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Queensland; the ultimate Origin force win series

NSW looked the most capable on the night, but as they so often do - the State of Origin specialists, Queensland muscled up and took out Game 3 and the 2008 State of Origin series tonight at ANZ Stadium.

In a gutsy affair, Queensland outpointed the New South Wales side 16-10 in a physical and at times fiery match. Its the first time in recent years that sparks flew and punches were thrown, with both sides hell bent on going out on top.

The Maroons dominated in the air and hung on through vital periods to again have the edge at the end. Queensland have the Origin stars and the desire to really make the next decade theirs, as NSW struggle to work out what went wrong yet again. NSW had a crop of talented players, but ultimately their skill level wasn’t anywhere near what the likes of Israel Folau, Greg Inglis and Jonathan Thurston boast.

NSW captain Danny Buderus unfortunately ended his Origin career on a sour note, but toiled hard for his side - proving a handful for Queensland most of the night.

The game had everything – end to end action, gritty defence, injuries, brawls – before Queensland motored home through a Jonathan Thurston dummy line break with a sweet offload to Billy Slater to put them ahead by 6. NSW never looked like recovering after the late counter punch.

The Maroons did it largely without Scott Prince, who lef the field with a broken arm early in the match. The loss of Prince saw Queensland look flat in attack for a good majority of the match, while they hung in tight during wave after wave of NSW attack - many thought they ultimately would falter without Prince and JT combining mid-field.

New South Wales led 10-8 at halftime despite a first-half try scoring double to Queensland’s Israel Folau, with Matt Cooper scoring a try and Craig Fitzgibbon kicking three goals. Folau was dynamite in the air and NSW had no answer, even with protection and time to defuse bombs - Anthony Quinn will have nightmares, as his Storm teammate Folau continued to fly above him, looking more like a Harlem Globetrotter than an NRL player.

The Blues were let down badly by Cronulla hard man Paul Gallen, considered by many as one of the dirtiest players in the NRL - Gallen gave away some mind boggling penalties and compounded them all with a silly late hit on Thurston which gave Queensland much needed thrust in the middle of the game.

A second-half try to Billy Slater swung the momentum well and truly the Maroons’ way, and the Blues couldn’t breach the Queensland defence to get back into the contest. Cool hand Cameron Smith played patiently all game, he worked well with referee Tony Archer and where the Blues shouted and screamed at some 50/50 calls, the ice man Smith always approached Archer well and continued to keep his side poised to strike.

In the home straight with the final battle on, it looked like the Maroons could have blown it when Karmichael Hunt spilled a pass on his own 30-metre line to give NSW a great attacking opportunity. But the cane toads held firm and showed their famous passion and desire, to again deny the disappointing NSW side.

The Maroons were first to break the rules, with an early penalty comin from a high shot from Petero Civoniceva – and then all hell broke loose. Tempers flared and it errupted, players came running from everywhere. Referee Tony Archer knew he had his work cut out for him from then on in.

It was suddenly an Origin game of old, with players from both teams filing in, ready to throw haymakers after Kurt Gidley gave Civoniceva a retaliation push.

Essentially this first melee was mostly push and shove, but the main course was around the corner. In this first flare up the penalty went to NSW with Fitzgibbon nailing the penalty goal and the crowd getting into the game from the start; knowing this was going to be firey right the way through.

The roar of the local NSW crowd was quickly hosed down after Blues flanker Anthony Quinn – such a rock solid performer in game one – dropped a simple bomb to allow Folau to score in right corner. The former Knights, now Storm winger did however manage to regain his confidence quickly with some bullocking runs - but there was more arial attack set to come his way later in the game.

Johnathan Thurston missed his kick at goal, denying the Maroons any extras, and the Queenslanders led 4-2 after only 5 minutes.

Gidley proved to be a smart insertion into the starting side, having plenty of touches early on and threatening at times - the Knights flyer instrumental in the Blues’ initial touchdown - taking the ball to the line before getting an offload away to send Matt Cooper crashing over out wide.

Fitzgibbon potted the conversion from the touchline to give the NSW team a 4 point lead.

Queensland were dealt a shocking early blow, with playmaker Scott Prince ruled out of the match after just 15 minutes with a suspected fractured arm. The news was horrible for the Queensland and Titans faithful, but to their credit the Maroons somehow kept themselves in the contest without their main man and the assistance of an additional reserve.

Thurston did well as he took on the solo playmaking duties and showed he is more than capable on his own as he setup Folau’s 2nd touchdown with an inch perfect bomb. It may well go down as one of the great Origin tries; Folau leaping extremely high, getting massive hangtime to take the bomb on the full. Folau easily above the shoulder height of his opposite Anthony Quinn and as Folau fell backwards with ball in hand he reached while upside down to plant the ball perfectly for a try.

It was a stunning try, leveling the scores at 8-8, and that’s where the scoreline stayed after Thurston missed his second conversion. The freakish play broke NSW hearts and realistically, the Blues did well to remain upbeat after such a heavy hit from the enemy.

Ftizgibbon restored NSW’s lead with another penalty goal after a surging 25-metre run from outgoing captain Buderus. But too much of the Blues points was from penalties, they looked likely to score at times but never had the final play. NSW were probably guilty of not risking things enough, playing too safe and staying too close to the ruck.

Queensland had their final attacking wave of the first half, sending the ball through the hands down the left for Darius Boyd to run clear, but Boyd’s scrappy final pass infield went to ground just out of reach of Hunt.

The crowd eventually saw legitimate punches on the night after Maroons forward Nate Myles speared Ben Cross into the ground, in a dangerous tackle. Players ran in from all directions and Cross at least was seen throwing some decent haymakers at his enemy. It was refreshing to see a ‘genuine’ scrap, unlike the recent melee’s similar to AFL where players chest each other and push - ultimately looking silly and laughable.

Myles was put on report by referee Tony Archer before being hooked by head coach Mal Meninga.

Michael Crocker was then involved in a bizzare incident after copping a Mitchell Pearce bomb in the back of the head – the ball crashing into the rear of the Queenslanders skull and blacking him out for 30 seconds. The big man was clearly dazed and unable to walk for some time, before being assisted from the field.

The Maroons may have been losing players but the ones they had left were getting the job done, with Thurston splitting the NSW defence before sending a flying Billy Slater in to score the visitors’ 3rd score. The movement was simple, but looked slick and certainly did the job. JT running wide and using the cross-field dummy, Brett White becoming slightly lazy in defence and Mitchell Pearce staying wider to mark Inglis; allowing JT to cruise through and position the dashing Billy Slater to dive over.

