Three things The Thinker learned in round twelve
- It's taken almost half a season, but I've finally put a line through eight of the sixteen teams...from a premiership point of view.
- If Tevita Pangai Junior wanted to represent Tonga (his country of birth) they would be a seriously serious football team.
- Game one of State of Origin 2018 will be a very different game one to what we have seen in recent years.
Manly Sea Eagles vs North Queensland Cowboys – Thursday night – Lottoland
First and foremost let's list the players that are packing their sleeping bags and heading off to Origin camp – the Sea Eagles lose the Turbo brothers while the Cowboys lose two important back-rowers in Hess and Cooper and their current fullback in Micnael Morgan. The Sea Eagles should have beaten the Raiders in round 12 but let the game slip. The absence of the brothers Trbojevic is massive, but the return of Koroisau in the number 9 will add some spark. I'm assuming Matt Scott will be suspended. His absence, and the absence of Hess and Cooper, give Manly a significant edge in the forwards. Cherry-Evans didn't get an Origin call-up, but I expect he'll put up a good show in case Queensland have to make changes for game two.
Verdict – Sea Eagles by 4
Result – Cowboys 26 defeated Sea Eagles 12
South Sydney Rabbitohs vs Cronulla Sharks – Friday night – ANZ Stadium
Three teams are in red hot form at the minute, and here are two of them. The Rabbits lose Inglis, Cook, Crichton and Gagai to Origin camp while the Sharks, six wins in a row, lose just one winger in Valentine Holmes. I have no doubt that Souths have been better than the Sharks over the past month, but with the line-up changes listed the Sharks couldn't have timed this clash better and will prevail.
Verdict – Sharks by 4
Result – Rabbitohs 22 defeated Sharks 14
Parramatta Eels vs Newcastle Knights – Saturday night – ANZ Stadium
The Eels are at the bottom of the ladder but it's starting to feel like the Knights are heading in that direction. Note that their points differential is the worst in the competition and their season appears to have come to a grinding halt after such a promising start. No Origin players from either squad which is no surprise. Nathan Brown (the coach) would have put the wind up his troops after their effort last start but I still think the Eels will want this more. There's some chance that Nathan Brown (the player) and/or Jarryd Hayne could be back this weekend too.
Verdict – Eels by 8
Result – Knights 30 defeated Eels 4
Sydney Roosters vs Wests Tigers – Sunday afternoon – Allianz Stadium
The Roosters have been up and down like an elevator technician this season, and last week they were down in the first half and up in the second half. At their best they can still challenge for the premiership, but premiership challengers are consistent. This weekend they take to the field without Mitchell and Tedesco (their two most potent attacking weapons) and without Cordnor and Napa (their two best forwards). Meanwhile the Tigers go into this game without any changes. Scoring points has been an issue for the Tigers this season, but with the Roosters down on attacking firepower I'm tipping the Tigers in a low-scoring arm wrestle.
Verdict – Tigers by 4
Result – Roosters 16 defeated Tigers 14
Wally Lewis - round thirteen selections (in bold)
Note: tips from Wally will be published on Wednesday night or early Thursday morning.
- SEA EAGLES vs Cowboys
- Rabbitohs vs SHARKS
- EELS vs Knights
- Roosters vs TIGERS
Comments
Submitted by newbie from perth on
@ Mr Ashford
Ha-Ha! Made me laugh when you said you were “scared of the whole thing” (meaning that video). Mate, you’ve made my day! No accounting for taste eh? Especially in those days. I don’t reckon I’d be too far away from you age-wise as I too loved the Doors. It was required listening when me and the boys used to partake of that … well, how can I put this without getting into trouble? When we used to “accidently” inhale that funny smelling cigarette smoke.
Exactly the same as you, I am a massive fan of AC/DC with Bon up front. Nothing against Brian Johnson but in my eyes, AC/DC aren’t AC/DC without Ronald Belford Scott. Gotta love “She’s Got Balls” and “The Jack” or even some “TNT”. Ah mate, “it’s a long way to the shop if you wanna sausage roll”. The 19th Feb 1980 was a sad day indeed. If you’re ever over here in Perth you can head down to Fremantle and visit his grave and/or his statue down at the Freo Fishing Boat Harbour.
http://www.death2ur.com/bon_scott_gravesite.htm
Mate, like a lot of things in this world, one’s taste in music is a “subjective” thing. Sometimes we’re on the same page, sometimes not. I like all sorts but only if it’s certified “Newbie Cool”. Whatever floats ya boat I say. Anyways, got a good one lined up for next week. Maybe some others have seen it before, not sure. It’s only got a mere 521 million views on YouTube though. Yes, you heard right … just over 521 million views. Won’t divulge any more … spoilers!
Stay well Mr Ashford…
Submitted by newbie from perth on
@ NuL1F3
Yes, I do remember last year when the Cowboys defied all logic and kept winning with players dropping like flies! Man, they were an awesome outfit indeed. Saw that spirit return Thursday night didn’t we? Well done to them and hope all you Cowboy fans are basking in the glory (especially Rocket, Mary, “a” and of course NuL1F3). They certainly made my match analysis look stupid didn’t they? Mind you, the Bunnies tonight made me look stupid as well. Gee this tipping caper is tough sometimes. Oh well, it is what it is. There’s always tomorrow…
Submitted by The Thinker on
Greetings Tuisova
I certainly get where you are coming from.
