Tag: Rugby League

Rugby League: NRL Round 2 Preview

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

Round 1 threw up more surprises than the results of a Tiger Woods drug test.

Round 2 could go a similar way with a series of matches that are proving difficult to predict.  The Bulldogs and Eels games looks tricky; the Rabbitohs and Roosters are almost impossible to separate; and the Warriors match too.

Let’s have a look at all the matches from Round 2:

Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs v Parramatta Eels

Bulldogs – $1.65

Eels – $2.28

The Bulldogs are slight favourites at ANZ Stadium despite losing last week and watching tonight’s rivals get the better of Manly.  Des Hasler needs a win, not because it will bring two valuable competition points, but to bring him back to reality after spending much of the week at Hogwarts.  The only changes to the sides see loose unit Josh Reynolds miss out for the Bulldogs, and Junior Paulo suspended for a mammoth nine weeks.  Brett Morris was sterling in his debut for the Bulldogs and he’ll be looking to make another strong attacking impact, while also doing his best to defuse the kicking games of Norman and Sandow. Bulldogs 1-12.

Bulldogs: 1. Brett Morris, 2 Curtis Rona, 3 Josh Morris, 4 Tim Lafai, 5 Sam Perrett, 6 Moses Mbye, 7 Trent Hodkinson, 8 Aiden Tolman, 9 Michael Lichaa, 10 James Graham, 11 Josh Jackson, 12 Tony Williams, 13 Greg Eastwood.

Interchange: 14 Sam Kasiano, 15 David Klemmer, 16 Frank Pritchard, 17 Tim Browne

Eels: 1. Will Hopoate, 2. Semi Radradra, 3. Beau Champion, 4. Brad Takairangi, 5. Reece Robinson, 6. Corey Norman, 7. Chris Sandow, 8. Darcy Lussick, 9. Nathan Peats, 10. Tim Mannah (c), 11. Manu Ma’u, 12. Tepai Moeroa, 13. Anthony Watmough.

Interchange: 14. Isaac De Gois, 15. Joseph Paulo, 16. Junior Paulo, 17. David Gower, 18. Danny Wicks, 19. Pauli Pauli.

Cronulla Sharks v Brisbane Broncos

Sharks – $1.98

Broncos – $1.85

Two first round losers square off in Friday’s second match, and un-surprisingly the Broncos feature in it.  The Broncos were woefully inept in Round 1 and must find an immediate solution to the problems at five eighth and fullback.  Whether the solution is to give Milford the freedom to roam between the two positions, or to give Kodi Nikorima some game time instead, only Wayne Bennett knows.  The Sharks have their own number six struggles with former Bronco Ben Barba, but they have forwards who could outmuscle the Bronocs pack that got humiliated last week.  Sharks 1-12.

Sharks: 1 Michael Gordon 2 Sosaia Feki 3 Gerard Beale 4 Ricky Leutele 5 Mitch Brown 6 Ben Barba 7 Jeff Robson 8 Andrew Fifita 9 Michael Ennis 10 Matt Prior 11 Jayson Bukuya 12 Wade Graham 13 Paul Gallen (c).

Interchange: 14 Chris Heighington 15 Tinirau Arona 16 Anthony Tupou 17 David Fifita 18 Valentine Holmes 21 Sami Sauiluma.

Broncos: 1 Jordan Kahu 2 Dale Copley 3 Jack Reed 4 Justin Hodges (c) 5 Lachlan Maranta 6 Anthony Milford 7 Ben Hunt 8 Josh McGuire 9 Andrew McCullough 10 Adam Blair 11 Alex Glenn 12 Matt Gillett 13 Corey Parker.

Interchange: 14 Jarrod Wallace 15 Jo Ofahengaue 16 Sam Thaiday 17 Kodi Nikorima

Penrith Panthers v Gold Coast Titans

Panthers – $1.23

Titans – $4.33

Top three shoo ins the Panthers will get the better off the club currently in the most disarray in the NRL.  The Titans were not at all bad last week, but they still don’t have the quality to compete with the Panthers over 80 minutes due to most of their best players being behind bars.  The Panthers were nigh on perfect for 60 minutes last week and have two of the most exciting wing prospects in the game in Watene Zelezniak and Jennings.  We’re eagerly looking forward to see what those two can do again this week.  Panthers 13+.

Panthers: 1 Matt Moylan, 2 George Jennings, 3 Dean Whare, 4 Jamal Idris, 5 Dallin Watene Zelezniak, 6 Jamie Soward, 7 Peter Wallace (c), 8 Sam McKendry, 9 James Segeyaro, 10 Brent Kite, 11 Sika Manu, 12 Lewis Brown, 13 Elijah Taylor

Interchange: 14 Tyrone Peachey, 15 Jeremy Latimore, 16 Reagan Campbell-Gillard, 17 Bryce Cartwright, 18 Isaah Yeo

Titans: 1 William Zillman, 2 Kevin Gordon, 3 James Roberts, 4 Josh Hoffman, 5 David Mead, 6 Aidan Sezer, 7 Daniel Mortimer, 8 Luke Douglas, 9 Kierran Moseley, 10 Edward Pettybourne, 11 Ryan James, 12 Lachlan Burr, 13 Nate Myles (c)

Interchange: 14 Agnatius Paasi, 15 Mark Ioane, 16 Matt Robinson, 17 Matt Srama, 18 Ryan Simpkins

Manly Sea-Eagles v Melbourne Storm

Sea Eagles – $2.15

Storm – $1.72

The match that used to define an NRL season is now somewhat of a middle of the pack type matchup.  Both sides have been predicted to struggle this year as their ageing squads tire, inevitably get hit by origin and disband.  There’s plenty of niggle around the Daly Cherry-Evans departure which could be a disturbance as Manly look to recover from a disastrous first up effort against the Eels.  They get back a useful bit of experience from Steve Matai, but that might be enough to penetrate the structure of the consistent Storm side that pack plenty of power up front.  We’ll go the for the never flappable Storm to get up by 1-12.