The Blues continued to bombard the Queensland line but Pearce couldn’t find the last-tackle play to unlock the Maroons defence. A story that was true for most of the night for the Blues, they looked fast and played good depth but didn’t have that final play to pierce the gritty Queensland defence line.

NSW had one last throw of the dice in the final minute, with a full set inside Queensland’s 20 metres, but when Archer called a Braith Anasta pass forward the game slipped out of their grasp.

There would be no fairytale finish for Buderus, with Queensland running out Origin champions for the third successive year.

Queensland take another Championship and prove themselves the ultimate Origin side. Regardless of personnel, circumstances or bounce of the ball - The Queenslanders are simply the best when it comes to the clash of States, they are positioned to hold the throne for many years to come.

How did you see the game? Please post your thoughts below, comments appear after review.

Queensland 16
Tries: Folau 2, Slater
Goals: Thurston 2

New South Wales 10
Tries: Cooper
Goals: Fitzgibbon 3

NRL Teams Round 17, 2008

Here are the NRL Teams and Lineups for round 17 of the NRL this weekend. Interestingly, Wendell Sailor gets a quick recall to the St George Illawarra Dragons side to face Newcastle at EnergyAustralia Stadium. Also of note, out of form NRL referee Ben Cummins manages to keep his first grade spot again after several weeks of poor form.

Friday
Gold Coast v Manly at Skilled Park, 7.45pm
Titans: Preston Campbell, Ben Jeffery, Luke O’Dwyer, Brett Delaney, Jordan Atkins, Mat Rogers, Scott Prince (capt), Michael Henderson, Nathan Friend, Michael Hodgson, Anthony Laffranchi, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: James Stosic, Brad Meyers, Daniel Conn, Josh Graham.
Sea Eagles: Brett Stewart, Michael Robertson, Steve Bell, Steve Matai, David Williams, Jamie Lyon, Matt Orford (capt), Brent Kite, Matt Ballin, Josh Perry, Anthony Watmough, Glenn Stewart, Steve Menzies. Interchange: Heath L’Estrange, Glenn Hall, Adam Cuthbertson, Mark Bryant, Michael Bani (one to be omitted)
Referee: Jared Maxwell

Saturday Newcastle v St George Illawarra at EnergyAustralia Stadium, 7:30pm
Knights: Kurt Gidley, James McManus, Wes Naiqama, Adam MacDougall, Cooper Vuna, Chris Bailey, Jarrod Mullen, Steve Simpson, Danny Buderus (capt), Jesse Royal, Chris Houston, Cory Paterson, Zeb Taia. Interchange: Scott Dureau, Ben Cross, Richard Fa’aoso, Danny Wicks.
Dragons: Brett Morris, Jason Nightingale, Josh Morris, Matt Cooper, Wendell Sailor, Jamie Soward, Ben Hornby, Justin Poore, Dean Young, Jason Ryles, Beau Scott, Chase Stanley, Lagi Setu. Interchange: Kirk Reynoldson, Dan Hunt, Jarrod Saffy, Rangi Chase, Michael Lett, Matt Prior, Stuart Webb (three to be omitted)
Referee: Sean Hampstead

SundayMelbourne v Canberra at Olympic Park, 2pm
Storm: Billy Slater, Steve Turner, Matt Geyer, Israel Folau, Anthony Quinn, Greg Inglis, Cooper Cronk, Jeff Lima, Cameron Smith (capt), Brett White, Michael Crocker, Ryan Hoffman, Dallas Johnson. Interchange: Jeremy Smith, Adam Blair, Sika Manu, Joseph Tomane, Antonio Kaufusi (one to be omitted)
Raiders: David Milne, Justin Carney, Colin Best, Joel Monaghan, Bronx Goodwin, Terry Campese, Todd Carney, Troy Thompson, Glen Buttriss, Dane Tilse, Glen Turner, Joe Picker, Alan Tongue (capt). Interchange: Josh Miller, Ryan Hinchcliffe, Trevor Thurling, Michael Weyman, Brett Kelly (one to be omitted).
Referee: Ben Cummins

Parramatta v Penrith at Parramatta Stadium, 3pm
Eels: Luke Burt, Taulima Tautai, Krisnan Inu, Joel Reddy, Jarryd Hayne, Feleti Mateo, Brett Finch, Nathan Cayless (capt), Mark Riddell, Josh Cordoba, Nathan Hindmarsh, Daniel Wagon, Chad Robinson. Interchange: Matthew Keating, Fuifui Moimoi, Weller Hauraki, Brendan Oake, Todd Lowrie, Tony Williams (two to be omitted)
Panthers: Rhys Wesser, Lachlan Coote, Michael Jennings, Maurice Blair, Brad Tighe, Wade Graham, Luke Lewis, Tony Puletua, Masada Iosefa, Petero Civoniceva (capt), Frank Pritchard, Trent Waterhouse, Nathan Smith. Interchange: Matthew Bell, Junior Moors, Tim Grant, Keith Peters, Jarrod Sammut, Shane Rodney (two to be omitted).
Referee: Shayne Hayne

Monday

Bulldogs v South Sydney at Telstra Stadium, 7pm
Bulldogs: Brent Crisp, Hazem El Masri, Daryl Millard, Tim Winitana, Heka Nanai, Arana Taumata, Ben Roberts, Jarrad Hickey, Corey Hughes, Fred Briggs, Sonny Bill Williams, Andrew Ryan (capt), Reni Maitua. Interchange: Lee Te Maari, Brad Morrin, John Kite, Aaron Groom.
Rabbitohs: Luke Capewell, Nathan Merritt, Jamie Simpson, Beau Champion, Fetuli Talanoa, Craig Wing, Chris Sandow, Scott Geddes, Issac Luke, Roy Asotasi (capt), Luke Stuart, David Fa’alogo, John Sutton. Interchange: Beau Falloon, Shannan McPherson, Manase Manuokafoa, Michael Greenfield, David Kidwell (one to be omitted).
Referee: Jason Robinson

NRL Power Rankings Round 16, 2008

The NRL results just keep getting closer in 2008, once again a round were several games were decided by only a few points. In this modern era, any team can win on their day and the race for the premiership is wide open - several teams looking like they could do the job this year.

