Predicted Queensland Squad
- Thread starter stiggy
- Start date
Aidos
Andrew 'Joey' Johns
Pretty confident this will be the team. Exact team as last year pretty much with the exception of McGuire coming in and Hannant starting instead of Petero.
1. Slater
2. Boyd
3. Inglis
4. Hodges
5. Tate
6. Thurston
7. Cronk
8. Scott
9. Smith (c)
10. Hannant
11. Myles
12. Thaiday
13. Harrison
14. Gillett
15. Parker
16. Shillington
17. McGuire
1. Slater
2. Boyd
3. Inglis
4. Hodges
5. Tate
6. Thurston
7. Cronk
8. Scott
9. Smith (c)
10. Hannant
11. Myles
12. Thaiday
13. Harrison
14. Gillett
15. Parker
16. Shillington
17. McGuire
rhugh89
Danny 'Bedsy' Buderus
Brisbane Broncos pay price in shock loss to the Parramatta Eels
By Peter Badel
Sunday Mail (Qld)
May 12th, 2013 12:00am
BEN Hannant is in doubt for the Origin opener after he and Brisbane cohort Scott Prince suffered injuries during last night's boilover loss.
The loss was salt to the wound for the Broncos, who fought desperately after losing Prince to a hamstring injury in the 13th minute and Hannant to a calf problem seven minutes from time.
Compounding their plight, prop Josh McGuire could have a case to answer after being reported in the 29th minute for a high shot on Eels fullback Jarryd Hayne.
Hannant and Prince will have scans today but neither are expected to face the Titans while the former will be racing the clock for Origin I on June 5 after leaving the sheds on crutches.
Ben Hannant picked up an injury for the Broncos. Picture: Tim Hunter
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...-parramatta-eels/story-e6frexp0-1226639997410
By Peter Badel
Sunday Mail (Qld)
May 12th, 2013 12:00am
BEN Hannant is in doubt for the Origin opener after he and Brisbane cohort Scott Prince suffered injuries during last night's boilover loss.
The loss was salt to the wound for the Broncos, who fought desperately after losing Prince to a hamstring injury in the 13th minute and Hannant to a calf problem seven minutes from time.
Compounding their plight, prop Josh McGuire could have a case to answer after being reported in the 29th minute for a high shot on Eels fullback Jarryd Hayne.
Hannant and Prince will have scans today but neither are expected to face the Titans while the former will be racing the clock for Origin I on June 5 after leaving the sheds on crutches.
Ben Hannant picked up an injury for the Broncos. Picture: Tim Hunter
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...-parramatta-eels/story-e6frexp0-1226639997410
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rhugh89
Danny 'Bedsy' Buderus
Queensland forward Ben Hannant ruled out of State of Origin I
Ben Hannant in action for the Broncos. Source: The Courier-Mail
THE Maroons have been dealt a blow with veteran prop Ben Hannant to miss the Origin opener on June 5 with a calf injury.
Scans this afternoon confirmed a grade-two tear, an injury that requires a four-week rehabilitation - ruling Hannant out of selection calculations for game one at Sydney's ANZ Stadium.The Broncos bookend was expected to replace retired warhorse Petero Civoniceva in the starting side, but his absence opens the door for Canberra's David Shillington, who made a successful return from injury against Newcastle yesterday.Hannant suffered the injury attempting a tackle in the 73rd minute of the Broncos' shock 19-18 loss to Parramatta on Saturday night. He hobbled off the field and later left the ground in severe pain on crutches.It is a setback for the Maroons and Hannant, who had been in impressive form and was primed to lead Queensland's pursuit of an eighth consecutive series victory this season.
Prior to scans, the former Test prop put on a brave face during an interview on Channel 9's The Footy Show yesterday but was privately resigned to missing Origin I.With Hannant out of the running, the fight for a front-row berth on the bench now intensifies.Broncos teammate Josh McGuire is an option, while Roosters prop Martin Kennedy and Warriors forward Jacob Lillyman, who has played six games for the Maroons, are other contenders.Maroons chairman of selectors Des Morris said the next fortnight would be crucial in determining Hannant's replacement and the composition of the Queensland bench.Broncos duo Corey Parker and Matt Gillett and Souths backrowers Ben Te'o and Chris McQueen are bench considerations.
"We have a few guys who can play up front like Sam Thaiday and Nate Myles, but we don't really want to be playing guys out of position," Morris said."We've got a few props who are going alright at the moment but Ben will be hard to replace because he's got a lot of experience."We don't get too excited until we get through the next two weeks and we can't crystal ball too much because every time we do we get caught out."Mal (Meninga, Queensland coach) will get medical reports before we sit down and pick the side and we'll have a fair idea as to where we are with them all."They have only got 10 days together, so we don't want to be mucking around with injured players to be honest."We have to see what our front row stocks are like and who is playing well at the time."
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...tate-of-origin-i/story-fni3fr51-1226641457191
- PETER BADEL
- THE COURIER-MAIL
- MAY 13, 2013 5:48PM
Ben Hannant in action for the Broncos. Source: The Courier-Mail
THE Maroons have been dealt a blow with veteran prop Ben Hannant to miss the Origin opener on June 5 with a calf injury.
Scans this afternoon confirmed a grade-two tear, an injury that requires a four-week rehabilitation - ruling Hannant out of selection calculations for game one at Sydney's ANZ Stadium.The Broncos bookend was expected to replace retired warhorse Petero Civoniceva in the starting side, but his absence opens the door for Canberra's David Shillington, who made a successful return from injury against Newcastle yesterday.Hannant suffered the injury attempting a tackle in the 73rd minute of the Broncos' shock 19-18 loss to Parramatta on Saturday night. He hobbled off the field and later left the ground in severe pain on crutches.It is a setback for the Maroons and Hannant, who had been in impressive form and was primed to lead Queensland's pursuit of an eighth consecutive series victory this season.
"We have a few guys who can play up front like Sam Thaiday and Nate Myles, but we don't really want to be playing guys out of position," Morris said."We've got a few props who are going alright at the moment but Ben will be hard to replace because he's got a lot of experience."We don't get too excited until we get through the next two weeks and we can't crystal ball too much because every time we do we get caught out."Mal (Meninga, Queensland coach) will get medical reports before we sit down and pick the side and we'll have a fair idea as to where we are with them all."They have only got 10 days together, so we don't want to be mucking around with injured players to be honest."We have to see what our front row stocks are like and who is playing well at the time."
