Haven't posted here in aaaaaaaaaages. Not that anyone would have noticed. I last wrote about the beginning of the NRL season and now we find ourselves 1 week out from the finals.
The Wayne Bennett coached Dragons have been the most consistent side all year but now find themselves on the end of 3 losses. Bennett will want to sort out their attitude quickly or they'll soon suffer the fate of other Dragons sides who have choked in the finals.
The form teams at this stage of the season would definately be the Eels, Broncos and Titans. The first two teams are currently on lengthy winning streaks not long after having their title chances questioned as they sat outside the top 8.
Jarrad Hayne has almost single-handedly turned around the team's fortunes with his sparkling form while the return of the Broncos' origin stars from injury and a more consistent playing roster has seen confidence return in the ranks. Their defence has tightened up and are now pushing as real contenders for the title. Who can argue with that when you have players like Lockyer, Hodges and Folau in your team?
The Titans are continuing on their winning ways as well and will be assured of a top 3 finish which will be their best result since entering the competition a couple of years ago.
Meanwhile, the Dogs have almost certainly lost Brett Kimmorley for the season with a fractured cheekbone. While they beat the Warriors comfortably without him, they aren't exactly high quality opposition. Their title chances will seriously come under question without their main playmaker steering the ship.
So, what looked like a two-horse race has now changed into a battle royale.
My tip for the premiership is the Broncos...biased opinion aside.
Stay tuned.
Monday, August 31, 2009
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