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NRL Power Rankings Round 5


The NRL News Power Rankings by the GrubberBy ‘The Grubber”

With the Grubber only falling one game short of a perfect round, he has his finger well and truly on the pulse after 5 Rounds of the NRL in 2008. You can bet he will make South Sydney pay dearly for costing him a perfect round, so expect to see the Rabbits remaining in the wilderness on the Power Rankings ladder.

1. Brisbane Broncos 9/10: Impressed with some sublime attacking movements in a game that Newcastle tried their hearts out in. Winning these away games proves the Broncos are really set to ruffle plenty of feathers this year. Continuing to look good without Darren Lockyer. You get the feeling they are building for the “Win it for Benny!” NRL Premiership year.

Grubbers Comment: Odds of Brisbane sending Kurt Gidley a thank-you card for his goal kicking performance? 4/1

2. Sydney Roosters 9/10: With the top 4 teams all winning away from home and locked on 8 points, differential came into this weeks power rankings. The Roosters braved an early onslaught from Penrith and were patient while they were starved of quality ball. Mitchell Pearce and Braith Anasta are growing better with every game, their combination and understanding is class leading. Confidence bubbling out of control and they seem to have decent depth in the forwards now.

Grubbers Comment: Chances of Craig Fitzgibbon getting plastic surgery to shave a few years off his life and increase his chances of a new deal at Bondi? 10/1

3. Gold Coast Titans 8.5/10: Nabbing an away win was a major milestone for the young club, the Titans have a good roster and with Mat Rogers slotting into pivot well - they are looking mighty good for the Top 8. Form of Nathan Friend is especially good for the Gold Coast boys. Even Preston Campbell is playing with additional confidence and good hands, will continue to hold their high spot on the ladder barring any injury crisis.

Grubbers Comment: Chances of the Titans ever winning a fashion award, after playing is possibly the wimpiest looking pale blue strip ever seen in the Rugby League world? 1000/1

4. Melbourne Storm 8.5/10: The Premiers were back with a bang after hammering last years Grand Final opponent. Played stylish football and used a physical style in the forwards that left Manly really limping away from this loss. Desire looks to be coming back and with some minor positional changes will be back to their best. Greg Inglis could be better served away from the pivot role.

Grubbers Comment: I refuse to call the guy Cam Smith. It must be a gee-up, there is no way anyone could be that precious - could they Cameron?

5. Cronulla Sharks 8/10: Ricky Stuart’s rag-tag bunch of tackling machines did it again. They are winning the close contests in 2008 and while their points differential is hard to swallow at -3 they Sharks deserve their spot and possess a desire and attitude that many other NRL teams just don’t have. Their style of game really suits semi-final standards and should they hobble into the Top 8 (which they should, come years end) they will really be a good dark horse.

Grubbers Comment: Likelihood of the NRL approaching the Cronulla Sharks and threatening to kick them out of the competition if they don’t start embracing a more enjoyable style of Rugby League? 15/1

6. NZ Warriors 7/10: Bounced back superbly to take down the Bulldogs at home. Showed much greater depth and structure in attack and proved they are still the real deal, even without Steve Price and Wade McKinnon in the ranks. Manu Vatuvei still gives everyone heart problems, but his aggressive attack is hard to resist and many teams simply cannot tackle him. Are still vulnerable to kicking with Vatuvei and even Lance Hohia not possessing the height or skills to ward off the top teams.

Grubbers Comment: Odds of Manu Vatuvei having more gold in his teeth than Mr-T had around his neck? 3/1

7. Canberra Raiders 7/10: Never say die. Simply an amazing comeback and topped off with a champagne performance from Todd Carney. Somehow manage to keep finding players, even with injury problems and the suspended Weyman the Raiders still field a strong team. Hold huge advantages on the edges with tall, rangy and fast men - will catch a few more teams napping this season. Defence must also be commended.

Grubbers Comment: Chances of Raiders management telling the players to “Win it for Neil Henry this year!” 5000/1

8. Newcastle Knights 6.5/10: The Knights sneak in above the Cowboys after performing valiantly against the might of the Broncos. Despite a young and newly combining team, they seem to be improving quicker than many other teams and possess a good amount of belief. Brian Smith must surely deserve some praise for his efforts, after copping plenty of sprays in recent times. Will come into their own around Origin time if Danny Buderus isn’t picked for hooking duties and they could catch some undermanned teams napping.

Grubbers Comment: Odds that Cooper Vuna is somehow a distant blood relative to Manu Vatuvei as they both possess similar handling skills? 4/1

9. North Queensland Cowboys 6.5/10: Pulled off a nice raid on the lacklusture St George Illawarra Dragons and managed to come away with the tough victory at WIN Stadium. Probably were below their best and miss the speed and creativity of Matt Bowen. Forwards are starting to do their job and making things easier for Jonathan Thurston, however Ty Williams is costing them at times with poor decisions in defence and attack.

