Sydney Roosters vs Melbourne Storm – Thursday night – McDonald Jones Stadium (Newcastle)
A few important things to note about this game. Firstly, the venue change - this game was planned for the Sydney Cricket Ground (where the Roosters fare very well) but has been moved to Newcastle. All six Origin players (Tedesco and Crichton for the Roosters; Munster, Addo-Carr, Welch and Kaufusi for the Storm) have been named to play. Both teams have some important players returning for this match - Walker and Tupouniua for the Chooks and both Bromwich brothers for the Storm. Just as importantly, Harry Grant and Nelson Asofa-Solomona will not play. In round six these sides met and the Storm prevailed 20-4, and it was Harry Grant who shone brightest that night. The Storm have racked up 108 points in attack in their last two games. Granted the opposition was easier than this, but this is a side where every player that gets named sings from the same hymn sheet. The Chooks, decimated by injuries, have conceded 72 points during the same period. They're trying and they're competing - it's what the Roosters do - but with much of their salary cap unavailable to play they will continue to struggle against the best teams. The Storm are, possibly, the best of them all.
Verdict – Storm by 14
Result – Storm 46 defeated Roosters 0
New Zealand Warriors vs St George Illawarra Dragons – Friday night – Central Coast Stadium
As per the Thursday game, this match has also been relocated from Mt Smart Stadium to the Central Coast. Sadly for the Warriors, their long-awaited return to their home ground has been delayed again. Also as per the Thursday night game, these sides met earlier in the season in round six, with the Warriors claiming the points (20-14). Currently we have eight teams in contention for what will probably be the final two spots in the top eight - this game involves two of those teams. The Warriors have some new faces in their starting side, with recruits Townsend and Watene-Zelezniak put straight to work. They're useful additions, but it takes time to form those partnerships with your team-mates. With Reece Walsh nursing his hamstring on the sidelines, I'm with the Dragons in what the bookmakers will tell you is an upset result.
Verdict – Dragons by 1
Result – Dragons 19 defeated Warriors 18
Penrith Panthers vs Parramatta Eels – Friday night – Bluebet Stadium
You've probably noticed how terribly I'm doing in the tipping competition this season - from memory, every time I've taken on a short priced favourite I have been wrong. Every freaking time. Sooooo, take note of that before you read any of this (because I'm probably wrong again). The Eels have got this. Junior Paulo backs up from Sunday night in a team that is far less disrupted by Origin than the Panthers. Mitchell Moses gets an opportunity to put his hand up for Origin selection. I doubt he'll get many opportunities to represent his state, so he'll be keen to do all he can to impress Mr Fittler. What better way than to stand up and deliver against a competition heavyweight? Penrith have rested Origin stars earlier in the year but that didn't work out for them, so they have named Luai, Yeo, To'o, Capewell and Martin for Friday night. Nathan Clearly is out, and he will be missed as their chief organiser and as a goal kicker that doesn't miss. When Cleary hasn't played the Panthers have lost, and to much poorer teams than the Eels. Obviously he wasn't the only Panther missing from those games but he is pivotal to their success. Against a top four opponent that has scored 116 points (and conceded only 26) in their last three games, his absence could be the difference between winning and losing. And it's the game of the round.
Verdict – Eels by 2
Result – Panthers 13 defeated Eels 12
Canterbury Bulldogs vs Manly Sea Eagles – Saturday afternoon – Bankwest Stadium
I'll refer you to the NRL website if you wish to see the list of changes for the Bulldogs - it's a long list. For those that missed it, the Dogs have put their hand up to be the NRL's worst and dumbest team. Five of them went out for drinkies where they shouldn't have and two of them didn't sign in when they did it. They're in a Bulldogs bubble now and the club are blooding three debutants on Saturday afternoon as a result. They'll be doing so against a team who have racked up a half century against the Broncos, Cowboys and Titans in recent weeks. Another half century seems likely.
Verdict – Sea Eagles by 46
Result – Sea Eagles 66 defeated Bulldogs 0
Canberra Raiders vs Gold Coast Titans – Saturday night – GIO Stadium
The Titans have scored more points than any other team outside the top six. If not for their woeful defence they'd be well entrenched in the top eight. Perhaps the return of Brimson at the back and Proctor in the forwards tightens them up defensively. It surely couldn't make them any worse. The Raiders by comparison have disappointed in attack (only the Knights, Bulldogs and Broncos have scored less), an unusual circumstance for a team that have regularly been one of the most entertaining to watch in recent seasons. The biggest challenge for the Titans on Saturday night is the weather, but if they can cope with single digit temperatures they can win this in another upset result.
