Melbourne Storm vs Canberra Raiders – Thursday night – Sunshine Coast Stadium
The Raiders have won four of their last five and have a better record than most against the premiership favourites. Winning is contagious, and they've been beating competitive sides in that tussle for positions in the middle of the ladder. This, however, is their first test against a very good side in a while. They did beat the Sea Eagles in round 17 but did so when they were without the Trbojevic brothers and Cherry-Evans. Earlier in the year the Raiders were convincingly beaten by Panthers in round five, the Eels in round six, the Storm in round 11 and the Roosters in round 12. In round 11, the Storm beat the Raiders 34-10 in Canberra. That seems like a typical result for the Storm, but they won that game without Munster, Hughes, Papenhuyzen and Grant. That quartet will be playing on Thursday night, and they add Kaufusi and Asofa-Solomona (unavailable last week) to their seventeen. They're also returning to the Sunshine Coast - a venue where they haven't tasted defeat.
Verdict – Storm by 14
Result – Storm 26 defeated Raiders 16
St George Illawarra Dragons vs Penrith Panthers – Friday night – Suncorp Stadium
The Dragons haven't won a game since the sausage sizzle, and while all their suspended players have served the sentences it does look like their season has well and truly derailed. Great job Dragons...I'm sure your fans and members are pleased. While the party-goers are all back they are missing both Ben Hunt and Tariq Sims (non party-goers). That tells me that the Dragons dumbest players will be left to make on-field decisions on Friday night - so get ready for some poor on-field choices. Koroisau (who has made a few poor choices himself) won't be available here, while the Panthers can afford to tread carefully with the return of Nathan Cleary given the stellar performances from Matt Burton. Pangai Junior is likely to be unavailable for at least another week. The Panthers form has slipped a little in recent times, partly through the absence of some key players and the impact of Origin football. I suspect they will return to their best come finals football. Note that a top two finish provides no advantage over a top four finish this season, as there are no home games for the Sydney clubs. They'll win this though, and easily,
Verdict – Panthers by 20
Result – Panthers 34 defeated Dragons 16
Brisbane Broncos vs Sydney Roosters – Friday night – Suncorp Stadium
I had my second Pfizer jab earlier this week and I haven't noticed any unusual symptoms. That said, I'm tipping the Broncos this week, so I may have broken my brain. The Roosters are super professional but their list of unavailable players is so long (and so good) I'm actually going to post them here as a list:
- Boyd Cordnor
- Jake Friend
- Brett Morris
- Josh Morris
- Luke Keary
- Angus Crichton
- Jared Waerea-Hargreaves
- Lindsay Collins
- Joseph Suaali
- Matt Ikuvalu
- Billy Smith
Find me two more NRL players and that list, fit and well, would make the top eight in this competition. With a win here the Roosters are probably in the top four at the end of this round. It's extraordinary given that list of unavailables. Meanwhile the Broncos, whose season has been slightly better (and I mean slightly) than last season will need to find the occasional moment of joy where they can find it. Knocking off a proper football team, in front of actual fans, could be one of those joyous moments. Flegler returns to bolster their pack, while Brodie Croft has played his last game in Broncos colours and is off to Salford in the north of England. I hope he likes the cold.
Verdict – Broncos in a miracle
Result – Roosters 21 defeated Broncos 20
South Sydney Rabbitohs vs Gold Coast Titans – Saturday afternoon – Cbus Super Stadium
The Rabbitohs are chasing their tenth win in a row on Saturday. It's an incredible run of results, all the more incredible because the week before it started they conceded 56 points to the Panthers. A fortnight prior to that they lost 50-0 to the Storm. Experts will tell you we have never had a premiership winner lose a game by 50 or more points (during that season) in the history of the competition. Since that big loss to the Panthers, the Rabbitohs are averaging more than 41 points per game. When your list of creative attackers is Mitchell, Walker, Reynolds, Cook, Murray and Marshall that comes as no surprise. Their forwards are mostly unsung heroes, and I suspect they like it that way. Tevita Tatola is possibly the best interchange forward in the NRL this year, and most of us wouldn't recognise him in the street. These sides last met in round seven, and it was one of the funniest games of the season. David Fifita scored the Titans first three tries and they led 24-10 at half-time. After that, Benji Marshall delivered what was perhaps the best 40 minutes of football in his long and illustrious career as the Bunnies poured on 30 points in the second half. Both these sides are playing better now than they were then, so this could well be the game of the round. Sadly this game gets the Saturday afternoon timeslot so a lot of people won't get to see it.
Verdict – Rabbitohs by 7
Result – Rabbitohs 36 defeated Titans 6
North Queensland Cowboys vs Wests Tigers – Saturday night – Queensland Country Bank Stadium
The Cowboys have had their competitive moments, but they haven't won a game since May. Taumalolo has busted another hand (is that the third time this year?) so one would assume that's the end of his season. Taulagi and Burr also drop out after failing HIA's. The Tigers have named the same seventeen that beat the Bulldogs last week. Their form isn't terrific but at least they are winning a game here and there. Theoretically they could still make the eight but they'll need a string of wins starting now. The Cowboys beat the Tigers 34-30 in round five but I expect the Tigers to come out on top this time around.
