Matty Johns believes that South Sydney can “come from nowhere” to win the NRL premiership this season, but only if they address a potentially decisive part of their game.
South Sydney can move up to fifth on the ladder if they beat Parramatta in a crunch clash at CommBank Stadium on Friday night.
Both teams will be looking to keep their top four hopes alive with a win in the blockbuster, while the loser could risk dropping down the ladder.
Stream every game of every round of the 2022 NRL Telstra Premiership Season Live & Ad-Break Free During Play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
PAUL GREEN NEWS
OBITUARY: 167cm great who became a giant and the gamble that set him up for glory
‘FUNNY, CARING’: Legends’ emotional tribute to ‘wonderful friend’ Green
‘HAD TOO MUCH TO OFFER’: Bennett reveals Dolphins’ talks with Green in tribute
The Rabbitohs began their impressive run of form against Parramatta early last month, recording the first of four consecutive wins.
After wins over the struggling Newcastle Knights and Bulldogs, Souths made a statement with a 12-point win over the Melbourne Storm.
While they lost in golden point the week after against the Sharks, they bounced back with an emphatic win over the Warriors on the Sunshine Coast.
But not everyone is sold on their recent successes, with Matty Johns comparing the team to a “nice Sunday drive.”
“South Sydney, their recent performances remind me of someone taking a nice Sunday drive, and I mean that both in praise and criticism,” Johns said on SEN’s Morning Glory.
“Watching South Sydney, and I think it’s a bad practice, it’s something they’ve got to be really careful of, they’re lifting the intensity only when they think they need to.
“That’s a concern because intensity and focus and poise under pressure is not something you just reach for out of the kit bag and say ‘alright we’re gonna do it now’.
“Last week I was expecting a real statement game against the Warriors, and they delivered in the first-half. Their intent and their blueprint (on) how they played their best football was the evidence.
Rabbitohs star Latrell Mitchell has been in some sensational form for the Rabbitohs since returning from injury. (Photo by Ashley Feder/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
“But the second-half there was just no intensity in the contest… and I’m probably knit-picking a little bit because I do like to see coaches showing a range of emotions, but in that second-half when they were really wiping the floor with the Warriors, whenever they cut up to the coaches box the whole coaching staff were really pissing themselves laughing.
“That’s almost a little bit symbolic of where Souths are. It’s got to start tonight, they’ve got to start to lift and they’ve got to start to play with finals intensity football.”
Latrell Mitchell has been in sensational form for the Rabbitohs, after returning from an almost three month absence against the Eels.
Mitchell has had nine try assists since returning just over one month ago, as well as 33 tackle breaks and four tries.
While the Rabbitohs have largely reaped the rewards since he returned, although Johns issued the team with a warning.
“Latrell plays his best football when he’s relaxed. He’s come back from the States really relaxed, and his touch from him, the way he’s playing is just superb, but it does n’t mean that the rest of the side play their best relaxed, ”he added.
“At the moment there’s a reliance on ‘Trell will get it done’. When you’ve got players like Latrell Mitchell in your football side, they are the icing on the cake. They’re the one who can actually get it done for you.
“But you can’t rely on them. Even with Andrew Johns in our side, our forwards were tearing heads off, hitting the line that hard… If suddenly we went out there and say ‘Joey will get us home’, it just doesn’t happen.”
Storm sizzle poor Panthers | 02:01
Despite a tough run home, in which they play the Eels, Panthers, Cowboys and Roosters, Johns believes they can go all the way.
“The way they’re playing, that relaxed style, and the fact they’re playing within themselves and winning, well done to you boys. But they’re in a position, in my opinion, they can win this competition.
“They can come from nowhere and win this competition but they will not win it with the way they’re playing at the moment.
“It’s nothing about talent or anything like that, they’ve just got to develop, in the next few weeks, a really hard edge, and tonight’s a perfect opportunity.”
The rugby league world is in mourning after the sudden death of Paul Green at 49 years old in his Brisbane home on Thursday morning.
the Daily Telegraph reported that Green had not said anything about feeling ill before his sudden passing, with a postmortem to determine the cause of his death.
