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Ricardo: 2010 Season Preview

January 26, 2010

Ricky Ricardo NRL Teams 2010 Season Preview PredictionsRicky Ricardo runs his eye over the upcoming 2010 Season - Offering his Expert Analysis and Predictions for Your NRL Team:

As we get closer and closer to that first week in March where we can all once again enjoy the football that we so eagerly count down, it is the off-season that helps us to once again get into the mood of football. Whether it be by purchasing our season tickets, or whether it be by purchasing a large range of merchandise, we are always involved with supporting our club all year.

As the season gets closer and closer, we hope and pray that this year will be our team’s year. This is my analysis and predictions of how I think each team has recruited and how they will fare throughout the season as well as a player to watch out for from the team.

Brisbane Broncos – Had a particularly quiet off-season in the recruiting department with the only major buy being former Warrior Denan Kemp. They’ve already gotten off to a bad start with news that Australian and Origin centre, Justin Hodges is out for 6 months due to injury.

Touted as the favourite to begin in the now vacant fullback position following the departure of Karmichael Hunt to AFL, Hodges injury will pose some questions for Broncos coach Ivan Henjak. Does he move Darren Lockyer, an Origin and Australian 5/8 to fullback where he started his career, or does he put new acquisition Denan Kemp at fullback.

Many fans will be asking if the Broncos forward pack has enough brunt and brute force to compete with some of the stronger forward packs. With Joel Clinton’s departure to England, many believe the Broncos forward pack looks a bit light with the likes of Nick Kenny, Ashton Sims and Sam Thaiday the only recognised forwards in the forward pack.

The Broncos have shown their resilience in the past when under the pump and they will do so again this year. I predict a finish around 8th. Injured for most of the back-end of last season, Israel Folau will be keen to make a mends and show the entire NRL universe why the Broncos paid good money to sign him.

Cantebury-Bankstown Bulldogs – Once again, they’ve recruited particularly well with Dene Halutau and Steve Turner the pick of the bunch. The big question surrounding the Bulldogs however, is whether or not their new recruits can adapt in time to the Bulldogs style of play, as well as how the team will perform with the new recruits involved.

They finished just short of the minor premiership last year and we’re eliminated in the game before the Grand Final to the Parramatta Eels. They have on paper, perhaps one of the best teams in the NRL with a great forward pack led by QLD Prop Ben Hannant, a playmaker in NSW halfback Brett Kimmorley and a sturdy and solid fullback in Luke Patten.

Will Steve Turner be able to adapt to life at the Bulldogs and re-claim his spot on the wing for NSW? Or will he be a dud signing and not get a look-in because players like Josh Morris and Bryson Goodwin are keeping him out of the team. It’s a selection headache for Coach Kevin Moore, but perhaps a good one to have at this stage in the season.

I predict a first place finish for the Bulldogs They are a well drilled bunch who play a great style of football and will no doubt be close to the top. Josh Morris will be keen to continue his rapid rise through the ranks as he looks to add more caps to his NSW and Australia career.

Canberra Raiders: Haven’t recruited anyone new so far in the off-season, but they have re-signed a few of their key men which are essential to their premiership chances this year. The main problem with the Raiders over the last couple of years has been their inconsistency.

They’ve been able to beat the higher ranked sides but lose the games that they were expected to win. In order to be a threat in this year’s premiership, they know that that cannot happen. They will know that they will have to perform better against the lower sides. The big questions surrounding the Raiders are, will Terry Campese be able to emulate his 2008 form that saw him rated one of the best 5/8’s in the league?

Will Josh Dugan continue to show his skills that saw him regarded as the best young fullback in the game? I predict a 10th place finish for the Raiders. I think they will do better than last year, but they’re still two or three years away from challenging the higher ranked teams. Josh Dugan will be the man to watch as he had a stellar 2009.

Unlucky to not win Rookie of the Year, many opposition defences found it hard to deal with his speed and strength. Could be a guaranteed starter in Origin in a few years time.

Cronulla Sharks – Last year was definitely not a year to remember for the Sharks. They finished precariously close to the wooden spoon and had a few results gone in the other direction, they could have found themselves with the dreaded title of wooden spooners.

There were however some promising signs with halfback Scott Porter, showing that he has some talent as well as combining well with the other players. Trent Barrett, who missed most of the back-end of last season due to injury is the main man for the Sharks. If he is firing, then you can expect that the Sharks will be a force to be reckoned with.

If however, he is injured once again or if he is in any way flat or complacent with his football, then it’ll be a year to forget once again for the Sharks. They’ve recruited relatively well, but seem to have gotten into the habit of buying fringe players such as Paul Aiton, Adam Cuthbertson and others. They were linked with now Eels forward Justin Poore, but simply couldn’t match the money on offer.

I predict a wooden spoon for the Sharks, as I don’t think the Sharks have enough quality in the essential positions to challenge the stronger teams. Blake Ferguson had a stellar year last year, scoring perhaps the try of the season where he contorted his body around the corner post whilst in mid-air to ground the ball. He has shown what he can do the games he has played so far, but will it continue and will we see some more freakish tries.