Verdict – Tigers by 8
Result – Tigers 24 defeated Cowboys 16
Manly Sea Eagles vs Parramatta Eels – Saturday night – Sunshine Coast Stadium
The Eels appear to be circling the drain and unable to drag themselves away from the plughole. They've now lost their last three and each loss has been worse than the loss that preceded it. Three of their last four games are against teams that are better than them, and they've now lost Reed Mahoney for the season. They've scored just 22 points in their last three games and I can't see where the points are going to come from. Back in round 11 the Sea Eagles beat the Eels 28-6. This could be worse, and the Sea Eagles look the team most likely to replace the Eels in the top four.
Verdict – Sea Eagles by 18
Result – Sea Eagles 56 defeated Eels 10
New Zealand Warriors vs Canterbury Bulldogs – Sunday afternoon – Moreton Daily Stadium (Redcliffe)
When a team has given up the first thing that falls over is their defence, which is why I was worried about the Warriors when they leaked 60 points to the Bunnies in round 19. But the Warriors are nothing if not unpredictable, and since then they have notched up narrow low scoring victories over the Tigers and the Sharks. I don't think the Bulldogs have given up, but their last win was in round seven. Welcome to Redcliffe everyone - the future of rugby league and the place where yours truly was born and almost bred. I'll check the COVID rules and see if I'm allowed to cross the bridge and go and sit in the sun on a Sunday afternoon by the bay.
Verdict – Warriors by 8
Result – Warriors 24 defeated Bulldogs 10
Cronulla Sharks vs Newcastle Knights – Sunday afternoon – Moreton Daily Stadium (Redcliffe)
Since round 10 the Sharks have had the sweetest of draws - they've basically played one good team since then, when the Sea Eagles put 40 on them. You'd think they'd have shored up a top eight finish given the circumstances, but they're sitting in 10th and their prospects look bleaker by the week. They're playing the team in 9th who are in better form and have an easier run home. Will "nigglepants" Chambers has been so annoying even his own team have punted him this week. Harsh...but fair.
Verdict – Knights by 4
Result – Knights 16 defeated Sharks 14
Wally Lewis - round twenty two selections (in bold)
Note: tips from Wally will be published on Wednesday night or Thursday morning
- STORM vs Raiders
- Dragons vs PANTHERS
- Broncos vs ROOSTERS
- RABBITOHS vs Titans
- Cowboys vs TIGERS
- SEA EAGLES vs Eels
- WARRIORS vs Bulldogs
- Sharks vs KNIGHTS
Comments
Submitted by The Thinker on
Morning everyone,
If you are looking for the tipping form for round 22, my little helper should have that deployed later today.
If you are already here and can't wait that long, feel free to add your tips for round 22 in the comments and I will make sure your selections are added to the competition.
All the best
The Thinker
Submitted by Thinker's Little Helper on
Hey all, tipping form should now be up and running for those who partake. Enjoy the weekend, indoors or out...
Submitted by mark ashford on
Round 22 folks and the comments have dropped off.
I have two very good excuses;
1 A new lady keeps me occupied in all ways.
2 My Fraser trip was cancelled due to lock downs.
Where is the Rocket, Baggy, MGM, Steel Panther, Big Pete, Tigerholic, and so many others I can't recall. C'mon tipsters lets have some action here before the season is over as it will be soon and we have to wait another off season!
Submitted by BigPeteBx on
Heya Marko Bronko and how might you be.
I've been around and reading - when I can.
Gr8 to hear of the new lady and hope all goes well there as you truly deserve a lady friend and associate to share times with.
I have done posts here, but many of you don't go back to the tail end of the preceding round, as mine can correspond with that round. I did ask questions in several rounds and never get answers. MGM was one of the newer members with EPL likes we might have had. Also spoke with the mighty Steely about A-League (now finished). However, yes time can be of limitations, even if Thinker site caters for than NRL and r/league.
But to you all - keep well folks and be extra safe.
Cheers, a beer and no fears (yet) - Big Pete
Submitted by mark ashford on
Hi Big Pete,
Always great to hear from you. Yes at my age I have been lucky enough to find a like minded lady who enjoys a wine or two, a good feed (she is a great cook) and football. Unfortunately she is a Collingwood supporter and I'm trying to move her to the Broncs. She says she will support both so I can't go wrong even though I support Western Bulldogs in AFL.
Good to hear from you my friend and hope those "peepers" are behaving themselves.
Submitted by mark ashford on
Mary S, "a" and all other Cowboys supporters.
What chance your team against the "going well" Tigers this weekend?
Heard Jason Taumalolo has another broken hand and this maybe be his season. With other injuries this will be a big ask for your team. Any thoughts?
Submitted by mark ashford on
Dragons Fanboy
Your Dragons play a premiership favourite this weekend. looks like Nathan Cleary may be back. This is a much win for the Dragons, do you think they can do it.
Submitted by a on
They actually play better without him
Submitted by Dragons-fanboy on
Greetings Mark,
Yes we indeed have a huge mountain to climb here. We've stuffed our season up in a huge way with the BBQ incident. We have to win all of the rest of our games to be any hope of finals football maybe even lose one and hope results go our way. I unfortunately think our season is long over tho now and we should beats the Cowboys in a couple of weeks and it is about it. We will get pumped.
Cheers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Submitted by mark ashford on
Thank you "a" just needed a comment. Good luck to your Cowboys.