Sea Eagles: 1 Brett Stewart 2 Cheyse Blair 3 Jamie Lyon (c) 4 Steve Matai 5 Peta Hiku 6 Jack Littlejohn 7 Daly Cherry-Evans 8 Willie Mason 9 Matt Ballin 10 Brenton Lawrence 11 Feleti Mateo 12 Tom Symonds 13 Dunamis Lui.

Interchange: 14 Jesse Sene-Lefao 15 Blake Leary 16 Luke Burgess 17 Ligi Sao 18 Justin Horo.

Storm: 1 Billy Slater 2 Young Tonumaipea 3 Will Chambers 4 Kurt Mann 5 Marika Koroibete 6 Blake Green 7 Cooper Cronk 8 Jesse Bromwich 9 Cameron Smith (c) 10 Jordan McLean 11 Kevin Proctor 12 Tohu Harris 13 Dale Finucane.

Interchange: 14 Ryan Hinchcliffe 15 Tim Glasby 16 Dayne Weston 17 Felise Kaufusi.

North Queensland Cowboys v Newcastle Knights

Cowboys – $1.38

Knights – $3.10

The Cowboys put very few smiles on the faces of their fans at their aptly named home ground in week one.  They get the chance to atone for that again this week at Smiles Stadium when they host the Newcastle Knights.  Jonathan Thurston will will never play as badly again as he did in Round 1, and he’s that good he probably only needs to be marginally better to be Dally M winner.  He’ll turn it around.  The Cowboys will be hoping to deliver a win for Antonio Winterstein who is in doubt after his brother sadly passed away during the week.  Cowboys 13+.

Knights: 1 Kurt Gidley (c), 2 James McManus, 3 Dane Gagai, 4 Joseph Leilua, 5 Akuila Uate, 6 Jarrod Mullen, 7 Tyrone Roberts, 8 Kade Snowden, 9 Adam Clydsdale, 10 Korbin Sims, 11 Beau Scott, 12 Robbie Rochow, 13 Jeremy Smith

Interchange: 14 Tyler Randell, 15 Chris Houston, 16 David Fa’alogo, 17 Jack Stockwell, 18 Sione Mata’utia

Cowboys: 1 Michael Morgan, 2 Justin O’Neill, 3 Matthew Wright, 4 Kane Linnett, 5 Antonio Winterstein, 6 Robert Lui, 7 Johnathan Thurston (c), 8 Matthew Scott (c), 9 Rory Kostjasyn, 10 Ben Hannant, 11 Gavin Cooper, 12 Ethan Lowe, 13 Jason Taumalolo

Interchange: 14 Jake Granville, 15 Kelepi Tanginoa, 16 Scott Bolton, 17 James Tamou, 18 Lachlan Coote

South Sydney Rabbitohs v Sydney Roosters

Rabbitohs – $1.80

Roosters – $2.03

It was difficult to separate these two teams last year (in fact probably over the last two years), so we’re expecting something similar again this week.  Both teams were incredibly impressive last week in what could’ve been tricky encounters.  That bodes well for a cliffhanger this week that will be determined up front.  The George Burgess v Jared Waerea-Hargreaves is the individual match up of the round. Picking an upset, Roosters 1-12.

Rabbitohs: 1 Greg Inglis (c) 2 Alex Johnston 3 Dylan Walker 4 Bryson Goodwin 5 Joel Reddy 6 Luke Keary 7 Adam Reynolds 8 George Burgess 9 Issac Luke 10 Dave Tyrrell 11 Glenn Stewart 12 John Sutton 13 Ben Lowe.

Interchange: 14 Chris Grevsmuhl 15 Jason Clark 16 Chris McQueen 17 Thomas Burgess 18 Tim Grant 19 Cameron McInnes 20 Daryl Millard.

Roosters: 1 Roger Tuivasa-Sheck 2 Daniel Tupou 3 Michael Jennings 4 Blake Ferguson 5 Shaun Kenny-Dowall 6 James Maloney 7 Mitchell Pearce (c) 8 Jared Waerea-Hargreaves 9 Matt McIlwrick 10 Sam Moa 11 Boyd Cordner 12 Aidan Guerra 13 Isaac Liu.

Interchange: 14 Mitchell Aubusson 15 Dylan Napa 16 Kane Evans 17 Sio Siua Taukeiaho 19 Martin Kennedy 20 Nene Macdonald.

Canberra Raiders v New Zealand Warriors

Raiders – $2.08

Warriors – $1.77

It’s fair to say the Warriors got the better of the Raiders in last years two games.  They won 54-12 and 54-18 in two utter hidings.  On 2015’s evidence the Warriors won’t make it three 50-pointers in a row.  Simply put, they still don’t have the leadership in the halves that will deliver them more wins than losses, or get them to a third Grand Final.  They had some positives last week; particularly Kata and Lolohea, however their inability to register second half points is a big worry.

The Raiders got past the Sharks thanks to two Jordan Rapana tries, and a scintillating Jack Wight effort. In addition, Frank-Paul Nuuausala and Iosia Soliola made pleasing starts to their Raiders careers.  With no confidence at all we’ll give it to the Warriors by 1-12.

Raiders: 1 Jack Wighton 2 Sisa Waqa 3 Jarrod Croker (c) 4 Edrick Lee 5 Jordan Rapana 6 Blake Austin 7 Mitchell Cornish 8 Josh Papalii 9 Josh Hodgson 10 Dane Tilse 11 Jarrad Kennedy 12 Iosia Soliola 13 Shaun Fensom

Interchange: 14 Josh McCrone 15 Frank-Paul Nuuausala 16 Paul Vaughan 17 Luke Bateman

Warriors: 1 Sam Tomkins 2 Jonathan Wright 3 Tuimoala Lolohea 4 Solomone Kata 5 Manu Vatuvei 6 Chad Townsend 7 Shaun Johnson 8 Jacob Lillyman 9 Thomas Leuluai 10 Ben Matulino 11 Bodene Thompson 12 Ryan Hoffman 13 Simon Mannering (c)

Interchange: 14 Nathan Friend 15 Ben Henry 16 Sam Lisone 17 Albert Vete 18 Matthew Allwood

West Tigers v St George Illawarra Dragons 

Tigers – $1.55

Dragons – $2.50

The final match of the round could be one of the more one-sided.  A Benji Marshall sub-plot is one of the only interesting storylines for two teams that have enjoyed an inauspicious week in build up.  Pat Richards helped his Tigers side get past the Titans last week, while the Dragons were outclassed in a low scorer by the Storm.