Green had been in Sydney last weekend for the Cronulla ex-players’ reunion, one of five teams the former Australian and Queensland representative halfback played for during his career.
Stream every game of every round of the 2022 NRL Telstra Premiership Season Live & Ad-Break Free During Play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
‘HARD TO BELIEVE’: Tributes flow as NRL rocked by death of Paul Green
Remembering Paul Green’s amazing career | 08:32
Green had a decorated playing career which spanned 162 games, suiting up for the Cronulla Sharks, North Queensland Cowboys, Sydney Roosters, Parramatta Eels and Brisbane Broncos.
He then made the switch to coaching after he hung up the boots, taking the Cowboys to their first-ever premiership in 2015 before also taking over the Queensland Maroons Origin side.
In a playing and coaching career of many highlights, Green’s greatest would be his role in taking North Queensland to its maiden premiership in 2015.
Green first took the helm at the Cowboys in 2014 and saw immediate results as the Cowboys won the inaugural NRL Auckland Nines tournament.
MORE NRL NEWS
The side of Green few got to see… and why it made him so special
The masterstroke in Green’s greatest triumph and iconic celebration that will live forever
Green’s final interview at Old Boys Day | 00:28
North Queensland carried the pre-season form into the season proper, finishing in fifth spot on the ladder before being eliminated by the Roosters in dramatic fashion in the semi-finals.
The Cowboys improved to third in the 2015 season and this time around went all the way to the title, taking down the Broncos in a golden-point thriller for the ages.
North Queensland got back to the grand finale under Green’s watch in 2017 too, even without legendary halfback Johnathan Thurston, but were outclassed by Melbourne.
Paul Green in action for Cronulla.Source: News Corp Australia
North Queensland carried the pre-season form into the season proper, finishing in fifth spot on the ladder before being eliminated by the Roosters in dramatic fashion in the semi-finals.
The Cowboys improved to third in the 2015 season and this time around went all the way to the title, taking down the Broncos in a golden-point thriller for the ages.
North Queensland got back to the grand finale under Green’s watch in 2017 too, even without legendary halfback Johnathan Thurston, but were outclassed by Melbourne.
Last year Thurston revealed the first conversation he had with Green that led to the drought-breaking title triumph in 2015.
“He arrived to the club in 2014 and I remember the first meeting we had at the Dally M’s of 2013,” Thurston told WWOS.
“He asked me what was the perception of the Cowboys at that time. I said, ‘We’re pretty inconsistent’. He stopped me pretty much and said ‘You can’t win away from home, and you can’t win when you’re on the sidelines’ so what do I need to do to change that?
Johnathan Thurston and Paul Green after winning the 2015 NRL Grand Final. Pics Adam HeadSource: News Corp Australia
“We needed to get everyone training to an intensity that is required and he did that, and over those years we went on to win a premiership, make four straight finals and another grand final so he’s a great coach.
“I was bought to the club in 2005 to win a premiership. He got everyone to that level and won that first ever premiership for the club which was great scenes for North Queensland and we’ll never forget it.”
Green said he would “always treasure” the premiership-winning year with the Cowboys upon his exit from the club in 2020.
“I am grateful to the board for allowing me to lead this club whilst creating some lifelong memories,” he said at the time.
Iconic: Green goes wild in 2015 GF win | 00:27
‘AN OUTSTANDING CAREER’: NRL WORLD COUNTRIES TRIBUTE TO GREEN
Tributes were quick to flow in from the rugby league world after news broke of Green’s sudden death.
Former Melbourne Storm and Maroons hooker Cameron Smith called it “shocking news” on SEN Radio.
“A very sad part of the day,” Smith said, reacting to the news alongside Denan Kemp, who was coached by Green in the early stages of his rugby league career.
Daly Cherry-Evans and Maroons coach Paul Green celebrate. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
“It’s certainly rocked myself and Kempy in the studio and everyone in the rugby league world.
