Penrith Panthers vs Melbourne Storm – Thursday night – Panthers Stadium
Breaking News - Nathan Cleary has been ruled out...so read my preview below (and make your selection) with that in mind
A grand final rematch always generates extra discussion - the Panthers haven't conceded a point this season, while the Storm will have their big boy pants on after the loss to the Eels last week. Importantly, Cleary has been named to play after passing HIA protocols - note that the Panthers are on a short turnaround into this game so keep your eyes open for late line-up changes. While all eyes will be on Cleary, I'm just as interested in the battle of the five-eighths. Luai and Munster are, for me at least, exactly the type of number six you want in your team - creative playmakers who want their hands on the ball and are willing to engage the line when the circumstances warrant it. Forwards love playing with playmakers like that, because they know if they do the work (and forwards do all the work) then the team is more likely to get rewarded on the back of it. The Storm don't lose successive games often, but I expect the Panthers to deliver a big performance for a region that's battling mother nature at the minute. Note that SES volunteers can attend this game for free. Should be a ripper.
Verdict – Panthers by 8
Result – Panthers 12 defeated Storm 10
St George Illawarra Dragons vs Manly Sea Eagles – Friday night – WIN Stadium
Manly are yet to register a win but they've faced some top tier opponents in their first two outings...this is easier. The Dragons registered their first victory under the new coach and name an unchanged line-up here. There's some talk that Turbo Tom will be a late inclusion in this game, but I can't see Des Hasler risking his hamstrings on a very wet surface. To my eye the Sea Eagles are looking a bit light on in the engine room, and if this is a slog the Dragons should gain the ascendancy late in the game. I'm with the Red V in their first outing at the Gong.
Verdict – Dragons by 4
Result – Dragons 38 defeated Sea Eagles 12
South Sydney Rabbitohs vs Sydney Roosters – Friday night – Stadium Australia
The oldest rivalry in the game is always a highlight, and the Chooks (or the Bunnies) probably haven't forgetten that the Rabbits ran in 60 points when they met in the last game of the 2020 regular season. It smarts just thinking about it. Thus far this season the tricolours have been putting on clinics, but there is a question mark over the quality of their rivals thus far. That said, winning is winning, and they are adding Crichton and Radley to a winning line-up. Jake Friend has at least a week off to rest his head, while the Bunnies have named Reynolds after he passed his HIA assessment. Josh Mansour gets another chance in first grade with his new side. This week Damien Cook, perhaps foolishly, suggested that Latrell Mitchell is a better full-back than James Tedesco. Let's see if Teddy makes him eat those words. In a round of rippers this could be the rippiest contest of them all.
Verdict – Roosters by 4
Result – Rabbitohs 26 defeated Roosters 16
Canberra Raiders vs New Zealand Warriors – Saturday afternoon – GIO Stadium
Canberra seems like a pretty embarrassing place to work right now, unless you have a contract with the Raiders. Undefeated thus far and looking every inch a top four side, their heart, soul and co-captain Jarrod Croker returns after shoulder surgery. Under-estimate the value of his inclusion at your peril. A couple of notable hyphens are out for the Warriors, with Harris-Tavita a big blow after fracturing his foot (that will teach for me for giving a bloke a wrap). Taunoa-Brown is suspended, and he'll be sorely missed too given the might of the Raiders forward pack. I'm green.
Verdict – Raiders by 8
Result – Warriors 34 defeated Raiders 31
Brisbane Broncos vs Canterbury Bulldogs – Saturday afternoon – Suncorp Stadium
The Broncos have lost 13 games in a row, but I'm about to get bold here - they are going to win this in a canter on Saturday. That poor horse will be exhausted at full time. Exhausted. It's time for Kevvie and the boys to make a stand and make a point. Here they come.
Verdict – Broncos by 26
Result – Broncos 24 defeated Bulldogs 0
Parramatta Eels vs Cronulla Sharks – Saturday night – Bankwest Stadium
While the Eels overall record against the Sharks is woeful reading for Parramatta fans, they did win the last contest (albeit barely) and their record at Bankwest is hard to ignore. Couple that with their come from behind win over the Broncos and an impressive victory over the Storm in difficult conditions, and they pick themselves here. I'm expecting a contest nonetheless.