Here’s how the Grubber saw the NRL Power Rankings for Round 16, 2008

1. Manly Sea Eagles: Really put on a show in Gosford. Steve Matai working his physical magic in the centres, having a huge impact and Jamie Lyon is developing well in the five-eighth role. Well oiled machine at the moment, traveling well.

Grubbers Comments: Chances of Jamie Lyon ever getting a call-up for State of Origin or the Kangaroos again; slim to none.

2. Sydney Roosters: Won without a stack of their regular stars and are starting to believe in themselves. Have better depth this year and the carefree coaching of Brad Fittler. A real contender, can beat anyone on their day.

Grubbers Comments: Odds that the Roosters players will be allowed in Kings Cross if they win the comp? 25/1

3. Cronulla Sharks: Starting to win by larger margins, a good away win in tough conditions. Their attack is starting to get more depth and fluidity about it, another side enjoying confidence and starting to believe. Defence remains perfect, Ricky has a good mix of playmakers now and has enforced strong defensive ideals.

Grubbers Comment: Odds that ‘Tell Your Pappa’ will go down in history after one of the craziest reverse-prowler tackles ever seen? 5/1

4. St George Illawarra Dragons: What’s happened at Kogarah? Is the shadow of Wayne Bennett forcing players to play for their contractual lives? Whatever it is, it’s working. The Dragons win again and have themselves on a big roll. The NRL Top 8 is a real possibility and the St George Illawarra side only have to win a handful more to lock themselves into the mix. Depth might be a concern, need to stay injury free.

Grubbers Comment: Odds of big Wendell Sailor getting another run anytime soon? 30/1

5. South Sydney Rabbitohs: What a form reversal. We tried to tell Jason Taylor back in the early rounds - stick with the same halves combination and side make-up for more than a week and things might just work. Should improve even more as Craig Wing gets more match time and works up combinations. Have plenty of players fighting for positions, so things are uptempo in the camp. Don’t write the Rabbits off yet.

Grubbers Comment: Odds of George Piggins ringing every media outlet bagging the Bunnies administrators if Souths start losing badly again? 2/1

6. Melbourne Storm: Gutsy showing from the Storm rookies. Forward pack looked frightening at times, have a tonne of talent in reserve for their assault on the Premiership this year. Copped some tough decisions by the referee and almost snatched victory at the end. Overall a good performance considering the situation.

Grubbers Comment: Chances of NRL Referee Ben Cummins ever getting to officiate a semi-final or representative fixture in the next 12 months? 500/1

7. NZ Warriors: Won away from home; even the intimidating Leichhardt Oval couldn’t de-rail them. Ruben Wiki’s 300th game had the boys fired up and even without a solid, dominating halves pairing - the Kiwi’s did enough in the forwards to win this game. Ian Henderson is going great guns at hooker, really providing the Warriors with an uptempo ruck-speed and the driving thrust they need at times.

Grubbers Comment: Amount of games the NZ Warriors would win away from home if they changed their black jerseys to a lighter shade, to avoid the Australian heat? Plenty.

8. Brisbane Broncos: Impressive display considering the State of Origin and injury toll that is hampering the Broncos. A draw will suffice and keep them in the mix. Will be interesting to see their Origin hang-over and how they handle the ongoing battle with injury. I fear they could drop off in coming weeks.

Grubbers Comment: Odds of a Broncos player or official ever finding Peter Wallace’s lost ‘ball’ on the Suncorp Stadium turf? 200/1

9. Penrith Panthers: Have done well to stay out of the media spotlight and have chipped away OK considering injuries hampering them at the moment. Are playing an exciting brand of footy in attack, unpredictable and risky but working to their advantage. Face a tough test against neighbouring Parramatta this week, in a match that is critical for both sides in the scheme of things.

Grubbers Comment: Truth in the rumour that Matt Elliot’s family have finally been allowed out of witness protection after earlier fears that rowdy Penrith locals could have turned on them after months of poor results? Possible to Highly Likely.

10. Parramatta Eels: No one knows what to expect from the Eels each week, possess good firepower in various positions but rarely do they all fire at once. In fairness, it would have been hard to mentally prepare to play a team massively understrength. Need to improve close quarters defence and work to grind out a win, rather than try to overplay their hand at times.

Grubbers Comment: Possibility that NRL referee Ben Cummins is secretly a big Parramatta Eels supporter? Strong to Certain.

11. Gold Coast Titans: Fought bravely at home, but wheels look to be wobbling. Losing Luke Bailey was a killer blow and confidence plus depth remain big concerns. Seem to be fragile in the air on the fringes at times and need to start winning away from home too. Scary times for the NRL newboys.

Grubbers Comment: Odds of John Cartwright putting in a double order of Diet Coke for his next session in the coaching box, to help him get over the nerves? 10/1

12. Newcastle Knights: Have been a touch unlucky in recent weeks, haven’t really played badly - just need somethings to swing their way. Missed a few Origin stars that probably could have got them home, the likes of Danny Buderus, Kurt Gidley and Ben Cross. Face Dragons and Panthers in coming weeks, games that they simply need to win to get them up in the hunt for the Top 8.

Grubbers Comment: Odds that Brian McMannus is the most underrated player in the NRL? 5/1

13. Canberra Raiders: Didn’t play too bad, but needed to win badly at home to keep things on track. Their poor away record means they must take everything they can in the ACT, especially a big Monday Night game. Could really suffer from this loss. Todd Carney however is still playing well and when their attack clicks, it really has the potential to cause serious damage.

Grubbers Comment: Likelihood of the Canberra Raiders making the Top 8 in 2008? 25/1

14. Wests Tigers: Are fading faster than any team at the moment, had everything in their favour at Leichhardt on the weekend but never looked ‘up’ for the contest. Forwards aren’t rolling through the ruck, to make things worse - silly penalties are killing them. Missing depth due to massive injury toll and confidence is leaking away with each week. Benji still has some issues in defence and is making things hard for coach Tim Sheens to keep him in the mix. Will sorely miss Brett Hodgson next season.

Grubbers Comment: Amount of ‘kava’ handed around to teammates by Ruben Wiki before and after the game on Sunday?  34 (2 per player)

15. Bulldogs: Boys trying to play as men. Sonny Bill Williams was a threat, but otherwise didn’t look like a genuine NRL team. Severely down on confidence, personnel and have an axed coach at the helm. All spells disaster and there doesn’t look to be light at the end of the tunnel. Need to work hard to avoid the spoon now as Souths start to accelerate out of the cellar.

