Jordan Rapana

A round of surprises and upsets, there were equally surprising performances as some players bounced back whilst others failed to perform. Focusing on those that excelled, the Team of the Week will throw up some interesting names! Also, just note, players may appear slightly out of position based on the points system that we utilise. For example, if there is no centre to have accumulated points but three wingers have done so, we will move a winger into the centre position.

So without further adieu, here you go. Ricky’s Team of the Week for Rd 3:

  1. Tom Trbojevic – Taking over the fullback role from the retiring Brett Stewart, Trbojevic had a slow start to the season but is kicking on and making inroads into opposition defences. A remarkably talented player, he shapes as a genuine elite fullback in years to come.

2. Michael Gordon – An early surprise packet form wise, Gordon has been a breath of fresh air for the Roosters. Calm, composed and experienced at the back, he has made his presence felt as he guides the Roosters towards wins and potential success.

3. Josh Morris – With several young guns in the Bulldogs backline, Morris and his brother Brett are needed to step up and guide them and the veteran centre did that with an impressive display in Rd 3.

4. Jordan Rapana – A phenomenal game from Rapana against the Tigers as he made breaks for fun and was quite literally unstoppable against a poor Tigers defence. His statistics from this game were remarkable.

5. Alex Johnston – Under tough scrutiny from many Souths fans, Johnston has so far made a good transition to fullback in 2017 and performed well for the club since Inglis’ injury. Consistency is the key, however.

6. Shaun Johnson – Enjoying perhaps one of his best starts to the season individually, the Warriors overall performances might make it seem as if they are struggling but that is through no fault of Johnson who is making the most of what is presented to him.

7. Mitch Pearce – Some want him back in Origin, others do not. However, his form continues and his partnership with Keary develops further, Origin selection may be a mere formality.

8. Jordan McLean – Talk about consistency and McLean is one of the first names on the list this season. Tremendously talented, he is a huge reason as to why the Storm is able to control a game and make efficient meterage in the opposition defensive line.

9. Tyrone Roberts – Switched around somewhat throughout his career and in the Rd 3 clash, Roberts move to fullback was perhaps the winning formula even though he started the game at hooker. He was in everything and proved his worth and value to the Titans side.

10. Tim Mannah – An unsung hero of the Eels forward pack despite their recruits coming in. A hard worker, a tireless player and a genuine leader, Mannah sets the bar for his fellow Eels props with commitment, determination and will power.

11. Josh Papalii – At present, he is the form back-rower of the competition. Just when you think he cannot do anymore, he has another spectacular game. His partnership on the edges with his inside and outside men is a big reason behind his success.

12. Josh Jackson – Another elite back-rower in the game, Jackson is highly rated by Dogs fans and is a consistent performer in their forward pack. A hard worker in his own right, his form on the edge is a key for the Bulldogs.

13. Jamie Buhrer – One of Knights key recruits ahead of 2017, Buhrer has so far lived up to the expectation and helped guide the younger forward pack around. Playing big minutes himself and leading from the front, his leadership and his resolve playing a part in a rejuvenated Knights outfit.

14. Brenton Lawrence – Having overcome his back injury, Lawrence is turning heads and impressing Manly fans once more with strong carries and hard running, producing the goods with big metres and opportunistic tries as a result.

15. Junior Paulo – A bullocking man mountain, Junior hits the line as hard as you will see from any prop and his presence his felt in attack. An enforcer of the Raiders forward pack, his metres set the tone for the rest of the forwards.

16. Chris McQueen – Another versatile player, McQueen had a shift to the centres in Rd 3 and was a strong performer as he scored two tries and made several breaks. Whilst not a noted try-scorer, when he has the chance to score, he makes the most of it.

17. John Asiata – A surprising selection perhaps but with much of the focus on other forwards in the Cowboys side, the work-rate and commitment of Asiata can often go unnoticed. His efforts off the bench give a boost to the Cowboys at any point in the game.

Player of the Week: Jordan Rapana.

By ricky

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