Submitted by Dragons-fanboy on
Hello everybody, hope you are all going well! My tips for this week are:
Storm by 24
Panthers by 22
Roosters by 12
Rabbitohs by 16
Tigers by 10
Manly by 26
Warriors by 14
Knights by 6
Awesome! Good luck with everyone's tips for this week and with everyone's team for this week. Cheers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Submitted by Mary S on
Hi Mark,
Don't think Jason Taumalolo has looked comfortable in new positions, but according to coach he's been playing through pain, with more investigation being done on the broken hand (third time now).
There are a couple of promising lads that debut in the Tigers game this round, who will be keen to impress. Whether that inspires the others to greater things, time will tell!!
As a fan, one is always hopeful!!
Cheers,
Mary
Submitted by BigPeteBx on
Evening again Mark - thanks for quick response. I go with the lady with The Magpies AFL, it isnt unfortunate, as I've been a loyal supporter of Collingwood since my school days. Western Bulldogs ay.........I seem to recall that a former regular poster we had here was also a keen Chooks NRL supporter and might have even played a game or three with them - followed W/Bulldogs. Never mind who we support, as long as we have an interest mate and get involved. Could come over to soccer/football and be Lionel Messi's manager. Phew......big bucks - oh dear/deer.
The peepers are going along and often overworked, but WFH takes bright lights strain off me. Ankle an ongoing issue, but I get along, better when the daughters pooch takes me for a walk. I call it The Torture Track, but circulation does it good. More/other I can speak about when I bite the bullet and eventually email you direct.
Cheers mate and keep well - Big Pete
Submitted by newbie from perth on
"Dia duit gach duine" i dteanga ní mo theanga féin,
A bit late posting tonight but it’s a miracle they’re up given the week I’ve had. Thursday and Friday were fine. Managed to watch Saturday night’s game on GEM but consumed too many sherbets afterwards and woke up late and hungover Sunday morning. Recuperating as you get older takes way longer I can tell you. Watched Sunday’s game and started coming good. Monday (after a full day at work) I got home and had to finish off some work related stuff, including some analysis on the fumigation costs relating to our importations regarding the upcoming BMSB (Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs) season of all things 🤪. Tuesday night was occupied with a Strata Company meeting followed by filling out my Census form. Sheesh! So yeah, it was full on for a few days there. Anyhoo, let’s do this thing …
Storm vs. Raiders 75-25 @ Sunshine Coast
Ladder Position = Storm
Bookies Favourite = Storm
Storm
Another impressive effort from the Storm last week. Went about their job in a professional and clinical manner and did what good teams do. Great contributions from Munster, Grant, Hughes and the Cheese. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 57%
Completion Rate - 83% (35/42)
Tackle Breaks - 20
Forced Drop Outs - 4
Missed Tackles - 22
Ineffective Tackles - 4
Errors - 7
Penalties Conceded - 4
Raiders
It was an even first half last week and the Raiders were level with the Dragons 12-12 at the break. The Raiders’ second half was more of a grind you’d have to say where they kept the Dragons scoreless and added 8 points of their own (a converted try 4 minutes into the half and a penalty with 10 minutes to go) to run out 20-12 winners. They did just enough to get the win but maybe a few too many errors though. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 49%
Completion Rate - 80% (33/41)
Line Breaks - 1 (😱)
Tackle Breaks - 25
Missed Tackles - 34
Ineffective Tackles - 8
Errors - 12
Penalties Conceded - 7
Verdict: Storm.
Panthers vs. Dragons 75-25 @ Suncorp
Ladder Position = Panthers
Bookies Favourite = Panthers
Panthers
Another impressive effort from the Panthers last week. Went about their job in their usual fashion and did what good teams do, although aided by some ill-discipline and poor kicking from the Roosters. Great contributions from Burton, Kikau and Martin. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 50%
Completion Rate - 87% (34/39)
Tackle Breaks - 36
Forced Drop Outs - 2
Missed Tackles - 39
Ineffective Tackles - 20
Errors - 8
Penalties Conceded - 6
Dragons
Not too bad an effort from the Dragons in the first half last week against the Raiders and at the break it was all locked up at 12-12. They were a bit unlucky losing Cody Ramsey after 30 seconds or so but that’s footy. Their second half was pretty ordinary where they were kept scoreless. In the end they fell 20-12 to an opposition who weren’t really that convincing. I think they definitely let that one slip. Just like the Raiders, a few too many errors I think. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 51%
Completion Rate - 83% (35/42)
Line Breaks - 4
Tackle Breaks - 34
Missed Tackles - 25
Ineffective Tackles - 9
Errors - 9
Penalties Conceded - 6
Verdict: Panthers.
