Wests Tigers vs Newcastle Knights – Friday night – Suncorp Stadium
Breaking news: Kalyn Ponga ruled out with an adductor injury
Magic Round kicks off with the Tigers and the Knights. These sides faced each other in round 3 at Newcastle, where Mitchell Pearce was playing his 300th game. Despite the occasion it was the Tigers that prevailed 24-20. Take note that in the round 3 game the Knights were without Kalyn Ponga and Bradman Best. Since that game the Tigers have won just once in six weeks, while the Knights have won only twice. Tigers coach Michael Maguire has made some key changes to his spine, with hooker Jade Simpkin dropped (I would say unfairly) and Adam Doueihi moved from the halves out to the centres where I imagine he will be tasked with containing Bradman Best. While I understand the coach felt compelled to do something (and he is a much better coach than I), major team changes can take a while to bed down. The Knights attack isn't firing either, especially so against the very good sides, but this should be a lot easier than their recent heavy losses to the Panthers and the Chooks.
Verdict – Knights by 4
Manly Sea Eagles vs Brisbane Broncos – Friday night – Suncorp Stadium
At the risk of stating the obvious, while this is a home game for the Sea Eagles, it clearly isn't. And at the risk of repeating myself, the Sea Eagles are an entirely different team with the Turbo at the back. Since his return they have scored 130 points and conceded just 66. They have been beaten only once, by Penrith. Even in that game, the Sea Eagles scored 16 points. 16 points doesn't sound like a lot, but that's the most any team has scored against the Panthers this year. In round four, without the Turbinator, they played Penrith at Brookvale and lost by 40. In round eight they lost by 12. That's how much better they are now, and it's more than enough to win this. Taupau returns for the Sea Eagles and Paseka has been named but will need to pass HIA protocols. They're important because the Broncos 'strength' is in their forwards. While it's their strength, they aren't strong enough.
Verdict – Sea Eagles by 8
Canterbury Bulldogs vs Canberra Raiders – Saturday afternoon – Suncorp Stadium
The Family Club may want to get around Kyle Flanagan, who got hung out to dry like a dirty sock and struggled with the circumstances. He's been replaced by Averillowho partners with in the halves. Napa returns up front for the Dogs, which helps. The Raiders are on quite the losing streak by their standards and it's got Ricky Stuart swearing under his breath. If the coach is struggling to work out what's going wrong with the Raiders, regular pundits like me are just guessing. What I do know, is that there is a quality team in the lime green, and at some point they will find their swagger again. Even if they don't find it here, they should be too good for the Doggies.
Verdict – Raiders by 10
Cronulla Sharks vs South Sydney Rabbitohs – Saturday afternoon – Suncorp Stadium
The Sharks have now lost five in a row - four in a row since they dumped their coach. While some of those games have been against the top shelf teams, they also lost to the Bulldogs who are barely on the bottom shelf. One of the reasons the Sharks gave for changing the coach was his inability to recruit top talent. They'll struggle to attract anyone if they keep playing like this. The Bunnies were comprehensively belted in round nine, but it's worth remembering that the Storm are the only team to beat the Bunnies this year, Adam Reynolds didn't play, and the Storm usually beat the Bunnies whatever the circumstances. That spine of Walker, Marshall, Reynolds and Cook wins this...and wins this well. Reynolds gets a chance to impress against what may be his next club, and I'm sure the Broncos will be watching him with interest too.
Verdict – Rabbitohs by 14
Sydney Roosters vs North Queensland Cowboys – Saturday night – Suncorp Stadium
I was proud of the Chooks effort in round nine, when next to nothing went their way. If the officials followed the script they could have very easily won that game, but it was not to be. That was a taxing affair, and now they have to travel north and take on a rejuventated Cowboys side. The Cowboys have won four of their last five (and their loss was a narrow one), and while I'm the first to admit those victories have come up against easier opponents than the tricolours, I have a feeling they can make a real game of this. They often play well at this venue and I expect they'll have the majority of the support in the crowd. The bookies have them at ludicrous odds, but I'm tipping them.
Verdict – Cowboys by 2
New Zealand Warriors vs Parramatta Eels – Sunday afternoon – Suncorp Stadium
It's almost as if we have forgotten that, like last year, the Warriors have been away from home for most of this year. They remain competitive against nearly everyone, which is a credit to their squad and their coach. They'll compete in this too, but I fear they'll just fall short against a side who have lost just once this season (and to the Dragons of all teams). Eels coach Brad Arthur is hoping to pull a Cleary and has named his son in the halves on Sunday. I wish them well. It's potentially the game of the round, and I'll be there hoping for a little bit of magic.