Verdict – Eels by 4
Result – Eels 28 defeated Sharks 4
Newcastle Knights vs Wests Tigers – Sunday afternoon – McDonald Jones Stadium
He's quite the polarising figure is Mitchell Pearce, but on Sunday afternoon he joins an elite group of footballers that have notched up 300 games in the NRL (for those keeping count he is player number 41). By all accounts he's actually a really nice person who, from time time, makes some bafflingly poor choices. Given that he's mostly well-liked among the playing group I expect the Knights will be keen to win this one, particularly on a Sunday afternoon in Newcastle. As for the Tigers, I wasn't excited by the prospects of their squad at the start of the season, and they've given me no reason to change my mind.
Verdict – Knights by 10
Result – Tigers 24 defeated Knights 20
North Queensland Cowboys vs Gold Coast Titans – Sunday night – Queensland Country Bank Stadium
Something of a danger game for the Titans here, who haven't won in Townsville in nearly a decade. That said, for much of that decade the Cowboys had a better side than they have currently (while the reverse is true for the Titans). Ashley Taylor is injured so Tanah Boyd gets an opportunity in the halves - a big moment for the youngster. Coen Hess has been named but he's on soft duties all week so a watch on him, and Kyle Feldt is suspended and his omission is significant (for a winger). I'm with the Titans who look like a genuine top eight side this season.
Verdict – Titans by 4
Result – Titans 44 defeated Cowboys 8
Wally Lewis - round three selections (in bold)
Note: tips from Wally will be published on Wednesday night or Thursday morning
- PANTHERS vs Storm
- DRAGONS vs Sea Eagles
- Rabbitohs vs ROOSTERS
- RAIDERS vs Warriors
- BRONCOS vs Bulldogs
- EELS vs Sharks
- KNIGHTS vs Tigers
- Cowboys vs TITANS
Comments
Submitted by The Thinker on
Greetings football fans
I have updated the NRL ladder and the tipping comp after round two. Top score for the round was 7 from 8 and there were quite a few of you...we're a smart group.
Dragons-Fanboy and Islander lead the comp after two rounds on 14, with an enormous peleton chasing behind as always.
If anyone thinks there are errors with the scores just let me know and I will check it out.
I will have my round three tips and previews published by Wednesday morning, and will have the A Game updated by Tuesday morning at the latest.
All the best
The Thinker
Submitted by Rocket Ryan on
Well done mark you are turning the tipping clock back broncos are a chance this week surely you would think.
Submitted by Christine on
I just have a ?? Did nostradamous oops i mean falou predict these floods we are experiencing after our bush fires or have i got it wrong seeing we arr all sinners we must be getting punished for something ???
Submitted by Christine on
That said are , we must be all very bad people to keep coping it like this ...
Submitted by tigerholic on
Rocket
Round 3 is your big chance to tip your Broncos, surely you believe they can run all over the Bulldogs.
Butcher
Congrats to your team mate, there's not much else I can say when I'm so embarrassed, disappointed and totally disillusioned with the efforts and performance of the majority of the tigers players. Enjoy the win, then I guess as a Roosters supporter you must be sick of winning.
Christine
How are you going, hope you are well. Have a good week.
Tiger
Submitted by Baggy_Gee on
Hmmmm I think the ladder is wrong, the BOYS are on 4 points in 5th not 2. We did beat the raining premiers last Thursday in the mud. Stay safe in Sydney.
Submitted by The Butcher on
Tiger
I’m not going to kick you while your down. The scoreboard says it all.
The tigers showed glimpses of what they can do and I saw a lot to like in your young fullback Daine Laurie.
And no I never get sick of winning.
Submitted by mark ashford on
Hey Rocket
Thanks for your encouragement, I just gotta keep going. Yes I will look closely at the Broncs this week. The Broncs lost to the Eels after a good start and then went down to the Titans after the bloke they should never have let go put two on them. The Doggies lost to the Knights and then an embarrassing zero against the Panthers. The Broncs beat the Doggies last year in one of their few wins. It's at Suncorp so maybe the home crowd can get them home.
Submitted by The Thinker on
@Baggy_Gee
Thank you sir...all fixed.
Eels...undefeated :-)
Submitted by mark ashford on
Tiger
I wouldn't get too disillusioned If I was you. The Roosters are red hot at the moment with a team that could beat anyone ( I'm not going to mention the cap again OH I just have) It's only round 2 and there's plenty of footy to go. Coachs and players need to step up.
