Round eight selections

Three things The Thinker learned in round seven

  1. If you asked me to pick the three teams I was most confident would win in round seven, I would have chosen the Dragons, Tigers and Panthers...and they all lost. As always, there are no certainties in the NRL.
  2. Jarryd Hayne is a curse – thirteen black cats walking under a ladder.
  3. While some are critical of the inclusion of sporting events on ANZAC Day, I feel they make a positive contribution to what is probably Australia's most important national holiday. Lest we forget.

St George Illawarra Dragons vs Sydney Roosters – Wednesday afternoon – Allianz Stadium

I've plonked myself down in a plastic seat at my fair share of rugby league games over the years, but I'm yet to get to an ANZAC Day clash between the Chooks and the Dragons. I will though...one day I will. The Warriors beat the Dragons in round seven with defence, so that's the blueprint the Chooks can take into round eight. Luckily for them they beat the Bulldogs with defence in round seven too. Now I accept that the Dragons attack is harder to contain than the Dogs, but for the Chooks to keep their opponent to 0, in a game where the Dogs had so much of the possession, is quite the feat. Don't forget that a week earlier the Dogs racked up 27 against the Cowboys in Townsville. The Dragons are the logical favourite but I'm with the Chooks in what should be yet another ANZAC Day classic. Note the team lists for both sides – the number 21 for the Dragons is Reece Robson and the number 21 for the Roosters is Reece Robinson. What are the odds?

Verdict – Roosters by 1

Result – Dragons 24 defeated Roosters 8

Melbourne Storm vs New Zealand Warriors – Wednesday night – AAMI Park

It doesn't get the attention of the other ANZAC Day game, but it means a lot to these two teams – particularly the Warriors who like to remind us all that you can't spell ANZAC without NZ. Their win over the Dragons was a joy to watch – they showed a steely determination that is so often lacking in Warriors sides of old. A repeat of that intensity and they win again, but a repeat of that performance is quite an ask, particularly away from home. The Storm have had an unusually rocky start to the season, but they were better against the Knights and better again when they beat the Broncos. They appear to be returning to the form we expect from them, and they usually show up for this contest. Jesse Bromwich joins Dale Finucane in casualty so their forward depth will be tested, but I expect them to pass. Meanwhile the Warriors are without Johnson, Harris, Kata and Beale for at least one more week. Purple just...in a smorgasbord of quality football on ANZAC Day 2018.

Verdict – Storm by 4

Result – Storm 50 defeated Warriors 10

South Sydney Rabbitohs vs Brisbane Broncos – Thursday night – ANZ Stadium

The Rabbitohs lose Sam Burgess to yet another suspension, but they went pretty well two weeks ago without him. I'm sure they are a better team with him there, but I think the Bunnies are less affected by his absence than the Broncos are by the absence of McCullough. Who plays in the number 9 for the Broncos is anyone's guess – McGuire, Thaiday, Nikorima? The Rabbits are switched on under their new coach, and this happens to be game number 250 for Greg Inglis.

Verdict – Rabbitohs by 10

Result – Broncos 24 defeated Rabbitohs 20

Manly Sea Eagles vs Newcastle Knights – Friday night – Lottoland

The Sea Eagles have lost three games in succession, conceding 114 points in the process. What's worse is that the results are worsening with each loss, scoring less and conceding more. Last week they conceded 44 points to a team they beat 54-0 in round two. Clearly all is not well. In round six they lost 38-12 to the Tigers, and the Knights beat the Tigers in round seven. Things are never that simple – the Knights have to replace Mitchell Pearce and their record at Brookvale (two wins from 18) is the worst in the league. I'm tipping them anyway.

Verdict – Knights by 4

Result – Knights 18 defeated Sea Eagles 12

Penrith Panthers vs Canterbury Bulldogs – Friday night – Panthers Stadium

You can't win a football game if you can't score a point. In 80 minutes of football the Bulldogs couldn't get off the mark despite having the lions share of possession against the Chooks. Through seven games this season the Bulldogs are averaging less than 15 points per game. It's a problem. Scoring points hasn't been a problem for the Panthers – they've scored more than 15 points in all but one of their games this season. Slow starts has been a problem though. It cost them victory against the Sharks last weekend and it cost them victory against the Bulldogs in round three. I expect a better start on Friday night, and I don't think the Bulldogs have the attack to chase a team down if they fall behind. The list of casualties at Penrith is long but I'm tipping them at home.