Verdict – Titans by 4
Result – Titans 44 defeated Raiders 6
Newcastle Knights vs North Queensland Cowboys – Saturday night – McDonald Jones Stadium
I was all set to tip the Cowboys in this, given they were convincing winners over the Knights in round 11. And then, the Cowboys had to cancel training today, and we wait to hear results from COVID tests. Given that uncertainty, and the likely return of Kalyn Ponga for the Knights, I have pulled a big switcharoo and gone the other way. In round 11 the Knights were without Ponga, Pearce, Hunt and Clifford (obviously...he's swapped teams). I'll take the Knights at home, but not with any confidence.
Verdict – Knights by 2
Result – Knights 38 defeated Cowboys 0
Brisbane Broncos vs Cronulla Sharks – Sunday afternoon – Suncorp Stadium
Right here right now this game is scheduled to go ahead at Suncorp on Sunday afternoon, but that could change. The Sharks have now won four games in a row - all by narrow margins and all over teams that aren't great. You couldn't say they're firing but they are winning (and they're beating teams that are better than the Broncos). The Broncos are recycling through some of their options that haven't worked for them previously - Croft is back in the halves and Isaako and Oates are back on the wings. The return of Staggs in the centres is worth watching - he is, on his day, a player who can turn a game on his own. He is a positive inclusion for a team that it's hard to be positive about. They'll be competitive here, but they'll most likely lose to a team who are finding ways to win.
Verdict – Sharks by 2
Result – Broncos 26 defeated Sharks 18
Wests Tigers vs South Sydney Rabbitohs – Sunday afternoon – Leichhardt Oval
This is the third and final instalment in a trilogy of horrible games for the Tigers. They've conceded 106 points in their last two losses to the Eels and the Storm, and this isn't much easier. The Rabbitohs welcome back all their Origin players on Sunday. Just two teams have beaten the Bunnies all season (Storm, Panthers), and while the round six clash between the Tigers and Bunnies was pretty close, I'm expecting less of a contest this time around.
Verdict – Rabbitohs by 16
Result – Rabbitohs 38 defeated Tigers 22
Wally Lewis - round sixteen selections (in bold)
Note: tips from Wally will be published on Wednesday night or Thursday morning
- Roosters vs STORM
- Warriors vs DRAGONS
- PANTHERS vs Eels
- Bulldogs vs SEA EAGLES
- RAIDERS vs Titans
- Knights vs COWBOYS
- Broncos vs SHARKS
- Tigers vs RABBITOHS
Comments
Submitted by Mary S on
Great to see the banter and additional comments back over the last week.
I was starting to get concerned that Baggy, Tiger & BigPete might be unwell, as there had been nothing for a while.
It will be strange not having matches to ponder over this coming weekend with only SoO 2 on Sunday 27/6/21.
After that, it will be a matter of counting the injured or the rested, to see who is fronting for the games starting Thurs 1/7/21!!
Keep safe & cheers to all,
Mary
Submitted by Mary S on
Hi to Bronco supporters,
What thoughts do you have on the appointment of Ben Ikin as Bronco's Head of Football?
He is to replace recruitment chief Peter Nolan.
https://www.nrl.com/news/2021/06/21/broncos-bring-in-ikin-to-help-turn-l...
Cheers,
Mary
Submitted by The Thinker on
Greetings everyone
Just a heads up that round sixteen doesn't start until the 1st of July...so you have a bit of time.
All the best
The Thinker
Submitted by newbie from perth on
"Dia duit gach duine" i dteanga ní mo theanga féin,
Seeing as we have no regular footy this weekend I thought I’d just pop some random stuff up here for the hell of it. No rhyme or reason to the following, just thoughts running around my head and hope no-one minds too much. No I’m not weird (some may beg to differ 🤪), I’m quite sane actually. Anyways, here we go …
The world is a dangerous place to live; not because of the people who are evil, but because of the people who don’t do anything about it.