Grubbers Comment: Odds that Steve Folkes has been calling brother in law Chris Anderson for coaching tips? 100/1

16. North Queensland Cowboys: Had their hearts broken by a plucky Souths side. Did very well considering their injury toll and lack of genuine gamebreakers. Have found so many ways to lose now, it must be a habit. Losing Carl Webb is a massive blow and I can’t see things getting any better. Firming weekly for the wooden spoon and this will play on their minds no doubt.

Grubbers Comment: Odds that former coach Graham Murray has been praying at his local church for his side to get a win? 500/1

NRL Round 16 2008 Preview and Tips

We’re up to round 16 of the NRL. Another 10 rounds to go after this one, so we are well into the second half of the season and it’s the last weekend where teams will be affected by state of origin selections.

So after this one you can expect the cream to begin to rise to the top, and for the pretenders to fade away.

Who is the cream? I think it’s Manly, Melbourne and the Sydney Roosters.

Who are the pretenders? I think Gold Coast, Cronulla, St. George-Illawarra and the Wests Tigers. But time will tell.

To the tips. In tonight’s games you can expected Rhys Wesser to play for Penrith against Brisbane.

The Panthers will beat an understrength Bronco’s team, which features the halves combination of  PJ Marsh and Shane Perry. They can’t win!

The Sydney Roosters, even without their origin players, should still beat the Bulldogs, even though the Doggies will be improved by the return of Sonny Bill Williams.

Tomorrow St. George-Illawarra will win its 6th game in a row, and become the first team to beat Gold Coast at Skilled Park.

The Titans have hit the wall. I don’t think they can make the finals and without Scott Prince, Luke Bailey and Anthony Laffranchi, they may even get towelled up.

In the 7.30 game tomorrow night Manly, on top of the table yet with only one state of origin player, should beat a Newcastle side minus Kurt Gidley, Danny Buderus and Ben Cross.

Plus South Sydney will make it three wins in a row. They should run up a big score actually in beating North Queensland, even though it’s in Townsville.

No Jonathan Thurston, no Cowboys. In fact even with Thurston in the team the Cowboys have been absolutely hopeless this year.

On Sunday the Wests Tigers should bounce back and beat the Warriors at Leichhardt, but the Tigers aren’t playing well, so don’t be surprised if there’s an upset.

Parramatta should flog a barely recognisable Melbourne team, without nine state of origin representatives.

And on Monday night, I’m going to stick with Canberra at home to upset Cronulla.

Good luck to your team, and have a great weekend.

Queensland State of Origin side named

North Queensland Cowboys hardman Carl Webb was unlucky to miss inclusion in the Maroons side named today to meet the NSW Blues at ANZ Stadium next Wednesday. Broncos improver Ben Hannant keeps his place on the Maroons bench.

Brisbane team-mate Karmichael Hunt will still keep the fullback position, meaning Billy Slater will again be injected from the reserve bench.

Titans forward Ashley Harrison - who also started game two despite being initially named on the bench - has been chosen in the second-row for Origin

Melbourne rake Cameron Smith will again captain the team in the absence of Darren Lockyer (knee).

In 13 previous visits to ANZ Stadium, Queensland have managed only one win and a draw with 11 losses.

Queensland: Karmichael Hunt, Darius Boyd, Greg Inglis, Brent Tate, Israel Folau, Johnathan Thurston, Scott Prince, Steve Price, Cameron Smith (capt), Petero Civoniceva, Michael Crocker, Ashley Harrison, Dallas Johnson. Interchange: Billy Slater, Ben Hannant, Nate Myles, Sam Thaiday.

NRL Teams and Lineups Round 16 2008

NRL Teams and Squad Lineups for Round 16 of the NRL this weekend.

FRIDAY

Penrith Panthers v Brisbane Broncos at CUA Stadium, 7.45pm
Panthers: Rhys Wesser, Luke Rooney, Michael Jennings, Maurice Blair, Brad Tighe, Wade Graham, Luke Lewis, Tony Puletua, Keith Peters, Matthew Bell, Frank Pritchard, Trent Waterhouse, Nathan Smith. Interchange: Masada Iosefa, Tim Grant, Junior Moors, Shane Rodney, Jarrod Sammut (one to be omitted).
Broncos: Josh Hoffman, Denan Kemp, Joel Moon, Nick Emmett, Kaine Manihera, PJ Marsh, Shane Perry, Nick Kenny, Michael Ennis, Ashton Sims, Corey Parker (capt), Greg Eastwood, Tonie Carroll. Interchange: Joel Clinton, David Taylor, Isaak Ah Mau, Andrew McCullough, Derrick Watkins (one to be omitted).
Referee: Gavin Badger

Sydney Roosters v Bulldogs at Sydney Football Stadium, 7.45pm
Roosters: Amos Roberts, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Mitchell Aubusson, Sia Soliola, Sam Perrett, Setaimata Sa, James Aubusson, Mark O’Meley (capt), Jake Friend, Frank-Paul Nuuausala, Lopini Paea, Sean Rudder, Riley Brown. Interchange: David Shillington, Mickey Paea, Anthony Cherrington, Brent Grose, Shaun Foley (one to be omitted).
Bulldogs: Nick Youngquest, Hazem El Masri, Daryl Millard, Tim Winitana, Heka Nanai, Arana Taumata, Ben Roberts, Jarrad Hickey, Corey Hughes, Fred Briggs, Sonny Bill Williams, Andrew Ryan, Reni Maitua. Interchange: Lee Te Maari, Danny Williams, Brad Morrin, Michael Sullivan.
Referee: Jared Maxwell

SATURDAY

Gold Coast Titans v St George Illawarra Dragons at Skilled Park, 5.30pm
Titans: Preston Campbell, Ben Jeffrey, Luke O’Dwyer, Brett Delaney, Jordan Atkins, Mat Rogers, Brad Davis, Michael Henderson, Nathan Friend, Michael Hodgson, Brad Meyers, Mark Minichiello, Josh Graham. Interchange: James Stosic, Will Matthews, Gavin Cooper, Luke Swain, Clint Amos (one to be omitted).
Dragons: Brett Morris, Jason Nightingale, Josh Morris, Chase Stanley, Michael Lett, Jamie Soward, Ben Hornby (capt), Justin Poore, Dean Young, Jason Ryles, Beau Scott, Ben Creagh, Stuart Webb. Interchange: Jarrod Saffy, Dan Hunt, Lagi Setu, Rangi Chase, Kirk Reynoldson (one to be omitted).
Referee: Bernard Sutton