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...tate-of-origin-i/story-fni3fr51-1226641457191
rhugh89
Danny 'Bedsy' Buderus
Gold Coast Titans' Dave Taylor throws away State of Origin chance
EIGHT minutes of madness have cost Dave Taylor a place in this year's State of Origin series.
Already on the representative fringe after his axing by the Titans for disciplinary reasons earlier this year, Taylor snuffed out hope of recovering his Maroons jersey after conceding three undisciplined penalties in just eight minutes in the M1 derby on Friday night.With the Titans already reeling from a spate of early penalties, Taylor conceded two in the space of a minute after entering the match from the bench, before being placed on report for a high shot on Peter Wallace just seven minutes later.The Bulletin understands Taylor will not be picked.Queensland chairman of selectors Des Morris yesterday refused to publicly rule out the man-mountain but may not have to make a decision, with Taylor in danger of being suspended for the late and high tackle on the Broncos halfback.Morris said a red line had certainly not been ruled through Taylor's name."There's another week to go before we pick the side yet,'' Morris said."Obviously he had a few frustrating moments the other night but the effort was there. We know that he's a player that can handle that (Origin) level."He just needs to be a bit more consistent, that's probably his biggest problem at the moment."In saying that, after he had that stint back in the Intrust Super Cup he went back and had a big game in New Zealand and he's certainly not out of the picture by any stretch of the imagination.''
David Taylor's on-field ill-discipline appears to have cost him an Origin spot.
But Taylor's Jekyll and Hyde form would be a worry for Queensland coach Mal Meninga.Taylor's opening penalty, a leg pull, may not have been a shooting offence but it came on the fifth tackle and immediately took pressure off the Broncos.He was pinged for a high shot a minute later and gave away the Titans' 10th consecutive penalty of the half when he was placed on report for the tackle on Wallace.Taylor only underlined his talent in the second half though, proving a handful as he racked up 121m from 13 runs and five offloads for the match.His talent is undisputed but even admirers, such as Broncos skipper Sam Thaiday - a Maroons and former club teammate - concede Taylor needs to change his ways."He's a fantastic player but he just needs to get that type of stuff out of his game,'' Thaiday said when asked about Taylor's rash of high shots in the first half."There were a few little brain explosions there by him but they just helped us roll down the field."We'd rather hurt them on the scoreboard than try those other types of tactics.''Titans coach John Cartwright's frustration with Taylor's application led to him being banished to the Intrust Super Cup earlier this season but he was reticent to criticise the big forward after Friday's clash.
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/go...of-origin-chance/story-e6freuy9-1226646216533
- EMMA GREENWOOD
- GOLD COAST BULLETIN
- MAY 20, 2013 12:00AM
EIGHT minutes of madness have cost Dave Taylor a place in this year's State of Origin series.
Already on the representative fringe after his axing by the Titans for disciplinary reasons earlier this year, Taylor snuffed out hope of recovering his Maroons jersey after conceding three undisciplined penalties in just eight minutes in the M1 derby on Friday night.With the Titans already reeling from a spate of early penalties, Taylor conceded two in the space of a minute after entering the match from the bench, before being placed on report for a high shot on Peter Wallace just seven minutes later.The Bulletin understands Taylor will not be picked.Queensland chairman of selectors Des Morris yesterday refused to publicly rule out the man-mountain but may not have to make a decision, with Taylor in danger of being suspended for the late and high tackle on the Broncos halfback.Morris said a red line had certainly not been ruled through Taylor's name."There's another week to go before we pick the side yet,'' Morris said."Obviously he had a few frustrating moments the other night but the effort was there. We know that he's a player that can handle that (Origin) level."He just needs to be a bit more consistent, that's probably his biggest problem at the moment."In saying that, after he had that stint back in the Intrust Super Cup he went back and had a big game in New Zealand and he's certainly not out of the picture by any stretch of the imagination.''
David Taylor's on-field ill-discipline appears to have cost him an Origin spot.
But Taylor's Jekyll and Hyde form would be a worry for Queensland coach Mal Meninga.Taylor's opening penalty, a leg pull, may not have been a shooting offence but it came on the fifth tackle and immediately took pressure off the Broncos.He was pinged for a high shot a minute later and gave away the Titans' 10th consecutive penalty of the half when he was placed on report for the tackle on Wallace.Taylor only underlined his talent in the second half though, proving a handful as he racked up 121m from 13 runs and five offloads for the match.His talent is undisputed but even admirers, such as Broncos skipper Sam Thaiday - a Maroons and former club teammate - concede Taylor needs to change his ways."He's a fantastic player but he just needs to get that type of stuff out of his game,'' Thaiday said when asked about Taylor's rash of high shots in the first half."There were a few little brain explosions there by him but they just helped us roll down the field."We'd rather hurt them on the scoreboard than try those other types of tactics.''Titans coach John Cartwright's frustration with Taylor's application led to him being banished to the Intrust Super Cup earlier this season but he was reticent to criticise the big forward after Friday's clash.
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/go...of-origin-chance/story-e6freuy9-1226646216533
rhugh89
Danny 'Bedsy' Buderus
Geoff Toovey can't see how Queensland can pick Daly Cherry-Evans on bench for Origin I
Specialist halfback ... Daly Cherry-Evans. Picture: Gregg Porteous Source: The Daily Telegraph
DALY Cherry-Evans finished with the points in his head-to-head showdown with Cooper Cronk on Monday night - but Manly coach Geoff Toovey still can't see how Queensland can justify picking him for State of Origin I.
With Mal Meninga set to name his team on Monday night, there is growing debate Cherry-Evans' outstanding form this season at least warrants a spot on the Maroons' interchange bench for the game in Sydney on June 5.Last Monday night the Manly halfback finished with two Dally M points, with his halves partner Kieran Foran a clear man-of-the-match and Storm captain Cameron Smith getting one Dally M point off judge Greg Alexander.There is an argument for Cherry-Evans to win a spot on the bench to give Queensland a chance to blood him into Origin, similarly to how Cronk got his start when Darren Lockyer was still playing.Toovey's concern is not about Cherry-Evans handling Origin, but getting enough game-time to justify his selection and said he didn't mean it as a slight on his halfback."I don't see how you can carry a specialist halfback on the bench," he said."I'm not saying he won't handle it."But how do you get him enough game-time? How do you rotate your bench? It is difficult. He will handle it, there are no dramas there."But Toovey couldn't give his young halves enough credit for the way they played tough on Monday night in the gruelling extra-time draw.While Cherry-Evans had a super game, landing the 40/20 kick of the year, Foran was at another level altogether with his phenomenal defence saving Manly on numerous occasions."He was superb," Toovey said of Foran."It is not just how tough he is, either. He is a real competitor."And Toovey reckons they are both only getting better."As they both become more experienced they are only going to grow as players," he said. "People forget they are only a few years into their first-grade careers. They are going to get better and better each year."Toovey said he was also unsure if Glenn Stewart was ready for an Origin call-up despite his improved performance on Monday night in his third game back from injury.But the coach said he was blown away by how tough his team played in Melbourne."It was ridiculous. All the players are working extremely hard for each other," Toovey said.