When it comes to people bagging the Roosters because we have money and success … “No one likes a millionaire winning lotto but a millionaire has the same chance as anyone else.”
People troll because they like to argue. Unfortunately they don’t have the ability to actually debate a point with factual, rational discussion. I think that indicates some self doubt on their part and that seems to be the source of their anger.
“You are the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with.” - Jim Rohn
One last thing … the sin-binning of Siosiua Taukeiaho last week was as soft as you-know-what. The Panthers went from 12-6 down to 20-6 up while Siosiua was cooling his heels. Meh, doesn’t matter, the Panthers still would’ve won, they were just too good.
I realise it’s not Wednesday but get this intaya 😍.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2eBZqmL8ehg
Stay safe and healthy peeps. Good luck to both camps on Sunday. I’m off to the interwebs to take a look at “remote viewing” to see what it’s all about. Cheers 🐔 🐔 🐔
Submitted by newbie from perth on
Slight correction to above:
🔊 “The Panthers went from 12-6 down to 20-6 up while Siosiua was cooling his heels.”
They actually went from 12-6 down to 20-12 up … D’oh!
While I’m here … Aussie classic from 32 years ago. Boom! 💥
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aD6QxW-T4YY
Cheers y’all 🐔 🐔 🐔
Submitted by MGM on
What is this Madness - NO FOOTY !!??
Submitted by The Thinker on
Greetings football fans
I have updated the NRL ladder and the tipping comp after round 15.
Plenty of high scores, but Scott M and Michael N were the stars of the show with perfect rounds. Well done to you both.
If anyone notices any issues with the scoring just let me know.
No NRL this weekend for the stand-alone Origin games. As Gus Gould would say:
"Enjoy your Origin football"
Submitted by mark ashford on
Hey Newbie
Loved the hunters & collectors number always been a fan. Guess we are showing our age. Not too sure about the other one but hey as you say it's all a matter of taste. Hoping for a QLD win but without much confidence.
Submitted by mark ashford on
MGM
Yeah I can't quite get my head around a Sunday night SoO. Apart from the Covid situation last year SoO was always played Wednesday nights with a bye round each side. Not happy about no footy at all this weekend as I love it no matter who's playing.
Submitted by BroncoSwimmer on
Hi Mary,
I think it will be a terrific opportunity for new blood, new/fresh ideas;
He is a smart cookie, and I will miss him on NRL360, (one of my fav shows);
Changes will not happen over night - however ironically if the broncos can win 4 games with a bye of 2 points, they could sneak into the top 8!.
Demonstrates how the lower top eight clubs on 14 are so out of their depth with the top 4 - this also includes the broncos.
See what eventuates over the next 18 months with Ben Iken's influence.
Broncoswimmer
Submitted by The Thinker on
Great song
Great band
Nice pick Newbie
Submitted by tigerholic on
Hi Thinker
I have discovered a small issue that may have caused me to selecting a team thinking they were at home when they in fact were not.
When you go into the tipping form, the Warriors V Dragons game lists them as playing at Mt Smart Stadium.
In your previews and tips section it says Central Coast Stadium as the venue, now you can take that a number of ways, 1. I don't read your previews, 2 I made a mistake.
Anyways, can you have TLH look at fixing the venue that is listed in the tipping form please.
Oh, before I go, "GO THE MIGHTY BLUES"
Tiger
Submitted by Blazza on
Storm
Warriors - Buy backs, more changes than chess, 'this is how we do it'
Panthers
Sea Eagles
Raiders
Knights
Sharks
Rabbitohs
All favorites. Do you have a problem with that?.
=B-)
Submitted by The Thinker on
Thanks Tigerholic
Yes, it's quite a pain when games get moved around.
We have to pre-build the draw to make sure the tipping competition on the site works.
We try to have things as accurate as possible - will see what we can do.