Gold Coast Titans: The Titans have purchased a couple of new recruits in Ian Lacey and Greg Bird. The signing of Greg Bird upset a lot of Titans fans and many are divided as to their club’s chances this year because of his unpredictable ways. The big questions facing the Titans are mostly all to do with Greg Bird. Will he be able to control his alcoholic tendencies?

Will he be able to stay away from the booze on a regular basis? Will he be in the right state of mind to play week in week out? You can be assure that coach John Cartwright and CEO Michael Searle will be monitoring Bird and his behaviour very closely.

The Titans fell short of a great season, losing to the Eels in the finals. Perhaps the main problem for the Titans has been their defence over the past couple of years and that is something that the players and coaches will want to rectify so that they can challenge for the title once again.

I predict a 7th place finish for the Titans as they too are just a little bit off the pace with the higher ranked sides. The player to watch will be Kevin Gordon. He showed flashes of brilliance with his speed, and the Titans will be hoping to see much of the same out on his wing this year if they are to score some points.

Manly Sea Eagles: They’ve recruited a couple of players that could help them this year but they’ve also let go of a few players that could seriously jeopardise their chances this year. The release of Matt Orford to England is the biggest one with many asking how Liam Foran will cope with the burden on him to produce match winning moments for the Sea Eagles.

Is he up to the task or will he falter when the club needs him most? Is he ready to take on such a role, or should he eased into the position gradually? Another big question facing Manly and their fans is their forward pack. Jason Perry and Brent Kite’s form has dropped over the last year or so, and Manly fans will really want to see an improved year from these two.

They’ll be under the pump with new signings Joe Galuvao and Matt Cross breathing down their necks for a starting berth. If the Sea Eagles rely too much on Brett Stewart and Anthony Watmough, they could be looking at a long season. Can they cope if they both succumb to injury or are called up to Origin?

Do they have the team to compete with the higher ranked sides? Time will tell us the answer to that question, but when a kid is thrown into the halfback spot, if he doesn’t play well, it rubs off on the team. I predict around a 14th place finish for the Sea Eagles.

They’ll really miss Orford and his play-making abilities and it’ll take Liam Foran at least 6-8 weeks to get used to the fast-paced nature of the game and to take on the responsibility of being the chief playmaker. My player to watch is Brett Stewart. He’ll be keen to make amends this year after missing out on most of the season last year, and will be a man on a mission.

Melbourne Storm – Coming off the back of a grand final win, the pressure will be on the Storm to perform this year and back up their stellar 2009 season. It won’t be easy though with the departure of influential QLD forward Dallas Johnson, who along with Cameron Smith, were the rocks in defence for the Storm side.

With the pressure on the Storm to maintain their good results, they’ll have to do it without a quite a few first graders with halfback Cooper Cronk and other first-graders, not expected to make it out in time to the paddock. The Storm need a challenge and this may be it, with the younger players expected to stand up and perform.

The big questions surrounding the Storm are, just how will they cope with Dallas Johnson? What effect will his departure have? Can the Storm make the Grand Final yet again, or will this year be the year they come crashing back down to earth? Having retained the majority of their group in Greg Inglis, Billy Slater, Cameron Smith, Cooper Cronk and Ryan Hoffman, the Storm look set for a couple of years to come.

I predict a 3rd place finish this year, as I think without their chief playmaker in Cooper Cronk for the first couple of rounds, they’ll lack the creativity and leadership around the park. My player to watch is Ryan Tandy. Although he will be out for the first couple of rounds, the former Tiger came from obscurity and hardship at the Tigers to become a premiership winner with the Storm. Strong hard-running forward with a bright future.

New Zealand Warriors – By their standards, they had a very poor year last year. It didn’t start very well with the tragic news that upcoming star Sonny Fai had drowned at a beach in NZ.

They will be looking to make amends this year and have made quite a few buys, but it is yet to be seen if they will help elevate the Warriors into the top 8. Their main acquisition has been controversial former Broncos and Sharks halfback Brett Seymour.

The main questions coming out of the Warriors camp are, can they bounce back from a poor 2009? What effect will Seymour’s arrival have on the team? Will it be positive or negative? With the one year anniversary of Sonny Fai’s tragic death in the back of their mind, will that spur them on in honour of him?

I predict an 12th place finish. Just like a few other teams, they’re off the pace slightly but have a strong side of youngsters who will be stars in the NRL in a few years time. The player to watch is rising star Kevin Locke. Having played only a handful of first-grade games last year, he showed that he can match it with the best and that he will be one of the fullbacks of the future.

Newcastle Knights – The Knights 2010 season has already gotten off to a rocky start with the news that forward Danny Wicks was involved with a drug syndicate. The possibility that other Knights players were also involved remains to be seen, but the Knights camp is unsettled at the news that their club-mate could be involved in such a thing.

Having just scraped into the finals in 7th position last year, the Knights will be looking to progress further in the finals. Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem like they have the team to do so. The big questions surrounding the Knights are will Jarrod Mullen capture his Origin year form back? Or will he have an average season?