Submitted by Dragons-fanboy on
Nice to be on top of the leaderboard along with Islander ;) good luck for round 3 everyone!
Cheers!!!!!!!
Still a long way to go though
Submitted by mark ashford on
A little tribute to our friends in NSW and SE Qld
Please don't try to cross flooded roads or rivers, there is always tomorrow. Check on neighbours and any old folks in your area who may need some help from the flooding. A few days of caring and we'll be back to one of my favourite songs.
https://youtu.be/6e01nNA02vw
Submitted by Hardyards on
Hey thinker,
Dragons beat us this week so shouldn’t they have 2 points on the ladder mate? Cowboys will get a point one day....... please!
Submitted by The Thinker on
@Hardyards
It does seem strange that the Eels get the same amount of points for beating the Storm as the Dragons get for beating the Cowboys.
But you're right.....thanks for letting me know.
I have fixed the NRL ladder now - I need to stop doing these updates at 4 in the morning :-)
All the best
The Thinker
Submitted by Baggy_Gee on
Thank you Boss, when your the bottom of the undefeated teams you need all the help you can get. Some of these +/- are getting ridiculous through two games though.
Submitted by mark ashford on
Big Pete
I see your Manly is on the bottom of the table due to +/-. Jeez Louise they have played the Roosters & Rabbits in their first two games. Two teams who will be there when the whips are cracking. It's a long way to go till the GF so don't lose heart.
Submitted by Christine on
Let me update you the rain in sydney has finally stopped , the dreadded monster has moved south the south coast is now copping it & our rivers are still hitting there peak ...
Submitted by Christine on
Tiger
Surprisingly ok given the last week or so we've had with all the rain & we're not even in winter yet , i finally heard back today from my professor's assistant that i am allowed to have the covid 19 vaccine with my treatment which i had been waiting to hear for several weeks so now i just have to wait like everyone else , have you had your covid vaccine yet tiger or don't you get priority working where you do ? I did what mark said not what to do the other day i had no choice but to drive into & through flood water across the road lucky for me it wasn't really deep but it did slow the engine down but i had no where else to go i couldn't avoid it it was straight across the whole road & i only drive a i 30 an older one 2014 model it gets me where i have to go too but it doesn't like a lot of water when you drive it if there has been alot if rain & the water pools on the road it grabs my wheels when i am driving almost makes me aquaplane across the road so i try to avoid it if it is those conditions , hope you are keeping well tiger stay safe on the right side of those bars & say hello to that wife of yours for all of us hear @ tbe thinker's site tiger , speak to you soon , look after yourself ...
Submitted by Mary S on
Hi Boss,
Several of us have registered our tips for R 3, but they are not showing up on this page, nor is the "tips on one page"
Cheers,
Mary
Submitted by NZ Tiger on
Just getting my tips in...what's Dragons-fanboy and Islander tipped this week? HAHAHA
Submitted by Bern on
When will round 3’s tips be published?
Submitted by Dragons-fanboy on
Hi everyone,
My tips for Rd 3 are
Storm by 4
Dragons by 10
Roosters by 8
Raiders by 14
Bulldogs by 1
Eels by 12
Knights by 20
Titans by 6
Awesome! Good luck everyone with your tips and your team for this week. Hopefully I can maintain my top spot good luck chasing me down!.;)
Cheers!!!!
Submitted by mark ashford on
Dragons-Fanboy
Congratulations on being on the top rung. We have 60 odd tipsters this year so it's not to be taken lightly. If Ben Hunt keeps up his current form you guys will make the 8. Good luck to you this week.
Submitted by Dragons-fanboy on
Thanks Mark! Same goes for you brother! Good luck to your Broncos this week I was tempted to tip them but that culture has me worried and Bulldogs are equally as desperate for a win. Your boys have to stand up simple as that. And in regards to my Dragons, hard to tell whether or not we will make the 8 in 2021 we were the wooden spoon favourites after all coming into the season happy with the first win but still plenty of work to do, the captaincy seems to be helping Benny's game he had a blinder against the Cowboys. Norman Hunt McCullough have the familiar combo from the Broncos all those years ago.
Cheers!!!!!
Submitted by Dragons-fanboy on
I also wanted to go against the grain and have the Bulldogs as my major outsider/upset tip for this round
Submitted by tigerholic on
Hi Christine
Glad to hear you can get the COVID Vaccine, I hope the recent rain event hasn't caused you any harm.
