NRL Teams Round 20, 2010

July 28, 2010

NRL Teams and Squad Lineups for Round 20 of the National Rugby League, starting with the Friday matchups of the Bulldogs/Rabbitohs and Panthers/Cowboys:

FRIDAY

CANTERBURY BULLDOGS v SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS at ANZ Stadium, 7.35pm

BULLDOGS: Luke Patten, Steve Turner, Josh Morris, Shane Neumann, Bryson Goodwin, Ben Barba, Brett Kimmorley, Ben Hannant, Michael Ennis, Ryan Tandy, Jamal Idris, Andrew Ryan (capt), David Stagg. Interchange: Mickey Paea, Dene Halatau, Chris Armit, Michael Hodgson.

RABBITOHS: Rhys Wesser, Nathan Merritt, Colin Best, Beau Champion, Fetuli Talanoa, John Sutton, Chris Sandow, Sam Burgess, Issac Luke, Roy Asotasi (capt), Dave Tyrrell, Eddy Pettybourne, Ben Lowe. Interchange: Garret Crossman, Jaiman Lowe, Jason Clark, Jamie Simpson, Beau Falloon (one to be omitted).

Referees: Jared Maxwell, Matt Cecchin.

PENRITH PANTHERS v NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS at CUA Stadium, 7.35pm

PANTHERS: Lachlan Coote, Michael Gordon, Michael Jennings, Adrian Purtell, Brad Tighe, Travis Burns, Luke Walsh, Sam McKendry, Kevin Kingston, Petero Civoniceva (capt), Trent Waterhouse, Frank Pritchard, Luke Lewis. Interchange: Wade Graham, Matthew Bell, Nathan Smith, Gavin Cooper, Frank Puletua, Masada Iosefa (two to be omitted).

COWBOYS: Matt Bowen, Will Tupou, Willie Tonga, Ty Williams, Ashley Graham, Arana Taumata, Johnathan Thurston, Matt Scott, Aaron Payne, Willie Mason, Scott Bolton, Leeson Ah Mau, Luke O’Donnell. Interchange: Anthony Watts, Dane Hogan, Carl Webb, James Tamou.

Referees: Steve Lyons, Ton De Las Heras.

SATURDAY

PARRAMATTA EELS v SYDNEY ROOSTERS at Parramatta Stadium, 5.30pm

EELS: Jarryd Hayne, Luke Burt, Joel Reddy, Timana Tahu, Krisnan Inu, Jeff Robson, Daniel Mortimer, Nathan Cayless (capt), Matthew Keating, Fuifui Moimoi, Nathan Hindmarsh (capt), Ben Smith, Feleti Mateo. Interchange: Kris Keating, Tim Mannah, Justin Horo, Justin Poore.

ROOSTERS: Anthony Minichiello, Phil Graham, Kane Linnett, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Sam Perrett, Todd Carney, Mitchell Pearce, Jason Ryles, Jake Friend, Nate Myles, Frank Paul Nuuausala, Mitchell Aubusson, Braith Anasta. Interchange: Joseph Leilua, Martin Kennedy, Daniel Conn, Nick Kouparitsas.

Referees: Shayne Hayne, Gerard Sutton.

WESTS TIGERS v CRONULLA SHARKS at Leichhardt Oval, 7.30pm

TIGERS: Wade McKinnon, Lote Tuqiri, Blake Ayshford, Chris Lawrence, Beau Ryan, Benji Marshall, Robert Lui, Todd Payten, Robbie Farah, Keith Galloway, Liam Fulton, Gareth Ellis, Chris Heighington. Interchange: Andrew Fifita, Geoff Daniela, Simon Dwyer, Bryce Gibbs.

SHARKS: Nathan Gardner, Luke Covell, Dean Collis, Ben Pomeroy, Isaac Gordon, Trent Barrett (capt), Scott Porter, Kade Snowden, John Morris, Luke Douglas, Grant Millington, Anthony Tupou, Paul Gallen. Interchange: Josh Cordoba, Broderick Wright, Paul Aiton, Taulima Tautai, Tim Smith (one to be omitted).

Referees: Jason Robinson, Brett Suttor.

SUNDAY

NZ WARRIORS v GOLD COAST TITANS at Mt Smart AAMI Park, 12pm

NZ WARRIORS: Lance Hohaia, Bill Tupou, Brent Tate, Lewis Brown, Manu Vatuvei, James Maloney, Brett Seymour, Ben Matulino, Aaron Heremaia, Russell Packer, Simon Mannering (capt), Ukuma Ta’Ai, Micheal Luck. Interchange: Ian Henderson, Jesse Royal, Jeremy Latimore, Jacob Lillyman, Joel Moon (one to be omitted).

TITANS: Preston Campbell, Kevin Gordon, Steve Michaels, Clinton Toopi, William Zillman, Mat Rogers, Scott Prince, Luke Bailey, Nathan Friend, Michael Henderson, Anthony Laffranchi, Mark Minichiello, Bodene Thompson. Interchange: Matthew White, Brad Meyers, Ben Ridge, Shannon Walker, Luke O’Dwyer (one to be omitted).

Referees: Tony Archer, Alan Shortall.

MELBOURNE STORM v CANBERRA RAIDERS at AAMI Park, 2pm

STORM: Billy Slater, Matt Duffie, Dane Nielsen, Greg Inglis, Justin O’Neill, Brett Finch, Cooper Cronk, Aiden Tolman, Cam Smith (capt), Brett White, Sika Manu, Ryan Hoffman, Adam Blair. Interchange: Ryan Hinchcliffe, Todd Lowrie, Jeff Lima, Kevin Proctor, Jesse Bromwich (one to be omitted).

RAIDERS: Josh Dugan, Joel Monaghan, Jarrod Croker, Adam Mogg, Daniel Vidot, Terry Campese (capt), Josh McCrone, Tom Learoyd-Lahrs, Travis Waddell, David Shillington, Joe Picker, Bronson Harrison, Josh Miller. Interchange: Sam Mataora, Trevor Thurling, Dane Tilse, Scott Logan, Danny Galea (one to be omitted).

