Ricardo: NRL Team of the Week

Ricky Ricardo pens his NRL Team of Round 12 and sends a special hello to his biggest fan; Mr Mike Kingy who is loving every selection from the sharp eyes of Ricardo. But while Ricky has plenty of fans, he also has some critics, with some feeling he be may ‘one-eyed’ from time to time, letting his love of the Eels get in the way of selections. Stay tuned for Ricky’s Origin selections in the next few days –

So here goes, straight from the desk of the next Danny Wiedler; Mr Ricky Ricardo –

Ricky’s Top 17 for Round 12

1. Jarryd Hayne: Ah Hayne, you’ve done it again! Another terrific performance by the Eels fullback. Since moving to fullback, he has played his best footy all year scoring 6 tries in three games. What a strike rate!

2. Bryson Goodwin – Given another chance at the Bulldogs, the winger has taken it with both hands. Scored another try in the Bulldogs win and is proving to be a genuine speedster down the flanks for the Bulldogs.

3. Michael Jennings – Is there anything this man can’t do? He tore the Roosters defence to shreds scoring three tries in the second half and was rewarded with his strong performances with an Origin spot.

4. Peni Tagive – Making his first appearance of the year, Tagive showed he has what it takes to play in the NRL. Scored a try and played solid defence when called upon. Could retain his spot for the Tigers next game.

5. John Williams – Regarded as one of the best defensive centres in the NRL, he showed why with solid defence on the wing to deny the Knights tries on several occasions. Got on the scoresheet and is proving a real handful after improving on his game over the last few years.

6. Wade Graham – The young livewire 5/8 put in a solid showing scoring two tries in a dominant display. Has great vision and a strong attitude and for his age really knows how to direct his team around the park.

7. Matt Orford – Played solidly and looked to have the game won for the Eagles after kicking a field goal to go ahead by one. This was in vain however as he gave away a contentious penalty decision that cost the Sea Eagles the match. Strong game overall though. (Come on Ricky are you serious? Orford needs kicking lessons!. Editor)

8. Nick Kenny – The young gun from the Broncos stepped it up and showed what he is capable of with a barn-storming effort against the Tigers. Made strong metres and was very solid in both defence and attack for the Broncos. A player for the future.

9. PJ Marsh – Given the hooking role following poor showings by his previous team-mates, he has taken it in his stride putting in a few good weeks of consistency and his experience on the field is proving invaluable to the younger generation. Look for Marsh to step up during Origin weeks.

10. Matthew Scott – A relative unknown has stepped it up this year for the Cowboys putting in dominant displays and leading from the front in the Cowboys pack. With the help of O’Donnell and Webb, Scott has turned into a fine young footballer and was rewarded for his efforts, named as 18th man for QLD.

11. Tom Learoyd-Lahrs – About to have his second child, the monster second rower is focused on his football more than ever putting in a near flawless display against a lacklustre Warriors outfit. Strong runs, strong tackles, flawless. Unlucky to miss out on Origin.

12. Ben Creagh – One of the Dragons best all year. Hindmarsh like in his work-rate, the red-head forward always gives 100% and is always rewarded with his efforts. Got a spot in the 17 for NSW in Origin.

13. Luke Lewis – Near domination by the Penrith utility. Involved in every play and had a mammoth work-rate to go with it. Deserves an Origin spot and has been named 18th man.

14. Kevin Kingston – Given his first crack at the NRL this year following injury, the former Sharks hooker excelled in his first game. Great speed out of dummy half and very good vision, tearing the Rabbitohs defence to shreds.

15. Jeremy Latimore – Made his debut against the Rabbitohs and he is a giant of a man. His big frame doesn’t stop him running the ball hard however, he gets stuck in to it and is hard to tackle. A player for the future.

16. Terry Campese – Rewarded with consistency over the year and was named in Origin as 5/8. Kicking, passing, tackling, attacking, defending, all of nearly flawless. Should work well with Wallace for NSW.

17. Ashley Harrison – An integral part of a strong Titans team playing solid defence and providing strong service in attack. Once again rewarded for his efforts with an Origin berth for QLD.