Verdict – Eels by 1
Melbourne Storm vs St George Illawarra Dragons – Sunday afternoon – Suncorp Stadium
Remember when we always talked about the big three at the Storm? Remember how we (and me) said they would struggle when the big three were no longer around. Well they are the defending premiers and in their last five games they've scored 194 points. They've lost another big three for Magic Round - with Munster, Grant and Brandon Smith unavailable on Sunday. Three genuine stars in key positions, and the Storm will probably just plough on as if nothing has changed. Note that Ryan Papenhuyzen has been named on the reserves, so there's some chance he gets brought into the seventeen. Relentless, consistent, brilliant, ruthless.
Verdict – Storm by 10
Gold Coast Titans vs Penrith Panthers – Sunday night – Suncorp Stadium
By the time we get to this game, The Thinker will be sitting down to watch his sixth consecutive NRL match at Suncorp Stadium. Now I love my footy more than most but six games in a row will test me a little. That said, for weeks now I had this game pencilled in as the one I wanted to see most. It's lost some of its lustre with David Fifita suspended, and it will get even less shiny if Tino Fa'asuamaleau can't extract himself from the toilet in time, but it's still pretty good. I mentioned earlier that 16 points is the most the Panthers have conceded this season. This is a big problem for the Titans who have conceded 140 points in their last game. Should their defence let them down again on Sunday, it's hard to imagine they can score enough points to make this a contest. I hope they do, but I doubt they can.
Verdict – Panthers by 14
Wally Lewis - round ten selections (in bold)
Note: tips from Wally will be published on Wednesday night or Thursday morning
- Tigers vs KNIGHTS
- SEA EAGLES vs Broncos
- Bulldogs vs RAIDERS
- Sharks vs RABBITOHS
- ROOSTERS vs Cowboys
- Warriors vs EELS
- STORM vs Dragons
- Titans vs PANTHERS
Comments
Submitted by The Thinker on
Greetings football fans
I have updated the NRL ladder and the tipping comp after round nine.
Some woeful tipping this round - but only by me.
Fifteen of you clever clogs got 7 from 8 this round. I won't name you all but well done everyone.
We now have a 7-way tie at the top of the tipping comp, and a whole swag of tipsters not far away.
If anyone sees any errors with the scoring just let me know.
I will have my previews and selections published on Wednesday.
All the best
Submitted by Cammy_munster on
Bit late this week posting your tips... Come on waiting to put my money down haha
Submitted by G2 on
G’day Thinker
It seems like some mistake with Sunday’s games.
Cowboys vs Broncos!!!
Submitted by Christine on
Thinker in your previes for this weeks games you have broncos playing 2 different teamsi ie you have got manley v broncos & cowboys v broncos so who is playing who thinker i am a bit confused or do you want tips for both games ???
Submitted by Christine on
Thinker you also have 3 games in for sunday thought i should give you the heads up have you been getting affected by tlh scotch fumes or something ...
Submitted by Mary S on
Hi Christine.
Check out the games on https://www.nrl.com/
You will find there is no game on Thurs, but 2 Frid, 3 Saturday & 3 Sunday in the Magic Round.
All games are being played at Suncorp Stadium, so it will be interesting to see how the pitch holds. Weather looks to be fine from Friday onwards, so that may help with the condition of the pitch.
Hope you are having more good times than bad!
Cheers,
Mary
Submitted by The Thinker on
@Cammy Munster
I'll have those tips and previews published today - the first game of this round isn't until Friday night.
Hopefully you're fit and well in time for the first Origin game :-)
All the best
The Thinker
Submitted by The Thinker on
Thanks G2 and Christine
Thinker error there....that will teach me for publishing that page at 4.57am :-)
I've fixed it now. Warriors vs Eels is the game I missed (and I'll be at that game).
All the best
The Thinker
Submitted by Rocket Ryan on
Another rat jumps from the sinking ship hope is there when the wheel turns as it surely will.
Submitted by tigerholic on
Hello Thinker
Tiger and his youngest cub will be at every match this weekend. We have a 3 day pass and even though it will be an effort to attend all 3 days, it will be great to see every game of the round.
What if I was to sign a confidentiality clause to never reveal your identity, Tiger and Thinker could have a beer together.
Looking forward to the footy this weekend, a few hard tips, the rain has been aplenty this week with big storms in the afternoons. We are expecting another this afternoon, I was concerned how Suncorp would hold up too Christine, the rugby final last week would have chewed it up a touch I'm sure.
Take care everyone and look out for your mates
Tiger
Submitted by mark ashford on
Hey Rocket
When you talk about another rat I hope you weren't referring to me.
I have supported the Broncs since I joined the site and it has seen me usually ending about half way if lucky. This year I'm picking with my head, not my heart and I appear to be equal top so far. Looks like the Broncs have secured Reynolds for next year and I'm excited. I'll get back on board mate when I think it's right.
Submitted by Steel Panther on
Maybe talking about Xavier Coates Mark??