Manly Sea Eagles v Newcastle Knights at Bluetongue Stadium, 7.30pm
Sea Eagles: Michael Robertson, Michael Bani, Steve Bell, Steve Matai, David Williams, Jamie Lyon, Matt Orford (capt), Brent Kite, Matt Ballin, Josh Perry, Anthony Watmough, Glenn Stewart, Luke Williamson. Interchange: Heath L’Estrange, Glenn Hall, Mark Bryant, Steve Menzies, Nick Bradley-Qalilawa, Adam Cuthbertson (two to be omitted).
Knights: Wes Naiqama, James McManus, Junior Sau, Adam MacDougall, Cooper Vuna, Chris Bailey, Jarrod Mullen, Steve Simpson (capt), Matt Hilder, Jesse Royal, Chris Houston, Cory Paterson, Zeb Taia. Interchange: Daniel Tolar, Richard Faaoso, Danny Wicks, Scott Dureau.
Referee: Shayne Hayne

North Queensland Cowboys v South Sydney Rabbitohs at Dairy Farmers Stadium, 7.30pm
Cowboys: Anthony Watts, Mark Henry, Ashley Graham, Ben Harris, John Williams, Sione Faumuina, Chris Sheppard, Ray Cashmere, Aaron Payne (capt), Carl Webb, Nick Slyney, Scott Bolton, Steve Southern. Interchange: Brandon Boor, Ben Vaeau, Greg Byrnes, Shane Tronc
Rabbitohs: Luke Capewell, Nathan Merritt, Jamie Simpson, Beau Champion, Fetuli Talanoa, Craig Wing, Chris Sandow, Scott Geddes, Issac Luke, Roy Asotasi (capt), Luke Stuart, David Faalogo, John Sutton
Interchange: George Ndaira, Shannan McPherson, David Kidwell, Manase Manuokafoa, Ben Lowe, Shannon Hegarty, Michael Greenfield (three to be omitted).
Referee: Tony De Las Heras

SUNDAY

Wests Tigers v New Zealand Warriors at Leichhardt Oval, 2pm
Tigers: Brett Hodgson (capt), Taniela Tuiaki, Dean Collis, Chris Lawrence, Beau Ryan, Benji Marshall, Mathew Head, Bronson Harrison, Robbie Farah, Bryce Gibbs, Ben Te’o, Chris Heighington, Liam Fulton. Interchange: John Morris, Dene Halatau, Corey Payne, Daine Laurie, Ryan Tandy (one to be omitted).
Warriors: Lance Hohaia, Aidan Kirk, Jerome Ropati, Simon Mannering, Malo Solomona, Michael Witt, Nathan Fien, Ruben Wiki, Ian Henderson, Sam Rapira, Ben Matulino, Logan Swann, Micheal Luck (capt). Interchange: Patrick Ah Van, Evarn Tuimavave, Epalahame Lauaki, Sonny Fai.
Referee: Steve Lyons

Parramatta Eels v Melbourne Storm at Parramatta Stadium, 3pm.
Eels: Luke Burt, Taulima Tautai, Krisnan Inu, Joel Reddy, Tony Williams, Feleti Mateo, Brett Finch, Nathan Cayless (capt), Mark Riddell, Josh Cordoba, Nathan Hindmarsh, Daniel Wagon, Chad Robinson, Interchange: Matthew Keating, Todd Lowrie, Weller Hauraki, Brendan Oake.
Storm: Steve Turner, Brett Anderson, Joseph Tomane, Jeremy Smith, Sam Joe, Matt Geyer, Cooper Cronk, Jeff Lima, Russ Aitken, Scott Anderson, Antonio Kaufusi, Sika Manu, Adam Blair. Interchange: Liam Foran, Kevin Proctor, Aiden Tolman, Clifford Manua, Sinbad Kali, Lucas Miller (two to be omitted).
Referee: Ben Cummins

MONDAY

Canberra Raiders v Cronulla Sharks at Canberra Stadium, 7pm.
Raiders: David Milne, Justin Carney, Colin Best, Brett Kelly, Bronx Goodwin, Terry Campese, Todd Carney, Troy Thompson, Glen Buttriss, Dane Tilse, Glen Turner, Joe Picker, Alan Tongue (capt). Interchange: Josh Miller, Ryan Hinchcliffe, Trevor Thurling, Michael Weyman, Ben Jones.
Sharks: Mitch Brown, Misi Taulapapa, Ben Pomeroy, David Simmons, Luke Covell, Brett Seymour, Brett Kimmorley, Ben Ross, Isaac De Gois, Danny Nutley, Luke Douglas, Fraser Anderson, Blake Green. Interchange: Paul Stephenson, Kade Snowden, Bryan Norrie, Terence Seu Seu, Grant Millington (one to be omitted).
Referee: Sean Hampstead

NSW Blues side named for State of Origin 3, 2008

The NSW Blues Team Lineup and Squad for State of Origin 3 has been announced this morning; as follows:

NSW team: Brett Stewart, Jarryd Hayne, Joel Monaghan, Matt Cooper, Anthony Quinn, Braith Anasta, Mitchell Pearce, Willie Mason, Danny Buderus (capt), Brett White, Craig Fitzgibbon, Ryan Hoffman, Paul Gallen. Interchange: Kurt Gidley, Anthony Laffranchi, Ben Cross, Anthony Tupou.

NSW coach Craig Bellamy says teenager Mitchell Pearce’s elevation to State of Origin halfback has come sooner than expected but he has full faith in him to direct the Blues in next week’s series decider at ANZ Stadium.

Pearce, the 19-year-old son of former Blues great and coach Wayne Pearce, was on Tuesday named to make his Origin debut in the No.7 jersey, alongside Sydney Roosters team-mate Braith Anasta who gained a recall.

The Roosters pair are two of five changes to the NSW side which lost 30-0 in Origin II in Brisbane with Origin I stars Ben Cross and Jarryd Hayne also recalled while Canberra’s Joel Monaghan was picked for his debut in place of injured centre Mark Gasnier (back).

Anasta and Pearce replace injured combination Greg Bird (knee) and Peter Wallace (groin) while prop Cross replaces Newcastle team-mate Steve Simpson on the bench and Hayne comes back on the wing in place of Steve Turner.