How will the players cope with the lingering drug rumours and murmurs around their camp? Will they ignore it or will it take it’s toll on the teams performances throughout the season? I predict a 15th place finish for the Knights as I think they’ve had too much negativity already that will falter their season and they don’t have the same quality in their side to match with the higher ranked teams.

The player to watch will be Junior Sau. After he struggled last year with a couple of niggling injuries, he’ll be keen to bounce back and use his strength to bulldoze his way through defences.

North Queensland Cowboys – Had a poor year last year and didn’t live up to the expectations placed on them. With all the rumours surrounding Jonathon Thurston about whether or not he will stay with the Cowboys, move to another NRL team or to Rugby Union, the major questions surrounding the Cowboys include, how will Jonathon Thurston cope with all of the media watching his every move as he makes up his mind about the future?

How will the players cope with their team being watched closely as a result of Thurston’s indecisiveness. How will the team go with the news that coach Neil Henry has relinquished his duties as QLD assistant coach? Will it have a positive effect or will it not make much of a difference.

The Cowboys will be looking for a player to step up and support Jonathon Thurston in attack to give them extra go-forward this year. Matthew Bowen has been that man in the past, but with his injuries over the last few years, his speed has decreased significantly. The man who I think will be able to give Thurston support is hooker Aaron Payne.

Having missed out on the last bit of the season, the creative hooker is just the partner that Thurston is looking for in the halves. Whilst Thurston will control the leadership aspects of the game, Payne will use his skills from hooker and form a strong partnership with Thurston.

I predict an 13th place finish for the Cowboys, as they are still a while away from playing the footy that they are capable of, as well as perhaps relying on Thurston too much.

Parramatta Eels – 2009 was the year of the fairytale for the Parramatta Eels. With two months left in the season, it looked as if the Eels were headed for the wooden spoon, but in a dramatic turn-around, they lost only one game on their charge to the Grand Final, which they later lost.

It goes to show that it was a masterstroke to bring former assistant Daniel Anderson back to the frame as his hard-line stance worked with the players. The Eels play better when they chance their arm and let their offloads do the talking. The Eels have already been listed as the bookmakers favourites and the major questions surrounding them will be, how will Jarryd Hayne perform this year?

Will he have another scintillating season, or will he have an average season? How will Daniel Mortimer cope with second year syndrome? Will the Eels live up to the bookmakers expectations? I predict a 2nd place finish (without the bias here however), as the Eels have perhaps one of the best sides on paper with one of the top fullbacks, a strong forward pack as well as up and coming halves who have shown that they can match it with the best despite their inexperience.

The player to watch for mine is upcoming hooker Anthony Mitchell. He set the NYC and NSW Cup world alight with his brilliant dummy-half play, and he’ll be looking to do the same in the NRL this year if he is given a crack by Daniel Anderson.

Penrith Panthers – The team from the West fell agonisingly short of a finals appearance last year and will be looking to make amends this year. Coach Matthew Elliot has stressed that Penrith is all about the younger brigade and his team selections show that. Whilst the Panthers will be keen to get off to a good start, there are several questions that must be asked about them.

Just who will start at fullback? Is Lachlan Coote the man for the job? Or is it one of the new recruits? How will they cope with promising junior, Junior Tia Kalifi’s departure to the Bulldogs? Just how much petrol does Petero have left in the tank and can he be given one last hurrah? Will this be Matthew Elliot’s last year?

The Panthers have been perhaps the most active in the market this season, and have made one of the buys of the season in Kevin Kingston who was forced out of the Eels due to salary cap restrictions.

Perhaps one of, if not the most under-rated hooker in the game, he’ll give the Panthers the spark that they need, at a time when they need it most. I predict a 5th place finish for the Panthers, as I think with the new recruits and the players already at the club, they’ll be hungry for some finals success this year after falling just short of a finals berth in 2009.

The player to watch from Penrith is Travis Burns for mine. Seeking more action on the field in 2010, Burns is a dynamic player capable of playing several roles on the paddock. He’ll provide the Panthers with a renewed enthusiasm and will bring a determination to win to the Panthers side that is hungry.

South Sydney Rabbitohs – The Bunnies will start the season with perhaps the biggest and strongest forward pack in recent years with Dave Taylor, Sam Burgess, Roy Asotasi and Michael Crocker all set to start this year.

Whilst the Bunnies may be strong in the forwards, it is their halves that have let them down at crucial times during the year. Following on from that, the key questions to ask about Souths are some intriguing ones.

Will Sam Burgess live up to the hype created by the media? Can Chris Sandow bounce back from a poor 2009? Will a change of coach bring a change of fortune? Will John Sutton be fit in time for the start of the season?

If not, do the Bunnies have someone who can step up to the plate? The Bunnies were very active in this year’s transfer market bulking up their forward pack. Whilst the pack looks like a tough, mobile group, the backs have remained generally the same, and many would ask if they should have made some new acquisitions there as well.

