2013 NRL Discussion

James Tamou cops a fine after pleading guilty to driving offences




  • NEWS LIMITED NETWORK
  • JULY 02, 2013 11:55AM



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James Tamou at a Townsville court today. Picture: Fiona Harding Source: Townsville Bulletin



COWBOYS forward James Tamou has been fined $1900 after pleading guilty to drink-driving and driving without a licence.

And in a new twist to the saga, the court heard Tamou jumped from the driver's seat into the rear passenger seat before police pulled him over.The 24-year-old North Queensland and NSW prop appeared in a Townsville court after being arrested in the city last month with a blood-alcohol level almost four times the legal limit.He was also disqualified from driving for 15 months.


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James Tamou (far left) at a Townsville court today. Picture: Fiona Harding


Last month, Tamou was fined $20,000, received a one-match NRL ban and was made ineligible for State of Origin II following the drink-driving incident.Tamou played a starring role in North Queensland's important win over the Sharks on Sunday night.If fit, he will be named in the NSW side for the Origin decider at ANZ Stadium.


http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...driving-offences/story-fni3g8pa-1226673048828
 
"Mr 95 per cent" Trent Hodkinson a new El Masri for the Bulldogs






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Trent Hodkinson is mobbed by teammates kicking a penalty in extra time to beat the Sea Eagles in round 14. Picture: Mark Evans Source: The Daily Telegraph



THE standard of goalkicking in the NRL this year is the best in rugby league history, led by a sharpshooter who only got his opportunity from a teammate's spear tackle.


Never before has the competition had three goalkickers with 90 per cent or better strike rates this far into a season. Not since records have been kept, anyway.Bulldogs halfback Trent Hodkinson got his chance when Krisnan Inu was suspended for a spear tackle on Greg Inglis in round five.He has since banged over 37 goals from 39 attempts for an unbelievable success rate of 94.9 per cent.It would actually be 100 per cent if his only two misses hadn't cannoned into the uprights and bounced away.Hodkinson's incredible success is a reward for his devotion and commitment.

He does two sessions with former champion Daryl Halligan for two hours every week, at Belmore and on ANZ Stadium before a home game."Daryl's been fantastic," Hodkinson said yesterday. "It's about the way you strike it, the way you exit out of the kick and getting the right rotation on the ball."He has been fantastic. We'd probably do 24 kicks each session just to fine tune everything."The kicking skills couldn't have come at a better time for the halfback, who is in the process of negotiating a new contract at Belmore."I've been at Canterbury three years and it feels like home," Hodkinson said. "I definitely want to stay."In the old days, Parramatta and Australia's Mick Cronin was a champion goalkicker.

Today he probably wouldn't get a kick in the NRL with his old strike rate of 67.8 per cent."There's no question that the around-the-corner style produces more accuracy," the former champion centre said."These days most teams think six points whenever they score a try. In my day we used to hope for six points."Full-time professionalism has obviously made a big difference, too.In the modern era, players not only kick better but are fitter, stronger and faster - and have the benefit of an interchange bench."The goalkickers have their specialist coaches as well," Cronin said."I'd only practise if I wasn't hitting them right on the weekend. I'd have a few shots at training to try to work it out."The conditions are obviously a lot different, too. We played with old leather footballs and used a pile of sand."The kicking tees and the more consistent condition of grounds would help today's kickers, too."The best I've seen were Daryl Halligan and Hazem El Masri but all these guys today are right up there with them."Some clubs are incredibly strong in the kicking department.And life can be tough without a decent kicker.

The Roosters struggled on Monday night without James Maloney. Boyd Cordner and Mitch Pearce both failed.At the Cowboys, the normally super reliable Johnathan Thurston has by his own lofty standards struggled for much of the year, kicking only 33 from 49 attempts for 67.3 per cent.

Manly's Jamie Lyon is also down on form from previous years with an identical strike rate to Thurston.While some sides have struggled, the Bulldogs, Souths, Cronulla and the Titans have benefited from great goalkicking.

The Rabbitohs have halfback Adam Reynolds kicking at 85.5 per cent and boom centre Dylan Walker as a back-up with 83.9 in NSW Cup.The same goes for the Sharks, who have Todd Carney with 92.3 this year and Michael Gordon at 89.3.

Titans five-eighth Aidan Sezer has been a revelation with 45 from 50.

http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...for-the-bulldogs/story-fni3g67w-1226673340665



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What is NRL doing to ensure Sonny Bill Williams and stars stay in the game?







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Roosters star Sonny Bill Williams in action against the Sea Eagles at Allianz Stadium on Monday night. Picture: Philip Hillyard Source: The Daily Telegraph



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THE NRL justifies its heavy stand against State of Origin violence because it wants the game to attract a broader audience, which is not an inconsiderable stance.


Yet what is it doing to ensure Sonny Bill Williams, whose appeal is global, stays in the game?It has already let Israel Folau go and how many of us, who call rugby
league our game, took a sneaky look at the Wallabies-Lions Test on Saturday night to see how Folau went?Trent Robinson spoke for many on Monday night, saying, "We need him in our game."Robinson's motivation is too easily broken down as self-interest. Of course.Robinson wants Williams in Roosters colours for as long as Sonny can pop the short ball, and maybe longer.But Robinson also spent years toiling in the minor grades, doing whatever job was necessary to become a top grade coach, because, at heart, he loves rugby league, and that should not be dismissed.He also nailed it when he said he threw a lazy eye over the Folau display on Saturday with that "sense of pride for all rugby league supporters when he plays well".Thankfully, the game might finally be listening.The salary cap is being reviewed and ways to keep crossover stars like Williams and Folau in the game are a high priority.