A team that consists of Dugan, Marshall and Widdop that only scores four points in a game is a massive headache for the coaching staff.  Sure they played the Storm but Farah, Woods and Taupau are some of the best middle of the park defenders in the game and they could well struggle for points again.  Therefore we’re going Tigers by 1-12.

Wests Tigers: 1 James Tedesco 2 Kevin Naiqama 3 Tim Simona 4 Chris Lawrence 5 Pat Richards 6 Mitchell Moses 7 Luke Brooks 8 Aaron Woods 9 Robbie Farah (c) 10 Keith Galloway 11 Curtis Sironen 12 Sauaso Sue 13 Martin Taupau.

Interchange: 14 Dene Halatau 15 Ava Seumanufagai 16 Matthew Lodge 17 Brenden Santi 18 Kyle Lovett.

Dragons: 1 Josh Dugan 2 Etonia Nabuli 3 Dane Nielsen 4 Dylan Farrell 5 Jason Nightingale 6 Gareth Widdop 7 Benji Marshall 8 Leeson Ah Mau 9 Mitch Rein 10 George Rose 11 Tyson Frizell 12 Joel Thompson 13 Ben Creagh (c).

Interchange: 14 Rory O’Brien 15 Trent Merrin 16 Mike Cooper 17 Jack de Belin 19 Jake Marketo 21 Heath L’Estrange.

The Multi

The margin multi on these predictions pays $4191.31

Rugby League: NRL Season Preview

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

The NRL gets underway on Thursday and we’ve made your tips and your fantasy team selection easy with our comprehensive team by team guide.

See details of every side’s chances and the players that are crucial to their chances below.  Odds are taken from Sportsbet Australia.

Brisbane Broncos

Ins: Adam Blair (Tigers), Darius Boyd (Knights), Anthony Milford (Raiders), Travis Waddell (Knights), Mitch Garbutt (Storm), Greg Eden (Hull KR), James Gavet (Tigers), Matt Parcell

Outs: Ben Barba (Sharks), Josh Hoffman (Titans), Ben Hannant (Cowboys), Martin Kennedy (Roosters), Jake Granville (Cowboys), David Hala (Titans)

The player to watch: Anthony Milford’s transition to Brisbane, and into the number 6 jersey, will make for interesting when the 2015 season kicks off.  The nimble runner is expected to do what Ben Barba couldn’t do in the jersey and spark the Bronco’s attacking game week after week.

The youngster to watch: Kodi Nikorima is a name well known to followers of the NRL Nines.  The youngster has made a name for himself in the reduced format thanks to his fleet footwork and clever rugby league mind.  He’ll grab a utility spot on Brisbane’s interchange for their opener and should make waves all year.

The odds: $11.00

Last Year: Eighth (elimination finalist)

This Year: Uncle Wayne and his fragile frame should ensure the Broncos make the top 8 again this year.  He’s recruited well (including his favourites), and he knows the NRL game better than most, we’re thinking 6th on the back of an awesome Suncorp Friday night record.

Canterbury Bulldogs

Ins: Brett Morris (Dragons), Michael Lichaa (Sharks), Curtis Rona (Cowboys), Antonio Kaufusi (Huddersfield)

Outs: Reni Maitua (Featherstone), Michael Ennis (Sharks), Dale Finucane (Storm), Mitch Brown (Sharks), Krisnan Inu (Stade Francais), Lachlan Burr (Titans), John Sila (Tigers)

The player to watch: Josh Jackson was the most improved player in the competition last year (in our view).  He’s gone from solid ball running forward with little responsibility, to creative spark on the right hand edge where all of the Bulldogs plays run (after James Graham takes on the line).  His test experience will be crucial in helping the talented but enigmatic Bulldogs pack flourish in 2015.

The youngster to watch: Former Sharks man Michael Lichaa looks set to step straight into Michael Ennis boots as replacement hooker, despite Moses Mbye being used in the grand final.  The Junior Kangaroos reps has always been tipped for big things and this could be his year to shine.

The odds: $7.50

Last Year: Seventh (finalist)

This Year: The beaten finalists have lost one inspirational captain but gained another.  Tough as nails English import James Graham replaces Mick Ennis for 2015 in the role in a move that will only strengthen the Doggies (and improve their gamesmanship…slightly).  We think they’ll finish 4-8 this year.

Canberra Raiders

Ins: Blake Austin (Tigers), Sisa Waqa (Storm), Frank-Paul Nu’uausala (Roosters), Iosia Soliola (St Helens), Josh Hodgson (Hull KR), Sam Williams (Catalans), Rhys Kennedy (Storm)

Outs: Terry Campese (Hull KR) Anthony Milford (Broncos), Tom Learoyd-Lahrs (Storm), Reece Robinson (Eels), Sami Sauiluma (Sharks), Matt Allwood (Warriors), Matt McIlwrick (Roosters), Sam Mataora (Knights), Lagi Setu (Roosters)

The player to watch: Paul Vaughan, the high running, interchange specialist with a knack for the try line will go very close to origin this year.  Relatively unknown heading in to 2014, the 23-year-old Italian representative burst on to the scene with a series of quality performances off the bench, quickly making him a favourite of Dream Team coaches.  With Papalii and Fensom susceptible to injury, Vaughan is crucial to the green machine’s chances.

The youngster to watch: At just 22, it feels as though we’ve seen plenty of Edrick Lee already.  However, that’s probably because his highlight packages are so memorable and not an indicator of his age or longevity.  Lee spent most of last season on the sideline, but the cousin of NBA superstar Patty Mills, is now fitter than ever and in the best position to use his height and speed to his advantage.