Grubbers Comment: Chances that Graham Murray is able to safely run ‘boxing’ drills at training, with the likes of Carl Webb and Luke O’Donnell in the ranks? 50/1

10. Bulldogs  6/10: The Doggies fought bravely against the NZ Warriors in Round 5 of the NRL, even with little possession they kept hanging in there. Need a feature player in the halves to set them apart, when their forwards are on top - they lack the genuine creativity from a prominent playmaker to get them ahead. So while they are fighting above their weight at present, I can’t see them consistently performing at this level.

Grubbers Comment: Chances of the Bulldogs taking their family club slogan to new heights, by inviting the ‘60 Minutes: Father and Daughter Couple’ to be their no.1 ticket holders for next season? 10/1

11. Wests Tigers 6/10: The injury riddled Tigers still looked like heavy weights in the first 3/4 of their match against the Raiders. Come to think of it, I still don’t know how they lost! Attack looked well structured and Matt Head slotted in very, very well - kicking and passing astutely. Bryce Gibbs looks heavier but more potent in attack but it seems most likely that fitness is hurting the Wests side. They seem to lose not only concentration, but also potency in the back end of games.

Grubbers Comment: Odds that Tim Sheens will revert to a Jason Taylor style sideline rant if the Tigers blow another big lead again? 3/1

12. Parramatta Eels 5.5/10: Surprised everybody with a rare loss at Parramatta Stadium. While Tim Smith has copped a trashing in the media over his role, the real problem is the Eels defence - which is the worst in the NRL. Feliti Mateo and Brett Finch might help spark some attack, but they will need more go forward from the hooker. With Piggy not 100% and the Eels losing PJ Marsh, the dummy half play has been their quiet killer too.

Grubbers Comment: Odds of Parramatta management holding an inquiry into the influence of Andrew Johns on their halves? 5/1

13. Manly Sea Eagles 5.5/10: Are quickly gaining the tag ‘chokers’. Fizzled out badly under the blow torch and many of their big names were the worst culprits. Matt Orford and Anthony Watmough went missing and the Sea Eagles were barreled out of contention in the blink of an eye. While they can produce good defence and attack at times, their ability in physical arm wrestles remains to be seen. Hard to see how they will evolve this year.

Grubbers Comment: Odds that Matt Orford killed off those vicious rumours about him failing in big time matches? 100/1

14. Penrith Panthers 5.5/10: Probably a little hard done by in the rankings this week, but the Panthers still managed to lose a game at home - even to the highly ranked Roosters. Had enough ball in the early periods of this match to put on more points but just couldn’t do it. The mental state of the players at the Penrith is a real concern, they have been losing for so long now - they probably could do with a full clean out to rid the players of mental scars. Matt Elliott might have the coaching ability, but does his personality affect team morale and performance?

Grubbers Comment: The likelihood of Luke Priddis playing for the Panthers beyond 2008? 10,000/1

15. St George Illawarra Dragons 5/10: The Dragons found yet another way to lose an NRL game and even playing at their usual WIN Stadium stronghold couldn’t help them. Rumour has it that almost every other NRL team considers the Dragons a ’soft’ side and holds no fears playing them. Their problems evolve from the forward pack, key forwards have been cherry picked over the years and they remain lifeless up the middle. Nathan Brown must be starting to look forward to leaving the sinking ship by the look of it.

Grubbers Comment: Percentage of Dragons players remaining at the club under Wayne Bennett? 10%

16. South Sydney Rabbitohs 4/10: The pressure really told on the Bunnies. Jason Taylor emulating Nathan Brown during his junior years and approaching players on the sideline. The usually calm and calculating Taylor buckled under the pressure and exposed his in-experience at the highest level. Souths are probably guilty of trying too hard, they had plenty of ball yet still couldn’t get over the stripe. When you think back to last year, they still only won games with their defence. Need to decide on the best possible halves pairing and stick with it through thick and thin. Dean Widders is out of sorts and possibly needs a spell, Issac Luke can’t come back fast enough.

Grubbers Comment: Odds of Jason Taylor taking his coaching even closer to the action and donning a jersey in the weeks ahead? 5/1

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Power Rankings Round 4

1. Sydney Roosters - The Willie Mason factor was a big influence on the Roosters win. Big Willie lifting and leading his side with two tries and sending their stocks into orbit. Each player at the Roosters gaining an extra leg and looking more and more like premiership material. Need to stay injury free and hope they haven’t peaked too early. Power Score: 9/10

Grubbers Comment: With captain Craig Fitzgibbon leaving the Roosters at the years end, what are the chances of Willie Mason becoming Head Cock in 2009? 3/1

2. Gold Coast Titans - The silent achievers from the holiday strip keep a low profile in the Sydney press, but remain genuine contenders. Quickly turning their Skilled Park Stadium at Robina into a Graveyard, the Titans have commendable defence that is complimented by creative and consistent attack. Have options both sides of the ruck with Mat Rogers and Scott Prince, will take some more big scalps before the years out. Power Score: 8.5/10

Grubbers Comments: Odds of Scott Prince joining the cast of TV show ‘Bondi Rescue’ next series? 500/1

3. Brisbane Broncos - Stumbled down in Melbourne, but injuries are their biggest enemy. Are still playing good football and combinations keep growing each week. Lockyer needs to be rested for a week or two to ensure he is 100%. Were beaten but not embarrassed, should bounce back from this loss in Melbourne to get over the Knights next week. Power Score 8/10

Grubbers Comments: Chance that Brisbane Officials went back to Craig Bellamy’s Melbourne house for drinks after the game? Slim to none.