Whether Williams is still on the market might be the only question, with the review expected to take until the end of this year.But at least the game is fighting back.The decision to ban the biff has isolated many rusted on rugby league fans. They feel the fabric of their game is changing and there is no faith in where those in charge are taking it.At the same time they kept hearing the game has to grow its place in Australia's sporting market and it can do this only one way. By getting in line with a modern world that does not tolerate the kind of violence that the rusted on fans all consider the polish to a good game of footy. The footy mums, in other words.So what do we want? The fights, or Sonny Bill?Williams, who we all know understands the value of marketability better than most, handles himself the way the game wants to sell itself.Doesn't go near a stink on the field, even though he handles himself better than the average footballer.Good-looking, clean cut. Plays tough. Humble to a fault every time he is interviewed.

The kind, you think, that would appeal to most mums. NRL boss Dave Smith ignores the "soccer mum" analogy and instead calls it "inclusive".He says it is the only way the game can save itself from becoming a marginalised sport, and to not believe it is to not believe in the Sonny Bill image.This is a turnaround for me.I questioned the game's over-willingness to rush Williams back, happy to whitewash his past. But I can't fault his return and would now like to see him stay.Mind you, I don't want to be his friend, but he gets his due. He has been better than expected, in every way.Kids don't care what happened five years ago.Meantime, he is what the game says it wants, a crossover superstar. Rugby union fans turned on the TV to watch Williams' return to NRL the same way we're now watching Folau.The NRL had that same opportunity with Folau but blew it.And while some will try to argue that the AFL fans will never switch to league, and it's true the hard-core fans won't, they're not the fans the sports are after. They're after those people yet to commit.

More than 3.76 million people tuned in to watch last Wednesday's Origin game but viewers dropped to 1.24 million for the Friday night game.Of course, people will argue, it's State of Origin.The other way to look at it is there are 2.5 million people prepared to give rugby league a chance but aren't yet committed enough to watch home and away games.Those 2.5 million are the people all the codes want.The NRL understands this, and slowly has begun exploring ways to keep the likes of Williams, Folau and other marquee players.

The game is slowly getting to where it needs to be, even if some have to be dragged kicking and screaming.Not that they care.They love a fight.

http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...stay-in-the-game/story-fni3fh9n-1226673375854

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'Next Joey' Luke Brooks is a Wests Tigers keeper







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Luke Brooks at Wests Tigers training at Concord Oval, Sydney. Picture: Brett Costello Source: The Daily Telegraph



WHEN Andrew Fifita runs out in a Cronulla jersey on Friday night, understand why the Wests Tigers need to make some tough decisions on the future.


As wonderful a player as Benji Marshall is, within weeks you are going to see why the Tigers must do everything to keep this kid.The only reason Luke Brooks hasn't played first grade before now is because the Tigers face a similar salary cap problem that prevented Penrith from recently playing Matt Moylan in the top grade.But in the coming weeks coach Mick Potter plans to go to the NRL and seek a special salary cap exemption so that Brooks can play with the big boys.For any Tigers fans who hasn't seen him yet, get a copy of the recent under-20s game against Canberra and you will understand why he is being talked up as the next Andrew Johns.With the Tigers trailing late in the game against the best side in the Holden Cup, Brooks produced a stunning and unexpected 40/20 kick from a 20m restart - and then scored the winning try with a powerful charge that was reminiscent of Johns at his scheming best.

While Brooks won't be in the top grade on Friday night, taking on the Tiger-Sharks should reinforce why it is crucial Brooks' deal is extended beyond the end of next season.The Tigers simply can't afford to let him be the next Andrew Fifita and there is talk Brooks has already been offered a huge deal at another NRL club for 2015.Potter has stated he wants Benji at the club next year to help mentor the club's next generation.It is important to note Benji is signed until the end of 2015 and has been offered what it is understood to be a generous upgrade for that period.Benji's manager is pushing for an extension to run until 2017 and there is now speculation he could be lost to Super Rugby next season to play with the Auckland Blues.But while Blues coach John Kirwan said Benji might need to consider a pay cut to make the switch, his manager wants more money to stay at the Tigers - which in turn could put in jeopardy Brooks' future and that of promising five-eighth Mitchell Moses, who is also off-contract at the end of next year.After a dreadful start to the year, the Tigers have done a tremendous job to get themselves back in finals contention with four wins from their past five games.

Despite their terrible run of injuries, Potter has blooded some exceptional young players like David Nofoaluma and Tim Simona, and Brooks will be the next.Potter also deserves credit for the loyalty he has shown his players after it was revealed in The Sunday Telegraph that the real reason for Benji's benching back in round 10 was because he broke the club's strict no-alcohol policy while on the medical list.Potter chose to keep that out of the media and as a result wore the brunt of the criticism after the Tigers were flogged 54-10 by Souths.But that defeat proved a turning point in their season and it's no coincidence Benji's form has improved significantly since.Adam Blair is another who has benefited directly because of Potter's support after the coach publicly backed him when everyone else wanted him sacked.As Blair explained yesterday: "It gives you confidence when you have your coach out there sticking up for you."Better than anyone, Blair understands the pressure Potter is under given the constant speculation about his future.

The experienced prop reckons Potter has proved he "has the balls" to make tough calls.You just wonder at what point the people sharpening the knives to stick in Potter's back will give up on their agendas and start supporting a coach who has proved that his loyalty is to his players.

http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...ts-tigers-keeper/story-fni3gpz1-1226673414764

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Cowboys players obliged to get coach Neil Henry over the line







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TOUGH YEAR: Neil Henry. Source: Townsville Bulletin



COWBOYS players admit their spluttering campaign has failed Neil Henry and say they owe the under-siege coach a late finals charge.


Henry has endured persistent speculation about his future, most recently last Sunday when a Sydney report alleged he would be terminated by his club's board this week.That appears unlikely after the 24-4 disposal of Cronulla, but the board will almost certainly rescind the 12-month extension they granted Henry in March if the side misses the playoffs.Queensland ace Brent Tate says player attitudes, not Henry's structures, are to blame for the Cowboys languishing in 13th place.While the Cowboys are only one win adrift of the top eight, Tate says they must improve markedly to seriously challenge premiership pacesetters Souths and Melbourne.