Referees: Ben Cummins, Phil Haines.

BRISBANE BRONCOS v ST GEORGE ILLAWARRA DRAGONS at Suncorp Stadium, 3pm

BRONCOS: Josh Hoffman, Antonio Winterstein, Alex Glenn, Israel Folau, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (capt), Peter Wallace, Shane Tronc, Andrew McCullough, Nick Kenny, Matt Gillett, Sam Thaiday, Corey Parker. Interchange: Ben Hunt, Josh McGuire, Mitchell Dodds, Scott Anderson, Lagi Setu, Ashton Sims (two to be omitted).

DRAGONS: Darius Boyd, Brett Morris, Beau Scott, Matt Cooper, Jason Nightingale, Jamie Soward, Ben Hornby (capt), Matt Prior, Luke Priddis, Jon Green, Neville Costigan, Ben Creagh, Dean Young. Interchange: Trent Merrin, Jeremy Smith, Nick Emmett, Jarrod Saffy, Mark Gasnier (one to be omitted).

Referees: Gavin Badger, Ashley Klein.

MONDAY

NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS v MANLY SEA EAGLES at EnergyAustralia Stadium, 7pm.

KNIGHTS: Shannon McDonnell, Akuila Uate, Junior Sa’u, Adam MacDougall, Cooper Vuna, Jarrod Mullen, Kurt Gidley (capt), Ben Cross, Isaac De Gois, Dan Tolar, Zeb Taia, Con Mika, Matt Hilder. Interchange: Wes Naiqama, Joel Edwards, Richie Fa’aoso, Antonio Kaufusi, Mark Taufua, Cameron Ciraldo (two to be omitted).

SEA EAGLES: Ben Farrar, Michael Robertson, Jamie Lyon, Steve Matai, Tony Williams, Kieran Foran, Trent Hodkinson, Jason King, Matt Ballin, Josh Perry, Anthony Watmough, Shane Rodney, Glenn Stewart. Interchange: Joe Galuvao, Brent Kite, George Rose, Chris Bailey, Matt Cross (one to be omitted).

Referees: Jared Maxwell, Matt Cecchin.

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Ricky Ricardo: Team of the Week

July 28, 2010

Ricky’s NRL Team of the Week for Round 20 of the National Rugby League:

Fullback: Jarryd Hayne – This isn’t bias towards the Eels by any means, but you can’t deny that the man was yet again the form fullback of the round. Scored two tries in 6 minutes, one a brilliant solo effort, not to mention setting up two tries for Inu with brilliant cut-out balls. The highlight of his game though was an excellent try-saving tackle to deny David Stagg a try.

Winger: Fetuli Talanoa – Having bulked up and worked on his speed before the start of the season, it seemed his form was going down and in a big way, but he has worked hard in the last few weeks to improve his game in many different ways. As a result, he was rewarded with two tries (albeit a contentious one) and some damaging runs down the sideline.

Centre: Shaun Kenny-Dowall – Under fire in recent weeks for not stepping up in attack, he answered his critics with an incredible four tries in the Roosters narrow win. Has improved greatly in the last year particularly with his defence and his general awareness of the Roosters attack.

Centre: Jamie Lyon – Perhaps the form centre of the competition right now. A consistent performer for Manly, and rewarded for it with an Origin berth for NSW, there seems to be no stopping him. Scored two tries and ended up with a total of 22 points out of the Sea Eagles 38. Incredible effort!!

Winger: Akuila Uate – Has continued his strong try-scoring prowess with two tries despite the Knights loss. The Fijian flyer has a knack for getting over the try-line and will no doubt score plenty more over the next few rounds.

Five-Eighth: Mat Rogers – Just recently back from injury and seeking a new contract in the NRL, Rogers proved what he can bring to the table for any side with a last minute field goal in extra time in the Titans upset win over the Dragons. Whilst he might be older than most players, he feels he can continue playing for quite some time, and with a performance like his, who’s to deny him that?

Halfback: Chris Sandow – Personally, I’ve been critical of Sandow and his style of play at times, but the past week has given us a glimpse of what he is capable of. Scoring tries, setting them up, hard-hitting defence and solid runs. The question is whether he can maintain it in Souths charge to the finals.

Prop: Luke Bailey – Yet again, the veteran prop has shown his worth to the Titans side. The Titans are fortunate he remains in their ranks after considering a return home to the Dragons for a final fling. Amassed 181 metres this week, continues his workhorse tradition and is vital in big games for the Gold Coast.

Hooker: Travis Waddell – The young Canberra hooker could be on the outer, but he didn’t let that phase him with a strong performance in the Raiders win. Scoring a try and topping the Raiders tackle count, he proved how valuable he can be to any side.

Prop: Fui Fui Moi Moi – Wow! Can you imagine what it would be like trying to tackle this man? It’d be like trying to stop a bus at speed. Regularly pokes his head through the opposing line and makes quality metres consistently. Last week was no different, he set the foundation for the Eels from the opening set.

Second Row: Corey Parker – Whilst he generally plays lock, the forward utility had a very strong game and was perhaps the Broncos best player in a beaten side. He makes large numbers of metres, he makes many tackles, not to mention his handy goal-kicking skills. Kind of reminds you of Craig Fitzgibbon kicking doesn’t it?

Second Row: Paul Gallen – While he’ll never shrug the ‘grub’ tag, you can’t deny the effort that he puts in every week in both attack and defence. It’s a shame he can’t control himself during a Rugby League game though, because he could offer so much more to his side.

Lock: Luke O’ Donnell – Not wanted by the Cows and forced to go to the UK, O’Donnell answered his criticas with a top-shelf game in his last hurrah. Scored two tries, and kept busy all game.