4. Cronulla Sharks - Ricky Stuart deserves a medal for moulding this team of lesser-names into a competitive outfit. Have managed to start winning the close games this year, their ability to not only grind out the win but also bring the standard of any team down is a valuable asset. These gritty wins will put the Cronulla Sharks in good stead for the home stretch. Power Score 8/10

Grubbers Comment: Chances of Paul Gallen employing a PR firm fulltime to help rebuild his ‘grubby’ image? 2/1

5. Manly Sea Eagles - Weren’t spectacular against the Rabbitohs, but can be forgiven as the Bunnies would have stifled the ability of any team in this dour affair. Have found that confidence they were lacking and are using their weapons in attack, Brett Stewart and Jamie Lyon filling the ‘Monaghan’ void. Power Score 7.5/10

Grubbers Comment: Odds of Brett Stewart getting an early release a la Monaghan? 5000/1

6. Melbourne Storm - The Premiers bounced back with the aid of the chicken wing. Took apart the form team of the NRL in the Brisbane Broncos. Are adjusting to the new players in their side for 2008, will need to prove themselves away from home before climbing the Grubber Power Rankings. Power Score 7.5/10

Grubbers Comment: Chances of Craig Bellamy being chased by the WWE for a coaching contract? 15/1

7. Bulldogs - While the Roosters had their measure, the Bulldogs played their part in what was the fastest game of the Round. Still lack speed on the flanks, but their young forwards are improving every week. Interesting to see how the Steve Folkes resignation is taken by the team. Are still a good chance of making the Top 8 after some good performances. Power Score 7/10

Grubbers Comment: Did the Bulldogs crowd really leave early or were there 5688 people ejected for abysmal behaviour?

8. Penrith Panthers - Shoot up the rankings after their first back to back wins in a long time. Still have a few yards of improvement and if they can cut the penalties and errors out of their game at critical times - they will be the real deal. Injuries will be a real worry after tonight, however their new found confidence could be their biggest asset. Reported to be worked too hard in the pre-season training by Matt Elliott, this could actually prove to be a real advantage in the back end of games with their added endurance. Power Score 7/10

Grubbers Comment: Chances that Matt Elliott will have to hold a video session at Nepean Hospital after losing half his squad to injury? 5/1

9. Newcastle Knights - Fought valiantly against the Warriors in Auckland. Were absolutely hammered in the penalties and copped some unfair calls. To their credit, they hung on and nearly stole and unlikely win on the back of a game where they had to do plenty of tackling. Confidence in the side remains strong and they will continue to give the big boys a scare. Injuries to key men Jarrod Mullen and Danny Buderus a concern for next week. Power Score 6.5/10

Grubbers Comment: Odds of referee Tony De La Heras getting to officiate in a Newcastle Knights match any time soon? 200/1

10. North Queensland Cowboys - Exploded out of the blocks to blow the Eels away led strongly by Aaron Payne. Showed glimpses of their former self and with Matt Bowen to come back - things turned around big time in the space of a week. Forwards really rose to the occasion and need to keep that intensity in their game. Power Score 6.5/10

Grubbers Comment: Chances of the Cowboys getting extra drug testing this week at training after a remarkable turnaround to get their first win. 10/1

11. NZ Warriors - The men from New Zealand bounced back in the best possible fashion with a grinding win at Mt Smart Stadium. With Ruben Wiki and team mates copping it from Matthew Ridge in local newspapers, they had more than enough motivation to perform. Probably should have done more with the ball they had - but did enough to get home. Need to string a few wins together to build confidence, have the players to do the job. Power Score 6.5/10

Grubbers Comment: Chances of Manu Vatuvei becoming a 10 year player at the Warriors? 5000/1

12. Parramatta Eels - Must be some concerns about their ability after another scratchy performance. Apart from their get out of jail wins against the Bulldogs and Knights, they haven’t flexed any muscle. Handling is killing them, will be keen to get Chad Robinson and Ben Smith back for some stability. Power Score 6/10

Grubbers Comment: Chances of Michael Hagan using a gun during training drills to scare the players into working harder? 8/1

13. Canberra Raiders - Still struggle with away games and while injury is hampering their campaign in 2008, the cloak and dagger decision by Neil Henry to leave after telling players he was there for good - must be hurting their bond. Need to find more punch in attack now that the likes of Zilmann are gone for the year. Power Score 6/10

Grubbers Comment: Likelihood of Jeff Fenech calling Michael Weymann to get training tips as the Marrickville Mauler prepares to re-enter the ring? 3/1