Blues selectors made only a minor change to the starting forward pack which was mauled in Brisbane, with Willie Mason shifted up to prop and Craig Fitzgibbon reverting to the second row.

It is a strong show of faith by NSW selectors with most of the changes either recalling players who did the job in Origin I or forced through injury.

Bellamy is confident the Blues have picked a side he believes can do the job on Wednesday week and reclaim the series title for the first time since 2005.

He says the Roosters halves partnership is a bonus for the Blues, but insists both Pearce and Anasta would have won selection had they played for separate NRL clubs.

“It’s obviously a pretty early promotion I suppose into this level of footy for him,” said Bellamy of Pearce.

“He has been under the spotlight from us for a little bit.

“It’s a bit of a bonus for us if they’ve both played for the same club.

“If they played for separate clubs they would be in the team in the same circumstances.”

Anasta’s recall - he was dumped after the opening two losses last year - comes after some great club form and Bellamy says NSW will be looking to the 26-year-old to carry those performances into the rep arena.

“I’m sure he will fit (into the team) fine. I imagine he will be happy to be there,” said Bellamy of Anasta.

“He was very unlucky to miss out in those first two games.”

Bellamy said Brisbane young gun Wallace was not considered as it would have been too tough on the 22-year-old to play after having surgery on a ruptured testicle only days after the Origin II loss.

“There were still some dangers that if we had trained him this week and played that was too big an ask,” said Bellamy.

“Wall is a tough kid but it’s just that there’s too many risks after talking to the specialists.”

Meanwhile the lack of changes to the Blues pack, only a positional switch and the recall of Origin I debutant Cross, has handed NSW’s highly criticised Origin II forwards a chance at redemption.

“We tried to get back to the side we had in the first game and they did pretty well,” said chairman of selectors Bob McCarthy.

NSW team: Brett Stewart, Jarryd Hayne, Joel Monaghan, Matt Cooper, Anthony Quinn, Braith Anasta, Mitchell Pearce, Willie Mason, Danny Buderus (capt), Brett White, Craig Fitzgibbon, Ryan Hoffman, Paul Gallen. Interchange: Kurt Gidley, Anthony Laffranchi, Ben Cross, Anthony Tupou.

NRL Power Rankings Round 15 2008

Well, it’s been a long time coming - but the Green Machine returned this week and the Grubber had no hesitation in slotting them into Top spot on the NRL Power Rankings. Their no.1 supporter, Mr Akuma would be a happy man as his side turned on the after-burners to leave the Bulldogs in a whole heap of trouble.

Over at Toyota Park, the Sharks got their gritty win - but has Paul Gallen become the new Geoff Toovey? Already at odds with the NRL public earlier in his career over grubby tactics, the work-horse forward has now become a consistent voice in the referees ears. Come on Paul, you’re driving referee’s and those with ’sports-ears’ mad! Give us a rest.

1. Canberra Raiders: The Green Machine flexed some major muscle in Round 15, playing against a rudderless Bulldogs side the Canberra boys grew in confidence after every try and simply blew the Belmore boys off the park. Colin Best getting back to career best form combined with a good showing from the Raiders forwards. Will be interesting to watch in the run to the Top 8 Finals.

Grubbers Comment: Truth in the rumour that Michael Weyman got fired up for this game, after his coach for next year Wayne Bennett sent him a ‘Tony Ferguson’ diet pack to prepare him for the Dragons in 2009. Strong to Certain.

2. Melbourne Storm: Took a while to get into full swing, but the high flying Melbourne side copped a rocket at half time from NSW coach Craig Bellamy and returned to the field to put the struggling Cowboys to the slaughter. Could have scored even more points if not for the North Queensland slowing tactics. Consistent motivation remains the a hurdle for the Storm, along with possible injury damage coming out of State of Origin 3.

Grubbers Comment: Odds that Craig Bellamy bargained with his side at half-time; saying “Ok, you win this game well guys and I will let you Queenslanders win Origin 3?” 100/1

3. St George Illawarra Dragons: Didn’t win in style, but the Dragons are well and truly back. Slotting into the Top 8 and winning games in the grind when they have to. Still have a great side on paper and have beaten all the top teams on the ladder so far in NRL 2008. Coach and players must be reveling in this season now the pressure of next year has been lifted off their shoulders. Could prove a real handful in the finals.

Grubbers Comment: Odds that the Dragons have a cut-out of Wayne Bennett in the dressing sheds before and during the game, which has helped them win over the past month? 5/1

4. Manly Sea Eagles: Only won by a small margin, but got the goods on a tough road trip to Aukland, NZ. The Warriors put up a massive fight, but the Eagles had the late counter punch to snatch the 2 points. Have shown in recent weeks they can win the tough, gritty games - something they weren’t doing earlier in the year. A question mark remains over their halves, but while they are winning - Des Hasler and Co probably don’t care.

Grubbers Comment: Chances that Manly and their supporters have finally forgotten who Michael Monaghan was, now they are sitting atop the NRL Ladder? 10/1

5. Sydney Roosters: Another heart stopping game, the Roosters ram-raiding Newcastle to jag another victory. While they are oozing confidence, it seems coach Brad Fittler is the key to their NRL success this year. Fittler’s ability to get their attitude right and ‘lift’ them before and during a game seems to be a regular occurrence. With Mitchell Pearce and Braith Anasta set to join the NSW State of Origin ranks, the game breaking halves pairing could grow even further in confidence.

Grubbers Comment: Odds that Brad Fittler will suit up and play Captain-Coach of the Sydney Roosters in the absence of his prodigy Braith Anasta? 250/1

6. Cronulla Sharks: The Shire lads played out the ideal game-plan to beat the Eels, Paul Gallen leading from the front and putting his team in a position to snatch victory after the bell. Look lost at times in attack with only their kicks threatening, but Ricky Stuart has this side battle-hardened and they continue to win in close encounters. Have virtually guaranteed themselves a Top 8 finish. Hold on to your hats Cronulla, you’re going to the finals - can your team win the comp?

Grubbers Comment: Odds that Brett Kimmorley was going to ‘wink’ in the style of Paul Gallen as he lay on the ground waiting for video referee intervention? 1000/1

7. Brisbane Broncos: Were lucky in their victory over the Wests Tigers, the Broncos never looked likely and will be happy to have snagged a win given their shocking injury toll at present. Their spare parts side did enough to stay in touch with the NRL entertainers; Wests Tigers - and they got the bounce of the ball late in the action. When their stars return in the coming weeks, could be a perfect refresher coming into the finals. Should be a contender at seasons end.