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...nch-for-origin-i/story-fni3gnk1-1226647930017
- PAUL CRAWLEY
- THE DAILY TELEGRAPH
- MAY 22, 2013 12:00AM
Specialist halfback ... Daly Cherry-Evans. Picture: Gregg Porteous Source: The Daily Telegraph
With Mal Meninga set to name his team on Monday night, there is growing debate Cherry-Evans' outstanding form this season at least warrants a spot on the Maroons' interchange bench for the game in Sydney on June 5.Last Monday night the Manly halfback finished with two Dally M points, with his halves partner Kieran Foran a clear man-of-the-match and Storm captain Cameron Smith getting one Dally M point off judge Greg Alexander.There is an argument for Cherry-Evans to win a spot on the bench to give Queensland a chance to blood him into Origin, similarly to how Cronk got his start when Darren Lockyer was still playing.Toovey's concern is not about Cherry-Evans handling Origin, but getting enough game-time to justify his selection and said he didn't mean it as a slight on his halfback."I don't see how you can carry a specialist halfback on the bench," he said."I'm not saying he won't handle it."But how do you get him enough game-time? How do you rotate your bench? It is difficult. He will handle it, there are no dramas there."But Toovey couldn't give his young halves enough credit for the way they played tough on Monday night in the gruelling extra-time draw.While Cherry-Evans had a super game, landing the 40/20 kick of the year, Foran was at another level altogether with his phenomenal defence saving Manly on numerous occasions."He was superb," Toovey said of Foran."It is not just how tough he is, either. He is a real competitor."And Toovey reckons they are both only getting better."As they both become more experienced they are only going to grow as players," he said. "People forget they are only a few years into their first-grade careers. They are going to get better and better each year."Toovey said he was also unsure if Glenn Stewart was ready for an Origin call-up despite his improved performance on Monday night in his third game back from injury.But the coach said he was blown away by how tough his team played in Melbourne."It was ridiculous. All the players are working extremely hard for each other," Toovey said.
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...nch-for-origin-i/story-fni3gnk1-1226647930017
rhugh89
Danny 'Bedsy' Buderus
Ben Te'o still in State of Origin frame, says Queensland coach Mal Meninga
Ben Te'o in action for the Rabbitohs. Picture: Gregg Porteous Source: The Daily Telegraph
QUEENSLAND coach Mal Meninga says Ben Te'o remains in the selection frame for Origin I as the Maroons forward defends allegations he physically assaulted a Brisbane woman.
NRL chief executive Dave Smith last night revealed an independent body had been hired to investigate claims Te'o punched a female during an alleged incident at the home of Broncos fullback Corey Norman last month.Te'o yesterday released a statement offering to co-operate with any investigation.His stance came just hours before the woman claimed she was punched by Te'o, telling Channel Nine last night: ``I was laying in the hallway with blood everywhere ... I could have been dead for all they know.''South Sydney chief executive Shane Richardson said yesterday Te'o would not be stood down by the Rabbitohs until a comprehensive investigation of the allegations is complete.But the saga also has ramifications for Maroons officials, with Te'o a frontline contender for the Queensland side to be named on Monday night for Origin I on June 5.Meninga made it clear he did not condone violence towards women, but said Te'o would not be blacklisted from Maroons selection until the NRL's investigation was finalised."From my perspective, he is innocent until proven guilty,'' Meninga said last night."I don't know the specifics of it. There will be an investigation into this by the Rabbitohs and the game and we'll make some judgments based on those findings, not on circumstantial evidence."Unless I am told differently, he will be considered for Queensland.''
Meninga pledged to contact Te'o - who made his Origin debut in last year's decider at Suncorp Stadium - to hear the Souths enforcer's side of the story."I will have a talk to Ben to get a feel for what's happened,'' Meninga said."I don't know what Ben has said so I can't comment too much at this stage."We don't condone violence towards women. But there has to be a fair and due process - we can't make decisions based on a story on TV."The necessary investigations will be taken by Souths and the NRL and we'll make our judgments based on those findings.''Te'o said yesterday: "I am able to refute entirely any suggestion that I acted improperly."On the night in question, I found myself in unfortunate circumstances that were not caused by me and I acted appropriately to deal with a difficult situation.''The alleged incident occurred after the Test match between Australia and New Zealand, played in Canberra on April 19.
The following night, Te'o and Newcastle fullback Darius Boyd, who played in the Test match for the Kangaroos, visited Norman in Brisbane.The woman is understood to have returned to Norman's Brisbane home, where Te'o lived during his time with the Broncos.It is alleged an altercation broke out between Te'o and the woman, who was left with bleeding near her left eye.The woman has spoken with police but has yet to lodge a formal complaint. No charges have yet been laid.
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/be...oach-mal-meninga/story-e6freuy9-1226648670742
- PETER BADEL
- THE COURIER-MAIL
- MAY 23, 2013 12:00AM
Ben Te'o in action for the Rabbitohs. Picture: Gregg Porteous Source: The Daily Telegraph
QUEENSLAND coach Mal Meninga says Ben Te'o remains in the selection frame for Origin I as the Maroons forward defends allegations he physically assaulted a Brisbane woman.
NRL chief executive Dave Smith last night revealed an independent body had been hired to investigate claims Te'o punched a female during an alleged incident at the home of Broncos fullback Corey Norman last month.Te'o yesterday released a statement offering to co-operate with any investigation.His stance came just hours before the woman claimed she was punched by Te'o, telling Channel Nine last night: ``I was laying in the hallway with blood everywhere ... I could have been dead for all they know.''South Sydney chief executive Shane Richardson said yesterday Te'o would not be stood down by the Rabbitohs until a comprehensive investigation of the allegations is complete.But the saga also has ramifications for Maroons officials, with Te'o a frontline contender for the Queensland side to be named on Monday night for Origin I on June 5.Meninga made it clear he did not condone violence towards women, but said Te'o would not be blacklisted from Maroons selection until the NRL's investigation was finalised."From my perspective, he is innocent until proven guilty,'' Meninga said last night."I don't know the specifics of it. There will be an investigation into this by the Rabbitohs and the game and we'll make some judgments based on those findings, not on circumstantial evidence."Unless I am told differently, he will be considered for Queensland.''