14. Wests Tigers - Looked like world beaters in the early Rounds, but the loss of Robbie Farah as predicted was a big blow to their chances. Possess some quality young guns, but need a real playmaker in attack. Morris is a solid player, but not the ideal halves man. Have a tough road trip coming up this week, as they head to the cold ACT to face the Raiders. Power Score 5.5/10

Grubbers Comment: Odds that Tim Sheens had to endure one of the poorest media interviews in NRL history after this match? After local reporters ridiculously asked Sheens to confirm the Tigers future homeground. 2/1

15. St George Illawarra Dragons - Amazed everyone by finding another way to lose a match that was in the bag. Show promise in patches, but switch off for periods and ultimately they get found out. Many other NRL teams privately enjoy playing the Dragons as they feel they are a ’soft’ side that rarely wants to roll their sleeves up. With a clean-out set for the end of the year - who knows what we will see from the Red Vee in the rest of the season, with players and coach possibly having one eye on 2009. Power Score 5/10

Grubbers Comment: Odds that Dragons fans will need additional security to protect them from Jason Ryles? 3/1

16. South Sydney Rabbitohs - Have completely forgotten how to attack. The pressures of several losses, player injuries and media headlines is growing and making things even harder. A big test for the Bunnies and also their young coach Jason Taylor - who has yet to really face a long period of losses. Critical month ahead for the Rabbits. Power Score 4.5/10

Grubbers Comment: Odds that Jason Taylor has received ‘The Call’ from Russell Crowe yet? 5/1

End Week 4

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NRL Round 3, 2008 NRL Power Rankings

NRL Round 3 has thrown up plenty of action for the old Grubber, we’ve seen early golden point action at Parramatta Stadium - the Dragons back to their woeful best in Canberra and Manly doing the Eagle rock all over again against the NZ Warriors. Where do we start? Well it’s an easy first position, the Brisbane Broncos unbeaten and looking slick atop the NRL Power Rankings here at NRL News:

1.(1) Brisbane Broncos - Turned on a classic performance without Karmichael Hunt and Darren Lockyer to inflict more pain on the hapless North Queensland Cowboys. Peter Wallace again silky smooth and the likes of Justin Hodges back to his elusive best. The Broncos mobile forwards again look well suited to 2008 NRL style. Power Score 9.5/10

Grubbers Comment: Chances of Israel Folau having to play off the bench next year due to Broncos hot form? 10/1

2.(12) Manly Sea Eagles - Back to the top of the NRL Power Rankings with a bullet, the Eagles hitting top gear at Brookvale and burning the NZ Warriors badly. Probably still have a touch of improvement as their completion rate still was below par, but Warriors looked to have played them into confident form. Power Score 8.5/10

Grubbers Comment: Likelihood of Jamie Lyon having to take a pay-cut as he is pushed out to the centres for the rest of his time? 75/1

3.(8) Sydney Roosters - Proved their early season win wasn’t a fluke with a gutsy win over the Melbourne Storm. It’s not just their new buys giving them thrust, Freddy has the Roosters looking very solid in defence. Look certain to get a Top 8 spot this year and the health and form of Minichiello remains a blessing. Power Score 8/10

Grubbers Comment: Odds of Brad Fittler buying Nate Myles some driving lessons after the forward backed into Fittler’s brand new BMW. 10/1

4.(10) Gold Coast Titans - Showed how tough to beat they are at Skilled Park, Robina - a happy hunting ground. Frustrated the life out of the Sharks, beating them at their own game and remaining patient through-out. Their forwards really dug deep in this one and helped the usual one-man army of ‘Luke Bailey’. Real dark-horse this year. Power Score 8/10

Grubbers Comment: Odds of Anthony Laffranchi ever making it as a heavy weight boxer after going down for the count against Paul Gallen? 40/1

5.(9) Canberra Raiders - Sneaking up into the Top 8 of the Power Rankings, the Raiders were impressive in the second half against the Dragons and factor in their injuries overall, which makes things even more gutsy. Could continue to surprise teams in 2008, depth must be a concern along with coaching rumblings in the ACT with Neil Henry looking Cowboys bound. Power Score 7.5/10

Grubbers Comment: Odds Todd Carney will have lawyers pouring over his new contract as his mentor Neil Henry prepares to hit the eject button - only weeks after saying to Carney he will be coach for the long term.

6.(7) Bulldogs - Continue to surprise with their scratchy wins. Probably were lucky to run into a patchy Wests Tigers, but were good enough to get home. Lack some speed on the edges but Sonny Bill Williams had a good run and Hazem El Masri continues to put on the points for them. Jeckyl and Hyde team at the moment. Power Score 7/10

Grubbers Comment: Estimated amount of Security, Police and SWAT teams present as the Bulldogs face the Roosters and ex-players Willie Mason and Mark O’Meley this week? 500

7.(13) Parramatta Eels - Looked set to run away with a big win early, but got the stumbles in defence. Eric Grothe concerning on the fringe. Attack looks impressive when they are rolling forward, injuries biting them as Mark Riddell joins Kris Inu, Ben Smith and Chad Robinson on the injured list. Look to need more improvement. Power Score 7/10