The odds: $81.00

Last Year: 15th

This Year: Anthony Milford gone, Terry Campese gone.  Ricky Stuart still there but making no real impact at the club.  Equals another year of despair for the Raiders.  They’ll do well to finish higher than last year (which was second to last).

Cronulla Sharks 

Ins: Ben Barba (Broncos), Michael Ennis (Bulldogs), Jayson Bukuya (Warriors), Mitch Brown (Bulldogs), Sami Sauiluma (Raiders), Jack Bird (Dragons), Gerard Beale (Dragons), Kyle Stanley (Dragons), Saulala Houma (Roosters)

Outs: Todd Carney (Catalans), Michael Lichaa (Bulldogs), Siosaia Vave (Sea Eagles), Jonathan Wright (Warriors), Tupou Sopoaga (Panthers), Sione Masima (Rabbitohs), John Morris (retired)

The player to watch: Putting contract negotiations, injuries and drug scandals to the side might allow Andrew Fifita to play the damaging football he’s capable of week in week out.  The enforcer who played 6o minutes against the Warriors last season with a broken arm is one of the toughest forwards in the game, and where expecting big things from him this NRL season.

The youngster to watch: Valentine Holmes has already proven his ability in first grade with a couple of standout performances on the wing last season.  This year he will also get the opportunity to share the fullback spot with Michael Gordon; a position we think he’ll be fantastic in.

The odds: $19.00

Last Year: 16th

This Year: Much better prospects this year after a rough couple of seasons.  The addition of Ennis will add much needed leadership during periods of origin and inevitable injury to Gallen / Fifita and could help them to a finish around 7-10.

Gold Coast Titans

Ins: Kierran Moseley (Panthers), Josh Hoffman (Broncos), David Hala (Broncos), Eddy Pettybourne (Wigan), Matt Robinson (Panthers), Ryan Simpkins (Panthers), Lachlan Burr (Bulldogs)

Outs: Brad Takairangi (Eels), Mark Minichiello (Hull), Cody Nelson (Eels), Sam Irwin (Featherstone), Steve Michaels (Hull), Albert Kelly (Hull KR), Maurice Blair (Hull KR), Beau Henry (Dragons), Ashley Harrison (retired)

The player to watch: The candidates for featuring this section have diminished over the past weeks as the NRL traces lines of inquiry in a cocaine scandal (see the pun).  Therefore, we’ll predict a big season for Josh Hoffman.  On the great hope of New Zealand rugby league, but competition for places in Brisbane seemed to have curtailed his growth.  Looked sharp at the Nines, and could be on his way back up.

The youngster to watch: Kierran Moseley’s a nice addition to the Titan’s side and will provide stiff competition for Matt Srama in the hooking berth.  Having experienced the big stage of the 2013 NYC Grand Final, Moseley will be right at home with all the media attention on his club.

The odds: $101.00

Last Year: 14th

This Year: Will finish last.  May even go bust.

Manly Sea Eagles

Ins: Willie Mason (Knights), Feleti Mateo (Warriors), Siosaia Vave (Sharks), Brayden Wiliame (Knights), Blake Leary (Cowboys), Jason King (retired)

Outs: Anthony Watmough (Eels), Glenn Stewart (Rabbitohs), Daniel Harrison (London)

The player to watch: Daly Cherry Evans and Kieran Foran create a dynamic halves duo – probably the best in the competition – but from next year they’re likely to experience what it is like without the other.  While Foran’s future is sorted, Cherry-Evans will have to balance contract negotiations with his footy while also managing the club’s and the stakeholder’s expectations.  He’s our player to watch because we think he can.

The youngster to watch: Clinton Gutherson’s speed is much better than his haircut.  The young flyer has shown real potential in the Nines format and with injuries to Jorge Taufua will get the opportunity to nail down a starting wing spot for some time.

The odds: $13.00

Last Year: Second (semifinalist)

This Year: Not enough support around Foran and DCE to warrant too much attention and in the midst of an early season injury crisis.  Will just scrape into the top eight.

Melbourne Storm

Ins: Dale Finucane (Bulldogs), Tom Learoyd-Lahrs (Raiders), Blake Green (Wigan)

Outs: Justin O’Neill (Cowboys), George Rose (Dragons), Ryan Hoffman (Warriors), Sisa Waqa (Raiders), Siosaia Vave (Sea Eagles), Ben Roberts (Castleford), Mitch Garbutt (Broncos), Junior Moors (Castleford), Cody Walker (Rabbitohs)

The player to watch: Something fairly uncommon happened at the end of last year.  Jesse Bromwich not only turned himself into the best prop in his team, he became the best prop in the NRL with a startling display in the business end of the NRL season and in the international Four Nations competition.  Bromwich has the feet, hands and size to better most and will play a crucial supporting role to the Storm’s ageing big three.

The youngster to watch: Jordan McLean didn’t get the chance to kick on last year after playing a role in the unfortunate Alex McKinnon tackle. Hopefully, this year the kid can deliver on his tremendous promise without the added scrutiny.

The odds: $13.00

Last Year: Sixth (elimination finalist)

This Year: Some punters will have you believe the Storm will miss the eight this year, and it is a possibility given they still haven’t found a way to cope during the origin period.  They have recruited nicely but still probably miss someone in the 6 jumper that will deliver them a trophy. 6th – 8th again this year.

Newcastle Knights

Ins: Jack Stockwell (Dragons), Tariq Sims (Cowboys), Carlos Tuimavave (Warriors), Sam Mataora (Raiders)

Outs: Darius Boyd (Broncos), Willie Mason (Sea Eagles), Adam Cuthbertson (Leeds), Travis Waddell (Broncos), Michael Dobson (Salford), Josh Mantellato (Hull KR), Zane Tetevano (Sea Eagles), Brayden Wiliame (Sea Eagles), Timana Tahu (retired)

The player to watch: Joseph Leilua has apparently slacked off over the summer and might not even feature in the opening round against the Storm.  That’s a shame because in last year’s Four Nations he was impossible to stop, and one of the stars of the tournament.  He’s still our player to watch because, the Knight’s lack others, and he’ll get on the park at some stage.