"I feel as though we have let Neil down a bit," he said."He isn't the one out there dropping balls and missing tackles, so I think as a player you have to take responsibility for it."I don't know why our results haven't been there. But if we weren't playing for him, we wouldn't be defending the way we are (in their past two consecutive wins over the Dragons and Sharks)."We've got a long, long way to go before we are in the top eight and before we are in the mix, but they are steps in the right direction."I can feel the confidence starting to build. Certainly after the Dragons game and against (the Sharks), the belief is starting to snowball ... hopefully we can go on a run from here."A crucial five-week stretch will make or break the Cowboys' season.It starts with a road trip to Canberra this Sunday before a home showdown against Manly without their Origin stars on Monday week.

The Cowboys then have a bye weekend before back-to-back home games against the Broncos and competition leaders South Sydney.Halfback Robert Lui says the squad genuinely believes the Cowboys can be a finals force, but admits they must lift to keep Henry in his job.The Cowboys must win six of their last nine games to make the top eight, but Henry said finals permutations are the least of their concerns.Chasing a third consecutive win on Sunday, back-rower Gavin Cooper said the Cowboys were far from satisfied."We definitely still have a lot to work on," he said."When we stick to a game plan we know we can break teams open. But to put an 80-minute effort together, we're still a fair way off."

http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...ry-over-the-line/story-fni3g8pa-1226673395768
 
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The Mole from RLW has reported the following...

* Trent Robinson is set for a massive pay rise after the Roosters great performances this year, Robinson was originally signed for $250,000 a year, Nick Politis wants to sign him up for a minimum 2 year extension

* Bob Fulton is set to stand down as NSW Selector at the end of this years origin series following the Retirement of close friend and Former NSWRL CEO Geoff Carr

* Dubbo is the leading contender to host City vs Country next year after Dave Smith went there for the Country Championship finals last week, Smith was apparently very impressed by the show they put on

* The Paul Gallen punch has cost the Sharks dearly, Apparently they were just about to sign a new major sponsor but after witnessing the Gallen incident they backed out of the deal saying they no longer wished to be involved in Rugby League

In other RLW News....

* Souths are apparently preparing for a re-shuffle with John Sutton moving back to lock and Talented young gun Luke Keary taking up the 5/8 spot
 
Blake Ferguson back training with Canberra Raiders after being charged with indecent assault





  • DAVID BARBELER
  • AAP
  • JULY 03, 2013 3:55PM



NSW State of Origin I winger Blake Ferguson has returned to training with Canberra for the first time since being charged with indecent assault.

Ferguson joined his NRL teammates as part of a joint session with their feeder club Mounties.A Raiders official said Ferguson, who was dumped from the NSW side for last Wednesday's second Origin game due to police charges brought against him, would train with the NSW Cup side during split sessions for the time being.Ferguson is halfway through a four week rehabilitation program following the alleged incident, which took place after a drinking session with former Canberra teammate Josh Dugan on the eve of the Blues' Origin II camp.

The 23-year-old Raiders centre is due to appear in Waverley Local Court on July 16, the day before the Origin decider at ANZ Stadium.Meanwhile, Canberra recruit Bill Tupou has revealed that Raiders legend Ruben Wiki was a major influence in his switch from the Warriors.Almost nine years since the two-time Raiders player of the year winner left for the Warriors, he's helped convince fellow Kiwi Tupou make the opposite move.The 23-year-old winger had played 62 games for the Warriors since debuting in 2010, but hadn't played first grade side since a round 10 thumping by Penrith.Yet it wasn't as though Tupou performed poorly in the loss - making the most metres, linebreaks and tackle busts for his side during the match.

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Canberra Raiders winger Blake Ferguson.



Feeling on the outer, Tupou was granted an early release from the Warriors and an outside back injury crisis at the Raiders combined with reassuring advice from the Warriors high performance assistant was all Tupou needed to make the move."Ruben Wiki was a major factor in coming,'' Tupou said."He said that he loves the club, he's been here for most of his life and said that if I needed any help around Canberra, give him a call.''There were several other incentives to move to Canberra, Tupou said, an expansive halves combination in Terry Campese and Josh McCrone just one of them."The Raiders are feeding their backs.

I like the way they play and their halves control the game,'' he said."I'm looking to receive more ball.''Having only arrived in Canberra over the weekend, Tupou hasn't been named to play in the Raiders' home NRL clash against North Queensland on Sunday, but says he's ready to go whenever called upon.The Raiders are also remaining tight-lipped on rumours they are in talks with departing Penrith captain Kevin Kingston for the 2014 season."We don't usually comment on player signings until a deal is done,'' a Raiders official said.


http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...indecent-assault/story-fni3gmmu-1226673820338

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5 Best Buys Of 2013


By Petero Civoniceva
NRL.com
Wed 03rd July, 2:00pm



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With the Origin period nearly over and the Telstra Premiership set to round the home turn in the run to the finals, here’s my assessment of the players who have made the biggest impact for their new clubs in season 2013:



Albert Kelly

It looks like Albert Kelly is finally happy and enjoying his football this year. He seems to be in a really good place both on the field and off the field. That single reason I think is the reason why he is putting in the performances he has. Albert leads all halfbacks for tries and line-breaks . He has found an environment after some difficulties at the start of his career that have grounded him. Albert looks like he fits perfectly into the football they want to play as well. Scott Prince played a more structured style whereas Albert uses his vision and plays off the top of his head. With John Cartwright’s game plan, it provides the opportunity for him to play what he sees. The Titans have benefited from that.