Grubbers Comment: Odds that Tim Smith would have been ‘carrying the drinks’ had the Eels lost to the Newcastle Knights? 15/1

8.(16) Penrith Panthers - Bounced back from the wilderness to get a home win against South Sydney. While their ball security and discipline still needs improvement, when they clicked - their attack looked sharp. Will pinch some confidence from this win and should be much better for the run. Power Score 7/10

Grubbers Comment: Odds of Matt Elliott getting a full nights sleep for the first time in over 12 months? 2/1

9.(4) Newcastle Knights - Went down in golden point, but weren’t disgraced. Executed a Brian Smith gameplan well and may have been hurt by a few 50/50 calls from the referee. Remain a confident and upbeat side that will trouble most teams on their day. Need the form to continue as younger players continue to build confidence and experience. Power Score 6.5/10

Grubbers Comments: Estimates of Brian Smiths mobile phone bill after constant SMS text messaging to players? $2,750 a month.

10.(2) Wests Tigers - Looked lifeless and disinterested against a second-rate Bulldogs team. Had the confidence and players to win this one, but probably didn’t give the game the focus it needed. Robbie Farah was hurting from influenza, but other players simply didn’t turned up. Could get a rude shock against an improving Penrith Panthers this week in Round 4 of the NRL for 2008. Power Score 6/10

Grubbers Comments: Odds that Bulldogs operatives poisoned Robbie Farah prior to this weeks match? 18/1

11.(3) Cronulla Sharks - Their usual defence oriented style wasn’t enough to shut out the attacing power of the Gold Coast Titans. Turned very physical again this week and it looks like costing more suspensions. Might need to develop more attacking options or risk getting injured and suspended too often in their trench warfare style football. Power Score 6/10

Grubbers Comments: Odds of Paul Gallen being the dirtiest player in the NRL? 5/1

12.(11) Melbourne Storm - Slide another place down the Power Rankings ladder, the Storm are chugging in the early rounds and it’s their structured attack that looks tired and predictable. Can score from broken play with the likes of Billy Slater and Cameron Smith - but need a much more crisp execution of deep set plays to be a consistent winner each week. Is it panic stations? Not just yet says the ol’ Grubber. Power Score 5.5/10

Grubbers Comments: Odds that Craig Bellamy is ready to hit the eject button at Melbourne? 3/1

13.(6) St George Illawarra Dragons - Are lucky to be so high on the rankings, they were helped by poor performances from Cowboys and Warriors. Brownie and Co still scratching their heads, the Dragons find another way to ’switch-off’ and lose a game. Need to get Mark Gasnier more involved somehow, forwards are not laying anywhere near enough platform fort his side. This is the last time the Grubber will mention the name ‘Nathan Brown’ - ‘Lips now sealed’ Power Score 5/10

Grubbers Comment: NEWSFLASH - Jason Ryles about to sign a new contract, not with the Dragons but for a bench position with a Queensland Cup side.

14.(14) South Sydney Rabbitohs - Have been lucky to be escaping headlines, but the Bunnies are 0 wins from 3 starts and looking very scratchy. Remain lost in attack, showed some promise with John Sutton at pivot as the game wore on - but lack direction. Jason Taylor may have reacted too soon in making wholesale changes, may have only needed slight tweaking. Injuries are growing and so it’s the pressure, with Russell Crowe sure to be on the phone every second day to staff and players. Power Score 5/10

Grubbers Comment: Odds Jason Taylor will dust off the boots and line-up as captain / coach to show them how a halfback should play? 15/1

15.(15) North Queensland Cowboys - Looked extremely bad on Friday night, addmittedly they faced a hot Broncos outfit - but this was a Cowboys side that is merely a shadow of their 2007 selves. Coaching uncertainty must be affecting things, something must have happened behind the scenes for a winning coach like Graham Murray to have copped an early chop. A crunch game against the unpredictable Eels for them this week could make or break their season at only Round 4. Power Score 4.5/10

Grubbers Comments: Odds that Graham Murray has stopped turning up for training and is just rocking up for match day now he knows it’s over at years end? 3/1

16.(5) NZ Warriors - Slide heavily down the rankings after a disaster at Brookvale Oval. One of the worst games by any side this year, dropped a tonne of ball and it could have been worse had Manly improved their only average completion rate. Surely Manu Vatuvei must be dropped from this side, a first grade player must be able to safely catch and cart a ball up-field - NZ playing stocks cannot be that low, he can’t be replaced? Surely! Power Score 4/10

Grubbers Comments: Odds that Michael Witt still thought he was playing for Manly as the half-witt handed valuable ball to the Eagles at critical times. 3/1

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Here are the NRL Power Rankings for Round 2 2008. After only getting 1 tip right this round I did think about retiring but I’ll be bouncing back just like Nathan Brown and his Dragons did this week; (Last weeks ladder position is in brackets for each team)