The youngster to watch: Sione Mata’utia is officially the youngest player to have ever played a test match for Australia.  He broke Israel Folau’s record when he debuted against England last year, and is destined to break even more records in 2015 – perhaps an NRL try-scoring record.  Keep an eye out.

The odds: $31.00

Last Year: 12th

This Year: We expect them to finish around 11th.  Rick Stone has his work cut out this year.

New Zealand Warriors

Ins: Ryan Hoffman (Storm), Matt Allwood (Raiders), Bodene Thompson (Tigers), Jonathan Wright (Sharks), Api Pewhairangi (Eels)

Outs: Feleti Mateo (Sea Eagles), Carlos Tuimavave (Knights), Jayson Bukuya (Sharks), Abraham Papalii (Roosters), Adam Tuimavave-Gerrard (Dragons), Dane Nielsen (Dragons), Sam Lousi (Waratahs)

The player to watch: The Mt Smart faithful will be hoping there’s plenty of running in Ryan Hoffman’s legs after the Warriors were the only club to offer the Melbourne veteran a three year deal.  The Warriors have a history of recruiting senior Australian players who do big things for them and this could be another example.  Will add seniority and defensive surety to an already promising squad.

The youngster to watch: His man bun might not be as impressive as some of the others that are set to take the NRL by storm this year, but his game is.  Solomone Kata was a revelation at the NRL Nines, and after injuries to Glen Fisiiahi and David Fusitu’a, Kata will make his debut on the wing, and get to show off his ridiculous wheels (and man bun).

The odds: $17.00

Last Year: Ninth

This Year: Will be surprised if they don’t finish in the top 8.  Possibly around 6th or 7th.  Sam Tomkins will be better in his second year and Hoffman’s addition will help ease the leadership tension on Simon Mannering.

North Queensland Cowboys

Ins: Ben Hannant (Broncos), Jake Granville (Broncos), Kelepi Tanginoa (Eels), Ben Spina (Pride), Justin O’Neill (Storm)

Outs: Tariq Sims (Knights), Ashton Sims (Warrington), Curtis Rona (Bulldogs), Brent Tate (retired)

The player to watch: Jason Taumalolo turned his back on a huge Warriors payday last week to stick with the Cowboys for a further three years.  His loyalty is another fantastic trait to go with his size, feet, and offloading abilities that make him so dynamic in the NRL.  He’ll flourish this year in his preferred middle of the park role.

The youngster to watch: Michael Morgan’s move to partner Jonathan Thurston in the halves has been met with widespread approval from NRL experts.  After a breakout year in 2014, Morgan’s star looks set to rise again with more time on the ball.

The odds: $9.00

Last Year: Fifth (semifinalist)

This Year: This could be the year that the Cowboys go all the way – depending on the refereeing standard in the playoffs of course.  Will finish in the top 3.

Parramatta Eels

Ins: Anthony Watmough (Sea Eagles), Brad Takairangi (Titans), Reece Robinson (Raiders), Beau Champion (Rabbitohs), Cody Nelson (Titans), Ben Crooks (Hull)

Outs: Jarryd Hayne (NFL), Api Pewhairangi (Warriors), Willie Tonga (Catalans), Mitchell Allgood (Hull KR), Kelepi Tanginoa (Cowboys), Lee Mossop (Wigan), Liam Foran (London), Fuifui Moimoi (Leigh)

The player to watch: Jarryd Hayne is irreplaceable we get that.  However, Will Hopoate is a damn fine footballer in his own right.  He looked a little off the place early in his first season back last year, but should be better for the experience of regular footy (and origin footy), and he’ll be more comfortable in the fullback jersey in 2015.

The youngster to watch: The two rugby [league] players that people often compare 19-year-old Tepai Moeroa to are Sonny Bill Williams and Nathan Hindmarsh, which showcases the high regard many hold him in.  The former rugby player is a tackling machine, and the Eels environment has already proven conducive to breeding quality forwards.  He’s in our fantasy team.

The odds: $41.00

Last Year: 10th

This Year: Losing a Dally M Medal winners leaves a massive void in a squad, but it also frees up some salary cap to sign the like of Anthony Watmough and Kieran Foran.  Even with the addition of Watmough we think the Eels will struggle to 12th / 13th this year.

Penrith Panthers

Ins: Apisai Koroisau (Rabbitohs), Tupou Sopoaga (Sharks)

Outs: Kierran Moseley (Titans), Eto Nabuli (Dragons), Tim Grant (Rabbitohs), Kevin Naiqama (Tigers), Wes Naiqama (London), Matt Robinson (Titans), Ryan Simpkins (Titans), Kevin Kingston (retired)

The player to watch: James Segeyaro’s arrival as an 80-minute hooker was both high quality and unexpected.  For someone that made his bread and butter with cameo appearances, the young hooker surprised many by taking his game to the next level at the end of last year.  He’ll be crucial this year too – but he’ll have live wire South’s recruit Apisai Koroisau to keep him company.

The youngster to watch: Matt Moylan’s probably not considered young by NRL standards anymore, especially now that he has a couple of seasons up his sleeve.  He’s still incredible however.  Moylan knows exactly when to inject himself into the backline and it’s that nous that will serve the Panthers well this year.

The odds: $10.00

Last Year: Fourth (elimination finalist)

This Year: Ivan Clearly and Phil Gould have transformed this team from overrated individuals to accomplished title contenders.  They’ll go close this year again and should finish in the top 5.