Sonny Bill Williams

What more can you say about Sonny Bill? There were a few questions at the start of the year about how he would handle the pace of coming back to the NRL and whether he would have the fitness but he has put all that to bed. Coming off the bench in his first match he showed glimpses of the old Sonny Bill and since then he has only improved with each performance. Now he is one of the most dominant players in our game and his performance against Manly on Monday night was an indication of that. To be a back-rower and be thrown into a playmaker’s role and have that dominance over one of the best sides on the competition is testimony to his status in the game. Also, he is lethal offloading the ball – his 33 offloads are the fourth most by any player – while he has contributed nine damaging line-breaks and scored six tries.

Michael Jennings

Another Rooster making waves. Michael is someone like Albert Kelly who has changed his environment and grown from the experience. The fact that he is playing outside some players now too that are giving him that chance to showcase his speed and agility – everything that all rugby league fans know he is capable of – is really benefiting. I wonder if perhaps Michael was cruising a bit at Penrith and in a bit of a comfort zone? Now that he has changed clubs there is an expectation on him to perform because he has arrived as a star player – and he has backed that up, scoring 10 tries and making 10 line-breaks to date, as well as an elusive 45 tackle busts.

James Maloney

See a theme developing here? There was never any doubt James Maloney would make a difference to the Roosters, the only question was how big a difference. He showed great playmaking abilities at the Warriors but there were questions over how that would transfer across to the tricolours. Obviously he has been a huge signing for them and his partnership with Mitchell Pearce has really blossomed. Not only has James been great, he has helped Mitchell realise his potential as well. He earned a NSW jersey for the first time this year and he is going to develop into one of the elite playmakers in the competition if he isn’t one already. James looked great in Origin straight away because not only is he a tough customer, he can play with a level head. That’s why the Roosters are where they are on the ladder.

James Segeyaro

James has formed a great combination with Kevin Kingston at the Panthers this year but you can just see whenever he comes onto the field the impact he makes on the game. It’s not uncommon to see him come up with a key play to turn the game in Penrith’s favour. Quite a few of their big wins this year have been a result of the role he plays. He is a dynamic player and he really lifts the team – especially with his ability to offload (30 to date). He is going to be a very good plater for a long time for them.


… and the ones who haven’t quite hit the mark


Tony Williams

Tony was Canterbury’s big signing from Manly this season and there was an expectation that his previous form would continue. He is a Test player and everyone was looking to him to be one of the key players for the Bulldogs but that hasn’t happened. It’s a tough one. He is one of the most powerful players in our game but it is disappointing for the Bulldogs that he hasn’t had the same impact as usual. It is positive for him that he has improved a bit recently but as a Test and Origin player there is an expectation that you bring a high standard of football week in, week out. That’s the expectation on Tony – especially having been signed to a big contract and taking a fair chunk out of the salary cap. You just have to deliver.

Dave Taylor

We’re all hoping that Dave can play some consistent football. He is another guy that brings a lot of expectation on his shoulders every time he steps onto the football field. That’s Dave’s challenge – being able to maintain that and find that consistency in playing at a high standard every week. Like Tony Williams, there is an expectation as a representative player to perform for your team. That’s what the fans want.



http://www.nrl.com/5-best-buys-of-2013/tabid/10874/newsid/73253/default.aspx
 
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NRL oldies Scott Prince and Brett Finch must now become goldies for finals tilts






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Scott Prince in action for the Broncos. Picture: Darren England. Source: The Courier-Mail




VETERANS Scott Prince and Brett Finch joined their NRL clubs as cheap insurance policies, but now they need to deliver a premium return.

When Brisbane play Melbourne tomorrow night, fans could be forgiven for thinking it's another Fox Classic match, given Prince and Finch are among a select group of NRL stars who made their first-grade debut last century.Only eight current NRL players tasted first-grade action in the 1990s. Craig Gower, Danny Buderus, Timana Tahu, Shaun Berrigan, Lote Tuqiri and Luke O'Donnell are the other elite stayers who are still playing.Prince and Finch, the starting five-eighths for their clubs, have most in common.Prince needs to find the spark to help Brisbane get their finals quest back on track, while Finch moves into the halves at the reigning premiers desperate to win successive titles for the first time in club history.

Both joined their clubs on bargain basement deals. Given the depth their presence has provided two teams with horrific injury tolls, their recruitment has paid off already."Prince and Finch have got 500-plus games and a lot of experience," Storm football manager Frank Ponissi said."With so many young players now coming into the NRL, you just can't knock back experience.


Read More : http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...for-finals-tilts/story-fni3gv5x-1226673932804

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Justin Hodges fears sin-bin rule has weakened rugby league







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Justin Hodges is sent to the sin bin during Origin II. Source: Getty Images




VETERAN Broncos centre Justin Hodges is worried rugby league is becoming soft and losing the qualities that made him fall in love with the code as a child.


Speaking publicly for the first time since he was sin-binned in Origin II, Hodges said the no-biff mandate from NRL boss David Smith would be effective in watering down league's brutality but would also make the code a lesser product.Hodges said while rugby league was becoming safer and he understood many were pushing for that outcome, the game was also in danger of losing the essence that made it a spectacle."It has softened up and I'm someone who doesn't like using those terms," Hodges said."With the banning of the shoulder charges and that ... it is not what it was when I grew up watching footy."Talented players putting on big hits is what brings people to the game."The game has changed a bit."It is a safer game but it has suffered because of it."


Read More: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...ned-rugby-league/story-fni3gv5x-1226673967910

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All four Burgess brothers now in line for Rabbitohs call-up







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Rabbitohs' Burgess brothers (from left) Luke, Sam and twins George and Tom. Picture: Gregg Porteous Source: The Daily Telegraph




SAM Burgess is tipping all four Burgess brothers to be playing NRL footy before September, saying: "It will happen . . . it's just a matter of when."