1.(3) Brisbane Broncos: Their form remains highly impressive and they quickly showed they mean business in 2008, winning on the road against the equally improved Sydney Roosters. Peter Wallace and Darren Lockyer continue to look like a world-beating partnership in the halves. Still have other players to return and should remain a force. Power Score: 9/10

Grubbers Comments: Chances of Wayne Bennett getting called at his nursing home in 20 years time when the Broncos are in coaching trouble? 30/1

2.(6) Wests Tigers - Proved their Round 1 win against the Dragons wasn’t a fluke. Minus some big name players, the Tigers still looked powerful and equally committed. Survived media beat up around Liam Fulton and Luke ODonnell. Coach Sheens has every player playing to their strengths and makeshift halves combination is working well. Power Score: 8.5/10

Grubbers Comment: Odds that Benji Marshall will ever get back into the Tigers run-on side? 35/1

3.(5) Cronulla Sharks - Have started 2008 with a clean sheet and look like real contenders. Dusting the 2007 Grand Finalists in successive weeks, their NRL style might not be pretty but it works. Strong defence and while they dropped some possession at critical times - with improvement, these guys can be Top 4. Power Score: 8/10

Grubbers Comments: Chances of Ben Ross ever going the biff again, after a dismal showing against Brett White? 250/1

4.(8) Newcastle Knights - Staged an amazing fightback to beat Manly in yet another Round 2 upset. Brian Smith looks to have the new forward pack just right and is so far justifying his wholesale changes. Only a matter of time before Cooper Vuna becomes a superstar on the flanks, his burst of speed is awesome and only remains luckless with the bounce of the ball. Scene set for a blockbuster with the Eels at Parramatta this Friday in Smiths old castle. Power Score: 7.5/10

Grubbers Comments: Chances former Knight Josh Perry caught up with his old coach Brian Smith and team-mates for a drink after the game 50/1

5.(13) NZ Warriors - Showed how much they love a home game, turning on the afterburners to totally blow away the hapless Eels. Minus stars Steve Price and Wade McKinnon, the Warriors still packed a punch and proved they won’t be a forgotten force in 2008. Halves looked good and second phase play was inspirational. Power Score: 7/10

Grubbers Comments: Chances of Manu Vatuvei having a 100% bomb defusal statistic in an NRL game? 400/1

6.(15) St George Illawarra: Back from the brink, media headlines obviously motivated the Saints to perform. Turned on a vintage WIN Stadium performance in trying conditions. With possession, their halves and attack can match any team in the competition. Sowards kicking game was world class in this match. Power Score: 7/10

Grubbers Comments: Chances of seeing St George so pumped again that Matt Cooper will start running at brick walls? 50/1

7.(12) Bulldogs - After the debacle of Round 1, the Bulldogs came back in the best possible fashion - accounting for the big name South Sydney pack. The Bulldogs cut the errors out of their game and showed true grit in defence, repelling wave after wave of South Sydney attack. Power Score: 7/10

Grubbers Comment: Chances that Bulldogs player co-ordinator Brad Clyde is giving Sonny Bill Williams advice on how to remain injury free? 250/1

8.(4) Sydney Roosters- While going down to the Broncos, the Roosters are still showing positive signs for this year. Need to improve fitness at the back end of games, but should get better each week. Don’t write off Freddy’s men just yet. Power Score: 6.5/10

Grubbers Comment: Chances of Braith Anasta being able to donate to the blood bank this week after losing so much claret? 100/1

9.(14) Canberra Raiders: While getting away with one of the ugliest wins in recent memory, the Raiders must still be given credit for doing enough when injuries hampered them at times. Losing the speedy Zillman and forward Scott Logan ate into their reserves and the likes of gritty Alan Tongue dug deep to score a rare away win. Will continue to surprise the odd them this year. Power Score: 6/10

Grubbers Comments: Odds that Alan Tongue is taking legal action against Braith Anasta for stealing his patented ‘Hanibal Lector’ nose bandage idea? 10/1

10.(2) Gold Coast Titans: Despite the loss, the Titans remained willing in attack. Quick hands and consistent second phase play in attack sees them remain in the upper rankings regardless of the loss. Penalties and possession killed them, need kicking game improvement at times also. Power Score: 6/10

Grubbers Comments: Odds of Matt Rogers ever making a speed bump comment again, after he himself was run over several times by Dragons traffic? 500/1

11.(1) Melbourne Storm: Put in a rare shocker and were beaten in their usually fortified Olympic Park venue. Looked considerably disjointed on the left edge whenever they moved the ball through the hands and made errors at critical times which is very out of character for them. Face an interesting test next week to see how they bounce back when they travel to Sydney to face the improving Roosters. Power Score: 5.5/10

Grubbers Comment: Chances of Brett White being scouted by Mundine manager Khoder Nasser for boxing stardom? 15/1

12.(11) Manly Sea Eagles: Had their chances against the Newcastle Knights but couldn’t put them away. Don’t look nearly as sharp in attack without Michael Mongahan. Giving away penalties at crucial times killed them - take note Mr Josh Perry. Face a confidence test in the weeks ahead. Power Score: 5/10