The more stoppages in a game the less interesting it becomes. Teams are getting too many opportunities to rest.
It's a real problem.
Submitted by NuL1F3 on
@Newbie
With Manly flogging Storm only a fortnight ago and Broncos the week before that and then loosing by just 1 point against Raiders, there wasn't much to back up anyone's pick for Cowboys considering their run this year. Faith and a steady returning to form plus their defiance when the odds are against them is all us Cowboys fans really had, and we were wonderfully rewarded for it!
Rabbitohs nearly checked out of the game a little early last night and were probably lucky they had the cushion they did but man are they tough! If they continue to play each game like those first 70 minutes (and previous four games), I'm thinking a Rabbitohs vs Panthers GF and it will be a monster of a game!!
Submitted by a on
That's exactly what I'm thinking
Submitted by christine on
I always second guess myself but i'm changing my tips for a third time this week ,my tips now read manly ,sharks , knights, roosters, & if those changes don't help me nothing will this season ...
Submitted by Baggy_Gee on
Bullsh*t, bullsh*t, bullsh*t.
Submitted by mark ashford on
Baggy I tipped Eels after their go against my Bronks what is going on.
Another half to go mate don't give up.
Submitted by Mary S on
Not able to watch the game, but see my computer ticking over on the NRL websight for the Knights. Where are the Eels that have preformed much better than this, or are the Knights playing superbly tonight?
Submitted by Steel Panther on
A lot of us have zero from three!!
Submitted by Baggy_Gee on
That chant was for both the refs and the BOYS. Very dissapointed in both. The knights played very well, mentally we dropped the bundle after that first disallowed try which shouldn't have been reviewed. Who was that mug of a ref
Submitted by christine on
Big pete
You are correct google is my father's assistant , he couldn't possibly know of the player oriel kennerson he was only 2yrs old at the time ...
Submitted by BigPeteBx on
Hello Newbie - nice win by Socceroos over Czech's.
Czech's have been strong over the years, but most of the European teams have just got better. Aust is in the pool with France, Peru and Denmark. The way we went in latter stages to get to Russia, I'm not expecting any miracles. As I said before here, if Aust can have 45 shots at goal and not bag one and finish with a draw against Thailand, they don't deserve to go. But they are there and things must change for the better, now they are on the world stage. Nice to have someone here who can chat about the real football, in small doses. It is also footy.
Thinker has a fave in EPL - they are known as The Toffee's, if I am correct.
I was riding with Gunners, when at Wembley in 1981. That was when Hammers, from lower division defeated them. The pints aren't bad over there, but not as chilled as our brews. No doubt you found that out.
Me has a feeling that a combined St.George/Sutherland Shire team is nominating, Wollongong Wolves (from old), another Victorian team which has big support and dollars behind them, are among it. Then another Brisbane team, like Brisbane Strikers of old. We'll see what comes out in the wash.
Cheers and have a nice week - Big Pete
Submitted by BigPeteBx on
Hahaha....good one Chris. Like your reply.
I knew The Kennersons well here in Bx.
The NRL of 2018 is all over the park and shop. Anything is possible, the way matches are resulting and players lifting themselves, along with many who are making headlines, for all the wrong reasons.
Keep well - Big Pete
Submitted by BigPeteBx on
Hey Steely - we don't need reminding mate, so far in tipping.
Split rounds happen, also SoO and any other rep games which can have disadvantages towards round matches.
Some teams pickup, as did NQ Cowboys and due credit to them playing away from home.
Have a good week mate and keep well - Big Pete
Submitted by The Thinker on
Greetings football fans
I have updated the tipping comp. For those of you that got 0 from 4...don't feel too bad – you had plenty of company. About half our tipsters got the dreaded duck egg this week.
Once I get my head around all the Byes and what-nots I will update the NRL ladder.
Just a reminder that I will post my Origin preview on Tuesday, and I'll hang around on the site during the game if anyone feels like talking about it.
I will also have the round 14 previews and tips published on Tuesday too. How I'll go before the Origin implications is anyone's guess...but I can't do anyone worse than round 13.
Submitted by Steel Panther on
The Roosters came home 4 me Big Pete to spare my blushes of a duck egg although I picked one up in my work comp. I'm shattered lol!!
Baggy what are your thoughts on the Corey Norman drama? Certainly what your club doesn't need right now that's for sure.
Submitted by Baggy_Gee on
I think it is a bit rich to have a drinking ban, it's not terrible given his history, but telling people what they can do is a bit rough. If he was misbehaving that night, then fine, if he was doing drugs, then fine, but no incidents then it is over reaction and possible lost a good player and long standing member. So not to sure if it was the worth the issues.
Submitted by christine on
I may have changed my tips three times but finished up with 2 / 4 which isn't anything to rave about but Mul1f3 jagged 3 / 4 , well done Mul1f3 we will all have to start paying attention to your tips ...