Player of the Week: Jarryd Hayne/Shaun Kenny-Dowall

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NRL Power Rankings Round 20

July 28, 2010

The Power Rankings continue to get more interesting as the NRL Ladder gets more congested and the year-long leading Dragons continue to cling to their first-place ranking:

1. (1) Dragons – As mentioned above, clinging to their first placed rankings. Only just pipped by the Titans, but a loss at home is never ideal. A tough road trip to Brisbane will have Benny and the Saints ready to re-establish themselves as the genuine giants of the League.

2. (4) Roosters – A big jump for the Bondi men, moving from 4th to 2nd as the form team of the competition. They pulled off the ultimate smash and grab raid on Brisbane minus Pearce and Myles. Certainly no easy-feat. With Carney, Mini and SKD firing – they have attacking weapons everywhere it seems.

3. (3) Penrith – Slipping in form and betting stakes, the Panthers will be super-keen to grab a win this weekend as they went down narrowly to the Storm last Round. Face the lowly Cowboys, so expect to see Jennings and Gordon notch up a cricket score and get things moving again.

4. (13) Eels – The biggest rankings jump of the season, the Eels made it 3 in a row – this time icing the cake with a killer performance against the Bulldogs. With Hayne hitting form and those fearless Fui charges coming back – it sets up a big-clash with a the Roosters.

5. (7) Manly – Like the Parramatta mob, are getting back to their best at the right time. Took the knife to the previously untouchable Tigers side. Watmough proving to have spiders on him as he slices defensive lines to pieces – things looking good for Dessies outfit at the minute.

6. (2) Wests Tigers – Slide back down the rankings as quickly as they rose, folding badly to the Sea Eagles last Round and again proving that they can’t play touch-footy on a weekly basis – it will eventually burn them. But fortunately, they like the Panthers have an easy draw this weekend – the Tigers face the Sharks, and it should keep the scoreboard attendant super busy.

7. (8) Souths – Finally got their win after some weeks of pain. Remain a form side, just without luck in recent times. This side really looks good for a serious finals assault if they can survive without injuries in their tough run home. Get some money on John Lang’s men now!

8. (5) Broncos – Had an off game, but nearly snatched an unlikely victory against the Roosters in the dying stages. Not all doom and gloom just yet – but a loss this week would hurt them on the ladder stakes. Face a tough game against the Dragons, however it is at Suncorp which will help.

9. (6) Warriors – A loss cost them their biggest winning streak since 2002, but they remain nestled high on the Ladder and despite a luckless run with injuries, their depth seems to keep them in the hunt! A win this week almost guarantees them a finals finish.

10. (9) Titans – It wasn’t pretty, but any victory over the Dragons in their own backyard is a commendable one. Despite missing some big guns, their experienced men aimed up. One of the most experienced sides in the NRL, cannot be written off – given they have the likes of Presto, Rogers, Bailey, Laffranchi and Meyers in their ranks.

11. (11) Raiders – Made it 2 in a row, this time with a tradesman like victory over the Sharks. David Furner happy with where his team is at – with Campo getting to his confident best and the likes of Dugan and Vidot proving consistent strike weapons, don’t forget the Green Machine in the weeks ahead.

12. (12) Bulldogs – Despite getting blown away early, showed a glimmer of hope at the backend. Might be too late this year, but could provide serious damage to the finals hopes of opponents in the weeks ahead. All eyes on the future of Brett Kimmorley it seems.

13. (14) Cowboys – Notched up an unlikely win over the unpredictable Newcastle Knights to give themselves a much needed shot-in-the-arm. But most of this squad will probably be already thinking of the end of season trip.

14. (13) Knights – Slip further back this week, were expected to bounce back hard after their thumping last week – but they weren’t good enough to get the Cowboys in extra-time. Has possibly cost them a shot at the finals it seems. Left to ponder the season that might have been.

15. (15) Cronulla – Some slight improvement this week against the Raiders, but still a long way from pulling off a victory. Seems their recruitment of Tim Smith has flopped badly and they are possibly going back to the future, after new coach Flanagan put the call out to Brett Kimmorley.

16. (16) Storm – Would be happy with a solid win over the highly-ranked Panthers, despite the fact they’ll lose several players at the end of this season – expect to see the Storm come out firing big time in 2011, when they are playing for points once more.

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NRL Round 20 Review

July 28, 2010

With Round 20 of the National Rugby League behind us, NRL fans were again treated to a feast of quality football – with some epic battles, classy individuals and near misses.

Let’s start with Friday Nights action:

Bulldogs 16 v Eels 32

The battle of the west between traditional rivals Canterbury and Parramatta was over in a flash, with the Eels finding their spark in the opening seconds and really turning on the afterburners to bury the Bulldogs within 12 minutes. This made it the 3rd win on the trot for the Eels and they are suddenly back on track to slip into the semi finals in a few weeks time. With Hayne and Fui leading the way, the rest of the Eels are finding their top gear.

The Bulldogs will be ruing the lost opportunity and will now face a mathematical miracle to make the finals. Again the Bulldogs forwards didn’t look to have the commitment or aggression needed to give them the edge in a big game. If Jamaal hadn’t been working in the engine room – the forwards may have been even more disappointing.

The task for the Dogs doesn’t get any easier, they face the hard-hitting South Sydney side who expect to have Issac Luke ready to roll come game-time.

The Eels lineup against the ever-improving Roosters in what should be a cracker clash this weekend.

Dragons 10 v Titans 11

With their season seemingly in neutral, the Gold Coast snatched a golden point victory to keep their flag flying. Certainly no easy task in Dragon town, the Titans showed they can still mix-it with the big boys and the shot of confidence will do them a tonne of good. They’ll need every bit of courage again this week, as they travel to NZ to face the Warriors on what has been a tough roadtrip through-out 2010.

The Dragons as we have said, have been a little off their best in recent weeks. While they’ve still been winning most of their games, they’ve been falling over the line as opposed to blowing teams away. They get the chance to continue on their merry way this Round against the Broncos in Brisbane – surely Bennett will have them primed for a raid on his old base.