The whole East Coast has suffered from this event, isn't it funny how we wished and wished for rain and now we are wanting it to stop.
How have you found the footy so far this season, I have started the tipping year off well but I would trade that start for a better start for the Tigers.
I have actually changed my tip in the Knights/Tigers game to the Tigers, we have made a few changes and I think we can be competitive.
This years comp with Mr Thinker is a big affair, if you can be in the top 8 you would have done very well.
I have been back at work since 5th October and I have adjusted and coped with everything that has been thrown at me, I do know that I will never be the same person that I was 2 years ago.
I have about 9 years left to retirement and I am still chasing a promotion to see me finish on a Monday to Friday roster.
Anyway, stay safe and thanks for the chat.
Tiger
Submitted by Mary S on
Hi all,
Cleary and Papenhuyzen are out from Panthers/Storm match, due to injury.
Cheers,
Mary
Submitted by Scotty H on
Round 3 for me
Panthers
Sea Eagles
Roosters
Raiders
Broncos ( nervously)
Eels
Knights
Titans
I can’t see the link to put tips in.
Happy tipping!!
Submitted by newbie from perth on
Sa-wat-dee krup,
The explanation is far too long (even for me) but suffice to say I DO NOT watch the news or listen to the news or read the news. Having said that, I do know that you guys over in NSW (and possibly across the border in Qld) have had some flooding recently. Hope everyone’s OK and things return to normal. Be safe!
Thanks Mary for letting us know that Cleary and Papenhuyzen are both out of Thurs night’s game. Hmm, looks like a fair trade-off to me. Balance restored 🤔.
I know we’re only 2 rounds in but looking on the ladder at the “points against” I notice the Panthers have nil and the Roosters have 10. It’ll be interesting to see how that looks once both these teams come up against some “quality” opposition this week. OK, let’s get into it…
Panthers vs Storm 55-45 @ Panthers Stadium
Ladder Position = Panthers
Bookies Favourite = Panthers
Panthers
The Panthers ran out easy 28-0 winners last week in wet conditions against the Bulldogs. They just rolled through the plays and did what they needed to do. The Bulldogs defence was OK but perseverance paid off for the Panthers when they scored a try 3 minutes from half-time and another two in the last 8 minutes of the match. I wouldn’t say they were ruthless per se but they were always going to win last week. They controlled possession and field position and were just too classy for the Bulldogs. Not much (if anything) they need to work on as their figures were pretty good. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 59%
All Run Metres - 1,899
Post Contact Metres - 692
Line Breaks 5
Forced Drop Outs - 5
Missed Tackles - 21
Ineffective Tackles - 12
Penalties Conceded - 1
Storm
The Storm were simply outplayed by a more determined and switched on Eels side last week and got rolled 16-12. Yeah, it was bucketing down but the Storm didn’t seem (to me at least) to be handling the wet conditions all that well. With all that time spent outside of Melbourne last year they might’ve forgotten how to play in the wet 🤔. Mind you, they did play well for the most part. Papenhuyzen was the Storm’s best and he put in another stellar effort. Geez, that bloke is a freak and I mean that in a good way. He ran for 249 metres, had 132 kick return metres and basically kept the Storm in the game. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 55%
Completion Rate - 80%
Kicking Metres - 649
Missed Tackles - 34
Ineffective Tackles - 16
Errors - 7
Verdict: The Storm have played against 2 quality sides so far (1-1) while the Panthers haven’t (2-0). This will be a test for both sides. Difficult one to pick. Might go with the Panthers at home.