Meninga pledged to contact Te'o - who made his Origin debut in last year's decider at Suncorp Stadium - to hear the Souths enforcer's side of the story."I will have a talk to Ben to get a feel for what's happened,'' Meninga said."I don't know what Ben has said so I can't comment too much at this stage."We don't condone violence towards women. But there has to be a fair and due process - we can't make decisions based on a story on TV."The necessary investigations will be taken by Souths and the NRL and we'll make our judgments based on those findings.''Te'o said yesterday: "I am able to refute entirely any suggestion that I acted improperly."On the night in question, I found myself in unfortunate circumstances that were not caused by me and I acted appropriately to deal with a difficult situation.''The alleged incident occurred after the Test match between Australia and New Zealand, played in Canberra on April 19.
The following night, Te'o and Newcastle fullback Darius Boyd, who played in the Test match for the Kangaroos, visited Norman in Brisbane.The woman is understood to have returned to Norman's Brisbane home, where Te'o lived during his time with the Broncos.It is alleged an altercation broke out between Te'o and the woman, who was left with bleeding near her left eye.The woman has spoken with police but has yet to lodge a formal complaint. No charges have yet been laid.
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/be...oach-mal-meninga/story-e6freuy9-1226648670742
rhugh89
Danny 'Bedsy' Buderus
Gold Coast Titans Ashley Harrison set to miss clash with Parramatta
Ashley Harrison may miss the Titans' clash with the Eels (Photo by Matt Roberts/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
Queensland State of Origin star Ashley Harrison appears to be in extreme doubt for Gold Coast’s NRL clash on Sunday against Parramatta in Mudgee.
The Titans lock has failed to train all week as he battles a knee complaint, leaving him in a battle to prove his fitness for the country NSW game against the Eels.Harrison will be with the team when they depart Queensland on Friday for a flight to Sydney and then a long bus ride to the central NSW town.It means he will have just a final training run on Saturday in Mudgee to prove his fitness for the Titans and also Queensland selectors, with the Maroons squad for Origin I to be named on Monday.Teammate Mark Minichiello said he wasn’t sure how likely it was that Harrison would line up on Sunday."He hasn’t trained yet this week so I guess they’re going to give him until Saturday,’’ Minichiello said."If he’s fit he’ll play, otherwise he might need a week off."Minichiello said he didn’t think Harrison would be any more cautious about declaring himself fit to play despite the looming Origin series.
"I daresay that the Titans are at the forefront of his mind and Origin comes second," Minichiello said."If he’s not fit, he’s not fit."One player who will definitely line up for the Titans on Sunday, and possibly the Maroons, is giant forward Dave Taylor.After travelling with coach John Cartwright to Sydney on Wednesday night for a judiciary hearing where he successfully downgraded a dangerous contact charge, Taylor was back at training on Thursday morning.And Minichiello says having Taylor available for Sunday’s game was a massive boost."We’ve got a few injuries so if we’d lost another man it would’ve been tough," he said."It’s good we get him on board this week."Taylor will come into the squad in place of Luke O’Dwyer, who will spend an extra week recovering from a broken jaw.
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...-with-parramatta/story-fni3grk4-1226649245368
- ED JACKSON
- AAP
- MAY 23, 2013 2:04PM
Ashley Harrison may miss the Titans' clash with the Eels (Photo by Matt Roberts/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
Queensland State of Origin star Ashley Harrison appears to be in extreme doubt for Gold Coast’s NRL clash on Sunday against Parramatta in Mudgee.
The Titans lock has failed to train all week as he battles a knee complaint, leaving him in a battle to prove his fitness for the country NSW game against the Eels.Harrison will be with the team when they depart Queensland on Friday for a flight to Sydney and then a long bus ride to the central NSW town.It means he will have just a final training run on Saturday in Mudgee to prove his fitness for the Titans and also Queensland selectors, with the Maroons squad for Origin I to be named on Monday.Teammate Mark Minichiello said he wasn’t sure how likely it was that Harrison would line up on Sunday."He hasn’t trained yet this week so I guess they’re going to give him until Saturday,’’ Minichiello said."If he’s fit he’ll play, otherwise he might need a week off."Minichiello said he didn’t think Harrison would be any more cautious about declaring himself fit to play despite the looming Origin series.
"I daresay that the Titans are at the forefront of his mind and Origin comes second," Minichiello said."If he’s not fit, he’s not fit."One player who will definitely line up for the Titans on Sunday, and possibly the Maroons, is giant forward Dave Taylor.After travelling with coach John Cartwright to Sydney on Wednesday night for a judiciary hearing where he successfully downgraded a dangerous contact charge, Taylor was back at training on Thursday morning.And Minichiello says having Taylor available for Sunday’s game was a massive boost."We’ve got a few injuries so if we’d lost another man it would’ve been tough," he said."It’s good we get him on board this week."Taylor will come into the squad in place of Luke O’Dwyer, who will spend an extra week recovering from a broken jaw.
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...-with-parramatta/story-fni3grk4-1226649245368
rhugh89
Danny 'Bedsy' Buderus
Queensland greats call for Ben Te'o to be stood down from Origin
MAROONS great Steve Renouf has urged Ben Te'o to "tell the truth'' as former stars last night called on Queensland hierarchy to stand down the Souths forward for Origin I.
The NRL's integrity unit has begun a probe into allegations Te'o assaulted Brisbane woman Katie Lewis, although the case is unlikely to be settled before Queensland's team is named on Monday night.That leaves the Queensland Rugby League facing the risk of selecting a player who may yet be charged with bringing the game into disrepute if the allegations are upheld by the NRL's investigative team.
While Te'o released a statement on Tuesday refuting "any suggestion'' that he acted "improperly'', he did not specifically answer whether he punched the 22-year-old female.
Broncos and Maroons great Steve Renouf. Picture: Annette Dew
Renouf says the Te'o saga is a distraction the Maroons can do without in their Origin build-up and has challenged the Rabbitohs backrower to publicly detail whether he attacked Lewis."Apparently there were a couple of other lads there (Norman and Darius Boyd), but if there is enough evidence to say he has done something physically to this woman, then Queensland must look at standing Ben Te'o down,'' said Renouf, who played 11 Origin matches between 1991-98."That's not saying he is guilty. But if he is innocent, why doesn't he come out and say, 'I didn't hit her.'"Sometimes I wonder what advice these guys are given.