“It’s a sad day for everyone involved in the rugby league family and community. We send our best wishes and condolences out to the entire Green family.”
Kemp spent a bit of time learning from Green in the early stages of his career and paid tribute to his ability to turn around the Queensland Cup team the Wynnum Seagulls after a challenging start to the season.
“I was fortunate enough, he was my kicking and catching coach when I was coming through at the Broncos and he was also my coach when I was at Wynnum,” Kemp said.
“I had a small amount to do with him but in the time I did, it was actually really interesting the year I was at Wynnum I ended up signing with another club to leave but we had a really tough start to the season. Greeny managed to turn the Wynnum Seagulls around and we won the premiership that year.
“He’s a fighter. It’s a very sad day to see Greeny go like that.”
‘It’s numbered the state of Queensland’ | 03:08
Former teammate, Martin Lang, posted on Twitter: “This is so sad. Paul was a close mate, we moved to Sydney together in 1993….the beginning of an outstanding NRL playing/coaching career. My sincere condolences to Paul’s wife, children and his dear mum and dad. Rest In Peace mate.”
Meanwhile, Tigers playmaker Jackson Hastings wrote: “Can’t believe the Paul Green news this morning. Achieved it all as a player and coach still had so much to give, taken way to soon. Thoughts and prayers with family and friends. Makes you realize to take nothing for granted. RIP.”
North Queensland halfback Chad Townsend also paid his respects, writing: “RIP Paul Green. Thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends of him at this time. ”
The Eels, Sharks and Roosters Broncos also posted tributes to Green on social media while the Cowboys made a statement on the club’s website.
“Paul first came to our club as a player in the late 90s and was the club’s first Origin representative, but his lasting legacy emanated from his seven-season tenure as Head Coach of the North Queensland Cowboys,” chairman Lewis Ramsay said.
“Paul’s arrival as Head Coach transformed our club from finals contenders to an immediate premiership force, culminating in the historic 2015 Grand Final victory.
“We will forever remember Paul as one of the greatest contributors in Cowboys history.”
NRL OFFICIAL STATEMENT:
Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) Chairman Peter V’landys said: “Paul was a brilliant player, and then became one of the few to make a very successful transition into coaching. As a player, he represented Cronulla Sharks, North Queensland Cowboys, Sydney Roosters, Parramatta Eels and Brisbane Broncos, and throughout his career he had a reputation as a halfback who was as tough as he was skilful. Paul was rewarded with the Rothmans Medal in 1995.
“As a coach he led the North Queensland Cowboys to one of the most famous Grand Final victories of all time – against Brisbane Broncos in 2015. He represented Queensland and Australia as a player, and only last year coached the Maroons in the State of Origin series.
“I had the pleasure of sitting on the NRL Competition Committee and found Paul to be a passionate, smart and witty individual. Our condolences go to his family and to his many friends of him. ”
NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said: “We are deeply saddened by this loss, and on behalf of the game, I’d like to extend our deepest condolences to Paul’s family, his friends, and those who have been inspired and mentored by him over the course of his long career.”
PAUL GREEN FACT FILE
Playing record:
-Halfback; played 162 first grade games 1994-2004.
* Played 95 games for Cronulla (1994-98)
* 35 for North Queensland (1999-2000)
* 20 for Sydney Roosters (2001-02)
* 7 for Parramatta (2003)
* 5 for Brisbane (2004)
– Played for Cronulla in 1997 Super League grand final
– Represented Queensland in seven State of Origin games 1999-2001.
– Played two Super League Tests for Australia 1997
Coaching appointments:
– Brisbane Broncos Assistant Coach 2009
– Wynnum-Manly Intrust Super Cup 2010-12
-Sydney Roosters Holden Cup 2013
– Sydney Roosters Assistant NRL coach 2013
– Queensland Residents 2012-13
– North Queensland 2014-20
-Queensland 2021
Coaching achievements:
– Won Intrust Super Cup titles with Wynnum-Manly 2011, 2012
– Steered Sydney Roosters Holden Cup team to Finals Series 2013
– Took North Queensland to Finals Series 2014-17
– Won premiership with North Queensland 2015
– Won World Club Championship with North Queensland 2016
The Wests Tigers have been urged to “move on” from new recruit Isaiah Papali’i and use his $1.9 million contract to make a splash in the transfer market.