Dragons vs Manly 55-45 @ WIN
Ladder Position = Dragons
Bookies Favourite = Dragons
Dragons
The Dragons did enough last week against the Cowboys and came away with a relieving 25-18 win. The Cowboys made them work for it though. They responded well both times the Cowboys got to within a point. They had plenty of errors (so did the Cowboys though) and were possibly lucky the Cowboys didn’t (couldn’t) make them pay. No points scored in the last 20 minutes or so which probably made it a little more exciting to watch. That said, it seemed that the Cowboys didn’t look like threatening the Dragons line towards the closing stages of the match but even so, the Dragons still have a little work to do. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 49%
Line Breaks - 6
Forced Drop Outs - nil
Missed Tackles - 28
Ineffective Tackles - 11
Ruck Infringements - 6
Manly
A better performance from Manly last week against the Rabbitohs it must be said. They started well enough in the first half and had numerous opportunities when in good attacking positions but kept on coughing up possession. They did manage to get within 2 points at the 60 minute mark but the Rabbitohs scored tries at the 63 minute and 74 minute marks and Manly went down 26-12. Manly’s attack definitely needs some work. Their defence seems a little better but a little “polishing” wouldn’t go astray. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 50%
Forced Drop Outs - nil
Kick Defusal - 33%
Missed Tackles - 36
Ineffective Tackles - 10
Verdict: While I think Manly are on the improve I might just stay with the Dragons.
Rabbitohs vs Roosters 45-55 @ Stadium Aust
Ladder Position = Roosters
Bookies Favourite = Roosters
Rabbitohs
The Rabbitohs dominated early on in the first half last week against Manly and they scored 2 tries and were leading 10-0 after just 15 minutes. Manly pulled one back but another try to the Rabbitohs a minute before the break saw them head into the sheds 14-6 up. Manly got to within 2 points after 60 minutes but the class of the Rabbitohs came to the fore and they scored 2 great tries at 63’ and 74’ to seal the match and run out (semi) comfortable 26-12 winners. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 50%
Forced Drop Outs - 2
Kick Defusal - 80%
Missed Tackles - 17
Ineffective Tackles - 22
Roosters
What can I say? I don’t want to take up too much space here so I’ll just say that the Roosters put on a polished display last week against the Tigers. Well, except for their missed tackles and ruck infringements that is. Not to sound too conceited and absolutely no disrespect aimed at the Tigers whatsoever, but at times it looked like the Roosters were running training drills. They completely shut the Tigers down and went on to win it 40-6. Great to see Fletcher Baker score a try in his debut and Brett Morris become the first player to score a hat-trick in the first two games of a season in NRL history. Boom! 💥 Another great game from Keary and it looks like his positional switch is working out just fine. Looking forward to seeing how much time Radley gets and how he goes. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 55%
All Run Metres - 1,859
Line Breaks - 7
Kicking Metres - 606
Kick Defusal - 83%
Bombs - 9
Missed Tackles - 31
Ruck Infringements - 5
Verdict: Roosters. Begurk! 🐔 Begurk! 🐔
Raiders vs Warriors 60-40 @ GIO
Ladder Position = Raiders
Bookies Favourite = Raiders
Raiders
The Raiders confused me last week against the Sharks. They put on two unanswered tries in the first half and were controlling the play, dominating possession as well as field position and were travelling along nicely. The second half saw an entirely different Raiders run out. They were anxious, awkward and less disciplined which let the Sharks back in the game. But in the end they hung on to score a less than inspiring 12-10 win. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 49%
Completion Rate - 76%
Line Breaks - 6
Forced Drop Outs - 3
Missed Tackles - 20
Warriors
The Warriors did pretty well in the first half last week against the Knights (except for some basic errors) and were only 2 points adrift heading into the sheds. The second half wasn’t too bad and I liked the way they fought on after being 8 points down at the 50 minute mark. It seemed that Egan had got a "burrowing" try but the "powers that be" knocked it back. Some may disagree but I’m pretty sure he was dudded 🤔. They grabbed the lead anyway at 16-14 courtesy of the Maumalo try and we thought they might just sneak in but a late try from the Knights with 6 minutes left on the clock broke their hearts and they went down 20-16. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 55%
Kicking Metres - 829
Forced Drop Outs - 3
Missed Tackles - 22
Ineffective Tackles - 9
Errors - 8
Penalties Conceded - 6
Verdict: Which side are the Raiders gonna trot out this week and which half will they actually play football in? They have me second guessing this one. I’d really like to tip the Kiwis but will play safe and go the Raiders, albeit without much confidence.