Grubbers Comment: Chances of Ivan Henjack getting cold feet at the last minute before going from water-boy to having to fill the biggest coaching shoes in NRL and Rugby League history in 2009? 25/1

8. South Sydney Rabbitohs: The Gladiators touch. Was it Russell Crowe in the sheds before the game that gave the Bunnies the power? Regardless, they got the chocolates. A spirited performance albeit against an injury hit Gold Coast Titans side. Surely Jason Taylor has found the halves pairing he can stick with on a weekly basis, Chris Sandow the 7th choice half for the year looks to have the goods. Issac Luke and John Sutton would be State of Origin representatives if they played for a top 8 side this year.

Grubbers Comment: Odds that Jason Taylor was going to mention John Lang in the post-game interview if the Bunnies won? 150/1

9. Gold Coast Titans: Still have a problem with away games, but given their performance with no reserves - they can be excused. Never stopped probing all night and while Nathan Friend had several key defensive misses, his livewire, scheming attack was impressive. Mark Minichiello was an absolute machine, punching out big metres and tackling consistently. Probably only a speed bump for John Cartwright at the Titans, but injuries must be a concern in the weeks ahead. Have some tough games coming up.

Grubbers Comment: Likelihood that the shorts worn by the Gold Coast Titans are the most unfit colour for NRL that has ever been seen? 2/1

10. Parramatta Eels: Never looked comfortable against Cronulla, should have been able to adapt to the physical and slowing tactics of the Sharks. Nearly able to snatch a game they didn’t really deserve to win and don’t look too affected by injury at this stage. The Eels are still yet to prove themselves consistently in 2008, however the form of Feleti Mateo continues to propel them along at critical times. Halves pairing looks much better than earlier in the year.

Grubbers Comment: Odds that Feleti Mateo is a lovechild of Jim Dymock from the former stars romps at Kicks Nightclub, Parramatta Leagues?

11. Penrith Panthers: The luckless Panthers can’t take a trick. They have improved out of sight in the past 2 months and were close enough again to grab this game. Injuries have really made it difficult for them, but in saying that - they are playing a carefree brand of football and once they cut out the simple errors they will win more games. Seemed to have freed themselves from the pressure of the season start and anything could happen from here.

Grubbers Comment: Likelihood of Luke Lewis now changing his mind again and trying to get back into his agreement with Souths after the Bunnies start winning and the Panthers start losing? 10/1

12. Newcastle Knights: Another side that could have just as easily won and given the game was at home, they probably should have. Managed to keep the high flying Roosters to only a handful of points and won’t be too disheartened by this loss. Results fell in their favour and the Knights don’t really lose their position on the ladder. Led well by Kurt Gidley and Danny Buderus, the Knights do however have a tough road trip to Brookvale Oval this weekend and winning there could be just the medicine to get things going again.

Grubbers Comment: Odds that Wes Naiqama is really a relative of Noa Nandruku? 25/1

13. Wests Tigers: Have hit a major hurdle in the past fortnight, were traveling beautifully until injury, the Eels and Broncos struck. Biggest problem is their lack of go-forward at present, with so many of their engine room sitting idle - their entertaining backs are finding it impossible to make in-roads out wide. Chris Heighnington continues to amaze, simply in top shelf form for the club. The Tigers do however have a good draw in the next few weeks, facing the struggling Warriors at Leichhardt and then the BYE. Will need to beat the Warriors, as after the BYE they face the Melbourne Storm who will be over their Origin commitments and ready to get busy.

Grubbers Comment: Truth in the rumour that Tigers players have nick-named teammate Ben Teo “Scrooge” after the prominent forward has started ringing every other club trying to push his value up? 2/1

14. NZ Warriors: The ditch men did a lot right and nearly pulled off a major upset against Manly at Mt Smart. Have lost most of their confidence and losing games at home has really hurt them so far. Simple errors are unacceptable at this level, their dropping of the kick-off on two occasions is simply suicide in the NRL of today. Halves aren’t quite at the level they should be and Ivan Cleary has some tough decisions on his hands in the weeks ahead.

Grubbers Comment: Chances that all remaining NZ Warriors supporters have reverted back to watching local NPC Rugby Union after their Rugby League side struggles yet again? $1.05

15. North Queensland Cowboys: Not much is going right for the Cowboys, the players have a lot to answer for considering they fell out of love with their coach and had him booted; convincing management that Graham Murray was the issue. It seems the North Queensland players do a better job of selling a story to the back-office, as opposed to winning on the field. Looked interested for about 30 minutes, but when the going got tough they feigned injury and did what they could to limit the damage without having to play. Serious issues up North.

Grubbers Comment: Truth in the rumour that Graham Murray has mailed certain players a ‘feather’ in an envelope after they backstabbed him and have gone on to perform even worse under new guidance. 5/1

16. Bulldogs: All the predictions have come true. No wonder Sonny Bill Williams wanted to get out, he’s just spent 12 months in a leaky boat at Belmore as his mentors Willie Mason and Mark O’Meley jumped ship before things got too rocky. Years ago this side was known as a tough, defensively sound unit. Oh how times have changed, lack any star power to beat the major sides and it looks like coach Steve Folkes will have no alternative but to move on and let the new coach and players prepare for next year.

Grubbers Comment: Odds that would have been given to punters, on the the likelihood of both Willie Mason and Malcolm Noad being long gone from the Bulldogs come mid-2009? 750/1

Anthony Minichiello outted again; is it too much?

Surely Minichiello must consider walking away.

While there is no doubting the supreme ability of the Roosters fullback, after nearly 3 seasons of stop start football - only his top skill level allows him to walk in and out of the first grade Sydney Roosters side after so much injury interruption.

How much longer can it go on? Minichiello must consider his own health and the Roosters must surely be looking to the future, finding a fullback that will be a long term prospect; not a month to month consideration.

The former Australian custodian was hooked from the training paddock yesterday after earlier scans came through and confirmed he has a bulging disk in his neck which is touching on his spine.

Early reports rule-out the chance that the injury could be career-ending, at this early stage it seems Minichiello will be off the field for around 4-6 weeks. These time frames put a heap of pressure on the Roosters NRL finals claims for 2008. Injecting Minichiello back into the side around finals time is certainly not ideal. He has the ability, there is no doubting that - however combinations and match fitness must be assessed by Fittler.