Boasting a combined weight of around 460kg, Burgess siblings Sam, George, Luke and Thomas are, for the first time, all now available for selection in the South Sydney top squad.With George having served his disciplinary suspension and Luke finally back from a shoulder injury, the Englishmen are looking to become the league's first quartet since the famed Burge brothers way back in the early 1900s.For the match against the Warriors this Sunday, Rabbitohs coach Michael Maguire has named Sam in the starting pack, with George and Tom on an extended bench."And to have all four of us now fit and available for selection, it's great," Sam Burgess told The Daily Telegraph yesterday."


Read More: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...abbitohs-call-up/story-fni3gki8-1226673958046

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Wests Tigers coach Mick Potter firmly at the wheel






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Coach Mick Potter during Wests Tigers training at Concord Oval, Sydney. Picture: Brett CostelloSource: The Daily Telegraph



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AS a player Mick Potter was decisive, brave and possessed a good knowledge of the game, just the kind of qualities required to be a successful coach.


Like so many of today's young clipboard holders (they don't really have them anymore but it's quite descriptive) an apprenticeship in the English SuperLeague was a sound initiation but it doesn't take long to find that the NRL is entirely a different proposition.Just three victories from his opening 10 games, including seven straight losses, suggested a short tenure for the new boss.

However, even in very grim times I felt there were positives coming out of the doom and gloom.Most importantly Potter never wavered in his belief that they were on the right track and that the club weren't far away from better results. He took every opportunity to publicly display his support of the players.Not once did he blame a terrible injury run for their predicament, instead saying that despite a wealth of inexperience throughout the squad, that they were capable of better and up to the task.


Read More: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...mly-at-the-wheel/story-fni3gpz1-1226673958184

 
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Dragons boss Peter Doust supports Steve Price but won't rule out chasing big-name coach






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Dragons coach Steve Price. Picture: Simon Bullard Source: The Daily Telegraph




DRAGONS boss Peter Doust says under-fire coach Steve Price has the full support of the board - for now.

Sitting second-last on the NRL ladder, St George Illawarra take on the high-flying Roosters on Saturday night and another lop-sided scoreline will only mount further pressure on Price.Doust opened up to The Daily Telegraph’s Paul Crawley about Price’s future beyond this season and while offering his support, Doust didn’t rule out chasing a “top tier” coach for 2015 after the Dragons missed out on Craig Bellamy.Doust also explained why Jamie Soward had to go mid-season - and why he has confidence 2014 won’t be another “building year”.


Read More: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...g-big-name-coach/story-fni3g9a3-1226673986617

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Cronulla Sharks announce waste management company Remondis as naming rights sponsor for home ground







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Cronulla Sharks lack of sponsorship at their home ground in Cronulla, Sydney. The ground will now be named Remondis Stadium. Picture: Brett Costello Source: The Daily Telegraph




NOT for the first time, the Cronulla Sharks' home ground will have a new name.

In a major coup for the club, who are in the midst of the ASADA drug inquiry, waste management company Remondis have signed on as the new ground sponsor.Sharks Stadium will now be called Remondis Stadium, following Toyota's decision to end their relationship as naming rights sponsor with the Sharks last year.The two-year deal will be announced at a press conference at 1.45pm today.





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The Lurker has reported the following....

* A married rugby league star has been caught by his wife spending thousands of dollars on prostitutes

* Canberra is concerned about the form of star five-eighth Terry Campese. A devastating ball-runner, Campese has refused to take on the defence in recent weeks

* Manly's Jorge Taufua and Newcastle's Akuila Uate will come into contention for NSW if Jarryd Hayne is named at fullback for State of Origin III. Chances are Josh Dugan will be retained and Hayne will return to the Blues side on the wing though

* It's no co-incidence Australia coach Tim Sheens has been spending time with both Origin sides during this series. While the Kangaroos boss is running an eye over players he will take to the World Cup, he is also concerned about the NSW-Queensland divide that threatens to split his squad in two


http://www.sportal.com.au/league-news-display/the-lurkernrl-rumour-filewednesday-242097
 
Sydney Roosters enforcer Jared Waerea-Hargreaves controls NRL aggression




  • STEVE JANCETIC
  • AAP
  • JULY 04, 2013 5:50PM



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Rooster's Jared Waerea-Hargreaves ... on the attack during. Source: News Limited




SIX weeks on the sidelines did little to temper Jared Waerea-Hargreaves' aggression, but the Sydney Roosters enforcer admits to now second-guessing his actions on the field.

Waerea-Hargreaves returned from a five-match ban for a head-high tackle to destroy Manly on Monday night, the Kiwi international stat line of 172 metres, 21 hit-ups and 58 minutes all season-highs.

He claimed he owed a debt of gratitude to the teammates he left short-handed while out suspended, hence the power-packed performance against the Sea Eagles.With intimidation and aggression such a prevalent factor in his game, Waerea-Hargreaves knows he needs to maintain the rage on the field, but he says the risk of another ban remains in the back of his mind.


Read More: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...s-nrl-aggression/story-fni3fbgz-1226674466743

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Wild weather awaits Melbourne Storm against Brisbane Broncos







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Cameron Smith and his Melbourne Storm teammates won't have it easy against Brisbane, with wild weather forecast. Source: Getty Images



MELBOURNE Storm's hopes of a top-two finish will be tested tonight as the home team braces for wild weather and a proud Brisbane outfit in danger of missing the finals.

Storm faces a tough month, including three away games (one without its State of Origin players), and a loss tonight would be a setback to the team's pursuit of a home qualifying final. The Broncos are languishing in 12th spot, two wins out of the eight.

Rain, hail and freezing temperatures are expected to make the task for both teams that much tougher.