Broncos vs. Roosters 35-65 @ Suncorp
Ladder Position = Roosters
Bookies Favourite = Roosters
Broncos
The Broncos had a good first half last week against the Knights. Their defence weathered the Knights pressure early on and surprisingly, the Broncos were first to score. Heading into the sheds they were only trailing 12-8. Late in the second half they scored 2 quick tries in a 6 minute period to threaten the Knights (with roughly 7 minutes to go) but the Knights just held on and the Broncos went down 28-20. A fine finish but not enough consistent forays in attack and in the end they just fell short. Regardless, they showed some determination and they’re seemingly on the improve. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 44%
Completion Rate - 77% (27/35)
Line Breaks - 5
Tackle Breaks - 23
Missed Tackles - 36
Ineffective Tackles - 7
Errors - 11
Penalties Conceded - 5
Roosters
The Roosters looked a little hesitant in the first half last week against the Panthers. JWH got binned in the 32nd minute and the Panthers scored a try just one minute later 😣. We might’ve got away with that against most sides but not against the Panthers. Heading into the break the Roosters were down 14-6 and things weren’t looking good. A much better effort in the second half from the Roosters even though it took them a while to get into gear. Two (unconverted) tries in the second half gave them a sniff but it wasn’t enough and they lost a thriller 20-14. Unfortunately for the Roosters, Burton had a cracker of a game and he was the difference. Not making excuses but the Roosters gave the Panthers 2 shots at penalty goals, one try after JWH got sin-binned and Keighran missed 2 from 3 conversion attempts. Add them up and you have 12 points. They only have themselves to blame for that. D’oh! "They had a lot of possession, they had a lot of field position and we just didn't execute well enough and weren't disciplined enough," Roosters coach Trent Robinson said. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 50%
Completion Rate - 75% (30/40)
Tackle Breaks - 39
Forced Drop Outs - 4
Missed Tackles - 36
Ineffective Tackles - 13
Errors - 12
Penalties Conceded - 8
Verdict: Even with the Boss’ list of outs, I'm still on the Roosters. Begurk! 🐔 Begurk! 🐔
Rabbitohs vs. Titans 65-35 @ Cbus
Ladder Position = Rabbitohs
Bookies Favourite = Rabbitohs
Rabbitohs
The Rabbitohs had the better of the Eels last week in the first and were leading 14-0 at the break. The second half was a semi-procession for the Rabbitohs as they piled on the pain (3 tries in an 8 minute period) and they eventually romped to an easy 40-12 win. They were just too potent and it was yet another remarkable effort from the Bunnies. Great to see Adam Reynolds break the points scoring record at Souths even though it was a different ball game back in the day when Eric Simms set the previous record. Tries only worth 3 points (correct me if I’m wrong) and kicks taken from a lump of sand 😉. All in all, a most convincing win. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 54%
Completion Rate - 88% (36/41)
Line Breaks - 9
Tackle Breaks - 29
Missed Tackles - 16
Ineffective Tackles - 23
Errors - 5
Penalties Conceded - 2
Ruck Infringements - 4
Titans
The Titans dominate large portions of the first half last week against the Cowboys and were pressuring them continually. That pressure resulted in 3 unanswered tries after just 32 minutes. The Cowboys got one back late and at the break the Titans led 14-4. After scoring the first 2 tries after the break, the Titans had effectively snuffed out any chance the Cowboys had of winning and in the end the Titans romped in 36-14. Scoring 7 tries to 3 will always win you games. A very impressive result it must be said. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 55%
Completion Rate - 84% (38/45)
Post Contact Metres - 677 (vs. Cowboys 382)
Line Breaks - 3
Tackle Breaks - 30
Tackles Made - 257 (vs. Cowboys 374)
Missed Tackles - 15
Ineffective Tackles - 11
Errors - 8
Penalties Conceded - 4
Verdict: Rabbitohs.
Cowboys vs. Tigers 45-55 @ Townsville
Ladder Position = Tigers
Bookies Favourite = Tigers
Cowboys
The Cowboys let in 3 unanswered tries after just 32 minutes last week against the Titans but managed to up their defensive effort thereafter and score a late try. Heading into the sheds they were still in touch trailing 14-4. Two tries after the break from the Titans basically shut the gates on the Cowboys. Even so, the Cowboys fought the game out right to the end but still went down 36-14. The score didn’t reflect (in my mind) the true effort from the Cowboys. I thought they were much better than that score line. Now if only they would tackle the opposition around the legs. The amount of yardage the Titans were making after being tackled was crazy. All because the Cowboys didn’t go low. Cut off the legs and they stop making metres. Pretty simple stuff really. Didn’t mind the game from Dearden I must say. Given a bit more time and a bit more “polish” and I can see him developing into a real good player for the Cowboys. That try he got in the 37th minute was a cracker. One last thing … Todd Payten's decision to play Taumalolo on the edge failed miserably. He needs to be running through the middle. It’s what he does best 💪. "With 93 more tackles (than your opponents) in the first half, you're pushing it uphill for the rest of the game," Payten said. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 45%
Completion Rate - 66% (21/32)
Post Contact Metres - 382 (vs. Titans 677)
Line Breaks - 3
Tackle Breaks - 15
Tackles Made - 374 (vs. Titans 257)
Missed Tackles - 31
Ineffective Tackles - 14
Errors - 13
Penalties Conceded - 10
Tigers
The Tigers were looking alright in the first half last week against the Bulldogs and had got out to a handy 12-0 lead. A late try to the Bulldogs saw the Tigers heading into the sheds 18-12 ahead. The Tigers scored just after the break and were leading 26-12. The Bulldogs got one back but it wasn’t enough as the Tigers added a late penalty goal and ran out 28-16 winners. To use an old cliché, “it wasn’t pretty” but they got the job done. That being said, the Tigers didn’t look that good and against the bottom side, that’s not very encouraging. They had periods where they exhibited some ill-discipline, careless play and poorly executed sets. "It was a scrappy win but it was good to see the boys dig in and get to the end of the game," Tigers coach Michael Maguire said. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 54%
Completion Rate - 73% (30/41)
Tackle Breaks - 40
Missed Tackles - 27
Ineffective Tackles - 7
Errors - 13
Penalties Conceded - 1
Verdict: Cowboys.