Acting upon scans taken on Thursday, the specialist has advised that Minichiello rest during this period to recover from the injury.

No immediate surgery is required.

Sydney Roosters club Doctor John Orchard has confirmed that the current injury is not directly related to the fullback’s previous lower back injuries.

“I am disappointed that I will be out for the 4-6 weeks,” said Minichiello.

“However I’m relieved with the diagnosis and am looking forward to re-joining my team mates after this time.”

Meanwhile, club physio Tony Ayoub admits Minichiello’s quick response to early treatment has shown positive signs.

“Anthony has been receiving physio treatment for this injury and has improved substantially in this time,” said Ayoub.

“We will continue this treatment and aim to have him back on the field as soon as possible.”

The Roosters have confirmed Amos Roberts will replace Minichiello in the No.1 jersey for their clash with the Knights on Sunday at EnergyAustralia Stadium.

While Minichiello’s injury resulted in a backline reshuffle for the Roosters, Knights coach Brian Smith was forced to take similar action with his pack after NSW prop Ben Cross was given the all clear to resume playing following the broken hand suffered in Origin I.

Smith confirmed Cross would start in the front row, but exactly who would make way for his return remained unclear.

Either way, it’s set the scene for a titanic battle up the middle, one that even has coach Smith salivating.

“I’m looking forward to this, it’s probably the first time since I’ve been here that we’re ready for a big test against a big team,” Smith.

“It won’t be the be all and end all of whether we win or lose but it’s certainly a great time for us - just over halfway through the season - to measure ourselves against a team in pretty good form and justifiably one of the contenders for the premiership.”

Much interest will centre on the battle between Knights prop Danny Wicks and Roosters veteran Mark O’Meley after the pair exchanged heated words in the aftermath of Newcastle’s dramatic 34-20 round six win.

Wicks scored a blockbusting try late in the game, leaving a handful of Roosters defenders lying in his wake.

Roosters coach Brad Fittler has said he would use the run as a motivational ploy in the lead-up to the game while Smith has put a gag on his young charge.

‘We had a bit of a discussion about how he wanted to be portrayed,” Smith said of Wicks.

“It was my advice to him to lay low.

“Most of us coaches like our footballers, particularly our front rowers, to let their game do the talking and he’s only a young fella making his way in the game.

“He can do without having any extra pressure on him trying to live up to what the media expects of him.”

Brisbane wobble home as Tigers fade

Wests Tigers should have won tonight. It was that simple, or so it seemed. The Tigers were pretty much the better team for most of the match, looking more likely to pile on points throughout. But it never happened. Brain snapping penalties and shocking kicking in general play saw the Tigers wither and fade as the plucky Broncos stepped up to take the honours 19-18 at Suncorp Stadium tonight, notching just their second win from their last six outings.

A spectacular try on the stroke of half time gave the visitors a 12-8 halftime advantage - but the Broncos lifted for a short period and took full advantage of the brief momentum shift, scoring twice in a 3 minute period to jump away to an 18-12 lead.

The Tigers had threatened most of the night, but proved their ability with an amazing attacking play with Benji Marshall putting Dean Collis into a gap down the right-hand edge, and the classy centre showed impressive skill to then launch a kick back infield, that bounced up perfectly for Liam Fulton.

The workaholic backrower then touched down under the posts to narrow the gap to two.

Hodgson converted from adjacent to the posts to tie the game at 18-all with 14 minutes to play. But while Benji Marshall was instrumental in setting up this try, his defence left the Tigers exposed at various stages and a late error with the game on the line really hurt his sides chances.

 

Nick Emmett went agonisingly close to giving Brisbane the lead in the 71st minute but was ruled held up, before Karmichael Hunt stepped up two minutes later to give the Broncos the lead courtesy of a field goal.

Hunt’s good work looked to have been undone when Darius Boyd knocked on shortly after the re-start, and Broncos backrower Corey Parker let his annoyance be known by seemingly shouldering his teammate.

Marshall let the Broncos off the hook when he turned the ball over with a silly pass, but it wasn’t over yet for the Broncos - John Morris had a chance to square the game in the dying stages.

His attempt from directly in front sailed wide, and the Broncos held on for a much needed win by the barest possible margin.

It was like Groundhog Day for Brisbane as they repeated last week’s horror start against Canberra, conceding an early high tackle penalty and ultimately the opening four-pointer.

Chris Heighington sliced the Brisbane defence up the middle before linking with the ever-present  Brett Hodgson for the opening points.

Hodgson comfortably added the extras to get the visitors off to a flyer, 6-nil in front after just seven minutes.

The Tigers looked like surrendering the early advantage immediately after knocking on from the re-start, but the Broncos couldn’t manufacture a try, and had to settle for a penalty goal to Michael Ennis to cut the deficit to four.

Wests continued to give the home side a piggy-back downfield through penalties, and Brisbane were level in the 16th minute, when Joel Moon forced his way over off the back of a crisp cut-out pass from Ennis.

Brisbane’s makeshift halfback added the extras to give the home side the lead.

Denan Kemp went desperately close to extending the Brisbane lead in the 28th minute, but was ruled to have gone into touch prior to planting the ball down in the corner.

Hodgson then squared the game at eight off the back of a penalty.

The teams looked set to go to the break with the scores tied, but the Tigers got some possession off the back of a scrum, and a brilliant no-look cutout pass from Mathew Head hit Dean Halatau on the chest to put the visitors in front on the stroke of half time.

The Tigers started the second half full of confidence and were looking likely to extend their half-time advantage, before a timely intercept from hulking prop Dave Taylor released the pressure valve for the home side.

Taylor showed considerable pace as well to surge into the Tigers half, before being run down by fellow prop Bryce Gibbs.

Brisbane followed up on the fortuitous intercept with a soft try to Denan Kemp, and Ennis bought the Brisbane crowd to with a cracking touchline conversion to give Brisbane a 14-12 advantage with just under half an hour to play.

All the momentum was with the Broncos, Nick Kenny slid his way over three minutes later to extend the home side’s lead out to six.

Ennis was unable to add the extras to extend the Brisbane’s lead to beyond a converted try, a miss would very nearly proved costly before the result was secured off the boot of Hunt.

BRISBANE 19 (D Kemp N Kenny J Moon tries M Ennis 3 goals K Hunt field goal)
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WESTS TIGERS 18 (L Fulton D Halatau B Hodgson tries B Hodgson 3 goals)

Crowd: 27,864.

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