Submitted by Christine on
Well broncos might finqlly be in the up side of things after getting adam reyniolds on a 3 year deal ...
Submitted by Christine on
Mary s
All good & qell mary but thinkerhad broncos playing two different games not one ...
Submitted by Christine on
That was supposed to read all good & well but the thinker had broncos playing two games bot one ...
Submitted by Rocket Ryan on
Xavier Coates Mark
Submitted by newbie from perth on
Quick comment from last week’s Eels-Roosters game…
Just before the end of the first half, Marata Niukore laid a late shoulder on Walker and then did the same (but high) to Tedesco. Then Dylan Brown goes into Hutchison knees-first that left Hutchison in a real bad way.
Given the NRL’s “suggestion” earlier in the week to use the bin more, neither of those 2 Eels players were sin-binned. OK, they finally got put on report and suspended but my problem is not with them but with the referees. What the hell were the on-field ref and the video ref doing? Fine me $10k as well but I’m with Trent … their handling of that was absolutely incompetent.
Look, don’t get me wrong. I hold no grudge against Brown or Niukore at all, that’s just part of the game. Sometimes fellas get fired up and/or desperate and make mistakes. Absolutely positive those two guys DID NOT have any deliberate intent to cause any harm. Sometimes these things just happen and I still love this game 💪.
Anyway, that’s my 2c worth. I’ll see you tomorrow night with another 565-page epic tale all about this weekend’s upcoming games. Cheers y’all. 🐔 🐔 🐔
Submitted by MGM on
Hi everyone,
I have a question that I'm sure some of you have the answer to, in fact it's probably been asked and answered several times already ... but I'm afraid I missed it.
Question is :
Why are our tip selections displayed out of order compared to the draw?
And it appears to be random (different each week).
Are you just messing with us Mr Thinker ??
I've been curious about this for a few seasons now but have never gotten around to asking .
Submitted by MGM on
Newbie, hi.
I've never addressed you before so let me first say I love reading your comments and admire your constant contributions and knowledge of the game. And your humour!
Because I randomly decided to finally ask my last question and noticed your comment above where you say you're "absolutely positive that Brown or Niukore DID NOT have any intent to cause harm" , I don't think anyone can say that.
Every player has his own individual mindset , and by their actions (on AND off the field) we can get some kind of an idea about that.
We give the excuse that these incidents are "split-second" but anyone who has played contact sport(admittedly mine was martial art, not football) will acknowledge that you can see things coming to some extent ... and that often it's a conscious decision to follow through or to pull out (at least to the degree that you minimise the impact).
To most of us those split second decisions seem almost impossible , but these guys do it day in, day out, in training as well as on game day.
And in truth it comes down to mindset.
I'm sorry to ramble on, but when Tedesco took to the field he was bound to be a target and I was praying that they would not target his head and that he will not become a great player whose career falls short due to constant head injury (and not just his career!).
So I question Niukore's mindset in particular.
He had already not pulled out of late contact on Walker.
I don't think you should excuse him so readily Newbie, nor for that matter, Dylan Brown.
What seems like split second/unavoidable to the casual observer is not so much to these guys ... they are professionals and, for the most part, that's why we admire their skills.
Submitted by Rob181 on
Hi Thinker
What happened to my Round 9 score of 6. Seems to be missing in action. Would you please review & advise.
Thanks
Rob
Submitted by The Butcher on
Not sure why the Broncos buy a 2 point field goal specialist when they lose by 20.
Anyway I’m smelling a couple of upsets firstly with Ponga out I like the Tigers and I know Manly have Turbo Tom but the teams on paper are pretty close and I’m looking at the Coates/Oates factor
Just kick it to the wings the tries are there.
Submitted by newbie from perth on
@ MGM
G’day my friend, good to hear from you. Before we start, one question… are you a “night owl” by any chance? Man, one reply at 1.51am and the other at 2.49am. No problem with that as when I’m on holidays I too will still be up at that time (roughly). Only downside for me is I sleep in until 10.30 or so 😂.
🔊 “Why are our tip selections displayed out of order compared to the draw?”
Yeah I’ve wondered about that too for many years. I just SMS (shrug my shoulders) and accept it as what it is. Maybe it’s just how the Boss’ site/system is configured. The Thinkers’ Little Helper would know for sure. So yeah, no idea.
🔊 “I've never addressed you before so let me first say I love reading your comments and admire your constant contributions and knowledge of the game. And your humour!”
Thanks for the kind words my friend, much appreciated and I feel humbled (seeing as I’m a West Aussie who got into “real” footy late).
🔊 … “but anyone who has played contact sport will acknowledge that you can see things coming to some extent ... and that often it's a conscious decision to follow through or to pull out (at least to the degree that you minimise the impact).”