Broncos vs Bulldogs 60-40 @ Suncorp
Ladder Position = Broncos
Bookies Favourite = Broncos
Broncos
Once again the Broncos started well but the bad habits (attitude or confidence maybe?) resurfaced and they simply fell away towards the end of the first half last week against the Titans. Too many unforced errors were a concern. I reckon their form worsened from week 1 and Big Kev has a job on his hands turning his fellas around. I have no doubt it will happen but when is anyone’s guess. I’m no expert (far from it actually) but if it was me I’d concentrate on “drilling” the same basic skills and plays into them relentlessly until it was second nature and at the same time try and get them to enjoy their footy. Easier said than done I know but it couldn’t hurt could it? The 28-16 loss would’ve disappointed. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 53%
Completion Rate - 65% (26/40)
Post Contact Metres - 536
Missed Tackles - 31
Ineffective Tackles - 16
Errors - 17
Penalties Conceded - 1
Bulldogs
OK, the Bulldogs were beaten by 28 points last week against the Panthers but you gotta remember they were only 10 points down after roughly 60 minutes. Up until then their defence was solid enough (sorta). The major contradiction to that statement was the fact that they managed 42 missed tackles 😱. Unfortunately, after DWZ got binned for his shot on Cleary, the Panthers put 2 tries past them in the last 9 minutes and that was all she wrote and they got smacked 28-0. They had a number of opportunities in attack but failed to capitalise on them. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 41%
All Run Metres - 1,124
Post Contact Metres - 406
Line Breaks - 1
Forced Drop Outs - 1
Missed Tackles - 42
Ineffective Tackles - 4
Penalties Conceded - 5
Verdict: Both sides are pretty average at the moment but at home I think the Broncos have more upside in them. The Ponies for me.
Eels vs Sharks 65-35 @ Bankwest
Ladder Position = Eels
Bookies Favourite = Eels
Eels
It was a very impressive effort from the Eels last week against the Storm. They were driven and spirited and their plan to counter the Storm’s playing style was executed perfectly. The Eels were incredibly polished despite the (very) wet conditions and simply ground out the 16-12 win, even though they left it late. In my opinion, the best side on the night won. Gutherson was immense for the Eels (especially his defence) and was easily the best player in the match. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 45%
Completion Rate - 88%
Kicking Metres - 903
Missed Tackles - 32
Ineffective Tackles - 24
Errors - 10
Sharks
The Sharks played well enough in the first half last week against the Raiders and were close enough heading into the break. They won the second half, kept the Raiders scoreless but unfortunately, and let’s be honest here, Townsend’s kicking (or lack of) cost them the game. In typical Sharks fashion they got themselves back into the contest with sheer determination but their defence was at times atrocious. You can’t win games when you miss 51 tackles 😱. All said and done they should have won that game but instead they lost it 12-10. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 51%
Completion Rate - 62%
Line Breaks - 1
Forced Drop Outs - nil
Missed Tackles - 51
Verdict: Yeah, the honeymoon’s not over yet (famous last words maybe?). The Eels for me.
Knights vs Tigers 70-30 @ McDonald Jones
Ladder Position = Knights
Bookies Favourite = Knights
Knights
After a tight and nervous encounter against the Warriors last week, the Knights got the chocolates with an exciting 20-16 win. Pretty good defence in the first half where they had to withstand repeated attacking forays from the Warriors. So much so they made 117 more tackles in the match than the Warriors did (457 vs 340). In the end they got home but left it until the 74th minute to do so. The Knights weren't spectacular but all you need to do is enough to win and win they did. Welcome return to form from Pearce and ably backed up by Brailey. No forced drop outs I noticed. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 45%
Kicking Metres - 667
Missed Tackles - 16
Ineffective Tackles - 14
Errors - 4
Penalties Conceded - 4
Tigers
Things didn’t look good for the Tigers last week after the Roosters scored 2 quick tries after 12 minutes. The Tigers hit back 5 minutes later through Liddle but unfortunately that’s as close as they got and they got swamped 40-6. Not a great way to celebrate Luke Brooks’ 150th 😢. Brooks didn’t play all that badly but he did kick it dead 3 times. Yikes! Top game from Daine Laurie under trying conditions, never gave up. Their left edge defence was severely lacking and even Maguire said “We need to have a look at that." Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 45%
Line Breaks - 2
Kicking Metres - 443
Kick Defusal - 57%
Bombs - 2
Missed Tackles - 34
Ruck Infringements - 1
Verdict: At home I have to go the Knights here but wouldn’t be surprised if the Tigers improved sharply.