Read More: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...brisbane-broncos/story-fni3gpfg-1226674528426

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Josh Reynolds returns to inject energy into Bulldogs, wants to keep NSW Blues bench spot







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Josh Reynolds to inject energy into lacklustre Bulldogs. Picture: Gregg Porteous. Source: The Daily Telegraph



Starved for action after cooling his heels on the NSW Origin bench for much of last month, Bulldogs dynamo Josh Reynolds has ordered his teammates to "stop feeling sorry" for themselves as they struggle to replicate last year’s memorable finals charge.


Having spent just 174 minutes on the park since Round 11, Reynolds has admitted he’s itching to restore energy levels at Belmore after their flat loss to a depleted Roosters outfit last start.The Blues utility also revealed he primarily trained to play back row in Origin II and won’t hold any ill-feelings should Manly star Glenn Stewart steal his spot for the 17 July decider.


Read More: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...blues-bench-spot/story-fni3fbgz-1226674504242

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Manly legend Steve Menzies to retire from rugby league two months before turning 40




  • AAP
  • JULY 05, 2013 12:00AM



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Former Manly Sea Eagle ... Steve Menzies holds up the trophy as the team celebrates their 2008 grand final win. Source: AAP



Manly legend Steve Menzies has announced he'll retire from rugby league at the end of the current Super League season just two months before turning 40.

Midway through his third season with Catalan Dragons based in the south of France, the former NSW and Kangaroos back-rower used Twitter on Thursday to reveal his 21st season finishing in October will be his last.

"I am officially retiring at the end of this year. Thank you to everyone that has followed Rugby League & allowed me to travel all over the world playing a sport I love for the last 20yrs. Without you all this wouldnt have been possible. I will truly miss playing this great game!" tweeted Menzies.

Menzies, who made his debut with the Sea Eagles in 1993, moved to the UK with Bradford after helping Manly to the 2008 NRL premiership for what was expected to be a one-season career swansong.


Read More: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...efore-turning-40/story-fni3fbgz-1226674560684

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Matthew Johns: Good, bad and ugly of NRL 2013 buys







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Sonny Bill Williams on the charge for the Roosters. Picture: Mark Nolan Source: Getty Images



IN THIS current salary cap environment, the ability to stockpile quality first grade players is impossible.

Recruitment has never been more important than at the current time. Buying the right star player and finding the value for money performer is the difference between a successful season and a poor one.Leading into 2013 there was plenty of high-end player movement.

Let's check out the buys that have had the biggest influence, the ones that have provided the value for money and the ones who are struggling.


Read More: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...of-nrl-2013-buys/story-fni3fh9n-1226674476372

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Lussick, Rose in pre-match banter


By Adrian Warren
AAP
Thu 04th July, 4:15pm



Parramatta forward Darcy Lussick comes up against his former side Manly for the first time on Monday, but the full on banter has already begun with good mate and Sea Eagles cult hero George Rose.

The two men will clash at Brookvale Oval, where Manly will look to cling onto a top four spot and and bottom-of-the-table Parramatta will hope to snap a five-match losing streak.

Rose crossed for his first try of the year in last Monday's loss to the Roosters and earned congratulations and a light-hearted warning from Lussick.


Read More: http://www.nrl.com/lussick,-rose-in-pre-match-banter/tabid/10874/newsid/73286/default.aspx


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Vatuvei a chance, Packer out for Warriors


AAP
Thu 04th July, 6:15pm



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Winger Manu Vatuvei remains an injury doubt but will travel with the Warriors for their NRL match against competition leaders South Sydney in Perth on Sunday.Vatuvei limped off the field early in the second half of the Warriors' 18-16 win over Brisbane last Sunday after getting a whack to his right shin.

The incident left him with a contusion that is responding to treatment, but he sat out the team's training session on Thursday ahead of their flight on Friday.

Coach Matthew Elliott says a decision on whether Vatuvei - who has 10 tries in 11 matches season - would play against the Rabbitohs will be made on Saturday.


Read More: http://www.nrl.com/vatuvei-a-chance,-packer-out-for-warriors/tabid/10874/newsid/73295/default.aspx


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Inglis smells Storm spirit at Souths


By Steve Jancetic
AAP
Thu 04th July, 6:42pm



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Having seen how a taste of finals football turned Melbourne into perennial premiership contenders, South Sydney superstar Greg Inglis says the Rabbitohs are primed now to make a serious tilt at the NRL title.The Rabbitohs are runaway competition leaders approaching the final third of the season, which in recent years has provided a good gauge as to who will be there come the final day of the season.Souths last year returned to the finals for the first time in five seasons, and but for an untimely hamstring strain to rookie halfback Adam Reynolds in the preliminary final, could have gone all the way.


Read More: http://www.nrl.com/inglis-smells-storm-spirit-at-souths/tabid/10874/newsid/73296/default.aspx
 
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Melbourne Storm Twitter account takes shot at Channel 9 commentator Tim Gilbert




  • NEWS LIMITED NETWORK
  • JULY 05, 2013 10:35PM



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Channel 9 commentator Tim Gilbert. Picture: Brad Hunter Source: The Daily Telegraph



THE person behind Melbourne Storm's official Twitter account could find themself in a bit of strife after firing an unnecessary shot at Channel 9 commentator Tim Gilbert.

The low blow came during the second half of the Storm's comprehensive 32-0 win against the Broncos."

Thanks to the 16,828 fans that turned up tonight and didn't have to listen to Tim Gilbert commentate. Worth the ticket price #purplepride," it read.

The reaction on the social networking site was immediate, with the tweet described as "tacky" and "unprofessional", among other things.This is not the first time a person behind the Storm account has attracted unwanted attention.It is understood a former Storm tweeter had a run in with 2GB and Channel 9 commentator Ray Hadley last season.


Read More: ​http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...ator-tim-gilbert/story-fni3gpfg-1226675097557
 
Perspiring Penrith Panthers await hot reception







THE Panthers this week went to extraordinary measures to prepare themselves for the Darwin heat with the club hiring industrial heaters to turn their weights room into a tropical sweatshop.