All the best
The Thinker
Submitted by newbie from perth on
"Dia duit gach duine" i dteanga ní mo theanga féin,
Finally, some footy! I’ve had this week off and wouldn’t ya know it … WA is in a 7 day lockdown. Just my luck 😣. Anyways, this explains why this week’s post is 1) early and 2) very long. Too much time on my hands methinks. I’ve left my biggest “word count” this week for the Tigers’ comments. Sorry, just got on a roll and couldn’t stop 😉. OK, enough of that, let’s do this thang…
Roosters vs. Storm 30-70 @ McDonald Jones
Ladder Position = Storm
Bookies Favourite = Storm
Roosters
The Roosters looked really good against the Panthers, well for the first quarter of an hour at least. Two quick tries saw the Roosters leading 12-0 after 14 minutes. That sadly was where the points ended for them. The Panthers put on 38 unanswered points (22 in the first half and 16 in the second) and my BBB got smacked 38-12. While it was a disappointing loss, they kept trying but you can only do so much and without any ball there’s not much you can do. Their scoreless second half was evidence of that 😢. The Roosters were totally outplayed by a far superior side on the night. Proud of the effort the “new boys” put in and good signs (hopefully) for the future. I won’t mention how many players we’re missing injured/retired as that’s just making excuses 🤪. No, the Panthers’ clinical pressure was just too much. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 42%
Completion Rate - 66% (21/32)
Tackle Breaks - 27
Missed Tackles - 42
Ineffective Tackles - 12
Errors - 10
Penalties Conceded - 5
Storm
What can you say about the Storm’s first half against the Tigers except for … 40 minutes, 40 points. Wow! With the amount of tries the Storm scored (12), it was interesting to see neither of their wingers scored any of those. The Storm intimidated and bullied the Tigers defence all night and were simply a class above their opposition 💪. They were leading 30-0 after just 17 minutes and 60-0 after just 50 minutes. Towards the end they were getting tired (understandably) and let the Tigers in for 3 tries but the damage had been done and they romped in 66-16 winners. It was a near perfect display it must be said and if that effort is anything to go by, another GF win this year is on the cards. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 60%
Completion Rate - 88% (35/40)
Line Breaks - 12
Tackle Breaks - 40
Missed Tackles - 14
Ineffective Tackles - 12
Errors - 9
Penalties Conceded - 7
Verdict: It was frightening what the Storm did to the Tigers and I’m worried something similar will happen this weekend but I made a promise (to myself) that I’d tip my BBB every game this year so I’m tipping the Roosters. Begurk! 🐔 Begurk! 🐔
Warriors vs. Dragons 55-45 @ Central Coast
Ladder Position = Dragons
Bookies Favourite = Warriors
Warriors
The Warriors led the Knights 6-4 at half-time but ended up losing a low scoring affair 10-6. The Warriors made too many errors (as did the Knights) and it was a case of the Warriors not taking their chances when they presented themselves. The game was there for the taking but atrocious weather conditions and poor finishing may have played their parts. They should’ve done better when the Knights were down to 12 men with 7 minutes to go before half-time. In their desperation to get home the Warriors were going for the field goal but Reece Walsh missed both attempts. Once the Knights scored in the 75th minute it was basically goodnight and try as they did, they just couldn’t find a way through the Knights’ defensive line. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 44%
Completion Rate - 68% (30/44)
Tackle Breaks - 15
Missed Tackles - 43
Ineffective Tackles - 13
Errors - 13
Penalties Conceded - 7
Dragons
Great result for the Dragons against the Raiders 2 weeks ago. They were down 12-0 after 20 minutes and then down by another 12 after 46 minutes but managed to fight their way back and get a deserved 22-20 win. It was more than likely Ben Hunt’s effort that got him his start in SO2 to be honest. He ran 17 times for 149 metres and had 3 line breaks, 2 line break assists, a try assist and two 40-20. The second 40-20 of his enabled the Dragons to score through Norman in the 68th minute and that was enough to get the Dragons home. Jack de Belin also played a cracker. He ran 16 times for 156 metres and made 31 tackles. Not too bad for 58 minutes game time 💪. The Dragons were pretty ordinary in the first half but that howling gale blowing against them may have contributed to that. In the end they hung in there and took their chances in the second half and came out on top after a solid effort, albeit with some poor defence at times. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 53%
Completion Rate - 79% (33/42)
Tackle Breaks - 27
Missed Tackles - 25
Ineffective Tackles - 18
Errors - 10
Penalties Conceded - 6
40/20 - 2
Verdict: The ratings and the bookies are with the Warriors but I’ll be tipping the Dragons here.