Yeah, the old “eye-to-hand” co-ordination thing? I remember my naturally gifted (sporting-wise) brother has this ability to see things in “slow motion” so to speak. When he played cricket he told me he could see the ball leaving the bowler’s hand and he saw everything with so much time he knew where the ball was going, how it was moving through the air and which way it was swinging and so on. He said he most times he could easily decide where he was gonna hit it or whether to let it pass through to the keeper and so on. So yeah, that is a valid point I agree. I still don’t think those 2 boys had any malicious intent though. At worst they might be guilty of being (very) lazy and guilty of (very) poor decision making. But understand where you’re coming from and comments regarding “mindset”. Food for thought for sure 🤔.
Appreciate the input MGM, please feel free to share again. Have a good one and make sure you get enough sleep my friend 😁.
Submitted by The Thinker on
@Rob181
Morning Rob
I can't see your tips in the comments or in the submissions for round nine.
If you have anything you can provide that shows me your round nine tips, I'm happy to add them now. Even tips submitted for another tipping comp would be fine.
If you do, let me know and I will email you directly.
All the best
The Thinker
Submitted by The Thinker on
@MGM
Very good question...it bugs me too :-)
I'll dig around in the back end of the website and ask the hamsters in the wheels and see if they have an explanation.
And I'll let you know what they say.
All the best
The Thinker
Submitted by Steel Panther on
More comments in Round 10 about what happened in Round 9 than there was in Round 9. I thought the place had turned into a ghost town last week considering there were a few talking points namely the poor officiating in the Roosters v Eels game, Trent Robinson's "on the money" press conference and Baggy' Gee's silence. Another close hard fought Queensland derby with the Cows pipping Brisbane at the death. Tommy Turbo's super human feats for Manly and more sulking from Sticky who witnessed his team choking again after holding a healthy lead.
Submitted by mark ashford on
Newbie & MGM
First up Newbie I admire your defence of players making late hits, you are after all a gentleman poster but I must agree with MGM on the points he/she raised. I recall that for many years late hits, some very damaging, on kickers were allowed to go unpenalised by refs. Any kicker was fair game to some big boofheaded forwards looking to hurt. The game today is so much faster, so there could be a reason for late hits on kickers but I've not seen any so far this year. The usual result is just wrap your arms around the kicker maybe hoping for a charge down.
The hit on Tedesco arguably one of the best players in the game and the immediate knees in the back a few seconds later was terrible.
I heard a commentator say if you look at it in normal speed there's nothing wrong. I also heard "look at the knees" not sure if it was from a sidie or where but the ref chose to ignore it. We all know what happened from there. I'm tired of "heat of the moment" or "I couldn't pull out" these guys are pro athletes on big money and should take more care.
Submitted by Dragons-fanboy on
Hey everyone, my tips for this week for Magic Round are:
Knights by 8
Manly by 10
Raiders by 12
Rabbitohs by 18
Roosters by 4
Eels by 2
Storm by 6
Panthers by 14
Awesome! Good luck with everyone's team for this week and with everyone's tips for this week. Enjoy Magic Round y'all and for those lucky to be in Brisbane to enjoy the action, hope you enjoy! Cheers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Submitted by Christine on
Mgm
easy we are just simple we don't need order or structure ...
Submitted by mark ashford on
Hey Steel
Yes I've been quiet but I'm sure you know why. Can't answer for the others but lets hope we all fire up for Magic round. Some very good games to comment on.
Submitted by mark ashford on
Hey Steel
Yes I've been quiet but I'm sure you know why. Can't answer for the others but lets hope we all fire up for Magic round. Some very good games to comment on.
Submitted by Scotty H on
Round 10 Tips
Knights
Sea Eagles
Raiders
Rabbitohs
Cowboys
Eels
Storm
Panthers
Thank you
Submitted by newbie from perth on
"Dia duit gach duine" i dteanga ní mo theanga féin,
@ Mr Ashford
🔊 “I'm tired of "heat of the moment" or "I couldn't pull out" these guys are pro athletes on big money and should take more care.”
Yeah, MGM and your kind self have given me food for thought. I was thinking about it for a while earlier this morning after I posted and I’m currently hovering betwixt here and there. Hmm, I think I’ll be keeping a lookout for similar instances from now on. Definitely hear what you two are saying and it’s been taken onboard 👍. Cheers.