With near freezing overnight temperatures in Penrith, the Panthers turned up the heat in their gym to a stifling 42C in a bid to prepare for tonight's match against the Titans, when mercury is tipped to soar towards 30C.The giant heaters were installed near the gym equipment with the players subjected to sauna-like conditions as they worked on weights.

Penrith enforcer Tim Grant said the club had left no stone unturned in their bid to climb back into the top eight.


Read More: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...it-hot-reception/story-fni3gfvk-1226674996527

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Paul Kent: Anthony Mundine Choc full of contradictions







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Anthony Mundine pictured at his South Hurstville home. Picture: Sam Ruttyn Source: The Daily Telegraph



ANTHONY Mundine walked on to the set of NRL360 moments before airtime Wednesday night, the first time we had spoken since sometime in the 1990s.

I'm a little fuzzy on exact dates, but the decade is spot on."Are you going to behave tonight?" I asked.

For reasons I had no say over Mundine was booked to do the show. For reasons I was clear on, anything was capable of happening once that happened."Don't worry about me, bruz," he said. "I'm cool."


Read More: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...f-contradictions/story-fni3fbgz-1226675070715
 
Apparently the same guy on the Storm's twitter account had run-ins with Hadley and 2GB before. Even though I can't stand him, It's probably poor form to take it out on Gilbert, but I see it as more of an insult to Channel 9 and their stupid decision to get rid of a great commentator in Voss.
 
Brisbane Broncos eye move away from Red Hill




  • PETER BADEL
  • THE SUNDAY MAIL (QLD)
  • JULY 07, 2013 12:00AM


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Broncos training run at Red Hill. Picture: Jamie Hanson Source: The Courier-Mail




EXCLUSIVE: BRISBANE could move from their spiritual home at Red Hill as powerbrokers investigate a multimillion-dollar infrastructure upgrade to make the Broncos the NRL's most cutting-edge club.


The Sunday Mail can reveal Broncos hierarchy have undertaken due diligence on the construction of a high performance centre to ensure the club keeps pace with state-of-the-art facilities at rival clubs such as Melbourne and the Bulldogs.

The blueprint has been formulated over the past 18 months in conjunction with the club's landlord, the 50,000-member Broncos leagues club.

Leagues club general manager Geoff Kuehner admits Brisbane's football arm is suffering "growing pains" with the club's ageing headquarters, established 25 years ago, struggling to cope with modern-day NRL requirements.


Read More: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...ay-from-red-hill/story-fni3gv5x-1226675338316

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Canberra Raiders' Terry Campese the donut king







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Terry Campese on the Raiders bench. Source: Getty Images


THEY are the set of numbers Terry Campese must quickly rectify in order for the Green Machine to remain relevant as a genuine top four contender.


In the Raiders' last outing against competition leaders South Sydney in round 17, Campese made zero runs, zero metres, zero line breaks, zero line break assists and zero tackle busts.

According to Fox Sports statistics, in Canberra's three most recent games against South Sydney, Wests Tigers and Penrith, Campese has made only two runs for a total of 17 metres.

This from a player who stormed into the NSW Origin team in 2009 and a Kangaroo Tour based on his size, power and willingness to run the ball to - and often through - the line.For the Canberra Raiders to keep their seven-from-seven winning record at home this season intact Sunday, Campese needs to rediscover his confidence and do what he does best.

Run the ball.


Read More: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...e-the-donut-king/story-fni3gmmu-1226675300133

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Johnathan Thurston wants Bulldogs star wants Ben Barba at North Queensland Cowboys






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Johnathan Thurston in action for the Maroons. Source: Getty Images


JH: I guess your one burning desire is to win a premiership with the Cowboys. Are you going to get to tick that box?

JT: I still believe we can. It is every player's dream to win a premiership and you need things to go your way. Before my time is up at the Cowboys I hope we can deliver a premiership to the people.

JH: There has been a lot of talk about Ben Barba making a move to a Queensland club. Do you want him at the Cowboys?

JT: That is a decision for Benny to make, but if you have a look at the combination we had in the All Stars game, it was pretty good. If he came to the Cowboys I think his game would go to another level and I think I would be able to help with that.

JH: Will you push the club to sign him if he seeks a release?

JT: You always try and recruit the best players and no doubt he is right up there. He would come here and I believe his footy would improve.


For the Full Interview: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...eensland-cowboys/story-fni3fr51-1226675297118

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Russell Crowe committed to the South Sydney Rabbitohs long-term







AS if leading the NRL premiership wasn't enough.

South Sydney chairman Nick Pappas has ended speculation about Russell Crowe's ownership of the club, by admitting the Hollywood superstar is committed "long-term" and that he won't be walking away, even if the Rabbitohs were to win this year's grand final.

Crowe's decision to back away from selling his 37.5 per cent share at the end of this season, as he previously mooted last year, comes as NRL CEO Dave Smith praised the Oscar-winning actor for his influence to change the way clubs are run.

Ahead of the Rabbitohs' clash with New Zealand in Perth, Pappas put any conjecture over Crowe's ownership of the club to bed.


Read More: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...bitohs-long-term/story-fni3gki8-1226675278799
 
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Barba should go to North Queensland. That would be a very worrying concern when taking on the Cowboys, a fit, healthy & happy Ben Barba playing near home combining with Thurston. Remember when they played together for the All Stars?? Cowboys need a fullback for 2014 too.
 
Brisbane Broncos need Kevin Walters as coach, says Gorden Tallis







BRONCOS great Gorden Tallis wants club legend Kevin Walters to coach Brisbane, saying the club's lack of recruitment and creativity in attack are to blame for a disastrous 2013 campaign.

Tallis said Brisbane lack the star power or a coach with the reputation to attract elite talent to move to the club.The premiership captain said players moved clubs to play under master coaches or to join superstars of the game.Under current coach Anthony Griffin, and since the retirement of Darren Lockyer, Brisbane has neither.