The pressure continues to put Gasnier in the starting lineup, so don’t be surprised if the old 1-2 punch of Cooper and Gasnier are reunited in the Dragons run-on side.

Raiders 20 v Sharks 13

All the talk was about Flannagan’s debut, but the reinvention of the Sharks wasn’t to be. The Radiers rolled their sleeves up and delivered a solid performance in which coach David Furner said ‘was needed’ after they steamrolled the Knights last week in a training run.

With the Sharks remaining rudderless, teams playing them in the final weeks will be glad to not only grab the 2 points on offer – but use the chance to rack up some for-and-against, against what has generally been a below-par NRL side all year.

The Raiders keep their finals hopes well and truly alive. They are playing well at home, but they do have a tough draw this week – off to Melbourne to face the Storm. However, a win would prove the last fortnight hasn’t been a fluke in their own backyard.

Campo is starting to find top gear at the right time, as speedster Daniel Vidot continues his try-scoring form – adding to the punch provided by star Josh Dugan.

Storm 18 v Panthers 10

Are the wheels falling off at the Panthers? Doomsayers are circling and the coach hauled the players out for an unscheduled session to ensure they remain focused on the job. Everyone has been pointing to the Panthers scoring tries only from kicks – but this isn’t the sole problem.

It seems the Panthers haven’t slipped in form, it’s probably a case of the opposition being more desperate at this time of the year. Penrith have been sitting well on the ladder and this could potentially have them signing off in recent weeks. Expect to see them come out firing this week.

The Storm keep prodding along despite consistent bad press and the fact they are playing for nothing. A decent showing from them given all the circumstances. Will continue to provide nuisance value in the weeks ahead as everyone jostles for finals spots.

Cowboys 28 v Knights 24

The Cowboys and Knights fighting out a golden point thriller, North Queensland winning and recovering some pride – but gee the Knights really missed an opportunity here. Had Newcastle won, they remained in the hunt for the Top 8 – they had everything to play for, but couldn’t seal the deal.

The media continues to be kind to coach Rick Stone, had Brian Smith still been at the helm – the pitch-forks would have been coming out from everywhere. Amazing how certain personalities are targeted or favoured in the media.

The Cowboys are set for a mini-cleanout in the offseason, however remaining players and coach are probably best advised to keep the performances up – or face the axe, after a another shocking year.

Rabbitohs 38 v Warriors 28

The luckless Bunnies finally got the win they have been deserving for weeks. South Sydney continue to play a dominant, aggressive style that sets them in good stead for the weeks ahead. They do have the toughest run home of all teams, but in saying that – if they come out the other side OK, they’ll be the best prepared side for the finals games.

Injuries a slight concern for the Bunnies, but they do have more depth than in recent years.

Ivan Cleary was the first to admit his side didn’t deserve to win this one, while playing well in patches – it just wasn’t to be for the Warriors on this occasion.

The Kiwi’s will fancy their chances back in NZ this week against the Titans. A win could see them jump as high as 2nd spot on the NRL ladder.

Sea Eagles 38 v Wests Tigers 20

A serious wake up call for the Tigers in this one, with Manly continuing their good form shown the week before against Cronulla.

Manly have been well and truly off the radar this year due to their patchy form, but it could be a blessing in disguise as Des Haslers men secretly creep up on the finals. Watmough again seems to the be the key for Manly, playing extremely well and providing plenty of encouragement for teammates as they feed off the performance.

Wests however were given a strong indication of exactly where they are at. They’ve been in the winners circle in recent weeks, but their all-or-nothing performances aren’t going to cut it at the business end of the season. Need to roll their sleeves up when needed, or risk being bundled out quicker than expected.

Broncos 30 v Roosters 34

What a massive performance from the Roosters here. The roadtrip to Brisbane is always tough, but with the Broncos in good form – it’s near impossible.

The Roosters almost had to beat their opponents twice. Notching up a big early lead, switching off – then running down the Broncos again in the final minutes.

With Pearce and Nate Myles MIA – the trio of Carney, Minichiello and SKD where dynamic as they tore the heart out of the previously solid Brisbane side.

Another good test for Brian Smith’s Roosters comes this week, facing the resurgent Eels at Parramatta Stadium. The Carney v Hayne clash sure to be a beauty.

The Broncos need to be careful now, in a congested ladder situation – they now face the table topping Dragons and a loss could push them down to 10th position. They do however, have a good points difference which will come in handy in the weeks ahead.

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Ricardo: NRL Team of Round 19

July 20, 2010

After a weeks rest, Ricky Ricardo our NRL guru returns to give us his team of the Week. As an excited Eels fan, we had to stop him from selecting the entire Parramatta side after their magical come from behind win over the table topping Penrith Panthers:

Ricky’s NRL Team of the Week – Round 19, 2010

Fullback: Jarryd Hayne – Is this the form that can see him regain the Dally M as he did last year late in the season? Injecting himself into the game, getting into first receiver more, delivering killer passes, sprinting to the line to gain as much yardage as possible. If he keeps going, anything is possible.

Winger: Josh Dugan – Impossible to leave him out of this side despite Hayne snaring the fullback spot. Dugan too was explosive for his side with the ball in his hands. The Raiders are on to a winner with this pocket rocket, another natural in the mould of Brett Mullins.

Centre: Chris Lawrence – His growth as a player has been a pleasure to watch. The strong ball running centre can easily switch to a playmaking role when needed. Came into first / second receiver on occasion and helped the Tigers when the pressure was on. Certainly comfortable as a pivot if needed.

Centre: Jarod Croker – Who would have thought that a kid who only started practising kicking a few months ago could score so many goals? Quite amazing. Forming a deadly partnership with the dynamic Josh Dugan.

Winger: Lote Tuqiri – Has not only slotted back into the rhythm of NRL but has perfectly complimented the Wests Tigers team. The veteran seems to re-capturing the strong form he showed in early games. Fantastic player when on song, and is proving to be a handful.