Cowboys vs Titans 40-60 @ Townsville
Ladder Position = Titans
Bookies Favourite = Titans
Cowboys
The Cowboys had their chances last week against the Dragons and could have (should have) possibly won but instead ended up losing 25-18. Through hard work they managed to get to within a point on a couple of occasions but crucial handling errors at the wrong times ended up costing them any chance of winning. They had some woeful moments and even though they got close, they seemed “lost” in attack. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 51%
Line Breaks - 1
Forced Drop Outs - 3
Missed Tackles - 34
Ineffective Tackles - 22
Ruck Infringements - 2
Titans
Pretty even first half against the Broncos last week until the Titans went bang! bang! and scored 3 quick tries in a 6 minute period just before half-time. It has to be said they put in a good all-round effort and earned themselves a well deserved 28-16 win. I did notice however, there's a few areas they might need to work on. Too many missed tackles, ineffective tackles and errors to be honest. Good game from Fifita, Proctor and Fogarty to name a few. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 47%
Completion Rate - 74%
Post Contact Metres - 438
Missed Tackles - 31
Ineffective Tackles - 20
Errors - 15
Penalties Conceded – 2
Verdict: Geez, I can make a case for both these sides actually. Based on their respective opposition’s form lines from last week I’ll have to go the Titans in this one. Not that confident but I’ll tip ‘em anyways.
Let’s finish off with another “Song of the Week”…
I record stuff off the TV sometimes and for some reason I recorded a Japanese animated movie entitled “When Marnie Was There” and this little number plays over the closing credits. I realise we’re all different yada-yada-yada but this one burrows deep inside (emotionally) and I don’t know why. Pretty sure someone out there will like this. Might just put this one on my “funeral songs” list (yeah, I actually have a list for that 🤪). Oh and BTW, if you ever get a chance to watch this movie, just do it. It has an ending that just may take you by surprise 😱 😰.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--g_din91F8
OK kids, good luck with your tipping and may your team win by 40 points! Until next week people. Cheers 🐔 🐔 🐔
Submitted by Christine on
Newbie
Wtf that has to be a new record surely ...
Submitted by Christine on
Tiger
Apparently we are in for more rain next week , god only knows were it will go but we don't really need it at the moment .
re covid vaccine won't probably be until end of april i also have to have the flu shot but you have to have them 2 weeks apart not toughter so it will still be a while yet as the flu shot isn't out as yet i just have to wait & even if we get given the covid 19 vaccine you can still get covid someone already has that security guard at the hotel were people were quaranteening he had the jab then got covid so you have to wonder but if it saves lives then we have to do it too many people have died from the dreaded illness, i am just lucky i have gone out alot during restrictions with having compromised immune system due to having ms & yet i haven't got sick from covid as yet touch wood i don't want to jinx myself .
You know something will follow this when covid is finally gone but how much more are we supossed to take this has basically pushed some people to there limit it has crippled us financially put a huge strain on the economy & closed several companies & retailers it is enough to make you want to give up sad part is you know something else will come along after thiscpandemic to try us out all over again but what doesn't break us makes us stronger . Hang in there there tiger your doing better than some out there ...
Submitted by Rocket Ryan on
Not happy to see tigerholic in our camp this week we have enough losers here as it is.
Tiger all that B S you are feeding christine about the changing your tip to support tigers lets hope she does not check who you tipped.
Submitted by Baggy_Gee on
Well only 2/8 for the girls last week, so 5/16 is their running total. Here are their picks for round 3.
Storm
Manly
Rabbits
Raiders
Broncos
Eels
Tigers
Titans
Submitted by Guru Craig on
Covid Storm - The Storm can see Cleary now the rain has gone...and he's sitting in the stands. Without baby Ivan The Pennies will struggle, the number 6 is the driving force of the team and Melbourne rarely lose two in a row. Last round the rain and the ref gave the opposition the win, not so tonight. With little Ivan they probably win.
Dragons - Hook has developed a bit of heart in the boys and they should be good enough to overcome Manly...Although, Dessie is a Wiley character and 3 losses in a row...Hard to really get an accurate read on this because St George are often disappointing and Manly are due to turn around the poor form, winnable game for both sides.
Rabbitohs - The Guru is looking forward to some great footy in this game, both sides are starting the year fast and look like being top 4 come October. Souths had the wood on the Chickens last year and that's enough to tip them here for the G. Coach Bennett is made for these games, the master will have a plan, should be close.