I predict a 9th place finish for the Rabbitohs as they may rely on their forwards too much, thus disbanding the notions of player and team unity that is needed in the modern game. The player to watch for mine is Nathan Merritt. Having always been the quiet achiever, with the spotlight now on him and a potential Origin spot up for grabs, will he grab it or will he falter under the pressure.

St George-Illawarra Dragons – Was it a choke, or simply a case of running out of gas? After dominating for the first 20 or so weeks of the competition, the Dragons only just won the minor premiership before being knocked out early on in the finals.

Whilst many would deem the year as a failure, Coach Wayne Bennett may be thinking otherwise. He may have seen the year as a way to teach the team to deal with the pressure of being first for most of the season and the pressures that come with maintaining it. The major question one will ask about the Dragons is whether or not Jamie Soward can back up his strong 2009 with a solid 2010.

Having played out of his skin on many occasions in 2009, opposition teams will have studied him to prevent his skill from being shown. I predict a 6th place finish for the Dragons as I think they’ll miss Sailor’s leadership on the wing, and I think Soward will have an indifferent year as he’ll be under the pump from the get go as several players are breathing down his neck for a starting berth.

The player to watch for mine is Darius Boyd. Having had an average 2009, he’ll be keen to make amends this year and solidify his place as one of the game’s top fullbacks.

Sydney Roosters – Last year was definitely a year to forget for the Roosters as they won the wooden spoon and had several players in trouble with the law. Keen to make amends, new coach Brian Smith has cut the fat and gotten rid of any trouble players or players he thinks are void to his side.

With a new coach, a renewed attitude and new players, can the Roosters bounce back and be a force in the NRL once again? How long will Mini last back in League? Will it be game over for him if he is seriously injured once more?

How will Carney’s move to fullback go? Is it a wise decision or a bold move that could go horribly wrong? The Roosters have perhaps the most questions to be answered after some rather unfortunate player misdemeanours over the last 18 months or so that have threatened to derail their solid pre-season.

The Roosters will perhaps be the closest watched team by many fans to see how just what difference a new coach and new players will make. My prediction for the Roosters might surprise many, but I really think that they can do it with the team that they have.

Whilst I personally disagree with Carney’s move to fullback, I’m more than happy to be proven wrong, but I can’t see it working. I see the Roosters finishing 4th for the reason that they’ll be keen to show that they are a force to be reckoned with after a poor 2009 and with a couple of shifts in positions making them stronger, they’ll be a better side for it and will thus challenge for the premiership.

The player to watch is Mitchell Aubusson for mine. Set to start in the second row, following Mason’s departure, he is now the Roosters best defender and has shown that he deserves to have a spot in the starting line-up.

Wests Tigers – Missed out on the finals and it put Coach Tim Sheens under a whole lot of pressure. If the same thing happens in 2010, we could see the end of Tim Sheens as coach of Wests Tigers. After an average year, they bowed out before the finals following a cracker with the Eels.

The likes of Marshall and Farah will need to take charge if the Tigers are to have any chance of making the finals. Whilst this is easier said than done, it is also up to the other players around them to give them more support, something which they failed to do in 2009.

Can Tim Sheens turn it around and lead the Tigers to a finals berth? Will Benji Marshall play consistently or have a good game once in a blue moon? Will their new recruits make a difference, or will they play the same brand of football that saw them miss out on the finals? It’s an interesting case with the Tigers as they have perhaps one of the best halves in the game in Benji Marshall, yet somehow, they always seem to miss out on the finals.

What reasons can you see for it? I think the Tigers will finish 11th this year and we’ll see the end of Tim Sheens. I just can’t see them beating the sides with better teams on paper, and their inconsistencies over the past few years will continue. The player to watch for mine is Tim Moltzen. The youngster can play several positions and has shown his talents with some great performances in his first grade games.

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Tim Smith future Origin hope?

December 17, 2009

Exiled former Eels no.7 Tim Smith could be Queensland’s State of Origin future, if he performs under a new agreement at Brisbane Easts.

With key halves, Lockyer and Thurston nearing the end of their careers - Smith, if he can recapture rookie form could be the burning light for the Maroon men.

Australian representative Lockyer will be turning 33 next year and is considering hanging up the boots in terms of representative work.

With Thurston, he seems to have his mind focused on contract negotiations at the minute. His manager suggesting that even Union is being considered by the game-breaking halfback.

Thurston and Lockyer have been the key to the Maroons 4 years of wins at Origin level since 2006.

But other options are around for the star-studded Queenslanders.

Still in the background are Premiership winning halves Scott Prince and Cooper Cronk.

But the returning Tim Smith could be the wildcard after his Super League venture failed.

Prior to health problems, Smith was rookie of the year and was set to be the next big thing at Parramatta.

Off-field setbacks hurt his focus - and after only 3 NRL games in 2008, he walked away from the National Rugby League.

With a diagnosis of bipolar, he took time away then eventually went to the UK.

However, after a failed stint with Wigan - Smith back in his home state of Queensland could potentially re-light the flame he once had burning.

Currently training with the Broncos in pre-season, good form for Brisbane Easts - could see Smith thrust back into the NRL spotlight and who knows, maybe an Origin birth if the stars align.