Panthers vs. Eels 60-40 @ Panthers Stadium
Ladder Position = Panthers
Bookies Favourite = Panthers
Panthers
Another impressive effort from the Panthers against the Roosters. Went about their job in a professional and clinical manner and did what good teams do 🥱. Great contributions from Nathan Cleary, Isaah Yeo and Brian To'o. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 58%
Completion Rate - 80% (37/46)
Tackle Breaks - 42
Missed Tackles - 28
Ineffective Tackles - 12
Errors - 6
Penalties Conceded - 2
Eels
The Eels were given a fright in the first half against the Bulldogs and were down 10-6 at the break. The second half saw them snap out of their “slumber” so to speak and dominate proceedings. The Eels scored 30 unanswered points and cruised home 36-10. In the first 15 minutes or so of the second half the Eels had something like 82% possession and 74% for the entire second half. The Eels’ job was made slightly easier when the Bulldogs had Luke Thompson sin-binned and the Eels were all but home with 10-15 minutes to go. Best for mine were Gutherson, Moses and Papali'i. A very nice effort, albeit not so much in the first half. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 58%
Completion Rate - 78% (38/49)
Line Breaks - 5
Tackle Breaks - 27
Missed Tackles - 13
Ineffective Tackles - 7
Errors - 13
Penalties Conceded - 1
Verdict: Hopefully this will be a cracker. Considering how they went in the first half against the Bulldogs, I can’t see the Eels getting up over the Panthers, even without (?) Cleary. Panthers for me.
Bulldogs vs. Manly 15-85 @ Bankwest
Ladder Position = Manly
Bookies Favourite = Manly
Bulldogs
As they sometimes do, the Bulldogs gave their fans a glimmer of hope after the first half. They took it up to the Eels, made the most of their chances and headed into the sheds leading 10-6. A disappointing second half where they failed to score resulted in the Bulldogs losing it 36-10. The Eels were simply too dominant for them it must be said. The Bulldogs did start the second half with promise though but it only lasted for 5-6 minutes. The Eels started to get all the possession and it was all downhill for the Bulldogs from there. Getting Luke Thompson sin-binned didn’t help matters either. Overall a great first half but a lacklustre second. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 42%
Completion Rate - 73% (27/37)
Line Breaks - 1
Tackle Breaks - 13
Missed Tackles - 27
Ineffective Tackles - 10
Errors - 10
Penalties Conceded - 4
Ruck Infringements - 6
Manly
Manly were starved of possession in attack in the first half against the Titans and found themselves 24-8 behind at the break. The second half however saw them score 48 unanswered points in a scintillating display to run out (very) easy winners 56-24. The Titans simply had no answer to Manly’s second half dominance. It was a very good way to celebrate DCE’s 250th game 👊. Turbo Tom had a blinder of a game (as usual these days) and a great effort from Reuben Garrick as well with 28 points of his own. Not sure what Des said to them at half-time but Manly came out with a revitalised mindset and gave a great display of second half attacking football. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 48%
Completion Rate - 82% (31/38)
Line Breaks - 11
Tackle Breaks - 33
Missed Tackles - 38
Ineffective Tackles - 12
Errors - 7
Penalties Conceded - 8
Verdict: You’d have to be mad if you didn’t tip Manly this week.
Raiders vs. Titans 65-35 @ GIO
Ladder Position = Raiders
Bookies Favourite = Raiders
Raiders
Twice the Raiders were 12 points in front against the Dragons and they managed to lose it 22-20. I feel they lost that due to the poor decisions they made in the first half by not using that howling gale to their advantage. Why they didn’t kick more in that first half is beyond me. You may have thought they were looking good after getting 12 points in front at the 46’ mark but from then on they seemed to lose focus. Another second half “fadeout” perhaps? It seems to me that they’re missing some direction at the moment 🤔 and need to work on their defence more. They had a couple of back to back penalties towards the end of the match to get them out of trouble but couldn’t capitalise on them. I thought Hodgson, Papali'I and Tapine all tried hard but they needed their teammates to back them up with the same level of endeavour. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 47%
Completion Rate - 82% (31/38)
Tackle Breaks - 25
Missed Tackles - 27
Ineffective Tackles - 13
Errors - 9
Penalties Conceded - 6
Titans
The Titans had a great first half against Manly and after having almost 70% possession and completing at 100% 💪, they went into the sheds with a big 24-8 lead. Not exactly sure what happened to them in the second half though (well I do actually) and they ended up remaining scoreless while Manly put on 48 points. The final score line of 56-24 would’ve been most disappointing considering their great effort in the first half. They simply had no answers (or plan) to Manly’s dominance in the second stanza. On balance the Titans’ stats were better than Manly (especially their 97% completion rate) but in the end they were given a spanking by a more switched on opponent. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 52%
Completion Rate - 97% (33/34)
Line Breaks - 2
Tackle Breaks - 38
Missed Tackles - 33
Ineffective Tackles - 12
Errors - 4
Penalties Conceded - 4
Verdict: If the Titans can replicate their first half effort from their Manly game and carry some of that into the second half this week, they could roll the Raiders. My season’s gone as far as tipping goes so with nothing to lose, I’m on the Titans here.