Submitted by mark ashford on
Hi folks
got a lousy 1/4 this week but that's ok at least I'm being consistent.
I'm babysitting my brother's dog as he's off on a 3 week cruise.
Apart from the fact that he's a terrific dog I get full fox access.
Watched all 4 games. Cows & Rabbits won fair & square.
Thought the Eels & Tiges were flogged by the refs, don't barrack for either team, just think they both got the wrong end of the pineapple.
SOO #1 just a couple of days away, will be interesting.
Submitted by mark ashford on
Newbie the loss of Bon Scott was a hard pill to swallow (no pun intended) well maybe a little one. After a heavy night of drinking and maybe some other "stimulates" he choked to death on his own vomit in the back of a car outside a London night club. Died on his own with no family or friends present. Sad end to a great talent.
Makes one think the use of drugs, any drugs, is not a great idea.
Hate to see young Aussies going down this path.
Submitted by Steel Panther on
Mark & Newbie I recommend the book Bon Scott: The Last Highway by Jesse Fink. Sadly Bon was the architect of his own death with the book really hammering home just how seriously alcohol had gripped his life along with his use of other substances. Never got to see him perform with AC/DC but have been a big fan of the band for many years first seeing them in Sydney in 1988. I've seen AC/DC six times now but with Malcolm's passing I think it's time to pull up stumps.
Submitted by manyana on
Oh boy!!! I think that this is the only time that I got a big, fat, ZERO for a round!!
I've been in various tipping competitions for years, have won the family comp several times, but this year.....????
Enough said.
Well done to those people that had a good tipping round.
Looking forward to the State of Origin on Wednesday night. Hope it's a good game. Good luck to both teams.
GO QUEENSLAND!!
Cheers, manyana.
Submitted by tigerholic on
Mark Ashford
I am glad we agree on the ref's. I didn't see the Eels game but I watched the Tigers Vs. Roosters.
The refs need a complete overhaul, personally I think the Tigers were off the pace for the best part of the match but when they hung in there and after the Video Ref could not find a way to find to turn down the Grant try and then we got another one shortly after we were in with a chance.
The penalty towards the end where the Ref said that the markers were not square, please save me. How many times do we see this in a game, the Roosters knocked on and the markers had nothing to do with that error, should have been another set of six right on the roosters line.
In saying all that, Tigers had two big chances to take the match late but couldn't finish it.
Anyway, bring on Origin.
Submitted by a on
I hope the refs do not decide the Origin
Submitted by NuL1F3 on
Haha @Christine, Thanks.
I would have 4 from 4 if I had stuck with my gut but by the sounds I should be very pleased with getting 3.
This has been such a difficult season to tip! 3 weeks ago I only picked 2 from 8 correctly so... Just when you think you have a handle on it the teams that should be kicking butt lose and the teams that should loose kick butt! It sure makes it interesting :D
Submitted by BigPeteBx on
Good one Steely - I got a zilch, but comp only half way mark mate.
Plenty of time and mix-ups to come.
Cheers - Big Pete
Submitted by BigPeteBx on
Welcome to the Zilch Club, Manyana.
Hope you go better next round, starting from Round 14.
BTW - I had a large bulk mail out of postal mail today, from my work.
One was to a place called Manyana......yes, you got a "thoughty" your way, my tipping/posting friend.
Cheers - Big Pete
Submitted by BigPeteBx on
Evenin Steely - re Bon Scott.
I was fortunate to see him in Bx, many years ago.
I saw a concert recently that "JB" was doing and it was of his life and times. I applaud The Working Class Man for doing what he did, in bringing this out in the open. Some never had a chance!
I think he was opening up on rock n roll, alcohol and drugs.
Mind you - depression as well.
Cheers mate and yes what you commented about over the weekend about age and times/events etc. I also come from those "ages" mate.
Big Pete
Submitted by christine on
Nul1F3 : In regards to comps I have won three over the years myself but this year has thrown the whole season out as you said teams that are tipped to do no good are wining - who would have thought warriors , tigers , souths ,would be where they are on the ladder or the cowboys would be going as bad as they are for that matter but that's the game we have all come to know & love NRL ...
Submitted by a on
And the Eels to I thought they would be in the 8
Submitted by christine on
I have to say I tipped roosters over tigers but personally feel roosters played bad even though they got the 2 points it was an error riddled game ...
Submitted by manyana on
You make me feel so much better Big Pete. Hope things improve for us (and everyone else who got zilch) in the last round.
Good tipping this week.
Cheers, Manyana.
Submitted by manyana on
Hi Mark, be happy that you got 1 out of 4. Better than a lot of us "experts". LOL.
Submitted by manyana on
Hi a, hopefully not the refs, or the bunker, to decide the State of Origin.
Submitted by Mary S on
Hi 'manyana' - where was your lucky 50c piece for last round?
Think we all need one to improve on R 13 results!!
Cheers,
Mary
Submitted by manyana on
Hi Mary, I think I'll throw it away & pull my tips out of a hat from now on. I think that's as good as anything. Ha,ha.
Cheers, Manyana.
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