Verdict – Panthers by 8

Result – Panthers 22 defeated Bulldogs 14

Gold Coast Titans vs Cronulla Sharks – Saturday night – CBus Super Stadium

The Titans are back at home on the Gold Coast for the first time since their round one victory over the Raiders. It helps. The Sharks surprised most of us with their gutsy win over the Panthers in round seven but they did have that boisterous home crowd pushing them on. Whether they can repeat that on the Gold Coast is the quandary, but the potential return of Bukuya and/or Graham will certainly help. Note that the Titans beat the Sharks twice last season and no-one expected them to. I'm tipping them to surprise us again with a better, smarter performance after some choice words from their coach.

Verdict – Titans by 4

Result – Sharks 10 defeated Titans 9

North Queensland Cowboys vs Canberra Raiders – Saturday night – 1300SMILES Stadium

Jonathan Thurston turns 35 on ANZAC Day, and age has not wearied him yet. We saw an improved performance from the entire team in round seven but they are coming off a low base. The Raiders found some winning form and then took a stumble last week on the road. That's three losses from three away games for the Raiders and it's reason enough for me to stick with the Cowboys in what I hope is a return to some serious form.

Verdict – Cowboys by 8

Result – Raiders 18 defeated Cowboys 8

Parramatta Eels vs Wests Tigers – Sunday afternoon – ANZ Stadium

While the Eels produced a dominant victory in round seven it's likely that their opponent that day was a rabble. We will know more about the Eels if they can produce a similar performance against a contender. These sides met only a few short weeks ago where the Tigers prevailed 30-20. That final score makes it look like a contest, but take note that the Tigers led by 30-6 until the 62nd minute. Gutherson and French are added to the Eels line-up this time around, while Hayne returns to the hyperbaric chamber for another stint on the sidelines. The Tigers went down to the Knights last weekend in an entertaining contest but Chris Lawrence, Elijah Taylor and Jacob Liddle all look set to return on Sunday. Tigers to bounce back I say.

Verdict – Tigers by 4

Result – Eels 24 defeated Tigers 22

Wally Lewis - round eight selections (in bold)

Note: tips from Wally will be published on Wednesday night or early Thursday morning.

  • DRAGONS vs Roosters
  • STORM vs Warriors
  • RABBITOHS vs Broncos
  • SEA EAGLES vs Knights
  • PANTHERS vs Bulldogs
  • Titans vs SHARKS
  • COWBOYS vs Raiders
  • Eels vs TIGERS

Comments

arten's picture

eels are back baby! hopefully they go on a run. I dont know what the chances are statistically of them making the 8 after 6 straight losses but heres hoping they can pull off a miracle. They have the talent to do so

Baggy_Gee's picture

Well............. Given that most of the team up to 10th had 2 wins and now we have one, it isn't that hard to imagine that we have a hope now of making that jump. BUT!!!!!!!!!!!!! let the BOYS get 2 wins and improve the +/- first before we start dreaming about a seasons resurrection.

Wilcox's picture

My tips for round 8.
Dragon
Storm
Rabbitoh's
Eagles
Panthers
Sharks
Raiders
Tigers

Hardyards's picture

Greetings footy fans,
Up early tomorrow to remember the first landing at Gallipoli and commemorate all Aussies and New Zealanders who have fought and died giving us the freedom to, amongst other things, enjoy the sport of our own choice (even Soccer – shudder :)

So, without much research here are this week’s guesses.

Dragons
Storm (big call on ANZAC day, may regret this one)
Rabbitohs
Knights
Panthers
Titans
Cowboys (Confidence back, Jake running from dummy half again, now we steamroll our way to the top)
Tigers

If our teams play fair and hard games, we are all winners.

Dragons-fanboy's picture

Hello everyone, my tips for this week are:

Dragons by 4 - Both teams will definitely get up for this game. Yes, the Roosters kept the Bulldogs to 0 but they only scored 6 themselves, that's not enough to beat the Dragons. But hey, it's ANZAC Day footy where all of the teams involved get up. And I'm going for the Dragons to bounce back from our loss to the Warriors in another thrilling ANZAC Day game.