Five-Eighth: Todd Carney – This man is on fire! Moving back to five-eighth after some positional changes, he has shown his worth to the Roosters side with a two try performance, and stellar all-round game to guide his side to a narrow win. Will only get better, and is a chance for Origin 2011.

Halfback: Benji Marshall – Not too sure how many get out of jail free cards this man has, but he seems to be pushing it to the limit every time. Once again was the catalyst in the Tigers win, and will undoubtedly do the same at some stage in the season. Tends to go missing when it matters most though. Can he reverse that?

Prop: Petero Civoniceva – Age is clearly not a factor for this man. Despite being one of the oldest players in the NRL, he continues to outshine so many younger props on a regular basis. Goes to show his courage and fortitude to be able to do so. Will go down as one of the greats of the game.

Hooker: Michael Ennis – Back to his best in a losing side. Being the ‘weasel’ that he is, at least according to so many rugby league commentators, he put it to good use getting in the Roosters faces and putting the pressure on, but it wasn’t enough.

Prop: Fui Fui Moi Moi – Fuuuuuuuuuiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii!! Go to any Eels game and you’ll hear a chant like that every time the Tongan touches the ball. Truly remarkable to be honest. Made 138 metres off just 9 hit-ups and got himself on the scoresheet. Starting to also regain his 2009 form.

Second Row: Anthony Watmough – Not too many forwards can claim that they’ve scored three tries in a game, but this man can. Scored three times in one game, which is almost unheard of for forwards. Is he too regaining his form of 2009 which saw him voted the best second-rower in the game?

Second Row: Liam Fulton – Since returning from England, Fulton has flown significantly under the radar, but always does the job he is required to do and he does it well. Got on the scoresheet to top it off, and will only get better.

Lock: Braith Anasta – Who would have thought that in just one week, a player could go from playing average footy, to incredible footy. Man of the match performance for the workhorse, who was in everything, did everything and worked his butt off.

Player of the Week: Todd Carney/Jarryd Hayne

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NRL Teams Round 20

July 20, 2010

It’s crunch time, now or never for many NRL teams as they enter the home straight.

Here are the NRL Teams and Squad Lineups for Round 20 of the National Rugby League:

TEAMS named for round 20 of the NRL (all times AEST):

FRIDAY

ST GEORGE ILLAWARRA DRAGONS v GOLD COAST TITANS at WIN Jubilee Stadium, 7.35pm

DRAGONS: Darius Boyd, Brett Morris, Beau Scott, Matt Cooper, Jason Nightingale, Jamie Soward, Ben Hornby (capt), Matt Prior, Luke Priddis, Jon Green, Neville Costigan, Ben Creagh, Dean Young. Interchange: Trent Merrin, Jeremy Smith, Nick Emmett, Jarrod Saffy, Ricky Thorby, Mark Gasnier (two to be omitted).

TITANS: Preston Campbell, Kevin Gordon, Steve Michaels, Clinton Toopi, William Zillman, Mat Rogers, Scott Prince, Luke Bailey, Nathan Friend, Michael Henderson, Anthony Laffranchi, Mark Minichiello, Bodene Thompson. Interchange: Matthew White, Brad Meyers, Ben Ridge, Luke O’Dwyer, Shannon Walker (one to omitted).

Referees: Ben Cummins, Tony De Las Heras.

CANTERBURY BULLDOGS v PARRAMATTA EELS at ANZ Stadium, 7.35pm

BULLDOGS: Luke Patten, Tim Winitana, Josh Morris, Shane Neumann, Bryson Goodwin, Ben Barba, Brett Kimmorley, Ben Hannant, Michael Ennis, Ryan Tandy, Jamal Idris, Andrew Ryan, David Stagg. Interchange: Michael Paea, Michael Hodgson, Gary Warburton, Blake Green.

EELS: Jarryd Hayne, Luke Burt, Joel Reddy, Timana Tahu, Krisnan Inu, Jeff Robson, Daniel Mortimer, Nathan Cayless (capt), Matthew Keating, Fuifui Moimoi, Nathan Hindmarsh (capt), Ben Smith, Feleti Mateo. Interchange: Kris Keating, Tim Mannah, Justin Horo, Justin Poore, Jonathon Wright (one to omitted).

Referees: Tony Archer, Gavin Badger.

SATURDAY

CANBERRA RAIDERS v CRONULLA SHARKS at Canberra Stadium, 5.30pm

RAIDERS: Josh Dugan, Joe Monaghan, Jarrod Croker, Adam Mogg, Daniel Vidot, Terry Campese (capt), Josh McCrone, Dane Tilse, Travis Waddell, David Shillington, Joe Picker, Bronson Harrison, Josh Miller. Interchange: Sam Mataora, Trevor Thurling, Tom Learoyd-Lahrs, Scott Logan, Danny Galea (one to omitted).

SHARKS: Nathan Gardner, Luke Covell, Dean Collis, Ben Pomeroy, Isaac Gordon, Trent Barrett (capt), Scott Porter, Kade Snowden, John Morris, Luke Douglas, Grant Millington, Anthony Tupou, Paul Gallen. Interchange: Josh Cordoba, Broderick Wright, Paul Aiton, Taulima Tautai.

Referees: Matt Cecchin, Ashley Klein.

MELBOURNE STORM v PENRITH PANTHERS at AAMI Park, 7.30pm

STORM: Billy Slater, Matt Duffie, Chase Stanley, Greg Inglis, Justin O’Neill, Brett Finch, Cooper Cronk, Bryan Norrie, Cam Smith (capt), Brett White, Sika Manu, Ryan Hoffman, Adam Blair. Interchange: Ryan Hinchcliffe, Todd Lowrie, Aiden Tolman, Jeff Lima, Dane Nielsen (one to be omitted).

PANTHERS: Lachlan Coote, Michael Gordon, Michael Jennings, Adrian Purtell, Brad Tighe, Wade Graham, Luke Walsh, Frank Puletua, Kevin Kingston, Petero Civoniceva (capt), Trent Waterhouse, Frank Pritchard, Nathan Smith. Interchange: Travis Burns, Matthew Bell, Gavin Cooper, Sam McKendry, Masada Iosefa (one to omitted).