OK, let’s do this thang…
Tigers vs. Knights 40-60 @ Suncorp
Ladder Position = Knights
Bookies Favourite = Knights
Tigers
The Tigers lost a disjointed affair last week against the Titans 36-28 but did show some fight in coming back twice but in the end they were not quite good enough. Behind 36-12 at the 67’ mark, Nofoaluma scored two quick tries in the space of 2 minutes to give them some hope. Bottom line is they yet again gave away too many points too quickly (18-0 down after just 13 minutes) and that’s hurting. Definitely something they and Michael Maguire need to work on. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 51%
Completion Rate - 80% (40/50)
Missed Tackles - 25
Ineffective Tackles - 26
Errors - 12
Knights
Against the Raiders last week, the Knights had an “average” first half but a great second half. Scoring 24 unanswered second half points was enough to see them get up over the Raiders 24-16. Once Crossland scored a minute into the second half, the Knights picked it up and charged back into the game (with some help from Ponga), kept the Raiders scoreless and ran out deserved winners. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 47%
Completion Rate - 71% (29/41)
Forced Drop Outs - 2
Missed Tackles - 36
Ineffective Tackles - 26
Errors - 13
Ruck Infringements - 5
Verdict: The Tigers have potential but I’m not quite sold on them yet. Knights for me.
Manly vs. Broncos 65-35 @ Suncorp
Ladder Position = Manly
Bookies Favourite = Manly
Manly
Two brilliant tries from Tom Trbojevic in the first half but Manly were still behind 20-12 at the break last week against the Warriors. Not too flash in the first half but things were looking good in the second when they gained the momentum and racked up 5 tries and eventually held on for a 38-32 win. Manly had to weather the Warriors fight-back and were lucky that Nikorima completely butchered that certain try around the 46’ mark (I think). Best on ground (easily) was Turbo Tom. He scored 2 tries, had 4 try assists, 5 line breaks, 3 line break assists, 8 tackle breaks and ran for 235 metres. Jason Saab wasn’t too shabby either. All round it was a good outing from the Manly boys. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 51%
Completion Rate - 68% (26/38)
Line Breaks - 10
Missed Tackles - 19
Ineffective Tackles - 7
Errors - 12
Penalties Conceded - 4
Broncos
Even though they lost 19-18 (and had 2 tries disallowed), it was a pretty good effort from the Broncos last week against the Cowboys. They were looking like they might just get home with 6 minutes to go and 6 in front but unfortunately, the pressure applied by the Titans became too much and Jason Taumalolo charged over the line to score under the posts to make 18-18. Then Valentine Holmes broke their hearts when he slotted over the field goal and the Broncos lost a thriller 😢. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 49%
Completion Rate - 69% (27/39)
Missed Tackles - 24
Ineffective Tackles - 8
Errors - 14
Ruck Infringements - 1
Verdict: The Broncos are a definite chance here I reckon but I’m going with the “form” team in Manly.
Bulldogs vs. Raiders 30-70 @ Suncorp
Ladder Position = Raiders
Bookies Favourite = Raiders
Bulldogs
As mentioned in the Dragons comments further down, that first half last week was one of the worst I’ve seen in a long while. As far as I’m concerned, it was utter “garbage” from both the Bulldogs and the Dragons. In that first half the Bulldogs made 6 errors, had 21 missed tackles and offered up some really poor attacking options even though they had a lot of possession. The Dragons put 5 tries past them in the second half and the Bulldogs were comfortably beaten 32-12. Not a good afternoon for the Bulldogs with Flanagan getting hooked and serious injuries to Lachlan Lewis and Corey Allen. By all accounts they will have about 10 or 11 regulars (?) more than likely missing for this week’s game. Their execution and discipline was poor and not enough was made of the opportunities they had. If you wanted to be brutally honest you would have to say their overall effort was feckless (that’s a good word eh 🤪). Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 50%
Completion Rate - 79% (34/43)
Line Breaks - 0
Missed Tackles - 37
Ineffective Tackles - 19
Errors - 11
Penalties Conceded - 3
Raiders
What is it with the Raiders and their second half “yips”? Another week and another second 40 fade out 😱. Last week they led the Knights 16-0 at half-time and then scored zilch in the second half while the Knights got 24 unanswered points and lo and behold the Raiders lose it 24-16. “Rinse and repeat”. Sheesh! The Raiders simply fell apart in the second 40 and are struggling to say the least. Ricky has a big job on his hands at the moment. Disappointing. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 53%
Completion Rate - 79% (33/42)
Forced Drop Outs - 5
Missed Tackles - 23
Ineffective Tackles - 24
Errors - 10
Ruck Infringements - 2
Verdict: As bad as the Raiders are at the moment, you’d have to think they’ll win this. Raiders for me.