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Storm’s Greg Inglis wins Golden Boot Award

November 16, 2009

Superstar centre Greg Inglis has created history by being named the 2009 Golden Boot recipient – the third successive year a Melbourne Storm star has received the coveted international award.

Inglis received the award given to the world’s best player shortly after being named Player of the Tournament in the Four Nations series won by Australia early Sunday morning.

The 22-year-old was lauded ahead of five of the best players in the world – including fellow Storm stars, skipper Cameron Smith and fullback Billy Slater.

Inglis joins previous winners Smith (2007) and Slater (2008) in capping off a phenomenal trifecta for Victoria’s National Rugby League team.

No team has ever before had three Golden Boot recipients on its playing list.

“It’s an incredible honour,” said Inglis, who joins the likes of Wally Lewis, Andrew Johns, Darren Lockyer and Mal Meninga in claiming the award.

“I’m very humbled by it to be honest. To see the names of the players who have won this award before me makes this very special.”

The award, the brainchild of Rugby League World Magazine, was voted on by some of the best players to have ever laced a boot, including Lewis, England’s Garry Schofield and New Zealand’s Hugh McGahan.

Inglis’ stunning season has now seen him claim the Golden Boot award, the Mal Meninga Medal for Player of the Series in this year’s State of Origin, as well as the Player of the Tournament award in the Four Nations.

Additionally, he was awarded the Harry Sunderland Medal as the best Australian player in the Four Nations, an award that was revived in 2004.

Inglis also played a pivotal role in the Storm’s premiership triumph this year – scoring a brilliant try and kicking the game-winning field goal in Melbourne’s 23-16 win over Parramatta.

After starting 2009 at five-eighth, Inglis scored 13 tries in 21 games, thriving after reverting back to his favoured centre position.

2009 NRL Premiers Storm resume pre-season training in Melbourne today with the first returning group to tackle a time trial at the famous Tan Track from 9.00am this morning.

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Dallas Johnson quits Melbourne Storm

November 12, 2009

Melbourne Storm has today agreed to a request from Dallas Johnson’s management to grant the premiership-winning lock a premature release from his contract.

Johnson, who has been an integral part of one of the most successful team’s in National Rugby League history, will join English Super League club, Catalans, from next year.

Johnson reluctantly sought a release from the Storm after Catalans, known as the Dragons, put together a three-year deal that proved enough to convince him to shift to France in 2010.

Dual Premiership player Johnson described the decision to shift to the northern hemisphere as the toughest of his career.

“The Storm, as a club, has meant so much to me,” said Johnson, who has played in the last four State of Origin series’ for Queensland.

“This was without doubt the toughest decision of my career.

“I made my debut in Storm colours, represented Queensland and Australia while playing for them, and have made some life-long friends.

“Storm members and supporters are the most devoted in rugby league and I want them to know that I am indebted for the support they have shown me throughout my career.

“But there are other areas of life I want to explore and living abroad and travelling is absolutely up there on the list.

“The opportunity to continue my rugby league career with the security of a long-term deal and in such a beautiful part of the world was one that I couldn’t refuse.

“I’m now looking forward to making a new start in France and experiencing living overseas.”

Melbourne CEO Brian Waldron joined the club’s head coach, Craig Bellamy, in lauding Johnson’s contribution to the Storm.

“It’s with a heavy heart that we’ve agreed to the release request,” said Waldron.

“Dallas has been an integral part of our playing roster since making his debut in 2003.

“His outstanding record speaks for itself and his contribution to the club was recognized when he was awarded Life Membership in 2008.

“His selfless approach has been integral to our success and his leadership on and off the field will be greatly missed.

“This is a great opportunity for Dallas and his wife, Mel, and as a club we would never stand in the way of such a great life experience that awaits.

“He departs with our absolute best wishes and sincere thanks.”

Bellamy, who made his debut as coach on the same night Johnson played his first NRL game, described the hard-hitting lock, previously contracted until the end of 2011, as the toughest rugby league player he has seen.

“For a guy his size, to do what he does on the field, week after week, is simply incredible,” said Bellamy.

“He’s the toughest player I have ever seen.

“He’s a popular guy amongst the players and he will be missed by all.”

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State of Origin Selection Talk

May 27, 2009

State of Origin 2009 Series Teams Squads Lineups PlayersIt seems everyone has an opinion on the State of Origin selections; interestingly both NSW and Queensland have made a few selections that do raise eyebrows. The biggest being;

NSW - No Ennis, No Cooper, No Laffranchi

Queensland - The Inclusion of Nate Myles, Ashley Harrison and No Carl Webb.

For so long now, State of Origin hasn’t been directly about skills. The game is played at a frenetic pace and involves very few penalties. Because the referees are reluctant to blow penalties, each side creeps up inside the 10m range and the game always becomes a slog fest.

For years and years, NSW would name a star-studded side and too many cooks would spoil the broth. On the other hand, Queensland knew that hard-workers, big physical players and overall loyalty would get them through. And it worked a treat.