St George Illawarra Dragons 

Ins: Dane Nielsen (Warriors), Eto Nabuli (Panthers), Kris Keating (Hull KR), George Rose (Storm), Beau Henry (Titans), Heath L’Estrange (Roosters), Adam Tuimavave-Gerrard (Warriors)

Outs: Brett Morris (Bulldogs), Kyle Stanley (Sharks), Jack Stockwell (Knights), Sam Williams (Raiders), Jack Bird (Sharks), Matt Groat (Salford Red Devils), Gerard Beale (Sharks), Michael Witt (Dragons)

The player to watch: On paper Josh Dugan is the Dragons best player (sorry Gareth and Trent).  Whether he’s mucking in at centre or sparking from fullback, Dugan is origin quality, and if he stays injury free will have a big impact for the Dragons in 2015.

The youngster to watch: Eto Nabuli looks to be the buy of the season if NRL Nines form is anything go by.  Nabuli stole the show in Auckland and will almost certainly get a start in week one.  Euan Aitken is pretty handy too.

The odds: $41.00

Last Year: 11th

This Year: Still finding their feet under Paul McGregor (as is Benji Marshall).  Therefore, likely to finish around 14th.

Sydney Roosters

Ins: Blake Ferguson, Martin Kennedy (Broncos), Lagi Setu (Raiders), Abraham Papalii (Warriors), Matt McIlwrick (Raiders)

Outs: Sonny Bill Williams (Chiefs), Frank-Paul Nu’uausala (Raiders), Tautau Moga (Cowboys), Remi Casty (Catalans), Heath L’Estrange (Dragons), Curtis Naughton (Hull), Saulala Houma (Sharks), Anthony Minichiello (Roosters)

The player to watch: Blake Ferguson is no stranger to the headlines.  We’re predicting a return to the headlines for the right reasons this year with devastating attacking play.  Keep him off the booze and the Roosters will go well.

The youngster to watch: Jackson Hastings is a former Australian Schoolboys representative who predominantly plays in the halves or at hooker.  With Jake Friend out for the first 6 weeks, Hastings should get his chance from the interchange bench.

The odds: $6.00

Last Year: First (preliminary finalist)

This Year: Too many big names to not feature in the finals series.  Sonny Bill is not too big a loss when you have Aidan Guerra and Boyd Cordner to pick up the slack.  Top 4 again this year.

South Sydney Rabbitohs

Ins: Glenn Stewart (Sea Eagles), Tim Grant (Panthers), Cody Walker (Storm), Sione Masima (Sharks), Daryl Millard (Catalans)

Outs: Sam Burgess (Bath), Ben Te’o (Leinster), Beau Champion (Eels), Apisai Koroisau (Panthers)

The player to watch: Dylan Walker’s form last year was rewarded with a representative jersey, and there’s no doubt he’ll be better for the experience.  Looked in ominous form in the World Club Challenge against St Helens recently.

The youngster to watch: Chris Grevsmuhl’s second year with the Rabbitoh’s top grade side is expected to bring better things than his first.  A knee reconstruction prevented him from taking any part last year, but he should be on the interchange for round 1 against the Broncos.  Rightly so.

The odds: $5.00

Last Year: Third (winners)

This Year: Sam Burgess leaves a big hole, but George Burgess, Issac Luke and Greg Inglis are still around to shoulder the burden of being current NRL and NRL Nines champions.  They’ll finish in the top 4 again this year and will go close to defending.

Wests Tigers

Ins: Kevin Naiqama (Panthers), Josh Drinkwater (London)

Outs: Adam Blair (Broncos), Blake Austin (Raiders), Braith Anasta (retired), James Gavet (Broncos), Bodene Thompson (Warriors), Jy Hitchcox (Featherstone)

The player to watch: If James Tedesco can stay on the park for longer than 80 minutes he’s our player to watch.  If not, it’s probably Aaron Woods.  Fullbacks make more interesting players to watch than props though, so we’ll stick with Tedesco.

The youngster to watch: Matthew Lodge isn’t that likeable.  He was sanctioned for writing a c-bomd on his wrist strapping in the Under 20’s last year and was arrested as recently as 11 January.  Nonetheless, he’s supposedly a decent player – so look out.

The odds: $41.00

Last Year: 13th

This Year: The Tigers have some handy players, and will cause many an upset in 2015.  Just not enough to feature in the playoffs.  10th for Farah’s men.

Kiwi’s Claim Four Nations Title in Thriller

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A sodden and windy ‘Cake Tin’ was the venue on Saturday night for a thrilling match completely befitting of the high quality Four Nations tournament where the Kiwi’s were the worthy winners, withstanding a late kangaroos onslaught to win 22-18.

The Kiwi’s led by an impressive display by their forward pack, and in particular Simon Mannering and Mattin Taupau, were well on their way to their first consecutive over Australia in 61 years when Mani Vatuvei crossed to give them a ten point lead with twenty minutes to play.

But as is their want the Australians never went away. An incredible team try finished off by Ben Hunt saw them close the gap to jut six points and when they had a full as of six inside the opposition twenty, heart break seem entirely possible.

As it was, referee Paul Bentham spotted a forward pass in a play that rule out a Sione Mata’utia equalizer, and the Kiwis escaped.

However, it was all the Kiwi’s deserved given they were the better side throughout the Four Nations finale.  Showing rare poise the Kiwi’s have potentially ushered in a new area of increased competitiveness against the traditionally superior Kangaroos.  The young side will undoubtedly take tremendous heart and belief from the four week series where the roles of Pita Hiku, Dean Whare, and Shaun Johnson have become more defined.

The result was not always inevitable, especially after Australia made the faster start.  Benefitting from two early penalties the visitors heaped pressure on the NZ goal line and that told when Whare and Johnson collided and failed to defuse a fairly innocuous bomb to allow Michael Jennings to score.  As the penalty count evened up, Shaun Kenny-Dowall was able to find open space and put the wheels in motion for NZ’s first try through  Jason Nightingale.  When Vatuvei scored his first try by isolating young winger Mata’utia the Kiwis ran out to an impressive half time advantage and finished strongly to nullify the shaky start.

Despite anxious moments at the beginning and end of the second half Shaun Johnson glorious solo effort was enough to crown the Kiwi’s Four Nations champions for the second time.  The memory of Johnson’s blistering speed and skinning of Greg Inglis will long live in the memory of Kiwi fans as they cling to a new hope of a golden era of New Zealand Rugby Leaue spearheaded by Johnson and Kieran Foran.