Sharks vs. Rabbitohs 35-65 @ Suncorp
Ladder Position = Rabbitohs
Bookies Favourite = Rabbitohs
Sharks
The Sharks offered very little resistance last week against the Panthers and ended up getting smacked to the tune of 48-0. Too many errors, not enough discipline and lacking any plan in attack. To say they were lacklustre would be an understatement. They are obviously not travelling well at the minute. I could be completely wrong here but getting rid of John Morris is certainly paying dividends isn’t it 😱. Yeah, that was a friendly shot of sarcasm 😉. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 37%
Completion Rate - 70% (23/33)
Post Contact Metres - 342
Line Breaks - 0
Forced Drop Outs - 2
Missed Tackles - 45
Ineffective Tackles - 21
Errors - 11
Rabbitohs
There wasn’t much the Rabbitohs could’ve done last week against the Storm that might’ve changed the end result to be honest. Totally out-muscled and out-played by a far superior opponent. It’s as if they were disembowelled. Graphic analogy I know but pretty close to what happened. Souths were down on troops it must be said but losing 50-0 was certainly disappointing, embarrassing and a stark wake-up call. I suppose the 50 point drubbing means that (historically) they can’t (won’t) win the premiership this year 🤔. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 41%
Completion Rate - 68% (25/37)
Post Contact Metres - 328
Line Breaks - 0
Average Set Distance - 29.3
Missed Tackles - 29
Ineffective Tackles - 24
Errors - 11
Verdict: The Rabbitohs will “bounce back” this week and should win.
Roosters vs. Cowboys 70-30 @ Suncorp
Ladder Position = Roosters
Bookies Favourite = Roosters
Roosters
Even though the Roosters were beaten 31-18 by the Eels last week, it was an impressive display nevertheless. Sam Walker was getting smashed and played with an ankle injury, Radley failed his HIA very early on and we lost Hutchison with broken ribs and a punctured lung. How much more can we take? Our bench is a hospital emergency ward at the moment. But hey, other sides are in the same boat so just get on with it eh? Regardless, I was very proud of my BBB defensive effort against a very slick side. They stuck to their guns and tackled themselves into exhaustion by the end of the match (425 tackles vs. 271 for the Eels). It was a brutal encounter to be sure but it was a great game to watch even though we got done. Too many injuries and not enough possession were telling. For me, Nat Butcher was our best. Played his guts out did Nat 💪. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 36%
Completion Rate - 70% (23/33)
Kicking Metres - 407
Forced Drop Outs - 0
Tackles Made - 425
Missed Tackles - 35
Ineffective Tackles - 27
Errors - 16
Ruck Infringements - 5
Cowboys
The Cowboys were down by 4 at the break and found themselves down by 6 with just 6 minutes left last week against the Broncos. Enter the wrecking ball aka Jason Taumalolo who barges over to get the Cowboys level. Then the unlikely field goal hero Holmes gets them Holme (home) and the Cowboys win a thriller 19-18. To their credit, the Cowboys put the Broncos under enough pressure towards the end which enabled them to draw level and scrape in. A few too many missed tackles though I noticed. That try from Kyle Feldt was an absolute blinder. I can safely say I have never seen anything like it before. It was a fine example of sheer determination and brilliance for mine. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 51%
Completion Rate - 80% (32/40)
Missed Tackles - 43
Ineffective Tackles - 20
Errors - 11
Ruck Infringements - 4
Verdict: Roosters. Begurk! 🐔 Begurk! 🐔
Warriors vs. Eels 40-60 @ Suncorp
Ladder Position = Eels
Bookies Favourite = Eels
Warriors
The Warriors led Manly 20-12 at the break last week despite having some discipline issues. Manly came out in the second half and scored 5 tries and the Warriors looked gone. To their credit they persevered and fought back only for Nikorima to completely and utterly butcher that “certain” try. How he didn’t see his two unmarked teammates I don’t know 😱. Had it not been for that and Saab’s try saver on Ken Maumalo with a minute to go, it might’ve been a different story. Unfortunately for the Warriors it wasn’t and they lost a winnable game 38-32. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 49%
Completion Rate - 83% (29/35)
Line Breaks - 4
Missed Tackles - 24
Ineffective Tackles - 10
Errors - 9
Penalties Conceded - 5
Eels
While the Eels did win last week against the Roosters 31-18, they were made to work for it. It wasn’t until the last 7 minutes when they managed to get on top with Moses kicking a field goal to get the “buffer” and then Dylan Brown skipped through some exhausted Roosters to score the clincher with 5 minutes left. I was impressed with Moses in particular and he was ably supported by Campbell-Gillard and Gutherson. The Eels were pretty good right across the park and proved they’re a decent side and better than they were last year in my book. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 64%
Completion Rate - 88% (42/48)
Kicking Metres - 647
Forced Drop Outs - 4
Missed Tackles - 28
Ineffective Tackles - 5
Errors - 8
Ruck Infringements - 1
Verdict: Yeah, the Eels are missing a couple through suspension but I reckon they’ll still be too good. Eels for me.