Storm by 6 - This is going to be a high quality game. But I'm going with the Storm here, they've come back to the Storm that we know but the Warriors will surely give the Storm a contest.

Broncos by 10 - Yes I know that GI is playing his 250th. But I'm going with the Broncos for the upset here.

Knights by 2 - Knights have Pearce out which is a huge blow, but they will be able to cover this position but it won't be the same. But Manly are just on another level to the Knights, except it's an all time low. Knights for me in a close one.

Panthers by 14 - If Bulldogs couldn't score any points with close to 60 per cent of the football last week, imagine how they'll go in attack in this one if the possession is more even than that or even much more aginst them against a quality side like the Panthers. Panthers to strangle the Dogs here.

Sharks by 1 - Titans may upset in their return to the Gold Coast. But I think the Sharks to go back to back in golden point.

Cowboys by 12 - Cowboys to get up in this one and beat the Raiders here to go back to back for the first time this season.

And finally... Tigers by 8 - Tigers too good for the resurgent Eels here.

Awesome. Good luck with everyone's teams for this week and with everyone's tips for this week. Cheers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Taka's picture

My tips for round 8;

Dragons by 8
Storm by 7
Rabbitohs by 10
Eagles by 16
Bulldogs by 4
Sharks by 6
Cowboys by 8
Tigers by 2

Enjoy your footy...

Cheers... ;-)

a's picture

Here are my tips

Dragons by 4 I think Dragons will win in a colse one

Storm by 6 I think Storm will beat an injury trouble Warriors

Rabbitohs by 2 No Burgress no worries for Warriors

Knights by 1 I think Knights will get their 2nd golden point against Manly

Panthers by 8 Time for Panthers to f up Bulldogs even more

Titans by 2 I think the Titans will pip the Sharks here

Cowboys by 14 I think the Cowboys will flog the Raiders here

West Tigers by 1 I think the West Tigers will win in a thriller here

mark ashford's picture

Yes we are all getting our tips in (me included) and well done.
Good luck to you all.
Please don't forget to offer a thank you or a prayer for the Aussie and NZ serviceman who kept our countries safe and continue to do so.

christine's picture

"a" I know you tipped rabbitohs but they aren't playing warriors they are playing broncos ( just letting you know ok ) ...

christine's picture

The nrl should let NZ host an Anzac game in NZ at eden park after all they faught too ...

a's picture

Sorry I am not very good at releasing mistakes yes Rabbitohs are playing Broncos and Storm are playing Warriors

christine's picture

My tips rd 8
dragons
storm
souths
knights
panthers
sharks
cowboys
tigers
Have a safe Anzac everyone ...

tigerholic's picture

Morning Folks

Hope everyone has a fantastic Anzac Day. As an ex-serviceman, I like all other Australians are aware of the sacrifice and suffering that those in the defence force paid with their lives. Without that sacrifice we would not be the country we are today.

Lest We Forget

scubagravy's picture

hey crew, just had to sign up again, where on earth do i put in my tips ?
Help !

newbie from perth's picture

Mama Mia! Almost forgot to put me tips in. If I hadn't rung my brother to make sure he was gonna watch the Dragons & Roosters game I might've forgotten all about it!

Reckon I've picked a few duds but not to worry. Might even jag a few! The public holiday today has thrown my schedule right off. Game's just about to start so I'll love and leave ya. I'll come back later with a few words and the SOW. I know some of you really look forward to it each week (ha-ha). Cheers...

newbie from perth's picture

Yeah, should list my tips eh?

- Roosters (of course)
- Storm
- Broncos
- Knights
- Panthers
- Titans
- Cowboys
- Tigers

And yes ... "Lest We Forget"

TigerGirl's picture

My Tips for this week.
Storm
Rabbits
Sharks
Knights
Cowboys
Panthers
TIGERS.
And I was going to go for Dragons. But I know it doesn’t count as it’s already played. Meant to do it after Dawn Service but all’s good, can’t get a perfect round ha ha

Baggy_Gee's picture

That was a really really really bad call by the bunker. Again where is the control part of the ball handling.

a's picture

The Dragons last try was not a try

Steel Panther's picture

Totally agree there Baggy. It wouldn't have changed the result but it was a disgraceful call. Roosters don't look like Premiers to me. Poor last week & just as poor this week. 6 & 7 both disappointing. Tedesco looked sharp but as a side they look clueless on how to get over the chalk!!

