in the weeks prior to the Grand Final. A system that really aids non-Sydney teams. The Cowboys and Storm will really reap the rewards from this kind of system, both having claims on virtually their whole home state - compared to Sydney teams who share the immediate state with plenty of other teams.

Nevertheless, today we look at the teams ahead of this weekend and barring some intervention from the footballing gods, fairytale finishes to 2007 for outsiders Parramatta and North Queensland remain at long odds. The Storm and Eagles should win this weekend and earn their rights to face each other as the two best sides of this years NRL.

1. Melbourne Storm: Have no injury concerns and used their week off wisely, coach Bellamy organising a full-contact session for the Storm squad. The intensity of the session as evident after several players pulled up sore the following day, a good sign and keeps them in routine moving towards their Sunday showdown. While some concern has been raised about their lead-up games, the Storm have a mental edge about them - boasting supreme confidence. The only downside for the Storm, should they trip up this weekend or in the Grand Final - their confidence will be shattered forever and surely this is playing on their minds. Coach Bellamy would be a certainty for suicide watch should they fail this week or next. It's widely known the Storm don't like a dogfight, must be prepared to get into the trenches this week or next and play ugly football when needed.

KEY: While they possess quality men across the park, the key for the Storm is Cameron Smith. When left unchecked, Smith guides his side around in a much more composed fashion and keeps them sharp in attack. If he is allowed to play his natural game he will ensure the Storm don't get the jitters and choke in tough situations.

2. Manly Sea Eagles: Are a little bit of an unknown at the moment. The Eagles disposed of gritty South Sydney at Brooky - but have since been struck down with injuries and illness. Their week off was ideal given their problems; however may be a little underdone after their strike weapons went without a gallop last week. Have shown all year they can win in any situation, so they shouldn't be written off at all. The advantage Manly have is their adaptation to all styles of Rugby League this year. The Eagles can shine in free-flowing, uptempo NRL just like the Storm and they can also roll the sleeves up and grind out a match when needed, this is something that will be a massive asset to them in the weeks ahead.

KEY: Injuries. I fear they may be concealing more problems that lie underneath the surface on the Northern Beaches. If Manly's injuries can be managed and their fitness is on par this week, they should be a good thing to win. Brent Kites return, along with the Steve Menzies battling illness would be playing on the mind of Des Hasler; their medico's will have played a big role if they get over the line this week. Need to avoid injuries in this game like the plague to be ready for the GF.

3. North Queensland Cowboys: Have continued to stay alive despite the fact they have lost virtually their entire starting forward pack. Ring-in's have done a mighty job and two home finals games were heaven sent. Their ad lib Rugby League is hard to coach against and that remains their biggest weapon in the weeks ahead. Now that JT has pulled off the houdini act of the year, questions are being asked about his and Matt Bowen's niggling injuries. Thurstons shoulder and Bowens thigh issue are certain to be tested by Manly's chargers. Playing away from home presents another hurdle for them, as does the problems for big man Carl Webb. Have shown in the past few years they are capable at this time of year and an upset is not beyond them. Having referee Simpkins in charge of their game will help them, his reluctance to get involved at times may allow them to hinder Manly in the ruck if they start to get a roll on.

KEY: Their ability to win away from home. While many are talking about the injuries the Cowboys have, the truth is they have been at home for the past 3 weeks - winning away is something they have struggled with in 2007. Take the Tigers match for instance, a struggling Cowboys couldn't stop a momentum roll that eventually swallowed them into a big hole. If they can take the crowd out of the game early, it will help them big time.

4. Parramatta Eels: Have shown in the past two weeks they have the ability to win close, tightly contested and intense matches. Have also played away from home in the past 2 weeks and still got the cash. Unheralded forwards have been the secret to the Eels finals success; all quarters of their pack have done the job and have setup wins where only limited amounts of points were scored. Enjoy a good discipline rate during games and will need to take this into the match against Melbourne. Have made errors at critical times in the past 2 weeks but weren't punished by the oppositions - can ill-afford any similar slip ups this week. Playing in Melbourne is a tough ask, however the relocation to the Dome suits the Eels as opposed to the close quarters of Olympic Park. Early success is crucial to silencing the Dome crowd for what poses as a hostile environment after back office barbs were fired between Melbourne and Parramatta this week.

KEY: Underdog status. No one expects the Eels to win this match barring themselves. In previous years have entered the finals series with the weight of expectation on their shoulders and under the guidance of a serious and emotionally draining coach. Seemed to have basked in their underdog status this year; the relaxed style of Michael Hagan combined with the injection of care-free youth look to be their biggest assets this week. In saying that, will need all the stars to align to get a win in this one.