Knights vs. Cowboys 60-40 @ McDonald Jones
Ladder Position = Cowboys
Bookies Favourite = Knights
Knights
The Knights were down 6-4 at half-time but managed to get over the line 10-6 in the end. It was a low scoring affair and didn’t really reach any great heights to be honest. Both the Knights and the Warriors made too many errors and it was an arm wrestle for most of the match. On balance the Knights were just a tad better with more possession and slightly stronger in attack. Some of their goal line defence was pretty good as well. Having said that though, it could’ve gone either way. It wasn’t until the 75th minute that the Knights were able to score the winning try through Brodie Jones. The end result wasn’t too bad given that Fitzgibbon was sin-binned just before half-time. By all accounts it was a pretty average game but the effort from Pearce wasn’t too bad. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 56%
Completion Rate - 85% (40/47)
Tackle Breaks - 43
Missed Tackles - 15
Ineffective Tackles - 22
Errors - 7
Penalties Conceded - 6
Cowboys
The Cowboys found themselves 12-0 down early on against the Sharks but tries from Dearden and Molo got them to 14-12. A late try to the Sharks in the 37th minute saw the Cowboys trailing 20-12 at the break. Not sure who these sets belonged to but I read online there was a period of 5 straight sets where the ball wasn’t kicked at all. Huh? The Cowboys allowed the Sharks to make easy metres up the middle and were being forced into basic errors by the Sharks’ defensive pressure. The Cowboys were behind 26-12 with 7 minutes to go and all of a sudden Kyle Feldt tries to instigate a “trademark” Cowboys comeback. He scored in the 73rd minute and again a minute later and they’re only behind 26-24. That second try Feldt scored was pure genius 🤪. The crowd were trying their best to get the Cowboys home but the sin bin of Robson in the 77th minute put that fire out. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 47%
Completion Rate - 81% (35/43)
Line Breaks - 5
Tackle Breaks - 55
Missed Tackles - 40
Ineffective Tackles - 10
Errors - 10
Verdict: Dunno with this one. The coin has been flipped and the tip is … The Cowboys.
Broncos vs. Sharks 35-65 @ Suncorp
Ladder Position = Sharks
Bookies Favourite = Sharks
Broncos
The Broncos started well against the Rabbitohs I thought but lost 3 players during the match (Asiata, Cobbo and Arthars) and it was always gonna be a big hill to climb so it was no surprise that they would end up losing that one. I just didn’t expect it to be 46-0 though. I thought Xavier Coates’ incredible 80 metre chase and try-saving tackle on Gagai might’ve spurred on his teammates but it didn’t eventuate unfortunately. Overall their defence just wasn’t able to counter the Rabbitohs’ attack. Their right-edge defence in particular was lacking to be honest, not to mention the disinterest shown in trying to stop Hame Sele going in under the posts in the 44th minute. Really liked the game from Payne Haas though (17 runs for 176 metres and 41 tackles). Thought Lodge tried hard as well. The Broncos have now conceded 40 points or more 6 times this year 😱. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 42%
Completion Rate - 67% (20/30)
Line Breaks - 2
Tackle Breaks - 30
Kick Return Metres - 85
Missed Tackles - 32
Ineffective Tackles - 34
Errors - 11
Penalties Conceded - 3
Sharks
The Sharks started well against the Cowboys and raced out to a 12 point lead in as many minutes. The Cowboys got a couple back but the Sharks replied with one of their own (and a penalty) and headed into the sheds leading 20-12. The Sharks were seemingly cruising when they led 26-14 with 7 minutes to go but had to see out a very late comeback attempt from the Cowboys. They did enough in the second half and hung on for a nervous 26-24 win. The Sharks pack was making easy metres up the middle and the Sharks’ defensive pressure forced the Cowboys into some errors. Again, the Sharks’ out of contract players were amongst their best. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 53%
Completion Rate - 86% (36/42)
Line Breaks - 6
Tackle Breaks - 40
Missed Tackles - 55
Ineffective Tackles - 13
Errors - 8
Verdict: The Sharks have improved of late and I’m thinking they might just keep on their roll here. Sharks for me but I’m expecting the Broncos to “bounce back” to some degree.