Manly vs. Eels 65-35 @ Sunshine Coast
Ladder Position = Manly
Bookies Favourite = Manly
Manly
Manly did really well last week to hold out the Storm in the first half. With the amount of ball the Storm had, the Manly defence only allowed them to cross the line once. Thanks to a magnificent intercept from Saab and a late penalty, Manly went into the sheds locked up at 8-8. Pretty much the same in the second half with Manly taking it right up to the Storm (they actually got in front at one stage) but a couple of crucial errors let the Storm back into it and eventually the Storm class peeked through and Manly were beaten 28-18. As others have done in the past, Manly moved the ball from one side to the other and had the Storm scrambling but those errors came into play and that’s what cost them. I reckon Manly were slightly better than the score showed. I had my doubts as to whether or not Manly were genuine contenders or not and after their effort against the Storm last week I’m now a believer. I hope I haven’t “put the mocka” on them 🤪. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 43%
Completion Rate - 68% (26/38)
Tackle Breaks - 22
Missed Tackles - 20
Ineffective Tackles - 17
Errors - 12
Penalties Conceded - 7
Ruck Infringements - 6
Eels
The Eels’ first half last week against the Rabbitohs was a little disappointing. Their attack seemed to be lacking some spark and they remained scoreless for the first 40 and headed into the sheds 14-0 down. They did manage to get themselves 12 points in the second half though
but it was too late and they got smacked 40-12 in the end. The Eels weren’t strong enough to handle the Rabbitohs on the day and their right-edge defence needs working on. Not sure what’s happened to the Eels lately to be honest. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 46%
Completion Rate - 89% (33/37)
Line Breaks - 2
Tackle Breaks - 16
Missed Tackles - 29
Ineffective Tackles - 17
Errors - 6
Penalties Conceded - 7
Verdict: Manly.
Warriors vs. Bulldogs 65-35 @ Redcliffe
Ladder Position = Warriors
Bookies Favourite = Warriors
Warriors
The Warriors had a good start to the first half last week against the Sharks but as dominant as they were, they couldn’t get the points on the board. Kane Evans (who plays with his heart) got sucked in by Will “The Pest” Chambers and throws a punch to each shoulder, gets binned and the Sharks score 2 tries while he was cooling off. That was enough to see the Warriors trailing 16-6 at the break. The Warriors regathered themselves in the second half and even with Kane Evans getting binned for a second time (which seemed a little harsh), they still managed to keep the Sharks scoreless and snuck home in a nail-biter 18-16. The desperate defensive effort from the Warriors in that second half was very good. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 51%
Completion Rate - 82% (32/39)
Line Breaks - 5
Tackle Breaks - 38
Average Set Distance - 46.9m
Missed Tackles - 38
Ineffective Tackles - 9
Errors - 10
Penalties Conceded - 9
On Reports - 6 (😱)
Sin Bins - 3 (😱)
Bulldogs
The Bulldogs had a pretty good first half last week against the Tigers and were right in it heading into the sheds and only 18-12 down. I’ll just let Trent Barrett sum up the Bulldogs’ second half effort … "We had an awful start to the second half," Bulldogs coach Trent Barrett said. "Error, error, error. I don't think we had the ball really for about 20 minutes. Our own individual errors and ill-discipline really hurt us. In the second half we had our chances to still win the game but again, that's something that the players as individuals have got to learn ... you can't win football games making those errors." In the end the Bulldogs lost it 28-16. Yeah, the Bulldogs certainly have some work to do and maybe their new signings for next year (and some hard work) will help them get out of the hole they’re currently in. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 46%
Completion Rate - 79% (31/39)
Tackle Breaks - 27
Missed Tackles - 40
Ineffective Tackles - 26
Errors - 9
Penalties Conceded - 8
Verdict: Warriors.
Sharks vs. Knights 40-60 @ Redcliffe
Ladder Position = Knights
Bookies Favourite = Knights
Sharks
The Sharks were well held by the Warriors for the first 20-odd minutes last week. The 35’ mark arrives and Kane Evans gets binned for “attempting” to knuckle Will “The Pest” Chambers (on each shoulder mind you) and the Sharks took full advantage and scored 2 quick tries and went into the sheds leading 16-6. The Sharks somehow couldn’t muster any points in the second half and went down to a determined Warriors 18-16. Even with Evans sin-binned for the second time at the 64’ mark, the Sharks couldn’t manage to score any points 😱. Who had the last laugh Will? They just seemed to crumble under the pressure exerted by the Warriors. And some of the Sharks defensive efforts (especially letting Euan Aitken through to score) were underbelly soft. The Sharks definitely let that one slip. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 49%
Completion Rate - 80% (33/41)
Line Breaks - 4
Tackle Breaks - 38
Average Set Distance - 44.1m
Missed Tackles - 38
Ineffective Tackles - 32
Errors - 8
Penalties Conceded - 4
Knights
The Knights enjoyed the bulk of the attacking play in the first half last week against the Broncos and after a tight 40 minutes led 12-8. The Broncos came back at them in the second half but the Knights did just enough to get themselves over the line in the end and win 28-20. Not a bad effort given their 4-day turnaround. Some stats possibly worth a mention:
Possession - 56%
Completion Rate - 81% (35/43)
Line Breaks - 6
Tackle Breaks - 36
Missed Tackles - 23
Ineffective Tackles - 4
Errors - 7
Penalties Conceded - 4
Verdict: Knights.