If I was in his situation and I had nothing to hide, I wouldn't care what the club or my minders were telling me, I would come out and set the record straight."I'm totally against violence towards women. It doesn't matter if you are a league star or not, the QRL has to look at this and to be honest, Ben Te'o should come forward and tell the truth.
"No one knows the full story. At the moment, there is a question mark over Ben. If he didn't do it, he should come out and say so.''Maroons coach Mal Meninga told The Courier-Mail yesterday Te'o is "innocent until proven guilty''.Meninga pledged to hold talks with Te'o, but former Maroons prop Greg Dowling says the 26-year-old cannot take part in the game's showpiece event."Queensland have to stand him down,'' Dowling said."You can't pick him. If there are allegations like this, the league has to stand him down.
Rabbitohs forward Ben Te'o in action. Picture: Gregg Porteous
"I rate Ben Te'o highly as a player, but it's not a good look for the club or the game.''Former Queensland skipper Gorden Tallis believes Te'o should not be blacklisted while the NRL investigation continues."He should play Origin. In our country you are innocent until proven guilty,'' Tallis said."Until the matter is resolved why shouldn't you pick him?"If he is guilty then he faces the charges, but he shouldn't be tried by media."He should face the same justice system as everybody else.''Renouf said Te'o's participation could take the gloss off the Origin series."It is the showpiece but footy aside, it's violence against women and that is the big issue there. He has been implicated and it needs to be sorted out,'' he said."This takes the shine off Origin and it's probably something Queensland don't need to worry about, but hopefully it gets sorted soon and we can move on.''
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...-to-reveal-truth/story-fni3fr51-1226649446765
- PETER BADEL AND TODD BALYM
- THE COURIER-MAIL
- MAY 24, 2013 12:00AM
MAROONS great Steve Renouf has urged Ben Te'o to "tell the truth'' as former stars last night called on Queensland hierarchy to stand down the Souths forward for Origin I.
The NRL's integrity unit has begun a probe into allegations Te'o assaulted Brisbane woman Katie Lewis, although the case is unlikely to be settled before Queensland's team is named on Monday night.That leaves the Queensland Rugby League facing the risk of selecting a player who may yet be charged with bringing the game into disrepute if the allegations are upheld by the NRL's investigative team.
While Te'o released a statement on Tuesday refuting "any suggestion'' that he acted "improperly'', he did not specifically answer whether he punched the 22-year-old female.
Broncos and Maroons great Steve Renouf. Picture: Annette Dew
Renouf says the Te'o saga is a distraction the Maroons can do without in their Origin build-up and has challenged the Rabbitohs backrower to publicly detail whether he attacked Lewis."Apparently there were a couple of other lads there (Norman and Darius Boyd), but if there is enough evidence to say he has done something physically to this woman, then Queensland must look at standing Ben Te'o down,'' said Renouf, who played 11 Origin matches between 1991-98."That's not saying he is guilty. But if he is innocent, why doesn't he come out and say, 'I didn't hit her.'"Sometimes I wonder what advice these guys are given.
If I was in his situation and I had nothing to hide, I wouldn't care what the club or my minders were telling me, I would come out and set the record straight."I'm totally against violence towards women. It doesn't matter if you are a league star or not, the QRL has to look at this and to be honest, Ben Te'o should come forward and tell the truth.
"No one knows the full story. At the moment, there is a question mark over Ben. If he didn't do it, he should come out and say so.''Maroons coach Mal Meninga told The Courier-Mail yesterday Te'o is "innocent until proven guilty''.Meninga pledged to hold talks with Te'o, but former Maroons prop Greg Dowling says the 26-year-old cannot take part in the game's showpiece event."Queensland have to stand him down,'' Dowling said."You can't pick him. If there are allegations like this, the league has to stand him down.
Rabbitohs forward Ben Te'o in action. Picture: Gregg Porteous
"I rate Ben Te'o highly as a player, but it's not a good look for the club or the game.''Former Queensland skipper Gorden Tallis believes Te'o should not be blacklisted while the NRL investigation continues."He should play Origin. In our country you are innocent until proven guilty,'' Tallis said."Until the matter is resolved why shouldn't you pick him?"If he is guilty then he faces the charges, but he shouldn't be tried by media."He should face the same justice system as everybody else.''Renouf said Te'o's participation could take the gloss off the Origin series."It is the showpiece but footy aside, it's violence against women and that is the big issue there. He has been implicated and it needs to be sorted out,'' he said."This takes the shine off Origin and it's probably something Queensland don't need to worry about, but hopefully it gets sorted soon and we can move on.''
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...-to-reveal-truth/story-fni3fr51-1226649446765
Last edited:
rhugh89
Danny 'Bedsy' Buderus
Just letting everyone know that our CEO Matt Gidley is coming out of retirement to play for NSW in game 1 
Maroons should opt for force: Thaiday
By James Macsmith
AAP
Sat 25th May, 7:44pm
Queensland forward Sam Thaiday has urged coach Mal Meninga to opt for four forwards on the Maroons interchange bench ahead of what promises to be a torrid State of Origin opener.
With NSW coach Laurie Daley reportedly set to choose Newcastle's Matt Gidley as a utility on the Blues bench alongside forwards Trent Merrin, Anthony Watmough and Andrew Fifita, Meninga could counter that by naming four forwards on the bench in an attempt to dominate proceedings up front.
Manly halfback Daly Cherry-Evans and Canterbury fullback Ben Barba have been mentioned as possible utility options for Queensland as the game develops.
But Thaiday, a certain selection for the Maroons, said he felt four forwards on the bench, in anticipation of a highly physical encounter for State of Origin I in Sydney on June 5, was the way to go for Queensland as they seek an unprecedented eighth straight series win.
"It's going to be a tough physical battle and a tough game to win for the first one," Thaiday said.
"I think because of the physicality of the game it would be a pretty wise move. Because I think that's where usually the first game is won in the middle third of the field with that brute force.
"But we'll just have to wait and see how Mal goes."
With Brisbane's Ben Hannant (calf) injured and Petero Civoniceva retired there is keen competition for Maroons spots in the forwards. Matt Scott and David Shillington are likely to start up front with Ashley Harrison, Thaiday and Nate Myles in the back row.
If Meninga decides to go for a four-forward rotation on the bench, Josh McGuire, Ben Te'o, Matt Gillett, Chris McQueen, Jacob Lillyman and Martin Kennedy are among those in the mix.
http://www.nrl.com/maroons-should-opt-for-force-thaiday/tabid/10874/newsid/72508/default.aspx
Maroons should opt for force: Thaiday
By James Macsmith
AAP
Sat 25th May, 7:44pm
Queensland forward Sam Thaiday has urged coach Mal Meninga to opt for four forwards on the Maroons interchange bench ahead of what promises to be a torrid State of Origin opener.