Only once recently have NSW realised that having a team of ‘hard men’ will get them through. Their team for Game 1 in 2008 included the ‘bash brothers’ - Paul Gallen and Greg Bird. Now regardless of what you think of these players, their physical presence and build is custom made for Origin. They take no prisoners, they can take a beating and they can surely dish out a beating too.

You see thats the other factor in Origin, it’s rarely spoken about, but players are rarely ‘cited’ or get in trouble for things that usually cost them dearly in the NRL. A small flurry of punches (a la Carl Webb on Luke Bailey in recent years) or maybe a tackle that is a monster, might get let through the gates.

This is the reason why you need to pick a team that can handle the physical nature and do the simple things right.

Sure, we see flashes of brilliance in State of Origin. Billy Slaters try where he chipped over the top was amazing, as was Jarryd Haynes and who could forget the Mark Coyne try off the back of thousands of passes from Queensland in the final seconds. There will always be these moments.

BUT, the majority of Origin is doing the simple things right, so no mistakes and doing them at a hundred miles an hour while copping a beating. Then you’ll need to turn around and defend and start dishing out the beatings. It’s that simple.

So, what are we looking at player wise?

Fit, fast, simple-things right and prepared to dish out some tough stuff!

Queensland have known and used this so well, however their selection of Ashley Harrison who has defence problems and can be rattled is quite interesting. Don’t be surprised if the Maroons move Mick Crocker in to start the game and they use Harrison off the bench.

For NSW, they simply had to have Michael Ennis in this side, even if on the bench. His hard-head, annoying nature would have frustrated the life out of Cameron Smith and others - Ennis regardless of creativity is a guy made for Origin. Sure, Farah is technically gifted and very creative, but Origin doesn’t need an endless supply of creative players, there are always plenty of those in the teams.

What about Laffranchi? He is a good blend of all characteristics for Origin. Fit, Fast, Tough and has the ballplaying ability. He will be missed.

And Cooper? Matt Cooper has been a rock for NSW for many years. He never fails in defence and his step remains untouchable from inside 10m of the opposition try line.

Our sideline eye Ricky Ricardo has thrown up some names of his own; here’s how he believes the State of Origin sides should have lined up:

RickyRicardo: NSW Origin

1. Kurt Gidley
2. Jarryd Hayne
3. Jamie Lyon
4. Matt Cooper
5. Joel Monaghan
6. Jarrod Mullen
7. Brett Kimmorley
8. Luke Bailey
9. Michael Ennis
10. Brent Kite
11. Anthony Laffranchi
12. Nathan Hindmarsh
13. Paul Gallen

14. Ben Creagh
15. Luke Lewis
16. Preston Campbell
17. Michael Weyman

RickyRicardo: Queensland Origin

14. Karmichael Hunt
2. Darius Boyd
3. Greg Inglis
4. Justin Hodges
5. Israel Folau
6. Darren Lockyer
7. Scott Prince
8. Steve Price
9. Cameron Smith
10. Petero Civoniceva
11. David Stagg
12. Ashley Harrison
13. Dallas Johnson

1. Billy Slater
15. Nate Myles
16. Sam Thaiday
17. Michael Crocker

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Queensland name State of Origin side

May 26, 2009

Darren Lockyer Queensland Origin of State 2009Queensland have flexed their Origin muscle, naming an even stronger line-up than the team that won last years series - as they welcome back Darren Lockyer who was injured last year and re-introduce Justin Hodges who was suspended for Game 2 and 3 in 2008.

Surprisingly the Maroons named Ashley Harrison in the side, while an experienced campaigner - the Titans forward has had serious problems with his defence in 2009 and has directly leaked plenty of tries, something that NSW will no doubt focus directly on. Harrison was in a similar position to Anthony Watmough for NSW, both talented and experienced but also known for their arm-grabbing tackling technique at times.

As expected Queensland named Mick Crocker despite only playing 2 games for the Bunnies after returning the NRL. His physical presence and unmatched big-game experience will be invaluable. Some felt the Maroons would slot veteran Wendell Sailor onto the bench, his motivation and aura alone would bring massive advantages off the interchange bench. Don’t be surprised to see Wendell at some stage in the series if the Maroons are struggling.

The only other interesting selection was Nate Myles, the Roosters forward has been on the improve in recent weeks but along with fellow Bondi forwards hasn’t been totally dominant. The X-Factor from someone like a Dave Taylor could have been another ace up the Maroons sleeve.

QUEENSLAND:

1 Billy Slater

2 Darius Boyd

3 Greg Inglis

4 Justin Hodges

5 Israel Folau

6 Darren Lockyer

7 Johnathan Thurston

8 Steve Price

9 Cameron Smith

10 Petero Civoniceva

11 Ashley Harrison

12 Sam Thaiday

13 Dallas Johnson

Interchange:

14 Karmichael Hunt

15 Ben Hannant

16 Nate Myles

17 Michael Crocker

North Queensland Cowboys prop Matt Scott has flown to Melbourne as 18th man.

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Craig Wing: Is he ready to perform?