Let’s finish off with another “Song of the Week”. Thought I’d whack up an Aussie favourite of mine for something a little different. Enjoy.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AcyBKHLOrKc
OK kids, good luck with your tipping and may your team win by 40 points! Until next week. Cheers 🐔 🐔 🐔
Submitted by The Thinker on
Greetings Mark Ashford
It's nice to hear that your new arrangements at home are going well :-)
Is the Fraser trip rescheduled...or have you just pulled the plug this year?
It's not easy making plans to do anything at the moment.
Submitted by manyana on
Hi Thinker, I'd also love to go to Redcliffe to watch the games, but unfortunately I'm a bit under the weather, healthwise, otherwise I'd make the not too long trip from Bribie to see the games.
I'm hoping that the Dolphins will be our next team in the NRL.
Enjoy the game.
Cheers, manyana.
Submitted by Baggy_Gee on
Struggling here Mark, studies are still going, while the wife has moved on to her masters and this has left me carrying a lot of the load here. As you would have noticed, I'm even finding it hard to remember to get my tips in. In regards to the banter/discussion there is little happening here for me to interact with. It was great to see you getting well fed by a good cook though.
Submitted by Rocket Ryan on
Baggy it looks like they're going to go to 35 and it might not end there can't really see when you going to win your next flag
Submitted by Rocket Ryan on
Baggy it looks like they're going to go to 35 and it might not end there can't really see when you going to win your next flag
Submitted by mark ashford on
Hi Thinker
Sadly this years Fraser is now off. My brother scheduled another date (we are both retired) but the other guys couldn't reset their time off so it's now 2022. Hopefully the fish will be fatter and bigger.
Submitted by mark ashford on
Newbie,
Great analysis again my friend always a good read. Always loved Chrissy Amphlett and the Divinyls. What a sexy lady she was and always gave her all.
Submitted by Baggy_Gee on
Tell me about it Ryan, its been a terrible end of the season yet again. Lets see if it is not terrible this weekend.
Submitted by Rocket Ryan on
Come on tiger we have seen those tips before have a crack
Submitted by Scotty H on
My weekend tips
Storm
Panthers
Roosters
Rabbits
Cowboys
Manly
Warriors
Knight
Happy tipping
Submitted by Christine on
My tips for this are
Choose
Tigers
Panthers
South's
Manly
Knights
Storm
Warriors
May the nrl gods be good too us all ...
Submitted by MGM on
@ Mark Ashford & Big Pete,
Sorry to have dropped off a bit lately - Newbie picked me early on as a night-owl, plus I agree with you Pete about comments we both make at the tail end of a round not even getting noticed by most.
Clearly I need to tune in on a Wednesday from now on instead of the last minute rush late Thursday just to get my tips in ! (I only just realized that so many of the comments at the top of this page were made yesterday and not today!)
I love being included in the banter and have great respect for all you long term members of this site ... I will get the hang of it!
P.S.
In the first week of August I too missed a trip away with the boys when we were prohibited from travelling from Sydney to Coffs Harbour.
At least we still have the footy!
Cheers to all.
Submitted by a on
Now that was a good game but the send off is deserved
Submitted by BigPeteBx on
Evening MGM - no big issue mate. Just that back around Round 15, I think you mentioned about following EPL in UK. Well, I do as several here know too well. I was wondering who your team was, as I also played and coach soccer/football West of The Sandstone Curtain for 29 years.
Was it The Eels you said you followed in NRL, even though you came from Manly Country. Never fear most of those two teams never forget the past, but Sea Eagles have always loved to be hated. I get on pretty well with Baggy G, but I do allow him to throw his sixpence worth at me. Should be an interesting game this Saturday Night which is now being televised on Channel 9 - all Sat games on Sat nights now!
Must go and nice making contact mate - Big Pete
Submitted by BigPeteBx on
Must agree there 'a' with sending off. Ran a bit erratic there and reminded much like the Raging Bull (Geoff Robbo from past Bulldogs days) with the flowing locks and hard hits.
Keep well mate
Big Pete
Submitted by Rocket Ryan on
I'm putting out an SOS for my old mate butcher he's missing in action I believe is a cleaner at one of the big hotels in Sydney keep an eye out for him if it's a cold morning he may have a rooster scarf on.
Submitted by Christine on
By they way that was chooks for my firsy tip not choose ...
Submitted by tigerholic on
Afternoon All
Sorry for not being around much lately, to be truthful I have been really really busy at work.
I have been working Monday-Friday for the past few months and time flies by. Even yesterday I was rushed to get my tips in, no chance to study the form so it's almost a formality to take the favourites.
I tried a few upsets last week and all that was upset was me, took the Roosters and Manly, both teams were in the match but fell short, one of those things I suppose.