With NSW coach Laurie Daley reportedly set to choose Newcastle's Matt Gidley as a utility on the Blues bench alongside forwards Trent Merrin, Anthony Watmough and Andrew Fifita, Meninga could counter that by naming four forwards on the bench in an attempt to dominate proceedings up front.
Manly halfback Daly Cherry-Evans and Canterbury fullback Ben Barba have been mentioned as possible utility options for Queensland as the game develops.
But Thaiday, a certain selection for the Maroons, said he felt four forwards on the bench, in anticipation of a highly physical encounter for State of Origin I in Sydney on June 5, was the way to go for Queensland as they seek an unprecedented eighth straight series win.
"It's going to be a tough physical battle and a tough game to win for the first one," Thaiday said.
"I think because of the physicality of the game it would be a pretty wise move. Because I think that's where usually the first game is won in the middle third of the field with that brute force.
"But we'll just have to wait and see how Mal goes."
With Brisbane's Ben Hannant (calf) injured and Petero Civoniceva retired there is keen competition for Maroons spots in the forwards. Matt Scott and David Shillington are likely to start up front with Ashley Harrison, Thaiday and Nate Myles in the back row.
If Meninga decides to go for a four-forward rotation on the bench, Josh McGuire, Ben Te'o, Matt Gillett, Chris McQueen, Jacob Lillyman and Martin Kennedy are among those in the mix.
http://www.nrl.com/maroons-should-opt-for-force-thaiday/tabid/10874/newsid/72508/default.aspx
rhugh89
Danny 'Bedsy' Buderus
Bulldogs star Ben Barba pulls out stops for Maroons State of Origin selectors
REJUVENATED Dally M dynamo Ben Barba says he is ready for Origin after issuing a timely reminder to Queensland selectors on Friday night.
Sidelined in March due to personal problems, Barba (pictured) made a last-ditch bid for a maiden Maroons jumper with a polished display in the Bulldogs' 24-14 defeat of the Broncos.He scored a try and saved two others with superb front-on shots, giving Barba a sliver of Origin hope when Queensland selectors name their squad for game one tomorrow night.The Sunday Mail understands Barba has left his run too late for the series opener, with Brisbane's Matt Gillett and Manly's Daly Cherry-Evans ahead of him in the pecking order for Queensland's interchange utility berth.But Barba is convinced he can force his way into the Queensland squad this season."I think I'm ready for Origin but I have to get selected first in that great Queensland side," he said. "Hopefully, that performance (against the Broncos) won't do me any harm and if I'm selected I'll be stoked. If I'm not, I'll just be happy to have my name tossed up.
"It was a bit tough at the start of the year but I'm back now and my focus is on the footy and the Dogs."I learned a lot last year (as 18th man in Queensland camp). I don't think Origin is beyond me, but I'll keep doing well for the Dogs and, hopefully, get that Maroon jersey."Barba produced more memorable attacking moments last season than he did on Friday night. He compiled 95m from nine runs, but Bulldogs coach Des Hasler was more pleased with Barba's all-round development.The Mackay marauder's positional play was impressive and his defence was Origin-like, producing two first-half trysavers on Lachlan Maranta and Josh Hoffman to repel the Broncos.
Bulldogs fullback Ben Barba tries to step around Broncos halfback Peter Wallace. Picture: Brett Costello
Barba, however, is adamant he has yet to recapture the form that swept him to the Dally M gong last season."I'm not at my best yet, I feel I can still improve," he said."(Friday night) was just the start so, hopefully, I can build from there and go a bit better.Broncos skipper and Queensland back-rower Sam Thaiday said Barba would not look out of place at Camp Maroon."It would be a great reward for him, especially with the ups and downs he's had at the start of the season. If he gets there, it would be good to see him in camp."
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...origin-selectors/story-fni3fr51-1226650497236
- - - Updated - - -
Mal Meninga: Brute force the key ingredient to put Blues on back foot in State of Origin opener
Great wall: Paul Gallen hit hard by the Maroons defence last year. Mal Meninga predicts a grinding, physical game on Wednesday week. Picture: Darren England Source: The Courier-Mail
QUEENSLAND'S State of Origin team selection operates on a "horses for courses" approach - and that is why a number of balls are still in the air as far as the make-up of the final 17 Maroons for Origin I on Wednesday week.
Obviously form and loyalty are the biggest factors when choosing any Queensland team, and they will be again as the selectors and I finalise the team over the next two days.But from a Queensland point of view, picking a team for Game 1 of the series requires a different thought process that it does for teams for Games 2 and 3.Similarly, playing away at ANZ Stadium may mean that we pick a different team to one that we feel would be better suited to playing at Suncorp Stadium.There is no doubt that the venue plays a part in team selection.You have to choose a team that can handle the situation, the style of game, the balance of the team and their suitability to the on-field conditions.Looking at the situation in front of us for Game I, we have the opening game of the series against opponents riding high on confidence after a good campaign last season, and the introduction of fresh ideas and enthusiasm with their new coach in Laurie Daley.
For this, we would be best served by avoiding too many changes, limiting the number of players operating under the pressure of an Origin debut, strengthening ourselves with well-established combinations, and relying on individuals who know what it takes to win these types of matches.The style of game also has a bearing on who gets selected.Being the first game of the series, we know what to expect - it will be tough, very physical, and more of a grind compared to the more open and free-flowing styles that usually define Games 2 and 3.
Winning feeling: The end goal for Mal Meninga and the Maroons - more glory. Picture: Adam Head
So we will build our team structure around those requirements.We will be looking less for footwork and off-loading ability, and more for players who can bring the physicality, aggression and endurance we will need to absorb pressure and defend the line until the 80th minute.This will in turn impact on the balance of the team. There is no point picking 17 second-rowers who can tackle for 80 minutes.We still need to score points. We still need to win territory; we still need speed, evasion and tactical kicking. But how much of each is the delicate balance.The same goes with handling the conditions at ANZ Stadium.The playing surface can be slick and slippery, and we have seen Queensland teams in the past come unstuck through NSW exploiting the conditions by targeting bigger, less agile players.Obviously, our recent record in Sydney has not been as brilliant as we would have liked, so we also need to change how we prepare for these matches.This year, we will have a greater focus on player welfare, ensuring every player is as close to his peak physically and mentally as can be managed before the hard work of preparation begins.We will also take the opportunity to fly to Sydney earlier this year.I think in the past few years we have unnecessarily added to the pressure of Sydney Origin games by flying in late to Sydney, and then having to rush travel to the hotel and training sessions to make up for the short timeframe.So while you may think picking a Queensland team is the easiest job in the world, spare a thought for the selectors this weekend.A lot of preparation goes into making things look easy, and picking a team to make Queensland proud is a job that we take very seriously.