Storm vs. Dragons 75-25 @ Suncorp
Ladder Position = Storm
Bookies Favourite = Storm
Storm
The Storm were simply too good last week against the Rabbitohs. It was an almost flawless exhibition with a clinical display in attack and defence from the Storm. What should worry other sides is that they never took their foot off their opponents’ throats the whole 80 minutes. I won’t mention that certain player scoring all those tries as I’m not too fond of him to be honest. It must be noted that they weren’t up against a bottom of the table side so winning 50-0 against the Rabbitohs franks impressive form. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 59%
Completion Rate - 93% (37/40)
Line Breaks - 9
Missed Tackles - 12
Ineffective Tackles - 5
Errors - 5
Dragons
The Dragons got home fairly comfortably 32-12 last week against the Bulldogs but not before making me sit through one of the worst first halves I’ve seen in a long while. That first half was “garbage” (from both sides) with the Dragons making 8 errors and missing 17 tackles (but just another 7 in the second half). Thankfully their second half was much better and they scored 5 tries in a 19 minute period. That and a Bulldogs side that had no answers, led to the Dragons getting home with ease. I still can’t get over how messy that first half was though 😱. Finally, is it just me or is Josh McGuire a “loose cannon”? Not quite sure about him. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 50%
Completion Rate - 73% (32/44)
Line Breaks - 6
Missed Tackles - 24
Ineffective Tackles - 16
Errors - 16
Penalties Conceded - 6
Verdict: Geez, this is a hard one 😁. Even with missing players, the Storm should win this.
Titans vs. Panthers 25-75 @ Suncorp
Ladder Position = Panthers
Bookies Favourite = Panthers
Titans
The Titans got out to big leads twice last week against the Tigers and both times the Tigers fought back but the Titans did enough to hang on and get home 36-28 in the end. They weren’t pretty but they came out on top in a messy sort of game and did well when they were a man down. Their attack was pretty good (36 points) but by the same token their defence wasn’t quite there at times (letting in 24). On balance I thought they were the better side but only just. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 49%
Completion Rate - 74% (26/35)
Average Set Distance - 47.3
Missed Tackles - 33
Ineffective Tackles - 22
Errors - 12
Penalties Conceded - 7
Ruck Infringements - 6
Panthers
A huge 48-0 result for the Panthers last week against the Sharks. It is starting to get repetitive and I might just copy and paste the following each week …
“Another impressive effort from the Panthers last week. Went about their job in a professional and clinical manner and did what they had to do as a team. Great contributions from Cleary and Luai as usual.”
Given what they’re showing us so far this year, I’m scratching my head trying to think who’s gonna beat them in the GF. Unless something out of the ordinary happens (massive injuries and/or heavy suspensions say), it’s as good as theirs. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 63%
Completion Rate - 81% (35/43)
All Run Metres - 2,325
Post Contact Metres - 765
Line Breaks - 8
Average Set Distance - 54.1
Forced Drop Outs - 7
Missed Tackles - 16
Ineffective Tackles - 14
Errors - 7
Verdict: One word … Panthers.
Let’s finish off with another “Song of the Week”.
This one is from 1992 which makes it 29 years old 😱. Can’t believe it was that long ago. This guy is in my all-time top 10 of favourite artists/bands and not sure I could survive without his music. In a totally non you-know-what way, I love this guy 😍.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0C3DHp36zc
OK kids, good luck with your tipping and may your team win by 40 points! Until next week. Cheers 🐔 🐔 🐔
Submitted by tigerholic on
Christine
The one tipster I thought of when I read you mentioned the word "Simple" would be Rocket.
Happy Friday folks-Tiger and his youngest cub have scored some slightly better seats for tonights footy at Suncorp, Aisle 301, row 34 in the western stand. These seats are right in the middle and look to be mint.
Good luck to all this week.
Tiger
Submitted by Steel Panther on
Tiger,
Enjoy the weekend with your cub. I am jealous and would love to be there but at least I have a 3-day pass on the couch. I'd like to think that when life returns to normal (if it ever does) I'll be able to make a trip over for magic round.
All the best!!
Submitted by tigerholic on
Cheers Steel
Should be a good weekend of footy.
Tiger
Submitted by The Thinker on
@Tigerholic
Have a great night - I'll be in the tier behind you (six hundred and something)
Still...no bad seats in that joint
All the best
The Thinker
Submitted by Baggy_Gee on
Rant in coming!
Steel it is madness here at the moment, trying to get my wife and I over the Uni line before a lost weekend due to a wedding, and while I wasn't happy with the incidents I can accept the punishment.
A lot of people have pointed out the inconsistency's with the Bunker last weekend, there was another knees in the back that nothing happened about and no ban, so it would appear that some animals are more equal. But leading with the knees should be outlawed and punished as we see what damage they can cause. There is someone ever week that leads with feet or knees when attempting to defend a try, the ground was still damp from the rain, and strangely I think Bankwest cut the grass slightly longer as the ball holds up better in the in-goal. Nikore was just unlucky, Paulo got to Tedescoe first and that assisted in the shoulder to the head we saw, still a fair call based on the "precedent" set by the ref's.