Referees: Jason Robinson, Brett Suttor.

NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS v NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS at Dairy Farmers Stadium, 7.30pm

COWBOYS: Matthew Bowen, Ashley Graham, Arana Taumata, Willie Tonga, Will Tupou, Grant Rovelli, Johnathan Thurston, Matt Scott, Aaron Payne, Willie Mason, Scott Bolton, Leeson Ah Mau, L O’Donnell. Interchange: Anthony Watts, Dane Hogan, Carl Webb, James Tamou, Ben Harris (one to omitted).

KNIGHTS: Kurt Gidley (capt), Akuila Uate, Junior Sa’u, Adam MacDougall, James McManus, Ben Rogers, Jarrod Mullen, Ben Cross, Isaac De Gois, Dan Tolar, Zeb Taia, Cameron Ciraldo, Matt Hilder. Interchange: Wes Naiqama, Con Mika, Richie Fa’aoso, Antonio Kaufusi, Mark Taufua (one to omitted).

Referees: Steve Lyons, Chris James.

SUNDAY

SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS v NZ WARRIORS at ANZ Stadium, 2.00pm

RABBITOHS: Rhys Wesser, Nathan Merritt, Colin Best, Beau Champion, Fetuli Talanoa, John Sutton, Chris Sandow, Sam Burgess, Beau Falloon, Roy Asotasi (capt), Michael Crocker, David Taylor, Ben Lowe. Interchange: Garret Crossman, Eddy Pettybourne, Dave Tyrrell, Jason Clark.

NZ WARRIORS: Lance Hohaia, Kevin Locke, Brent Tate, Jerome Ropati, Manu Vatuvei, James Maloney, Brett Seymour, Jesse Royal, Aaron Heremaia, Russell Packer, Simon Mannering (capt), Lewis Brown, Micheal Luck. Interchange: Ian Henderson, Ben Matulino, Jeremy Latimore, Ukuma Ta’Ai, Jacob Lillyman (one to be omitted).

Referees: Gavin Badger, Tony De Las Heras.

MANLY SEA EAGLES v WESTS TIGERS at Bluetongue Stadium, 3.00pm

SEA EAGLES: Ben Farrar, Michael Robertson, Jamie Lyon, Steve Matai, Tony Williams, Kieran Foran, Trent Hodkinson, Jason King, Matt Ballin, Josh Perry, Anthony Watmough, Shane Rodney, Glenn Stewart. Interchange: Joe Galuvao, Brent Kite, George Rose, Chris Bailey, Matt Cross (one to omitted).

TIGERS: Wade McKinnon, Lote Tuqiri, Blake Ayshford, Chris Lawrence, Mitch Brown, Benji Marshall, Robert Lui, Bryce Gibbs, Robbie Farah (capt), Keith Galloway, Todd Payten, Liam Fulton, Chris Heighington. Interchange: John Skandalis, Mark Flanagan, Simon Dwyer, Daniel Fitzhenry.

Referees: Shayne Hayne, Gerard Sutton.

MONDAY

BRISBANE BRONCOS v SYDNEY ROOSTERS at Suncorp Stadium, 7.00pm.

BRONCOS: Josh Hoffman, Antonio Winterstein, Alex Glenn, Israel Folau, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (capt), Peter Wallace, Shane Tronc, Andrew McCullough, Nick Kenny, Ben Te’o, Sam Thaiday, Corey Parker. Interchange: Ben Hunt, Matt Gillett, Mitchell Dodds, Josh McGuire.

ROOSTERS: Anthony Minichiello, Phil Graham, Kane Linnett, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Sam Perrett, Todd Carney, Mitchell Pearce, Jason Ryles, Jake Friend, Nate Myles, Frank Paul Nuuausala, Mitchell Aubusson, Braith Anasta. Interchange: Mose Masoe, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Daniel Conn, Nick Kouparitsas.

Referees: Tony Archer, Alan Shortall.

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Round 18 Power Rankings

July 11, 2010

With only the lowly ranked Eels and Cowboys to come in this Round 18 of NRL action, the Power Rankings are in early with the Dragons standing alone heads and shoulders above everyone, after their nearest rivals the Panthers slumped to a shock loss at home.

The Roosters continue to press their claims, winning back to back games – along with the NZ Warriors and Knights winning several games on the trot.

In many cases, the NRL is becoming a tale of two halves of the season.

Early pacesetters are drifting and write-offs are starting to find form and string wins together. It all adds up to an exciting race to the finals from here:

1. Dragons – Despite being out-defended by Penrith last weekend
the St George Illawarra side are probably the only side that
has produced consistency all year. They totally deserve top
spot and given the Storm are out of contention, this mob
has a mortgage on the NRL trophy. (Shhhh, don’t get nervous now!)

2. Panthers – Hang on to their high ranking despite a poor home
loss to the NZ Warriors. Will hope to put it all down to an ‘off’
day – but given the amount of ball they had, they should have
scored 40 points in this game. Interesting to see how they respond
next week.

3. Roosters – Probably deserved to win their game against Souths
by more points. Their squad looks extremely well balanced and they
are seemingly improving every week. Well positioned on the ladder
and can really stitch things up in the coming weeks.

4. Wests Tigers – While they haven’t been blowing sides away in
recent weeks, they’ve still been winning which is what counts at
the moment. Would take a points stripping saga to stop this mob
from making the finals for the first time in 5 years. Yes, one
‘relative unknown’ Mr. King could be popping champagne corks
in a few months time.

5. Souths – With such an explosive forward pack, the Bunnies are
no pushover this year. They’ve played some great footy, but is there
a magic ingredient missing before they can go all the way? Plenty of
responsibility falls on Sandow/Sutton to seal the deal.