Observations

  • Australia missed Jonathan Turston enormously in this Four Nations tournament.  Cooper Cronk’s frailties were brought to fore, and the entire squad lacked Thurston’s spark and creativity, not to mention his extreme desire to win.

 

  • Jason Taumalolo deserves all the hype.  The fleet footed forward is the real deal; a destructive metre eater who last night added some cute offloads to his game.  Steven Kearney will do well to focus the Kiwi’s future game plans around him, Jesse Bromwich, and Taupau.

 

  • Australia will bounce back strongly.  Giving 11 debutants from a squad of 24 a taste of Four Nations rugby league was never going to be easy.  Ultimately, it proved too tricky for Tim Sheens, but the depth that has now been built in the wider squad will hold the team in good stead for the 2017 World Cup.

 

  • The one referee concept made a mockery of the 10m offside line.  Despite allowing a focus on decision making consistency the system didn’t necessarily settle the debate on whether the NRL should move back to one ref.

Four Nations Final Preview

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Three weeks of excitement culminates in a final that could go pear shaped pretty quickly if the reports of a savage virus running through the Australia camp is anything to go by.

The virus threatens to derail the confidence gaining Australians who are desperate to overturn a first round loss to the Kiwi’s, and save their coaches’ job.  As the media swarm on Tim Sheens and the entire Kangaroos squad, the focus for the New Zealanders has been on finding a way to match the intensity they operated at in game one but have failed to match since.  That task has become a lot tougher with the scratching of influential hooker Thomas Leuluai (with a shoulder injury), who was shaping as an important piece of the Kiwi’s ruck defence.

Another major obstacle in the way of a New Zealand Four Nations win is history;  The Kiwis haven’t won consecutive games against the Kangaroos since 1953.  On the other hand the Wellington venue could provide a home town lift, and the Kiwi’s are always capable of springing a surprise in the final of major tournaments.

The last time the sides met (in the first round of the Four Nations) the Kiwi’s thumped the Kangaroos sprinting away to a 30-12 win.  The win was based on aggressive defence and added pressure on the opposition’s superstars.  However, since then the Aussie team have got their act together with impressive wins over England and Samoa.  As the Kangaroos get more time with each other, and as Tim Sheens settles on his best side, they continue to improve and appear to be on course to become the fearsome all-conquering side we all know.

In Greg Inglis and Cameron Smith they probably have the two best International Rugby League players on the planet, and big finals are usually won by big plays, by big players.  That’s why I can’t see them losing this one.  Close, but Australia by 6.

Odds

Australia $1.76

New Zealand $2.10

Four Nations odds courtesy of Sportingbet Australia.

Teams 


New Zealand: 1-Peta Hiku, 2-Jason Nightingale, 3-Shaun Kenny-Dowall, 4-Dean Whare, 5-Manu Vatuvei, 6-Kieran Foran, 7-Shaun Johnson, 8-Jesse Bromwich, 9-Issac Luke, 10-Adam Blair, 11-Simon Mannering (c), 12-Kevin Proctor, 13-Jason Taumalolo

Interchange: 14-Lewis Brown, 15-Greg Eastwood, 16-Martin Taupau, 17-Tohu Harris, 18-Gerard Beale, Bodene Thompson (two to be omitted).

Australia: 1. Greg Inglis, 2. Josh Mansour, 3. Michael Jennings, 4. Dylan Walker, 5. Sione Mata’utia, 6. Daly Cherry-Evans, 7. Cooper Cronk, 8. Aaron Woods, 9. Cameron Smith (c), 10. Josh Papalii, 11. Sam Thaiday, 12. Greg Bird, 13. Corey Parker.

Interchange: 14. Boyd Cordner, 15. Robbie Farah, 16. Aidan Guerra, 17. Ryan Hoffman, 18. Ben Hunt, 19. Josh Jackson, 20. David Klemmer (three to be omitted).

Win Big – Four Nations Special

First Try Scorer – Adam Blair – $67

Four Nations odds courtesy of Sportingbet Australia.

Four Nations Finalists Found After More Drama

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Drama and Destruction were the themes in two contrasting Four Nations matches this weekend.  New Zealand and Australia’s dominance of the Four Nations continued with both sealing finals births.

New Zealand v England (16-14)

The Kiwis scraped into the Four Nations final with a narrow victory over a gallant English side in the penultimate round of the Four Nations.

The Kiwis only needed to avoid a heavy defeat to sew up a Four Nations final birth, but instead chose the more dignified route, winning by two points in front a raucous Dunedin crowd.

The game was close for the duration with only a conversion separating the sides after Gareth Widdop cruelly hit the upright with this first two attempts.  Despite being close, this one always had the feel of a New Zealand victory, thanks in part to their fleet footed forward pack that ate up metres in the middle of the park.

A frenetic start saw four tries in the first 30 minutes, all to wingers, a theme that continued for the rest of the game.  Jason Nightingale’s early opener was cancelled out by a Ryan Hall effort before Josh Charnley briefly gave England their only lead of the night.  The wingers then continued to dominate the key plays.  Nightingale scored a try – Vatuvei bombed a try – Hall bombed a try – Hall scored a try.

Thomas Leuluai made a massive impact for the Kiwi’s both defensively and in the attacking end, compounding Isaac Luke to a fair few minutes on the bench.  Simon Mannering was epic in defence too and worthy of a mention.  England again showed they can match it with the top two of International league, and in James Graham, Geaorge Burgess and Daryl Clark have three forwards to build their future plans around.  That’s provided George Burgess doesn’t follow his brother to Rugby Union.

The finish lacked points but in keeping with the tournament trend, was full of tension.

The Kiwi’s can celebrate by turning their attention to the Four Nations final in Wellington on Saturday night.  The English, well they celebrated with a visit to a famous Dunedin student flat and smashed the front door down.