Tigers vs. Rabbitohs 20-80 @ Leichhardt Oval
Ladder Position = Rabbitohs
Bookies Favourite = Rabbitohs
Tigers
To say the Tigers were very disappointing against the Storm might be stating the bleeding obvious. Obviously, 40 points to nil in one half of footy is just not good enough. The Storm simply slapped the inept Tigers silly. Not many sides could have challenged the Storm given the “zone” they were in and unfortunately the Tigers were the unlucky ones to cop it this particular time.
Given the class of their opposition, the Tigers’ game was all but over at the 17’ mark when it was 30-0. Not enough possession and not enough answers to the ruthlessness of the Storm explained the Tigers’ woes. Losing 66-16 would’ve been most disappointing to say the least. I think it would be best to forget the flogging (but remember the “lesson” handed to them) and move onto this week. To “borrow” a line I saw online … “they were bashed, brutalised, belted and their effort was hapless and helpless.” I know that will be hard for Tigers’ fans to read but that’s how it was. I would like to believe that the only way is up from here 🙏. Hopefully there will be a positive outcome in that it might’ve shown them what NOT to do.
There was a massive gap in class and effort in this game. There is no substitute for hard work and hard work is definitely ahead for them if the Tigers want to move forward. If not for the Storm tiring late in the match, I’m not convinced the Tigers would have scored those 3 late tries to be honest. It might sound a bit controversial but when Michael Maguire stormed out of the dressing room with his support staff, leaving the players on their own, I thought that was a good move. Not much else he could do really. Sometimes you need to make players take ownership. A huge worry is that the Tigers have now conceded 106 points in the last two games. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 40%
Completion Rate - 69% (22/32)
Line Breaks - 3
Tackle Breaks - 14
Missed Tackles - 40
Ineffective Tackles - 14
Errors - 12
Penalties Conceded - 6
Rabbitohs
It took the Rabbitohs a while to get going against the Broncos but once they did they never looked like losing that one. They dominated both in attack and defence and ran out very easy winners 46-0 against an injury ravaged Broncos side. It was a big win but it could’ve been a lot bigger if the Rabbitohs were interested enough 😉. The return of Gagai, Arrow, Cook and Murray definitely was welcome. Best for mine was Murray, Gagai and Walker. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 58%
Completion Rate - 69% (29/42)
Line Breaks - 10
Tackle Breaks - 32
Average Set Distance - 57.4 metres
Missed Tackles - 30
Ineffective Tackles - 27
Errors - 14
Penalties Conceded - 1
Verdict: The Tigers should put in a better effort than 2 weeks ago and while they are not in the same class as the Storm, the Rabbitohs should win this one comfortably you’d think.
Let’s finish off with another “Song of the Week” ...
We've got a life to live. They say, only, only … only the fittest of the fittest shall survive. Stay alive! Eh!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g3t6YDnGXAc
OK kids, good luck with your tipping and may your team win by 40 points! Until next week. Cheers 🐔 🐔 🐔
Submitted by Dragons-fanboy on
Hey everyone, my tips for this week are:
Storm by 10
Dragons by 8
Panthers by 2
Manly by 30
Raiders by 7
Knights by 4
Sharks by 14
Rabbitohs by 22
Awesome! Good luck with everyone's tips for this week and with everyone's team for this week. Cheers and stay safe you all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Submitted by Scotty H on
R16
Strom
Warriors
Panthers
Manly
Titans
Knights
Broncos (Upset of the week) Qld need something to hold onto!!!