6. NZ Warriors – Continue as the late season surgers of the NRL. Have
bagged three on trot, iced the cake today with a hard fought win over
the Penrith Panthers away from home. With such youth and belief, who
knows where this journey could end up?

7. Broncos – They’ve been going about their business for quite a few
weeks now. They’ve learnt how to win again, their speedy, athletic
outside backs are tough to contain. With Hodges due back very soon
don’t forget about this Brisbane outfit when finals are here.

8. Titans – The big losers in this weeks power rankings. Sure, they
only lost by a tiny margin to the Wests Tigers – but the Gold Coast
have been misfiring for a while now. Fortunately for them, a solid
start to the season has them in a salvagable ladder position. Their
advantage is they boast the most NRL experience of all teams in the
competition.

9. Manly – In a similar story to the Titans, they’ve lost their way
in recent weeks. Their lack of endurance in the back end of games has
continued all season – this must be a massive frustration to Des Hasler
who many believe to be a fitness nazi. Risk slipping into oblivion at
the current rate.

10. Bulldogs – Have found something in recent weeks, a strong win over
the Storm will do wonders for their confidence. Have lacked speed in
the forwards this year, their ruck speed along with charges have been
all too predictable. With Ben Barba now in the side, they have quality
at 1,6,7 and 9. The magic ingredients for success in NRL.

11. Knights – Have quietly notched up 3 wins on the trot to give
themselves hope of a finals berth. Defence has been a noted improvement
by Newcastle and they enjoying having a fit, healthy and elusive Kurt
Gidley create havoc for opposing sides.

12. Raiders – Setup an unlikely win this week to keep themselves in the
mix. Have a great group of young stars coming through in the ACT and with
the upcoming re-signing of Josh Dugan – the future looks strong. Their
forwards are well balanced and the team has a rare fighting spirit.

13. Eels – It has been a forgettable year so far for last years Grand
Finalist. With their marquee signings not providing the improvement
the side hoped for. Their League worst attack is a serious restriction
on their chances, but after what they did last year – who is game
enough to write them off?

14. Sharks – I genuinely fear for the future of the Sharks. One gets
the feeling that the poor results could one day break the back of
the Shire based club. Several years of poor crowds, sponsorship
problems, financial hardships and lack of direction would certainly
have the NRL concerned.

15. Cowboys – Trying to salvage some pride and confidence for next season.
Who knows whats been going on up North for the past few years? The
concerns run deeper here given this is an aging squad; with Bowen, Williams,
Webb and O’Donnell not spring chickens anymore. Time for massive cleanout.

16. Storm – Effects of their ban are starting to be felt surely. Have
toiled hard for no reward, but recent losses are very un-Storm-like.
Suggestions that Inglis could be off to Brisbane could distract this
champion side even more.

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State of Origin: No Dead Rubber

July 7, 2010

Some said it would be a waste of time, a dead rubber. But tonights State of Origin clash for Game 3 still has plenty of meaning, despite the series already being wrapped up.

Queensland are desperate for a whitewash, something this stellar unit has yet to achieve. Throw in the fact they want to rub salt into the NSW wounds after the Blues threw the rough stuff at them in Game 2.

NSW are already in crisis. But while they are obviously playing for State pride, this is certainly a chance for some bolter Blues to establish themselves as future fixtures in the side.

Ok, well thats always tough given NSW selectors and officials love the revolving door policy. There has never been much loyalty in the NSW squad selection and this has always given Queensland a massive edge. It’s widely known, yet selectors and officials for NSW refuse to stick by the same group of players.

Whats all this mean?

There is plenty to play for. As the great Gus Gould says, there is never a dead rubber Origin. This is the big time and everyone wants to be a star and a winner.

Buckle up, here we go for another battle-royale. It’s Rugby League at its best.

More reports and reviews after tonights game.

Be sure and visit our site, NRLNEWS.COM for live discussion in the shoutbox before, during and after the Origin game.

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NRL Power Rankings Round 17

July 6, 2010

** Only 10 teams featured due to BYE Round.

While it’s been a reduced Round 17 due to State of Origin requirements, there was still plenty at stake for those sides having to run around this weekend. The Tigers falling over the line to snatch their unlikely win, the Bulldogs revival continuing, the Warriors again impressive and the Panthers physical dominance over the Dragons.

Here’s how the NRL News Power Rankings rate for this week:

1. Penrith – The Panthers deserve to take top spot this week, their defence was exciting to watch – physically hammering the Dragons all night and notching up a tough away win.

2. Dragons – Beaten but not embarrassed, obviously missing their Origin stars and Mark Gasnier will be better for the run with many new teammates. Luke Priddis is looking growingly tired at hooker however.

3. Wests Tigers – Lucky to listed to high on the NRL Power Rankings, but despite a horrid showing were still in the hunt to snatch a late win. With 22 competition points, they are sitting pretty and hopeful of a Top 4 placing it seems.

4. Roosters – Snare 3rd spot due to the reduced BYE Round. Managed a win at Canberra Stadium despite missing key man Mitchell Pearce and getting very little assistance from the referees. Showed good patience and will be happy with the form of veteran Jason Ryles.

5. Warriors – Totally dominated an shocking Eels outfit, the Kiwis feature some great kids in their side at the moment playing a confident, exciting yet well organised style. Unlike Warriors teams of the past – they look to be playing a much smarter, disciplined style. Going great guns.

6. Bulldogs – Managed to win another game on the trot, bouyed nicely by the creativity of Ben Barba. It’s taken ages for this kid to get his starting spot, but he doesn’t look like losing it ever again. When he has the ball, there is always something on. Starting to find their mojo again.

7. Broncos – Were super unlucky not to win on Friday. Outplayed the Wests Tigers all night despite featuring a bunch of rookies. Showing enormous heart, will be back to their best when the veterans return next week. Still on track for finals berth.

8. Cronulla – Despite the loss, have shown enough committment and improvement over the past few weeks. Probably needed the win here to have any chance of sneaking into the NRL Finals – positives still to be had, with their feeder team continuing their good form too.