Grubbers Comments: Chances Max Delmege and Manly supremo’s are hatching a plan to covertly kidnap Michael Monaghan and return him to NRL ranks? 25/1

13.(7) Parramatta Eels: Cop a beating in the rankings this week, the Eels played two halves of Rugby League similar to their first half against the Bulldogs last week. Unable to hold on to the ball for sustained periods and at times looking a little disjointed in attack. Badly missed the stability of Nathan Hindmarsh, should be a different team at home this week with several stars returning. Power Score: 4.5/10

Grubbers Comments: Odds of officials testing Tim Smith’s water bottle for alcohol content during Friday nights game? 15/1

14.(9) South Sydney Rabbitohs: Remain winless for 2008 and coach Jason Taylor must now be worrying about attacking potential again. Mobile forwards started well and the halves improved on last week, but still rarely look like crossing the tryline. Expect to see a different style from the Bunnies this week against the Panthers, with more second phase play and risk taking in the opposition half. Power Score: 4.5/10

Grubbers Comments: Chances of Russell Crowe halting filming in the USA to fly in for a recital from the book of feuds to his players, in the hope of motivation? 8/1

15.(10) North Queensland Cowboys: Amazingly beaten at home by the Tigers to also remain winless this season. Current situation could be a creation of the Cowboys announcing the departure of coach Graham Murray a tad too early. Peter Parr may have proved too smart for his own good in this case as the North Queensland outfit continue to look rudderless. Face the might of the Broncos this week and could easily go 0-3 Power Score: 4/10

Grubbers Comments: Odds that Luke ODonnell will phone up old school mate Liam Fulton when in Sydney next? 250/1

16.(16) Penrith Panthers: Totally deserving of the last place, many thought the Panthers couldn’t get any worse by they some how managed so prove everyone wrong. Improved their discipline, but posted possibly the worst completion rate of any NRL team in recent memory. In serious trouble and after losing to Canberra at home, things probably cannot get any worse now - surely? Power Score: 2/10

Grubbers Comments: God save the NRL, because nothing at all will save the Penrith Panthers.

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Round 1, 2008 Power Rankings:

Here are the NRL Power Rankings for Round 1 2008 as the Grubber dusts off his clipboard and goes around the grounds to report on the real Rugby League form;

1. Melbourne Storm - Right back into the groove, straight to the top of the charts with their clinical win against the Warriors to kick-off 2008. New crop of younger forwards look very good, big and aggressive. Slater and C.Smith remain major NRL strike weapons that keep this team on top. Power Score 9.5/10

Grubbers Comment: Odds of NRL investigating reports of a science lab out of Melbourne that somehow keeps producing incredible hulk like talent year after year? 10/1

2. Gold Coast Titans - Surprised everyone with a comprehensive victory over the Cowboys even with Jonathan Thurston back on deck. Look to have better depth in this NRL season and with the new Skilled Stadium at Robina - 2008 could see them reach the finals. Smart management sees over 50% of the Titans team off-contract at season end forcing them to play for their lives. Working a treat so far. Power Score: 9/10

Grubbers Comment: Odds of Titans fans remembering who ‘Chris Walker’ is after replacement Jordan Atkins scores 4 tries on debut? 50/1

3. Brisbane Broncos: New look Broncos look awesome. Might have been made to look even better by a woeful Panthers outfit - but new purchases look like smart acquisitions. Showed smarter forwards play and iced the cake with the new combination of Peter Wallace and Darren Lockyer immediately looking like a premiership force. Expect big things from Brisbane. Power Score: 8.5/10

Grubbers Comments: Odds that Peter Wallace went to seek out old coach Matt Elliott after the game to say “Hello!” 25/1

4. Sydney Roosters - Jumped out of the blocks impressively to overpower the fancied South Sydney side. New buys seem to have given the Roosters more confidence and the return of Anthony Minichiello and Mitchell Pearce give the side more balance and options across the park. Look to be a new force in 2008. Power Score: 8.5/10

Grubbers Comment: Chances of Riley Brown having a statue built in his honour in Bondi? Strong to Certain.

5. Cronulla Sharks - Hard to split Sharks, Tigers and Eels. All were eventual winners and ground out their games. The Sharks however took the big scalp of Manly, an impressive win in this away game for Round 1. Defence remains remarkable, look better in attack with Brett Kearney back and the Cronulla forwards kept coming which is their biggest improvement from 2007. Power Score: 8/10

Grubbers Comments: Chances of bookmakers running exotic bet offers on the amount of damage Ricky Stuart will do to coaches boxes and equipment in 2008? 5/1

6. Wests Tigers - Notched up a win against the fancied Dragons in a heatwave at Telstra Stadium. While they lost Benji Marshall, they played a smart and tight brand of NRL that is suited to the tough, close games. Gee wouldn’t the Dragons love to possess this brand of football. Did enough to capitalize on St George Illawarra mistakes and should survive ok without Benji as players in the team seem to take it upon themselves to get the job done. Power Score: 7.5/10