The Voyeur's picture

Very disappointed in the roosters effort, outclassed today clearly, they really do not look like a contender this year.......so annoyed I listened to a mate who talked me into backing them today.......roll on the main event.....

Steel Panther's picture

Did your mate not tell you that the Dragons have won 10 of the 16 Anzac Day clashes Voyeur?

BigPeteBx's picture

Evenin Tiger Girl.
Yr going well with the tipping comp.
Appears the comp locks off after the first match has commenced. Some sites allow you to tip any matches or change them, even after the first match kicks-off or has finished. Just that there is no points allocated for matches already played.
You need to send message to Thinker, as you have displayed your selections in the bloggers/posters column, but u r not showing in Tipping Comp, naturally as you couldn't tap in to record, due to lock-out.
Am I seeing this correctly?
Cheers and keep well - Big Pete

Steel Panther's picture

Big Pete all I'm seeing right now is the Warriors getting absolutely spanked. It's 36 nil with still another 7 minutes until oranges!!

BigPeteBx's picture

Good evening Manyana.
From the last rounds comments and discussion we had.
Thanks for letting on, that u r another of the ladies we have here.
Where precisely do you hail from, being a fond lover of footy and born and bred Qld'er?
Never mind the age here, we have varying ages here.
We all seem to get on well!

Cheers and keep well - Big Pete in Bx

Tailspin's picture

Dragons fan boy, you would be extremely happy with the way they are going. They are definitely looking the goods this year. And yes totally agree that the last try was a lost ball. And this is why if the ref doesn't know he should be allowed to say I have no f###ing idea bunker. I bet a million dollars that the bunker then would have said no try.

BigPeteBx's picture

Heeeeyyyyyyyy Steely - how was your day Bro?
I'm seeing nothing, as I am another who doesn't have Pay TV.
I live by and support Free to Air and see what I can see, excuse pun after what I've been through, with the eyes and with another to come session to come.
I am checking into Live Scores as I go to see what progress scores are.
Drags had a big day and looks like Storm's are brewing a big one, down in Melb.
Cheers Champ and have a nice couple of days, unless yr having a longgg weekend out of it, after today.
Big Pete in Bx

Steel Panther's picture

Had a good one today Big Pete. Nice having a day off in the middle of the week. I could get used to that haha. I have pay tv & we get every game live. Warriors playing better 2nd half but result decided by half time. Hope your eyes are on the improve. Take care aye

a's picture

BigPete has you ever tried to buy NRL live pass if not you should it data free so you don’t have to use your mobile data anywhere

BigPeteBx's picture

Thanks for the 'a' tip on that 'a'.
I've read up on it and as I don't get the time to view all matches, I just go with the flow on Nine9, KFC Bunker adverts included.
I'll have a bit more of a read on it, when I am able to.

Hey mate - r u, or any other Cowboys supporters up that way, making the trip down my way, for next weeks Round 9 match.
If anyone wonders where Carrington Park is, it is about two blocks walk from my front door.
There'll be a crowd here, as they'll travel from outlying areas, just to see JT, let alone see him play.

Cheers folks and enjoy the rest of your week
Big Pete in Bx

BigPeteBx's picture

Evenin Steely - hump day and Anzac Day not far leaving us.
Certainly a day for remembering, as I went to Lithgow today to visit a good raily (as in railway) mate of mine's grave. He died on Anzac Day and we go pay our respects each year, then go to Workies Club for lunch and return.
Tonight Warriors got 10 points and that's better than zilch.
Eyes did improve, but after that vitrectomy op I had, a cataract has developed and is causing a fair whack of blurriness to me. I'm in to see surgeon in two weeks and arrange op - get it done now, as it will be cheaper than in years to come, when charges and hospital fees start to skyrocket again. Hmmmmm......have they ever stopped or slowed down. Such a drain on Medicare in this country that if they ever privatise it, then we'll we'll see charges out of this world. That's no mean bull either.