Rabbits
Submitted by a on
Mary s don’t forget to add your tip in my 3 strike comp
Submitted by Christine on
Put my tips in as
Sharks
Manly
Knights
Eels , panthers have too many out
Raiders
Storm
South's
Saints
Enjoy e
The this week's games everyone ...
Submitted by MGM on
Hi Thinker,
I just checked that my tips had gone through by refreshing the page but can't see them. (they were only 5 or 6 mins before the deadline).
Just in case , they are as follows:
Storm
Dragons
Panthers
Eagles
Titans
Knights
Sharks
Rabbits
Submitted by The Thinker on
@MGM
That's no dramas...I'll put those through for you.
All the best
The Thinker
Submitted by Mary S on
Half time, and it looks like the Storm want to make a meal out of the chooks tonight!
Big ask to come back from 30/0 down!
Cheers,
Mary
Submitted by newbie from perth on
😢 = 46 😁 = nil
Mary, I knew we were “cooked” after the Storm grabbed their second. Woeful, absolutely woeful. I’m sad and angry at the same time. What can I say?
Non Desperandum …
Submitted by Rocket Ryan on
Hey Butcher old mate how are you travelling these days I'm no expert mind you but I got a feeling that might be a good number plate what do you reckon.
Submitted by Steel Panther on
Horrible, horrible loss for the Warriors....one if the ugliest defeats I've witnessed. Unforgiveable.....
Submitted by MGM on
1st: Thanks for the trust Thinker.
2nd: I think you retain your "Guru status"- You called the Dragons to win by 1 point and for 99.5% of the game that was extremely unlikely !
Submitted by MGM on
P.S.
I had a bet on the Dragons@+1.5 off the back of your tip !
Submitted by Rocket Ryan on
Fuc**n Warriors hopeless.
Submitted by Mary S on
Hi Baggy,
Got any nails left?
It was certainly a nail-biter between Panthers & Eels tonight.
Felt sorry for Moses missing the penalty, that would have made it 13 all and led to GP.
Interesting to see the difference in the Panthers without their "General" on the field!
Cheers,
Mary
Submitted by Rocket Ryan on
The only thing golden Mary would have been the win that was a penalty to win the game
Submitted by Mary S on
Yes Rocket - I did realise after posting that the penalty would have sealed the game for Eels (2 points instead of the 1 that I'd had in mind).
Oh well, it was a great game anyway, but the better team were not able to get the points on the night,
Cheers,
Mary
Submitted by Steel Panther on
Memo to self (and Rocket): Stop tipping the Warriors
Round 2: Led Knights 16-14 after 74mins, lost 20-16
Round 5: Led Manly 12-6 after 60mins, lost 13-12
Round 9: Led Manly 20-16 after 52mins, lost 38-32
Round 12: Led Cowboys 28-22 after 75mins, lost 29-28
Round 15: Led Knights 6-4 after 51 minutes, lost 10-6
And now last night's debacle.....
Submitted by Rocket Ryan on
Don't worry steel Memo received I won't be guilty again this year
Submitted by Rocket Ryan on
Where are you currently hiding out at butcher I'm just rang Main Roads you can still get that number plate 46- 0
is still available.
Submitted by mark ashford on
Interesting games so far this round. Storm put 46 unanswered points on the feather dusters (who saw that coming) and then 2 one point wins. Manly currently comfortable leaders over the Doggies (which we all saw coming)
Rocket. Don't expect to hear from the Butcher when he has had a flogging. People in glass houses etc.
Submitted by Rocket Ryan on
The Titans have appeared to come out easy winners good to know you can rely on form to pick them these days I am not not sure what it says about the Raiders although
Submitted by Baggy_Gee on
Was away from the T.v except for the last five minutes. Should have been kicked as a right footer on his preferred side. Think his aim point was a little off. Proud of the BOYS, usually those are the games where we use to give the top side a tune up for the next week. Can not put into words how proud I was of the ref and his bravery for that call in the last minute, usually they are cowards and let teams get away with murder in a tight contest like that, so good on him for the right call under the pump.
Submitted by Baggy_Gee on
How do you pick the Titans, lots of strong leads and then fades, against a team that barely even blooms this season? Bill said it best.
https://youtu.be/XgniTzdiw_0