Grubbers Comments: Odds that Benji Marshall’s manager knew of the dodgy knee and urged him to sign a short term deal with the Tigers rather than play roulette on the open market? 2/1

7. Parramatta Eels - Got the goods in the end with a stunning comeback over the tough Bulldogs. Couldn’t be placed any higher in the rankings, as no team played worse than the Eels did in their first half. New faces could be strong assets this year and their mental strength seems staggering after a calmly engineered fightback by Brett Finch. Power Score: 7.5/10

Grubbers Comments: Odds that Parramatta were still feeling the effects of a weekend hangover in the first half after a team meeting in Kings Cross? 3/1

8. Newcastle Knights: Secured that critical first Round win at home after weathering a Canberra Raiders arm-wrestle. Of-season purchases seem to have been good ones, with new faces doing the trick in a game that could have seen them score more points - barring some panic plays close to the line. Look like big improver’s. Power Score: 7/10

Grubbers Comments: Chances of Danny Buderus’ early departure having nothing at all to do with coach Brian Smith? 450/1

9. South Sydney Rabbitohs - Probably guilty of a little bit of stage fright, as they let their big brother get the better of them in the big local derby. Missed Craig Wing and additional substitutions but should have been able to adapt better than they did. Should bounce back from this early set back. Looked to have improved their attack from 2007, but defence let them down in the end. Power Score: 6.5/10

Grubbers Comment: Odd’s that the Sydney Roosters attack on Craig Wing was pre-meditated? 2/1

10. North Queensland Cowboys - Probably beat themselves after the Jonathan Thurston late admission tactic and failed to work cohesively at times in a misfiring match for the usual NRL heavyweight. It might only be Round 1 of the 2008 NRL, but will thoughts of a departing coach hurt their focus this season? Power Score: 6/10

Grubbers Comment: Odds that it was a Qantas hostie that tipped off the media to Jonathan Thurstons boarding of QF223 from Townsville to Coolongatta on Friday? 15/1

11. Manly Sea Eagles: First up shock loss. Were far from woeful, but did lack the pressure play precision of Michael Monaghan. Looked a little lost in attack and really only Anthony Watmough threatened. Should be better for the run with several new faces on board and roles to be determined. Jamie Lyon will continue to hamper the team at five-eighth. Playing stand-off in the UK Super League is worlds away from a halves role in weekly NRL. Power Score: 6/10

Grubbers Comments: Amount of times Max Delmege has rung Manly officials to query why the Eagles treated Monaghan so poorly and eventually let him go too early? 14

12. Bulldogs: Started with so much promise, but could have been masked by the shocking turnovers by the Eels. Probably should have scored at least 30 points given the ball and field position they had. New halves pairing was ok, but forwards really fell away in the end as did their discipline. SBW remains an achillies heel for the team. Power Score: 5.5/10

Grubbers Comments: Chances of Steve Folkes getting on the phone to his manager immediately after the final whistle in this game? 3/1

13. NZ Warriors: Hung in well against the Melbourne Storm, with good forward input and some promising signs on the edges in attack. Manu Vatuvei simply must be dropped from first grade. Any winger dropping 3+ balls a game leading to tries must go. Should be ok to cover for loss of Wade McKinnon, but will miss Price if he is out for extended periods. Power Score: 5.5/10

Grubbers Comment: Odds of New Zealand supporters finally getting a successful Warriors Premiership and ridding them of Rugby Union pain? 25/1

14. Canberra Raiders: Looked willing early on in their game against the Knights, showing some quick-fire wide attacking raids but couldn’t sustain pressure. Still have too many simple errors in their game and lack a little bit of depth. Forwards fell away badly in this one. Power Score: 5.5/10

Grubbers Comments: Odds of the rumour being true that Canberra had actually dipped into their travel fund for 2008 to top up Todd Carney’s contract - forcing all players to pay their own fares to away games? 30/1

15. St George Illawarra Dragons: It doesn’t get much worse for the team that promises so much yet rarely delivers. Had the players to get the job done against the Wests Tigers but didn’t read the game and kept taking wrong options. Simple errors, poor discipline - same old story. Halves of Soward and Chase were a highlight, as was Gaz - but forwards really disappointed. Power Score: 5/10

Grubbers Comments: Chances of Brownie sending his players into Kings Cross in the hope that gangsters can scare them into playing well? 5/1

16. Penrith Panthers: Straight to the bottom of the class. The chocolate soldiers melted quickly in the Brisbane heat, looking just like their old selves. Have bulked up the forwards, but they do look lacking in pace and fitness which could make this an even longer year. Discipline still remains beyond words, gave so many stupid penalties away it was beyond reporting. Matt Elliott was right to question Luke Priddis and his value, a former great that deserves respect - but Priddis may have held on a touch too long. Power Score: 3/10

Grubbers Comments: Likelihood of Matt Elliott holding ‘coaching parties’ in the Panthers Box this year, after entertaining Clinton Schifcofske and Jason Smith during the Brisbane game and regularly hosting Ryan Girdler and others for home games? 5/1