9. Raiders – Were pickpocketed in their own backyard yet again. Should have had more against a Roosters side minus their playmaker in Pearce. Struggling badly with attack it seems, unable to put on points despite good field position. A poor slide continues.

10. Eels – Plenty of soulsearching still needing to be done over at Parra. While NZ is always a tough roadtrip, the Eels capiulated in the back end and their confidence will have taking a smashing. Losing touch very quickly with the Top 8 teams and if they can’t fire up on Monday night against the Cowboys – they never will.

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NRL Teams Round 17

June 29, 2010

NRL Teams and Squad Lineups for Round 17 of the Telstra National Rugby League Premiership, getting underway with the Broncos/Tigers and Sharks/Bulldogs on Friday Night Football.

FRIDAY

BRISBANE BRONCOS v WESTS TIGERS at Suncorp Stadium, 7.35pm

BRONCOS: Josh Hoffman, Antonio Winterstein, Matt Gillett, Ben Te’o, Jharal Yow Yeh, Corey Norman, Peter Wallace, Shane Tronc, Andrew McCullough, Nick Kenny, Ashton Sims, Lagi Setu, Corey Parker (capt). Interchange: Ben Hunt, Mitchell Dodds, Scott Anderson, Josh McGuire.

TIGERS: Wade McKinnon, Lote Tuqiri, Blake Ayshford, Chris Lawrence, Geoff Daniela, Benji Marshall, Daniel Fitzhenry, Bryce Gibbs, Robbie Farah (capt), Keith Galloway, Todd Payten, Gareth Ellis, Chris Heighington. Interchange: Andrew Fifita, Liam Fulton, Simon Dwyer, Mitch Brown, Nathan Waters (one to be omitted).

Referees: Ben Cummins and Matt Cecchin.

SATURDAY

CRONULLA SHARKS v CANTERBURY BULLDOGS at Bluetongue Stadium, 7.30pm

SHARKS: Nathan Gardner, Blake Ferguson, Dean Collis, Ben Pomeroy, Isaac Gordon, Scott Porter, Tim Smith, Josh Cordoba, John Morris, Luke Douglas (capt), Grant Millington, Broderick Wright, Anthony Tupou. Interchange: Luke Harlen, Taulima Tautai, Paul Aiton, Siosaia Vave.

BULLDOGS: Luke Patten, Steve Turner, Josh Morris, Shane Neumann, Bryson Goodwin, Ben Barba, Brett Kimmorley, Ben Hannant, Joel Romelo, Ryan Tandy, Jamal Idris, Andrew Ryan, David Stagg. Interchange: Mickey Paea, Michael Hodgson, Gary Warburton, Blake Green.

Referees: Jason Robinson and Alan Shortall.

SUNDAY

CANBERRA RAIDERS v SYDNEY ROOSTERS at Canberra Stadium, 2pm

RAIDERS: Josh Dugan, Joel Monaghan, Jarrod Croker, Joel Thompson, Daniel Vidot, Terry Campese (capt), Adam Mogg, Dane Tilse, Glen Buttriss, Troy Thompson, Joe Picker, Bronson Harrison, Shaun Fensom. Interchange: Travis Waddell, Trevor Thurling, Danny Galea, Josh Miller, Josh McCrone, Sam Mataora (two to be omitted).

ROOSTERS: Anthony Minichiello, Phil Graham, Kane Linnett, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Sam Perrett, Braith Anasta (capt), Todd Carney, Jason Ryles, Jake Friend, Mose Masoe, Joseph Leilua, Mitchell Aubusson, Frank Paul Nuuausala. Interchange: Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Martin Kennedy, Tom Symonds, Nick Kouparitsas, Daniel Conn, Lopini Paea (two to be omitted).

Referees: Steve Lyons and Tony De Las Heras.

WARRIORS v PARRAMATTA EELS at Mt Smart Stadium, 2pm

WARRIORS: Lance Hohaia, Bill Tupou, Joel Moon, Jerome Ropati, Manu Vatuvei, James Maloney, Isaac John, Jeremy Latimore, Aaron Heremaia, Russell Packer, Simon Mannering (capt), Lewis Brown, Micheal Luck. Interchange: Ian Henderson, Ben Matulino, Jesse Royal, Sione Lousi, Ukuma Ta’ai (one to be omitted).

EELS: Tom Humble, Luke Burt, Joel Reddy, Jonathon Wright, Krisnan Inu, Jeff Robson, Daniel Mortimer, Nathan Cayless (capt), Matthew Keating, Fuifui Moimoi, Nathan Hindmarsh (capt), Brendan Oake, Feleti Mateo. Interchange: Kris Keating, Patrick O’Hanlon, Justin Horo, Pele Peletelese, Mitchell Allgood, Manase Manuokafoa (two to be omitted).

Referees: Gavin Badger and Ashley Klein.

MONDAY

ST GEORGE ILLAWARRA DRAGONS v PENRITH PANTHERS at WIN Jubilee Stadium, 7pm

DRAGONS: Jason Nightingale, Michael Lett, Kyle Stanley, Matt Prior, Kalifa Fai-Fai Loa, Jamie Soward, Ben Hornby (capt), Jon Green, Luke Priddis, Ricky Thorby, Jeremy Smith, Ben Creagh, Dean Young. Interchange: Michael Greenfield, Trent Merrin, Nick Emmett, Jarrod Saffy, Jake Marketo, Mark Gasnier (two to be omitted).

PANTHERS: Lachlan Coote, David Simmons, Brad Tighe, Adrian Purtell, Sandor Earl, Travis Burns, Wade Graham, Tim Grant, Kevin Kingston, Matthew Bell, Trent Waterhouse (capt), Frank Pritchard, Nathan Smith. Interchange: Masada Iosefa, Gavin Cooper, Joseph Paulo, San McKendry, Frank Puletua (one to be omitted).

Referees: Jared Maxwell and Brett Suttor.

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