Raiders - Canberra are two from two in the W department so far, but neither of those wins were very impressive. Ricky would be thankful his side have the Warriors and not the Storm, still this is not a guaranteed game for the Vikings. Raiders probably.
Bronco's - Coach Walters has plenty of reasons to be disappointed in his sides losses, but the players are showing structure and promise. This is a vastly superior team to the disaster of Seibel and it will improve over time. Walters has put the halves on notice and rightly so, Brisbane should be good enough at home, but they will need to put in 80 mins.
Eels - Coming off a fortunate win the Eels should have enough playing at home to see off a no name Sharks side that is up and down. News of the Para captains acting auditions have been in the press and that should help the slippery Eels win another game.
Knights - as Homer Simpson once said, De-fault are the greatest two words in the English language. Newcastle have gotten away with the points in the season thus far and should continue to do so this week with the troublesome Tigers who would probably beat themselves. Not a sure thing but the sensible choice.
Titans - Coach Payten is attempting to embarrass his boys into playing better. Our own Wal had a bit of advice to ol'blue eyes, lets hope he takes that in a positive way or maybe ask Paul Green, who knows a bit about the Cows dressing room... in these modern times the old school approach gets tears and tantrums. Tell the boys khloe Kardashian will follow their iG if they win...that will get an actual response, seriously.
Submitted by newbie from perth on
🔊 Christine
“Newbie, Wtf that has to be a new record surely ... “
Yeah, didn’t sink in how long it was until I went back and had another look at it. Then again, it’s not really that long. Only a mere 2,733 words (including emoticons) 😁. Man, I gotta shorten these posts down, no wonder they take me so long to prep 😂. Cheers GF.
Submitted by mark ashford on
Newbie
Another lengthy analysis my friend but always a good read. Your SOTW is just beautiful, that lady has a magnificent voice. I have in fact watched the movie which is a joy in itself. It plays here on SBS movies and as you said it is well worth a look. I must have changed channels when the credits came on as I have missed this song. Roosters/Rabbits should be a cracking game, even better than Panthers/Storm.
Submitted by Hardyards on
Was thinking the cows-Titans were even this week, but now hearing Morgan is out, I’m changing to the Titans. Hopefully the cowboys will make me pay for this lack of loyalty.
Submitted by Christine on
I will take the same this week Fuor rd 3 as tiger ...
Submitted by Christine on
My tips this week for rd 3 are the same as tiger , rocket are you dragging me into your gripe with tiger again ???
Submitted by NuL1F3 on
What.A.Game!!
Submitted by Esra Star on
What sort of a bullshit call was that by the referee? No try,, goes to the video ref.He was 10 meters away from the action and on the blind side of the tackle!!
It should have been "unsighted" and it would have been inconclusive.
Submitted by Baggy_Gee on
Best call all season so far. Nothing like watching Bellamy bursting a vein to make sure the ref's are on their toes and accurate for the rest of the weekend.
Submitted by ScottySeahawk on
Absolute cracker of a game, wow!! Insane final 2 minutes
Submitted by mark ashford on
One of the best games I've seen this year. Panthers have only beaten the Cowboys and the Dogs both teams at the wrong end of the table.
The try save in the final minute was just amazing, a hand under the ball by Kikau showed how much this guy wants to win. Well done Panthers.
Submitted by a on
That was a great game
Submitted by Dragons-fanboy on
Yeah agree everyone what a game! Panthers will be there and about this season defence wins premierships i know they only kept teams at the bottom end of the table to 0 but still great achievement for the first two rounds and then to restrict the defending premiers to 10. Impressive stuff and pity that I didn't pick them.
Cheers!!!!!
Submitted by Mary S on
Hi Buzz105, Rocket & Lillychino,
If you check the comments at all - you haven't submitted your team for 'a's 3 strike comp as yet for R3!
Cheers,
Mary
Submitted by The Butcher on
Great decision by the ref last night thank God Cameron Smith wasn’t playing...he would of overruled it.
Submitted by mark ashford on
Hey Butcher
Love the Cam Smith comment, gave me a good chuckle.
Submitted by GMac on
Hi all, Bugger I did not realise I was included after I begged to be included from round 1. Guess I have alot of making upto do with my tips!! Have picked everygame this round too. Bugger!!
Right so I will post what's left and hope these get added.
Round 3:
Rabbitohs - Upset
Raiders
Bulldogs
Eels
Knights
Titans
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