Cheers and keep well Cobber
Big Pete

The Annoying Devil's picture

Hey Big Pete
Glad to hear all is well and your eyes are improving
My friend had a vitrectomy I believe that it’s to remove the humor from your eyes
I think you also had a vitrectomy on your last couple of posts
Love you work
Seeing is believing
Take care

Mary S's picture

Good to see the humour today, as always - all part of the Australian way!!

My father served in World War 2 and about the only area he would elaborate on was the tricks and humorous aspects that went hand-in-hand with the downright horror. Lest we forget.

All the best Pete with any further work on the eyes.
I only get the NRL matches on 9 too, so usually check the NRL site to see how the score is progressing, or listen to the radio.

See the referee boss has admitted to a mistake on the last Dragons try. That doesn't help the Roosters team/fans much, but the Dragons certainly were the better team on the day.
Cheers to all

Jack.Starky's picture

Have to state the obvious today, but gee The Storm sure are one hell of an outfit. They talk about Billy The Kid being the best fullback the game has seen, well I reckon he is in the top 3 best to have ever played the game on what I have seen between the 1970's - to now.

lillychino's picture

Hi
I can’t open the tipping forms. For some reason the show / hide tab is not showing up . I have logged out and in again but no change!So here are my tips for round 8 .
Dragons
Warriors
Rabbitohs
Sea Eagles
Panthers
Titans
Cowboys
Tigers

christine's picture

Big pete Do you think there is more unrest going on with manly than the public is aware of , or is it all just the media dragging it on making it appear worse than it really is ?...

Mary S's picture

Hi Lillychino,
You may need to direct an email to 'The Thinker' in regard to your tips, as 2 matches (Dragons/Roosters and Storm/ Warriors) took place yesterday (Anzac Day), and our tips had to be in prior to the matches starting.
Cheers
Mary

mark ashford's picture

Hey Manyana
The Anzac code is "age shall not weary them" and it certainly has not wearied me mate. I'm not too far behind you so just enjoy the footy and keep posting.
Christine. An Anzac day game in NZ is a great idea. We had one in Sydney and one in Melbourne. Leave the Roosters/Dragons in Sydney and move the Melbourne game to NZ with Warriors playing whoever.
Our Kiwi friends deserve respect also and would be a sellout.
Mary S
My Father also served in WW2 but as a radio operator for the RAF
In both England and France, he too would not talk to his kids (5 of us) about his experiences. Must have been terrible.
The men & women who fight for their country's safety must be awarded the upmost respect and gratitude.

mark ashford's picture

SORRY Newbie but your Chooks last night seemed without direction.
Forget about that questionable try the Dragons were the better team on the night.
As a Broncs supporter I'm wishing we hadn't let Hunt go but hey he's on the huge bucks and seems to be earning it.
Same thing with Corey Norman at the Eels.
Anyway I'm sure the comp will even out as we go forward.
Hoping for a big efforts from the Broncs tonight so I can get a decent nights sleep.

mark ashford's picture

Big Pete
Sorry to hear you're still going through eye problems mate
Was hoping it had settled down a bit by now
You are one of the most genuine posters here
And I would like to wish you a speedy recovery
My bucket list says I must have a beer or two with you "west of the ??"
And it will happen.

a's picture

Islander if your reading this if Cowboys win you will win my comp

BigPeteBx's picture

Thanks Mary - much appreciate your thoughts.
My dad served in New Guinea against Japan.
Not a war you'd like to describe, with the way many were tortured and treated.
I'd prefer to talk footy wars........I guess we'd could all get involved there.
Cheers and keep well - Big Pete

BigPeteBx's picture

Hello Chris and I hope u r going well, if not better than you have been.
The media loves a story and loves to drag teams down, that are down.
However, I feel Manly lack leadership at present and I feel for Trent Barratt, having to face the camera's most of the time lately.
My feeling is that Manly might sell off Hastings to save some cash to buy another forward, as Manly lacks some easily accessible cash due to salary cap and financial restrictions. Apparently they have two positions to fill by 30th June and with two season ending injuries already, I'd doubt they want to rush into who they sign. They still have a salary cap appeal to be heard, but need to keep their eyes peeled on players elsewhere, who are nearing coming off contract. But this is how Manly haters like to see Manly - down for the count and out.
We'll see what the next month brings, but a nice win tomorrow night at Brooky, will be a sign of cohesion and strong unity within the players. Hard to say I know, after what has happened lately. But team and club spirit must reign. Many might not see it the way I do, but Manly are only two wins out of the eight.