March 26, 2009

Craig Wing South Sydney Rabbitohs 2009Craig Wing has spent virtually the majority of his time with South Sydney on the sidelines. After being smashed by Riley Brown only minutes into his first appearance in 2008, Wing has not only had to battle injuries, but emotional and financial disasters too.

Wing has even mentioned the word depression, such was the black hole he found himself in.

His return this weekend has been the milestone in the distance. Wing, still only 29, has had to deal with his shoulder drama from last year, the break-up of his long-term relationship and massive financial losses that have tested every bit of his strength.

“The ups and down I’ve had, with injuries and everything that’s happened in my personal life, has made me appreciate whatever time I get on the field,” Wing confirmed

“I was depressed. I felt worthless. I certainly went through a tough time”

“That’s why it’s so good to be coming back and finally getting on the field.”

But as Craig Wing comes onto the field against the Knights this weekend, not only with he feel the pressures form within - there will be thousands of eyes watching and waiting with expectation.

After making the switch from Bondi back to Redfern, Wing is yet to give anything back to his beloved Bunnies club.

When the Rabbitohs exploded out of the blocks in Round 1, putting on a clinic against the Roosters - everything was set to make Craig Wings appearance even tougher. If the club was winning and winning-well, his return would have to be nothing short of brilliant, otherwise he would have copped flack.

After a hard fought loss against the Eels, it eases the pressure level slightly on Wing.

Prior to this season, Wing also had to have additional operations - having work done on a hernia, hip and his achilles tendons.

But just to test him even more, a failed $100,000 third-party payment as a portion of his $1million deal with Souths had not materialised.

On top of that, Wing was informed a property investment he made in Port Vila to the tune of $600,000 also collapsed.

Then to top it off, his long-term relationship with Zoe Foster ended.

“It’s been an emotional roller-coaster,” he said.

“It has certainly made me appreciate my footy more.

“I won’t take anything for granted again.”

The rumour mill was also in overdrive - working against Wing, with suggestions he didn’t have the respect of his team mates. This being a possible reason he wasn’t included in last weeks starting lineup.
But Wing quickly scoffed at any such allegations.

He played in the NSW Cup last week coming through the North Sydney feeder team, however insiders at Souths said that some players had wanted Wing in the first grade team against the Eels.

“I’m not feeling any pressure to perform,” Wing said.

“My teammates have been very supportive of me because of the injuries I’ve had.

“I feel like I’m part of the team. I get along with all of the boys.

“It’s been hard to feel a part of it all because of the issues I’ve had.”

But for a player thats experienced State of Origin and Australian Representative duties, the heat surrounding his return will be taken in the stride. There is no questioning the ability of this guy, he just needs a string of games without injury and he will add plenty of impact to this ever-improving South Sydney team.

As it stands, Souths certainly have the fire-power and defence to be a Top 4 side in the 2009 NRL.

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Roosters have Carney in pocket

March 26, 2009

Roosters lure Todd Carney NRL 2010While former Raider’s badboy Todd Carney hasn’t put pen to paper just yet, the Sydney Roosters have all but secured the services of the sought-after playmaker for the 2010 NRL season.

With Mitchell Pearce already locked up and Braith Anasta ready to move to lock - the Roosters will possess a daunting array of playmakers for next season, with veteran Anthony Minichiello likely to lose his spot in the musical chairs as his contract expires at years end.

It’s believed Todd Carney will immediately slot into five-eighth and could also rotate into the first receiver role to take the pressure of Pearce when needed.

Reports in the media today suggest Carney and the Roosters reached an agreement several weeks ago, but have chosen to keep details quiet. The Roosters apparently wanting to see how he goes ‘on the wagon’ for a period before accepting the signature.

Given his marching orders by the Raiders last year after several of alcohol-fuelled incidents, Carney is in NRL exile this season after copping a ban from the governing body. He accepted an invitation from a Queensland Bush-based side the Atherton Roosters to play this year and keep some sort of fitness levels up while he awaits reinstatement.

It’s believed that Carney headed to the Queensland bush outfit with the knowledge his NRL future for 2010 and beyond was already setup after negotiating with the Roosters some weeks ago through manager David Riolo.

While nothing is signed just yet, both Carney and the Roosters have agreed in principle to a 4-year deal that will lock the pivot into the Bondi club until 2013.

The crux of the deal revolving around Carney’s rehabilitation in Atherton over the next 4 weeks, prior to signing and the situation announced to the public.

Neither the Roosters recruitment manager or Carney’s agent would confirm any details of the move thats been kept very quiet in the past few weeks.

For the Penrith Panthers, they again lose the chance to sign Carney. They were originally in the running to get the five-eighth before he resigned with Canberra early in the the 2008 season. At the time, new Panthers coach Matt Elliott trumpeting the fact he could lure Carney to Penrith - but he was ultimately beaten by incumbent Raiders coach Neil Henry who managed to talk Carney into staying in the ACT.

The Panthers got a second shot at Carney after he was banned from the NRL this year and they were one of a few clubs chasing his signature - the Panthers have now confirmed they were now looking elsewhere after the Roosters got the nod from Carney.

“We were in there with the best of them,” Panthers GM Mick Leary said.