THE Ben Te'o situation is obviously another issue in front of selectors this weekend.But my view on the situation remains unchanged - until he is found guilty of something, or stood down by his club or the NRL, then he is available to be selected.Sports stars are not entitled to preferential treatment in this country, but nor should they be denied the right to the presumption of innocence that is afforded to every other Australian simply because they are engaged in a high-profile profession.I have not spoken to Ben about it, but I have spoken to the people at his club and I was greatly reassured by what they had to say.Souths coach Michael Maguire is a person that I have a lot of respect for, and he and I share similar sentiments about Ben.Michael and the South Sydney club were satisfied by Ben's explanation and version of events, and the quality of people at that club makes me confident in backing their judgement. This situation obviously remains active, and a formal complaint has been made to police.
A number of people have expressed an opinion that we should not gamble on Ben's selection, should the circumstances shift again and Ben be made unavailable.It is a gamble I am willing to take.I know that Ben will not allow outside events to distract him from his role or allow it to impact on the team's performance.He and the team around him are mature enough to deal with things if circumstances change.
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...of-origin-opener/story-fni3fr51-1226650504635
- - - Updated - - -
Maroon spirit to lift out of form stars for State of Origin series opener
Maroons prop Matt Scott with the trophy after last year's State of Origin series success. Picture: Adam Head Source: The Courier-Mail
QUEENSLAND'S stars will rely upon the "special" Maroon environment to lift them out of form slumps and overcome injury concerns ahead of the series opener next week.
As coach Mal Meninga prepares to officially name his Origin I team tomorrow night, the form of several key players remains a concern.More than half of the Maroons team will come from Queensland clubs the Cowboys, Broncos and Titans, who have struggled for consistency this season.The Cowboys are riding a three-game losing streak, with Johnathan Thurston, Matt Scott and Brent Tate increasingly frustrated at the poor results from a team touted as premiership contenders.Brisbane's quartet of Justin Hodges, Corey Parker, Sam Thaiday and Matt Gillett are individually playing well, but their team has produced inconsistent results.Titans duo Nate Myles and Ashley Harrison have experienced some tough recent losses while Melbourne's star trio Billy Slater, Cooper Cronk and Cameron Smith have experienced a frustrating past month at the Storm.Scott said he would "like to think" that club form would not be an issue for Queensland, but admitted it was one area where NSW had no such concerns."
The flip side of that is NSW has got some players in great form at the moment. That is a worry for us," he said."But hopefully the team gets into camp, the team has been around for a long time now and are very used to each other."There is a special sort of environment in those Origin camps."Hopefully that (club form) doesn't affect us too much."Crucially for Meninga, several players are either playing through injury or are only a few games on the comeback trail from weeks out of the game.Myles (groin) and Harrison (knee) are playing through serious complaints, Hodges (ribs) has played just two of the last four NRL games due to injury and Raiders prop David Shillington is three games back from his own rib issue.Only South Sydney pair Greg Inglis and Ben Te'o, plus Sydney Roosters bolter Martin Kennedy, could be entirely happy with their past month of football.One thing is certain, Meninga will ensure club issues are quickly forgotten when the Maroon family reunite in Brisbane tomorrow to prepare for an eighth straight series win.The Blues will name their team today, with the biggest talking point the decision to axe Todd Carney in favour of James Maloney.
The Blues have not begun an Origin series with the same halves combination since 2000 and 2001 when Brett Kimmorley and Brad Fittler were in charge.NSW have never won a game with a five-eighth on debut while over the past seven years, the Maroons have used just four halves - Cooper Cronk, Darren Lockyer, Scott Prince and Johnathan Thurston.
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...in-series-opener/story-fni3fr51-1226650505575
- PETER BADEL
- THE SUNDAY MAIL (QLD)
- MAY 26, 2013 12:00AM
REJUVENATED Dally M dynamo Ben Barba says he is ready for Origin after issuing a timely reminder to Queensland selectors on Friday night.
Sidelined in March due to personal problems, Barba (pictured) made a last-ditch bid for a maiden Maroons jumper with a polished display in the Bulldogs' 24-14 defeat of the Broncos.He scored a try and saved two others with superb front-on shots, giving Barba a sliver of Origin hope when Queensland selectors name their squad for game one tomorrow night.The Sunday Mail understands Barba has left his run too late for the series opener, with Brisbane's Matt Gillett and Manly's Daly Cherry-Evans ahead of him in the pecking order for Queensland's interchange utility berth.But Barba is convinced he can force his way into the Queensland squad this season."I think I'm ready for Origin but I have to get selected first in that great Queensland side," he said. "Hopefully, that performance (against the Broncos) won't do me any harm and if I'm selected I'll be stoked. If I'm not, I'll just be happy to have my name tossed up.
"It was a bit tough at the start of the year but I'm back now and my focus is on the footy and the Dogs."I learned a lot last year (as 18th man in Queensland camp). I don't think Origin is beyond me, but I'll keep doing well for the Dogs and, hopefully, get that Maroon jersey."Barba produced more memorable attacking moments last season than he did on Friday night. He compiled 95m from nine runs, but Bulldogs coach Des Hasler was more pleased with Barba's all-round development.The Mackay marauder's positional play was impressive and his defence was Origin-like, producing two first-half trysavers on Lachlan Maranta and Josh Hoffman to repel the Broncos.
Bulldogs fullback Ben Barba tries to step around Broncos halfback Peter Wallace. Picture: Brett Costello
Barba, however, is adamant he has yet to recapture the form that swept him to the Dally M gong last season."I'm not at my best yet, I feel I can still improve," he said."(Friday night) was just the start so, hopefully, I can build from there and go a bit better.Broncos skipper and Queensland back-rower Sam Thaiday said Barba would not look out of place at Camp Maroon."It would be a great reward for him, especially with the ups and downs he's had at the start of the season. If he gets there, it would be good to see him in camp."