 

Australia v Samoa (44-18)

Joining New Zealand in the Final are the Kangaroos as they easily saw off the surprise package Samoans in Wollongong by 44-18.

After shaky performances in the first two weeks of the Four Nations the Australians finally played to their potential, relying on superstars Greg Inglis, Cooper Cronk and Daly Cherry-Evans.

Cherry-Evans’ 30 minute breakaway try effectively sealed as much and ended Samoa’s bold Four Nations campaign.  Ill-discipline was the killer for the Samoans, Joey Leilua who was so dynamic against the Kiwi’s last week only bothered chalking up penalties this week rather than the more sought after Rugby League stats such as metres, line breaks and tries.  Josh McGuire who many believe should’ve have been playing for Australia, and not Samoa, was their most effective forward, while surprise package David Klemmer saw his stocks rise with an exceptional display.

The result delivers the expected Four Nations final and a repeat of last years Old Trafford showpiece.

Four Nations Week 3 Preview

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Will week three of the Four Nations finally see the favourites dominant their opponents?  Can Samoa scare a third straight team?  Will England’s point deferential struggle let their game?

Those will be the key questions being answered in week three of the Four Nations.  Let’s look at the two games.

New Zealand v England

The Kiwi’s shift venues form the beautiful afternoon sun in Whangarei to the closed roofed Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin to take on the desperate English in the week’s first game.  The game features and interesting test for mathematicians as they calculate the scenarios that will decide the Four Nations finalists.  At this stage, if New Zealand win or draw they are through to the final;  if they lose heavily then they need Samoa to get close to, or beat, Australia

Both teams met lady luck last week.  The Kiwi’s escaped a stern Samoan test and were fortunate to cross for a late four pointer to win the duel for the fictional blonde in the green dress.  England on the other hand got stood up; they narrowly lost to Australia thanks to a controversial final minute TMO decision.

Both sides have played some decent football in the Four Nations thus far.  New Zealand’s best was missing last week, but they have added experience to that side by reinstating Thomas Leuluai and Greg Eastwood to the interchange bench.  Isaac Luke will be better for last week’s hit out and he should be able to ignite the Kiwi’s play utilising the offloads of Bromwich and Blair and the rest of the hard running forward pack.  However, their susceptible backbone has errors in them and will need to be at top form to control the exciting English equivalents.

The geezers have shown that they have improved since last years World Cup.  In last year’s semi-final they suffered a last minute loss to the Kiwi’s and despite some reservations about their ability to close out games, I’m backing them to be right up for this challenge.

Key contributors James Graham and Gareth Widdop will look to exploit a soft New Zealand middle and error prone back three.  In Ryan Hall and Josh Charnley they have two World class wingers who could benefit from the pressure instilled on the nervy Kiwis.

I’m picking an upset here.  England by 6.

Odds

New Zealand $1.45

England $2.80

Four Nations odds courtesy of Sportingbet.

Teams

New Zealand: 1. Peta Hiku, 2. Jason Nightingale, 3. Shaun Kenny-Dowall, 4. Dean Whare, 5. Manu Vatuvei, 6. Kieran Foran, 7. Shaun Johnson, 8. Jesse Bromwich, 9. Issac Luke, 10. Adam Blair, 11. Simon Mannering (c), 12. Kevin Proctor, 13. Jason Taumalolo. Interchange: 14. Thomas Leuluai, 15. Greg Eastwood, 16. Martin Taupau, 17. Tohu Harris, 18. Lewis Brown (one to be omitted).

England: 1. Sam Tomkins, 2. Josh Charnley, 3. Kallum Watkins, 4. Dan Sarginson, 5. Ryan Hall, 6. Gareth Widdop, 7. Matty Smith, 8. George Burgess, 9. Josh Hodgson, 10. James Graham, 11. Liam Farrell, 12. Joel Tomkins, 13. Sean O’Loughlin (c). Interchange:
14. Daryl Clark, 15. Brett Ferres, 16. Tom Burgess, 17. Chris Hill.

 

Australia v Samoa

Samoa have been a revelation in the Four Nations thus far but I fear their energy may have already been consumed in their sterling efforts in weeks one and two.  They should be no match for the World Champion Australian outfit, but they could still influence the finalists based on the points differential calculations.

Australia have been forced to reshuffle their back;  Beau Scott forced out with injury and replaced by Josh Papalii in the run on side.    While Samoa have opted for a tactical change and bring in nightclub troublemaker Reni Maitua.  Expect the Aussies to be far too strong in this matchup.  The structured play and kicking game of Cooper Cronk should force Samoa into mistakes.  Of particular interest to a lot of pundits is the centre battle;  Jennings and Walker v Lafai and Leila will be brilliant to watch.

Odds

Australia $1.09

Samoa $7.75

Teams

Australia: 1. Greg Inglis, 2. Josh Mansour, 3. Michael Jennings, 4. Dylan Walker, 5. Sione Mata’utia, 6. Daly Cherry-Evans, 7. Cooper Cronk, 8. Aaron Woods, 9. Cameron Smith (c), 10. Josh Papalii, 11. Sam Thaiday, 12. Greg Bird, 13. Corey Parker. Interchange: 14. Boyd Cordner, 15. Robbie Farah, 16. Aidan Guerra, 17. Ryan Hoffman, 18. Ben Hunt, 19. David Klemmer, 20. Matt Moylan (three to be omitted).

Samoa: 1 Tim Simona, 2 Antonio Winterstein, 3 Tim Lafai, 4 Joseph Leilua, 5 Daniel Vidot, 6 Ben Roberts, 7 Kyle Stanley, 8 Isaac Liu, 9 Pita Godinet, 10 David Fa’alogo (c), 11 Frank Pritchard, 12 Leeson Ah Mau, 13 Josh McGuire. Interchange: 14 Dunamis Lui, 15 Reni Maitua, 16 Sauaso Sue, 17 Mose Masoe, 18 Jesse Sene-Lefao, 19 Tautau Moga (two to be omitted).

Four Nations odds courtesy of Luxbet.