Now as to the "no intent". All players see enough careers shattered both by assisted injury, accidental contact, and act of God, to know that theirs could be finished in a heart beat just jogging back onside. So to indicate that 2 players intentionally tried to take out another player is the height of stupidity. The closest I have ever seen was Kafusi leading with the elbow into Matterson's head round 2, and Karmicheal Hunts Shoulder charge into Braith's face so many years ago. It is similar to F1, to many deaths to play silly buggers with bodies.
TLDR
I agree with the punishment, but am slightly annoyed that it was only 2 incidents over the entire weekend called out in the media. If your against it, rule on it.
Submitted by mark ashford on
Rocket Ryan & Steel
Thank you both for pointing out my misread of Rockets post. Guess I'm a bit over sensative with all things Broncs at the moment.
Submitted by Mary S on
Hi everyone,
The following article on the NRL website, made me think there maybe more stringent ruling this weekend on high contact, etc.
https://www.nrl.com/news/2021/05/14/time-to-get-message-vlandys-warns-pl...
Enjoy the footy all - whether from the stands or the couch!
Cheers,
Mary
Submitted by Steel Panther on
Good to hear from you Baggy. I thought you had disappeared but you simply have a busy life like most of us I guess.
I certainly don't have much of a problem with the incidents as they happen all the time on the footy field. While not good, I'm not sure I'm with MGM on his view. I'd like to think that most players go out there to win, not to maim someone.
My gripe was with the officiating who failed to see what every other man and his dog saw. How can they be that incompetent.....seriously!! Zero consistency.
Will be watching your team clash with mine this weekend and can't see anything but another loss for the Warriors. Hopefully they at least compete!!
Submitted by a on
Mary S and MGM please submit you tip in my 3 strike comp
Submitted by Christine on
Tiger
Seriously you only came up with rocket re he who shall remain nameless doesn't come to mind , enjoy your game tiger ...
Submitted by Christine on
Put my tips in as
Knights
manly
Raiders but i wouldn't be surprised with the way they havd been playing if bulldogs win
Souths
Chooks
Eels
Storm
Panthers
May the nrl gods be good to us all ...
Submitted by Baggy_Gee on
I think with our changes it will be a lot closer than the odds look. I'm excited to see how we go and if we can maintain the rage. Worried about the right edge with waqa being back as nikore was awesome out there. Best of luck steel and hope the grounds not to cut up.
Submitted by The Thinker on
@Tigerholic
I will send you an email - a beer sounds like a good idea
Tigers!!!!!!!
All the best
The Thinker
Submitted by mark ashford on
The Broncos display at their home ground last night was just short of disgraceful, 50/6 drubbing by the Sea Eagles leaves me lost for words. Just as I thought they had turned a corner recently and now this.
Submitted by Baggy_Gee on
Well that is 10 sin binnings and one send off in 4 games. Working through the two games so far, there have been a lot more "dangerous" tackle without punishment than we saw on Friday. Loving the consistancy. But 4/4 so far so life isn't to bad.
Submitted by The Thinker on
I was lucky enough to catch up with Tigerholic and his son at Magic Round today.
Great atmosphere at the games - it's a real carnival.
Now I have to back up again tomorrow - that will test me.
Tigerholic is doing all eight...absolute marathon effort.
Submitted by tigerholic on
Morning All
Day three of Magic Round and I feel like i have worked day/night continuously for about a week, it has been worth the effort and tiredness to see all of the games.
I did have the honour of meeting our Boss the Thinker, it was a nice chat over a cold beer, I owe you a beer Thinker and If I see you this afternoon/evening I will buy you one.Thanks for allowing my son and I to meet you, it really was an honour.
The sin binning farce is getting out of hand, as was the send off of Josh Papalii, I agree his shoulder charge contacted the head but he was trying to make the tackle.
That could have been a pivotal moment in that game but the Raiders lifted and got a much needed win.
The seats my son and I had last night were fairly high up but you could see every part of the field, there was also everything you needed on the top floor with bars, food and toilets a plenty to make life a bit easier.
They gave away 2 lots of $25000 each game as well as $500 KFC vouchers twice a game as well, my only grip there is that I don't think they venture near where the pigeons camp.
Suncorp is a fantastic ground to watch sport at, the public transport is ample and the atmosphere is amazing.
Along with any sporting venues, there is always the chatter about pricing, I'm not sure if most would consider 4 x cups which must be a schooner size of GN super crisp for $40 plus a tray expensive but the beer was good. I bought my 13 year old a coke as he was the designated driver, when I asked if they had straws I got a look like"no Sir, that would be an extra $5", anyway still a great venue with the staff assisting with seating and keeping an eye out very friendly.
Anyway folks, is there any other tipsters going to the games today at Suncorp, if so let me know and we can try and catch up.
All the best
Tiger