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...origin-selectors/story-fni3fr51-1226650497236
- - - Updated - - -
Mal Meninga: Brute force the key ingredient to put Blues on back foot in State of Origin opener
- MAL MENINGA
- THE SUNDAY MAIL (QLD)
- MAY 26, 2013 12:00AM
Great wall: Paul Gallen hit hard by the Maroons defence last year. Mal Meninga predicts a grinding, physical game on Wednesday week. Picture: Darren England Source: The Courier-Mail
QUEENSLAND'S State of Origin team selection operates on a "horses for courses" approach - and that is why a number of balls are still in the air as far as the make-up of the final 17 Maroons for Origin I on Wednesday week.
Obviously form and loyalty are the biggest factors when choosing any Queensland team, and they will be again as the selectors and I finalise the team over the next two days.But from a Queensland point of view, picking a team for Game 1 of the series requires a different thought process that it does for teams for Games 2 and 3.Similarly, playing away at ANZ Stadium may mean that we pick a different team to one that we feel would be better suited to playing at Suncorp Stadium.There is no doubt that the venue plays a part in team selection.You have to choose a team that can handle the situation, the style of game, the balance of the team and their suitability to the on-field conditions.Looking at the situation in front of us for Game I, we have the opening game of the series against opponents riding high on confidence after a good campaign last season, and the introduction of fresh ideas and enthusiasm with their new coach in Laurie Daley.
For this, we would be best served by avoiding too many changes, limiting the number of players operating under the pressure of an Origin debut, strengthening ourselves with well-established combinations, and relying on individuals who know what it takes to win these types of matches.The style of game also has a bearing on who gets selected.Being the first game of the series, we know what to expect - it will be tough, very physical, and more of a grind compared to the more open and free-flowing styles that usually define Games 2 and 3.
Winning feeling: The end goal for Mal Meninga and the Maroons - more glory. Picture: Adam Head
So we will build our team structure around those requirements.We will be looking less for footwork and off-loading ability, and more for players who can bring the physicality, aggression and endurance we will need to absorb pressure and defend the line until the 80th minute.This will in turn impact on the balance of the team. There is no point picking 17 second-rowers who can tackle for 80 minutes.We still need to score points. We still need to win territory; we still need speed, evasion and tactical kicking. But how much of each is the delicate balance.The same goes with handling the conditions at ANZ Stadium.The playing surface can be slick and slippery, and we have seen Queensland teams in the past come unstuck through NSW exploiting the conditions by targeting bigger, less agile players.Obviously, our recent record in Sydney has not been as brilliant as we would have liked, so we also need to change how we prepare for these matches.This year, we will have a greater focus on player welfare, ensuring every player is as close to his peak physically and mentally as can be managed before the hard work of preparation begins.We will also take the opportunity to fly to Sydney earlier this year.I think in the past few years we have unnecessarily added to the pressure of Sydney Origin games by flying in late to Sydney, and then having to rush travel to the hotel and training sessions to make up for the short timeframe.So while you may think picking a Queensland team is the easiest job in the world, spare a thought for the selectors this weekend.A lot of preparation goes into making things look easy, and picking a team to make Queensland proud is a job that we take very seriously.
THE Ben Te'o situation is obviously another issue in front of selectors this weekend.But my view on the situation remains unchanged - until he is found guilty of something, or stood down by his club or the NRL, then he is available to be selected.Sports stars are not entitled to preferential treatment in this country, but nor should they be denied the right to the presumption of innocence that is afforded to every other Australian simply because they are engaged in a high-profile profession.I have not spoken to Ben about it, but I have spoken to the people at his club and I was greatly reassured by what they had to say.Souths coach Michael Maguire is a person that I have a lot of respect for, and he and I share similar sentiments about Ben.Michael and the South Sydney club were satisfied by Ben's explanation and version of events, and the quality of people at that club makes me confident in backing their judgement. This situation obviously remains active, and a formal complaint has been made to police.
A number of people have expressed an opinion that we should not gamble on Ben's selection, should the circumstances shift again and Ben be made unavailable.It is a gamble I am willing to take.I know that Ben will not allow outside events to distract him from his role or allow it to impact on the team's performance.He and the team around him are mature enough to deal with things if circumstances change.
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...of-origin-opener/story-fni3fr51-1226650504635
- - - Updated - - -
Maroon spirit to lift out of form stars for State of Origin series opener
- TODD BALYM
- THE COURIER-MAIL
- MAY 26, 2013 12:00AM
Maroons prop Matt Scott with the trophy after last year's State of Origin series success. Picture: Adam Head Source: The Courier-Mail
As coach Mal Meninga prepares to officially name his Origin I team tomorrow night, the form of several key players remains a concern.More than half of the Maroons team will come from Queensland clubs the Cowboys, Broncos and Titans, who have struggled for consistency this season.The Cowboys are riding a three-game losing streak, with Johnathan Thurston, Matt Scott and Brent Tate increasingly frustrated at the poor results from a team touted as premiership contenders.Brisbane's quartet of Justin Hodges, Corey Parker, Sam Thaiday and Matt Gillett are individually playing well, but their team has produced inconsistent results.Titans duo Nate Myles and Ashley Harrison have experienced some tough recent losses while Melbourne's star trio Billy Slater, Cooper Cronk and Cameron Smith have experienced a frustrating past month at the Storm.Scott said he would "like to think" that club form would not be an issue for Queensland, but admitted it was one area where NSW had no such concerns."
The flip side of that is NSW has got some players in great form at the moment. That is a worry for us," he said."But hopefully the team gets into camp, the team has been around for a long time now and are very used to each other."There is a special sort of environment in those Origin camps."Hopefully that (club form) doesn't affect us too much."Crucially for Meninga, several players are either playing through injury or are only a few games on the comeback trail from weeks out of the game.Myles (groin) and Harrison (knee) are playing through serious complaints, Hodges (ribs) has played just two of the last four NRL games due to injury and Raiders prop David Shillington is three games back from his own rib issue.Only South Sydney pair Greg Inglis and Ben Te'o, plus Sydney Roosters bolter Martin Kennedy, could be entirely happy with their past month of football.One thing is certain, Meninga will ensure club issues are quickly forgotten when the Maroon family reunite in Brisbane tomorrow to prepare for an eighth straight series win.The Blues will name their team today, with the biggest talking point the decision to axe Todd Carney in favour of James Maloney.
The Blues have not begun an Origin series with the same halves combination since 2000 and 2001 when Brett Kimmorley and Brad Fittler were in charge.NSW have never won a game with a five-eighth on debut while over the past seven years, the Maroons have used just four halves - Cooper Cronk, Darren Lockyer, Scott Prince and Johnathan Thurston.
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...in-series-opener/story-fni3fr51-1226650505575