“As far as I knew we’d matched the dollars other clubs had put up but I haven’t spoken to his manager David Riolo for about a month. We were keen to obtain a new halfback but I’m sure there will be other opportunities that present themselves.”

With the Roosters shelling out big money to lure Carney, it seems highly likely Minichiello and possibly Setaimata Sa will be hard to retain when their contracts expire at the end of this season.

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Lyon cannot refuse reps says ARL

March 5, 2009

Jamie Lyon Representative CommitmentsSea Eagles centre Jamie Lyon could face a ban from the NRL if he doesn’t accept representative invitations in 2009 writes Peter Roy.

The Australian Rugby League (ARL) has confirmed that Lyon’s request to excluded from representative football has been knocked back.

The ARL should be congratulated for taking a strong stance towards Jamie Lyon, he is a player who has in the past shown a casual attitude towards Rugby League; demonstrated when he walked out on his Parramatta Eels contract.

As it stands, if Lyon is selected for reps and doesn’t accept the chance to take part, he will be stood down from the NRL match on that weekend

The current Sea Eagles star didn’t take part in State of Origin 2008 after he apparently said to Storm coach Craig Bellamy he did not want to be chosen.

According to sources, there is only a selected criteria that allows any player to retire from rep football.

This revolves around the following factors; age of the player, amount of years playing NRL alone and the condition of any long-term injuires a player may have.

The move makes for an interesting scenario, will selectors be game to pick Lyon given his attitude is seemingly not focused on representative football?

The season ahead might be a tough one for Lyon, while the Sea Eagles are looking primed for a back-to-back assault on the premiership, the talented Chris Bailey is now the main candidate for the pivot role and Lyon could have competition in the centres with Matai already holding one spot and a glutten of wingers that could back-full centre if needed.

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Terry Campese set for superstardom

February 26, 2009

Canberra Raiders NRL 2009Judging by the the rise and rise of Terry Campese, 2009 could be the year the Raiders five-eighth reaches superstardom writes John Chelsea.

Ready for more game-time in the Raiders’ next pre-season hit-out, Campese admits he is a tad ‘rusty’ from a long off-season - but the confidence gained by receiving a Kangaroos jersey last year is set to launch Campese to new heights.

With a surname such as his, there was always going to be a focus on the talented player. But Campese has quietly and mostly successfully gone about his business in the often forgotten Raider-town, until his form in 2008 demanded he was picked for the Kangaroos and has since given him a whole new status in the game.

Campese got through a 50 minute stint in a trial against Brisbane last week. There were flashes of his brilliance, but the most interesting aspect is how opposing players look upon Campese. It seems the dynamic no. 6 is beginning to put plenty of doubt into opponents minds when he gets the ball, one of the few remaining big, rangey pivots - Campese has what most players want ‘time’ and ‘options’.

It’s this new status for Campese that could see him break through for a NSW State of Origin jersey in 2009.

New coach David Furner, along with new recruits Bronson Harrison, Stuart Flanagan and David Shillington will have a big baring on how far Campese can take his rep opportunities in 2009. While there is no questioning the ability of the skillful stand-off, when teams are winning and getting prime time Channel 9 slots - it thrusts their playmakers squarely into the limelight. This has been an issue for the Raiders, who struggle for free-to-air coverage at the best of times.

Keen to get back on track for his 2009 preparations; Campese is keen to get more gametime against the Bulldogs to hone his fitness and skills.

It will be the Raiders last hit-out before they take on the Wests Tigers in Round 1 of the NRL.

“I was pretty happy with my game against the Broncos and I’m just looking forward to playing again this week,” Campese said.

“I just want to improve my talk in attack and I was a bit rusty with my execution on the weekend.”That’s the good thing about the trials, hopefully you get your two bad games out before the season starts.

“Hopefully I get myself on target for round one.”Campese remains unconcerned who starts the season partnering him in the halves, saying he had formed good combinations with both Marc Herbert and Josh McCrone.Raiders coach David Furner is likely to name both his halfbacks in an extended 19-man squad today, giving them one last chance to stake claims for the No.7 jersey.

“I’ve played with both of them in reserve grade, we’ve all spent a bit of time together,” Campese said.

“It was good to play with both the boys, everyone has their own style, but they’re both good young halves that can get the team around the park.

“That’s what you need in a halfback and I think they’re both ready to step up.”With competition for positions heating up across the field, Campese said he didn’t envy Furner’s task of cutting back his forward pack this week.

Campese talked up the prospects of Dane Tilse; confirming the former Knight had trained well in the off-season and put in a top showing against Brisbane in last weeks trial. With an extra year under his belt in the ACT, Tilse could be another on the rise in Raider-town.

While they were beaten by the Broncos, Campese was happy with the combinations and overall showing from his side in the match.

“It was pretty good for our first trial, there’s some areas that we need to work on, but for the majority of the game I thought we played pretty well.

“The new guys like David Shillington, Bronson Harrison and Stuart Flanagan got their first hit-out and they’ll improve this week. I think all our forwards were good and big Dane Tilse played really well.”

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