My old mate Rocket has made a good point in asking where our old sparring partner Butcher is, I haven't heard or seen anything from him in ages.
It's funny how Rocket says that he has seen my tips before, have a go he says, I wonder where all of his devoted followers have gone, flown off with the Butcher bird.
Hello Mary-good luck tomorrow night, I have tipped my Tigers but I am not confident at all.
BigPete-Your boys let me down last week, such a good team whom I think will go deep into the finals this year.
Mark-A real shame about Fraser mate, it sounds like you have a nice substitute to keep you busy:)
There is nothing like hitting the sand on Fraser, crack your first beer and enjoy that salt air, call in to Eli Creek especially when the back packers are in town if you know what I mean.
Hello Christine-Hope you are doing Ok mate, is the lock down having an effect on you.
Steel-I get a sore finger each week as I scroll down your post, I've read a lot smaller novels.
Anyway, to all of the regulars on board, hope you enjoy the footy this weekend, was a good game last night. I really thought the raiders were in with a chance in the second half, the send off was justified in my opinion, he will be gone for the rest of the years.
Enjoy the footy folks, hope you have a good one.
Tiger
Submitted by MGM on
Hi BigPete,
I remember you asking about the "real" football (haha). We were 10pound poms from Liverpool when I was just 2 year old, so naturally I support Liverpool. From age 7 - 19 I made the right wing my own (with a couple of years off to concentrate on the HSC .. dad's idea, not mine!)
But I can't claim to be an EPL follower these days, although I did take a keen interest last year when the Reds went on that unbelievable winning streak.
Your 29 years is impressive ! Were you in Mudgee?
Your memory is good mate , I am a parra tragic !... can't say I hate the Sea Eagles though, having lived on the Northern Beaches for 50years!
But you have to pick a side and I picked the Eels very early on.
I'll be thinking of you during the game tomorrow night while my descending Eels try to slow down your ascending Eagles.
I've got a tip for you - - early this season I noticed an expired offer in my emails from Sportsbet for 3 months free Kayo (streaming every sport you can think of!)... I rang them wondering if it might still be available & she said she'd ask the promotions team. The next day in my emails I had 6 (six!) months free Kayo - normally $10 to $15 per month.
Now I never miss a game and the EPL is there also. You might want to leave it until next season now and you will need a Sportsbet account (suggest setting one up now so that you're not a brand new customer next March).
Just a thought!
Submitted by mark ashford on
Hi Guys
Yes I am gutted by the Broncs one point loss last night, but as my new "better half" said it's only a game. She is very good at keeping me on the strait and narrow and diffusing my anger at that loss. Still think the Broncs were robbed by those Roosters supporters in the bunker.
Submitted by mark ashford on
MGM
I too am a 10 pound pom coming here from Portsmouth when I was 2 years old along with 3 older sisters and an older brother. Best thing my parents did for me as I'm now an Aussie Citizen and love this country to death. I've been back to "old blighty" on holiday for a look around but couldn't wait to get back to Aus. I've travelled a bit but there is no where better than this country.
Submitted by Steel Panther on
Hey Mark,
How are things? I got back yesterday from my week away. Had a nice break & was lucky the weather behaved. Nothing beats a trip to the SC though. Enjoyed the game last night and it was a shame one team had to lose. I thought both the late penalties were deserving and your Broncos were lucky to not have Mead sent to the bin in the first half for a blatant strip. Overall the Chooks were the better team with Tedesco outstanding although I feel at times he tries to do too much himself.
Take care my friend!!
Submitted by mark ashford on
Rocket,
Gotta agree with you mate we are missing the Butchers comments. A bit caustic at times but always welcome.
Did you watch last nights game? The Broncs were robbed by the bunker's unbelievable call with just minutes to go.
Submitted by Mary S on
Hi Mark (& other Bronco fans)
I agree with Steel - it was a great game last night and it was a pity one team had to lose.
Fans - Take stock of how much better your team played, the determination and the ability to play for 80mins & beyond, then think back to what they were like a few rounds ago.
They way Broncos played last night, would indicate there are much better things to come next season, as long as they maintain!
It was an 'edge of your seat finish' last night.
Cheers,
Mary
Submitted by Steel Panther on
I'm still recovering Mary haha. Need your Cowboys to win now but half an hour in it's not looking good. They look terrible....
Submitted by Mary S on
Agreed Steel - they need the proverbial : boot up their a......!
Cheers,
Mary
Submitted by Christine on
Tiger
The lock down isnvt too bad alought the whole of nsw was hit with a 7 dsy snap lock don today but ibwonvt really notice much difference because we have been doing that aready for several weeks now so why shouldn't tbey all join in , i am going to an appointment this friday with my cardiovascular surgen specialist not real sure how that will go he wants ms to have an ultrasound on my neck first then an appointment with him straight after it so i may know more then but hevwill probably want me to have a second appointment h you donvt get much back for it either i must say but it is your health what price do you put on gour health tiger , hope you are staying covid safe as well as covid free , i have been watching you tube on some on the prisons in america full of mexicans they can have that too themselves no disrespect to any fellow mexican thinkers out there but you are better off working were you are tiger ,i will update you when i know more or if i get bored in lockdown which won't be too long before i do tiger speak to you soon stay safe , christine ...