Cheers and keep well - Big Pete

newbie from perth's picture

Sa-wat-dee krup,

Got myself a bit side-tracked tonight. Only saw the last 15 mins of the first half and the last 20 of the second half in tonight’s Rabbitohs v Broncos game. Thought the Bunnies were “gawn” but they came back, albeit a tad too late.

Bitterly disappointed my BBB lost Wednesday night. Oh well, credit where credit’s due. Those Dragons played an awesome game. Mind you, while I’ll openly admit we were beaten (smacked) by a (much) better side, that try awarded to the Dragons in the second half just rubbed salt into the wound. 999 times out of 1000, that’s a “dropped ball” but hey, I’m “Newbie” so what would I know eh? Nah, that was no try. Obviously didn’t make a ounce of difference in the end but oh so annoying/frustrating. There, I’ve had my 2c worth so let’s move on eh …

At least I’ve jagged 2 out of 3 so far. Should’ve been 3 out of 3 (just like Dragons-fanboy) if my heart hadn’t over-ruled my head but no use cryin’ about it (ha-ha).

@ Mr Ashford
Your words of wisdom re my BBB ring so very true my friend. Kinda disheartening but that’s life brother. Just my opinion but the thing with Messrs Hunt and Norman (and others for that matter) is that their footy careers, barring unforseen injuries, are finite unlike us mere mortals who can continue sitting at the desk until we’re 60-70. I personally have no problem with anyone chasing the big bucks if they can in order to set themselves up (or try at least) for their twilight years. Footy players can only do their “thang” for so long so more power to them chasing the bucks! Again, just my 2c worth. Cheers bro’.

OK kids, good luck with your tipping and may your team win by 40 points!

It’s “Song of the Week” time again…

If you listen to this and ya feet don’t start tappin’ then there’s something seriously wrong with your world. Just kiddin’ kids, each to their own.

IMO you can easily see where Michael Jackson & his brothers (may have) got some of their beats and riffs from. Hmmm … If you don’t have a lot of time, just be warned this one goes for 11:54. Enjoy (if you dare)!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4mvO8IkgQ5g

Cheers y’all…

BigPeteBx's picture

Thanks Mark - its been never ending and I've had some minor issues with glare etc., since the last op. A very good surgeon who comes from Sydney once a fortnight. Like most, they hit hard - in the wallet.
Again my friend, thanks for kind comments. Nice win to Brisbane tonight, sure was a gutsy game.
Never fear, your bucket list is also one of mine. There is a couple that I would one day like to meet and have a good get-to-know gathering.
I noted you said to Manyana that you weren't far behind her in age. I do hope from the past, that you noted that you and I are only months apart. Yes, I do pay attention to some things discussed here.
I'll be up front with it - I'm a 1954 Taurus. This year I hope it is a better one as it falls the weekend of FA Cup Final in UK.
I think there are a couple here that would disclose birthdays, depends how openly, I know.
I just served, the first serve.

Cheers mate and one day we'll have a beer or three. You never know I might get onto one of those Manly v Bronco's in Brisbane trips and meet you and Thinker at The Caxton......hahahaha.
Keep well!
Big Pete in Bx - West of The Sandstone Curtain.......

Mary S's picture

I pay attention too Pete - I don't have any trouble admitting to being a I1945 Cancerian.

Thought I might have 3/3 for a change 1/2 way though the game last night but just wasn't to be. Broncos just played better.

lillychino's picture

Thanks Mary S!
Yes have just realised this myself!
Trust me to miss this important fact!
Will take your advice and see what happens!
My heart is broken!

tigerholic's picture

Morning Folks

Just finished watching the highlights of the match from last night. The rabbits let the game get away on them, they should have won that game going on form and being in Sydney.

Have a great day folks, I'm off to play golf in a corporate day at the Laidley Golf Club.

Cheers

newbie from perth's picture

Like Pete and Mary, I have no problem with divulging ...

1959 Cancerian (and lovin' it). Peace!

christine's picture

Thanks big pete for your response to my ? I just wanted to get your take on it all , treatment is next month for me may 16th ...

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