"That's what they've got to get," Tallis said."They probably lost a bit of star power."I wanted to go play for Brisbane and play with Allan Langer and Kevin Walters and Steve Renouf. I wanted to go there, nothing could stop me from going there.


Read More: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...ys-gorden-tallis/story-fni3gv5x-1226675595763

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Brisbane Broncos coach Anthony Griffin backs halves pairing







BRISBANE coach Anthony Griffin has given his backing to halves Scott Prince and Peter Wallace, despite the Broncos' attack firing blanks against Melbourne on Friday night.


Griffin's class of 2013 have claimed an unwanted slice of history, becoming the first team in Brisbane's storied history to be held scoreless twice in one season.The 32-0 shutout by the Storm followed an impotent display in round 3, when Wallace and Prince failed to orchestrate points in an 8-0 loss to the Roosters.

Languishing in 13th entering the pivotal months of the season, the Broncos are hurtling toward the worst placing in their 25-year history, never previously finished below 10th.While the Wallace-Prince alliance was comprehensively outpointed by Storm rivals Brett Finch and Cooper Cronk, the Broncos were desperately unlucky not to cross the stripe.They created numerous chances, only for Melbourne's superb last-ditch defence to respond, denying winger Lachlan Maranta three times.

That convinced Griffin not to wield the axe, believing the veteran halves have the guile to haul Brisbane off the canvas and steer them to the playoffs."I thought the last few weeks we have been really good there," Griffin said when asked if he was considering changes at the scrumbase.



Read More: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...s-halves-pairing/story-fni3fbgz-1226675649235

Queensland in a state of NRL despair





THE strongest state in rugby league could face an NRL finals wipeout with Queensland clubs Brisbane, Gold Coast and North Queensland feeling the strain of campaigns that are under the pump.

As Queensland's Origin team prepares to claim an eighth straight series win, the state's three NRL clubs are in disarray with heavy defeats, injuries and coaches fighting to save their jobs.If no Queensland team qualifies for the finals it would be the first time in NRL history that the sunshine state has been without a side in the top eight.

When TattsBet open their markets Monday they will have the Titans at $2.10 to make the top eight, North Queensland at $2.75 and the Broncos drifting way out to $5 on reaching the finals.


Read More:http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...mlinks_enabled=1; bb_thread_las-1226675593065
 
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Broncos will be withour centre Jack Reed for the next 4-6 weeks due to a collarbone injury







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Jack Reed will miss the next 4-6 weeks for the Broncos due to the collarbone injury he suffered against the Storm on Friday night. Source: Getty Images





BRISBANE has been dealt a savage blow to their NRL season with scans confirming centre Jack Reed will miss four to six weeks with a collarbone injury.

Reed, who injured his shoulder with a heavy fall in the 32-0 loss to Melbourne on Friday night, was diagnosed with a dislocated clavicle with a small fracture.

Confirmation of the injury only adds to the bravery shown by Reed who actually took a hit up against the Storm after he sustained the painful fracture.The best case scenario is Reed will now miss four weeks, with a potential return for the Broncos Sunday home clash with St George Illawarra in round 22.

The injury news will be somewhat of a relief to Great Britain coach Steve McNamara with Reed available to push for a World Cup position in the final weeks of the NRL season.


Read More: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...ollarbone-injury/story-fni3fbgz-1226675925248
 
Off the Hook: Brisbane Broncos coach Anthony Griffin guaranteed to keep his job for next season







EXCLUSIVE: BRISBANE hierarchy have ended months of speculation over coach Anthony Griffin's future by guaranteeing his job for next season even if the Broncos miss this year's finals.


The Courier-Mail can reveal the Broncos board has given unequivocal support to Griffin, whose tenure has come into question amid Brisbane's dramatic slide to 13th place on the NRL table.Broncos legend Darren Lockyer has been an influential figure, telling Broncos chief executive Paul White at a meeting last week Griffin is the coach to preside over a reinvigoration of the club.

The Broncos are facing the worst season in their 25-year history and must win six of their last eight games, including Friday night's clash against Cronulla, to make the playoffs.


Read More: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...-for-next-season/story-fni3gv5x-1226676123971

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North Queensland Cowboys players admit they are relying too much on Johnathan Thurston







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Johnathan Thurston scores for the Cowboys against Canberra on Sunday. Source: Getty Images



COWBOYS players say they are over-reliant on Johnathan Thurston and deserve to be labelled the code's great underachievers if North Queensland fail to qualify for the playoffs.

The Cowboys' season of discontent continued last Sunday in an error-riddled 26-18 loss to the Raiders at Canberra Stadium.

Rated title contenders in preseason, the Cowboys must now win six of their last eight games to stay alive, starting without their Origin contingent at home against Manly this Monday night.

Veteran centre Brent Tate slammed the loss to Raiders as "awful".


Read More: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...hnathan-thurston/story-fni3g8pa-1226676201630
 
Paul Crawley: Fights not as bad as NRL thrashings







THERE is a bigger issue to come out of Monday night’s Manly-Parramatta match than the fight - it's the massive gulf between the quality of the best and the worst teams.

This is where the NRL has a real problem and something needs to be done to fix it.What happened between Mitchell Allgood and Steve Matai on Monday night has been happening on football fields for more than 100 years and it will probably be the same for the next 100 years.When Matai came charging at the Parramatta prop, Allgood had to make a split-second decision: was Matai coming to shake hands, or put one on his chin?

Now Dave Smith and Daniel Anderson might not agree with this, but Allgood decided the best form of defence was attack.

In fairness to Matai also, it wasn’t really his fault either because he was only running to defend a mate - after Allgood collected Jamie Buhrer with a swinging arm in the tackle leading up to the fight.


Read More: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...s-nrl-thrashings/story-fni3fh9n-1226676432224
 
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