Submitted by Christine on
Big pete
The butcher bird is still alive & doing ok even with a broken beak i just can't keep catching huntsman spiders for her which she devours one leg at a time she loves her spiders they don't butbug she is still alive the male isn't he was more in your face use ti come to the window & tap on it & talk to me through it ,apparently the male is slightly bigger than the female but i don't care what anyone says i ybink when they are babies there is a colour difference between male & female i have had babies here from the same nest different colours at the same age so you won't convince me otherwise pete any way talk again soon when i have more news i will let you know stay safe christine ...
Submitted by Christine on
Manyana
hi mayana i am sure you have heard my news if not i have a completely block carotid artery on the right side that is the side that goes to the brain thats why it is important i specify to you the right side it turns out that could be why i get mh migraines but my specialist hasn't told me that as yet but others have i dk know of someone else who had the same thing as me & she had a stroke by 47 /48 she isnow 54 & had to Learn too walk again so i hope it doesn't happen to me but i can't do much about it if it does anyway don't panic stress dosn't help it i am just letting you know my situation it probably explains why i am always cold though i will keep you all informed when i know more speak to you later christine ...
Submitted by MGM on
@BigPete
Eeouch! What a thrashing your boys just gave us !
I knew this would be a tough game for Parra to turn their recent form around just to be competitive, but they were terrible! We didn't even get the ball until the 10th minute and spent 10 of the last 15 minutes with 11 players.
That was a hard game to watch.
Submitted by BigPeteBx on
Yes Tiger - I know, because they let me down also.
BUT they will learn from that and just never know come deep into finals time. We have the players and plenty in reserve as well. I'd just hate to be Des with class at his disposal.
Keep well mate
Big Pete
Submitted by BigPeteBx on
Evenin MGM - late as it is.
I have some friends in Mudgee, but live about an hour and 45mins drive from there. Lets say where The Great Race is held and several other great races for that matter. Its a very historic City (not town) and the oldest inland city in Australia. If you ever make the trek this way, let me know and we can meet up, just like a St George tragic from Thinker site and I did. I could take you around and describe some of the place, which is growing by the day.
Never fear here on this site - there a few who have their fave EPL teams.
Truly appreciate your thoughts with Kayo Sport. I'm not much of a gambler, but if I sat around watching sport, I'd soon get the shunt from the cook to attend some overdue errands. I'd consider Sportsbet's EPL Tipping, but I guess they'd expect you to get plunging a few dollars at them as well. I'll keep it in mind and thanks mate.
Keep well - Big Pete.
Submitted by BigPeteBx on
Good late evening Rocket - yes, I'd be concerned about The Butcher also. Had a bit of an imagination to also attach it to thoughts in his posts here. I'd also be the same about Pabdul who used to always have a bit of a scribe here, two seasons ago before he had a night out at ANZ (was it a reunion now) and we haven't heard so much, nor have we seen/heard of TAD for that matter.
But for discussion here - Butcher & Pabdul can be forgiven, as I know their feelings with both being Chooks supporters and practically a team of injuries sitting on the sideline's or keeping Covid safe and staying at home.
Cheers and keep well
Big Pete
Submitted by BigPeteBx on
Hello Christine - nice to hear from you. Good to hear about the butcher bird. When we are at work in the office, there is a crow occasionally calls by and sits on the outside ledge and taps on the window and scares the hell out of the lass that sits next to me.
You make sure the specialists don't let you slip off their radar with getting treatment for your condition/s.
Keep us all in the loop here. We are here and a keyboard away.
Our city and many NSW Regional areas went into lockdown today at 5pm. The Sydney figures are increasing and I guess a good way of trying to reduce exposure and expansion into other areas is - lockdown. The problem is, the inconsiderate ones that wander amongst us and don't give a hoot, dont get their jabs and will find out the hard way.
Keep well and Covid safe - Big Pete
Submitted by BigPeteBx on
Evening (late) MGM - not Grand I take it, especially after tonight.
But it can lay at rest there, as I'm not one of the dishing out crap type. We have some real good ones here who like to give a ribbing.
Manly knew they had a game on tonight and truly turned up for it.
They learnt from last week and when they get throwing the ball around, they can play some attractive football. Some dudded moves and ball handling, certainly saved the score being much higher.
I'll push on, with many of us tippers here riding on 6 out of 6 so far for Round 22.
Have a nice Sunday, a better week and keep well and Covid safe.
Big Pete
Submitted by MGM on
@Mark Ashford
Condolences for that nail-biting loss mate ... they've been looking good the last 4 weeks in a row now and a just reward would have been a win there.
Looks like we have some things in common my friend, not the least our gratitude for being blessed with the good life we have here in Oz.
We arrived in 1959, how about you ?
I also have had a trip back, it was in 1989. The best part was meeting uncles, aunties & cousins that I'd only ever heard about or seen photos of. I was happy to stay a bit longer than you and even worked in London for 4 months or so to pay the way. Skiing in southern France and camping in the Black Forest and Octoberfest in Munich were highlights but the best part was time with relatives that opened their hearts and homes without hesitation (I think the Northerners are especially good that way).... It sounds corny, but before that I didn't even know how incomplete I was ... didn't ever know my grandparents for example. But that trip cured something I didn't even realize was needed.
Anyway, cheers brother.
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