The Eels enforcer Isaiah had agreed to a three-year deal with the Tigers, but the star recruit is considering a backflip which could leave the club in a tough spot.
Stream every game of every round of the 2022 NRL Telstra Premiership Season Live & Ad-Break Free During Play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
Stream every game of every round of the 2022 NRL Telstra Premiership Season Live & Ad-Break Free During Play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
MORE NRL NEWS
‘THEY HAVE SWAGGER’: Panthers defended amid arrogance claims from Storm
‘HAVE TO BE TAPPED’: Roosters crisis as seven stars command half of salary cap
WHISPERS: Bronco out in cold as rivals deny approach, Eels gun open to code switch
ROSTER OVERHAUL: Tigers target ex-Raiders star Bateman as Sheens gets creative
The 23-year-old revealed his concerns after the Tigers parted ways with premiership winning coach Michael Maguire, and has since been linked with a return to the Warriors.
Papalii inked the big-money deal last November, but told 9 News that his future is still far from certain.
“Obviously people ask me about it, just even on the street or family and friends are hitting me up but that’s kind of for my manager look after and even if I don’t stay here or I do go next year, I want to make sure that this year has no regrets,” Papalii said.
“I reckon somewhere in the off-season because this is distracting me at the moment.
“We have a massive opportunity and I don’t want to leave any stone unturned this year and look back on it and think ‘I shouldn’t have left that stuff get in the way’.”
Tom Trbojevic reveals World Cup doubts | 01:12
The Daily Telegraph’s David Riccio and NRL360 co-host Paul Kent said the Tigers could not afford to wait until the end of the season for Papali’i to make a decision.
“They have a salary cap to manage, they can’t sit back and wait for this guy,” Kent said.
“That’s why they the Tigers should move on now, move on and use the money before it’s too late,” Riccio added.
“Don’t wait until November. If they do there will be no market for them,” Kent replied.
Should Tigers hear the message and cut ties with Papali’i, it leaves them with two clear options.
Spend the money now and bring in a player to bolster the side for next season or save it up and make a play for one of the big-name stars off-contract from 2023 who can begin negotiating with rivals from November 1.
BEN HUNT
Age: 32
Club: St George Dragons
Position: half-back
Current contract: expires at the end of 2023
While the Dragons are reportedly leading the race for Hunt’s signature, the Tigers should do everything they can to ensure he’s wearing their colors in the future.
Hunt, who was leading the Dally M race before the count went behind closed doors, has begun negotiations with the Dragons over a two-year extension.
The Daily Telegraph have revealed that the playmaker’s management had met with the Dragons late last month.
Since then, however, the Dragons have hit turmoil.
James Hooper reported there had been a major blow-up at the Dragons following the treatment of hooker Andrew McCullough and the axing of assistant coaches Peter Gentle and Mat Head for next season.
Hunt is extremely close with McCullough, having played together at both the Dragons and Broncos as well as for Queensland. The development could provide an opening for rivals to make a move.
The Tigers, who would only be able to speak to Hunt since November 1, are in desperate need of a solution at halfback.
Jock Madden has been sporting the No. 7 jersey for the Tigers over the past couple of weeks, but with just 13 games of NRL experience to his name, the club could use a boost.
If Luke Brooks is allowed to leave it would free up plenty of money for the Tigers to make an all-in move.
Hunt is in high demand with a number of clubs interested in services, and he wouldn’t come cheap. But fresh off his Origin heroics, the Tigers should be willing to move mountains if that’s what it takes to lure the star half to the western suburbs.
COREY OATES
Age: 27
Club: brisbane broncos
Position: wings
Current contract: expires at the end of the year
At just 27-years-old, there’s no reason why a club like the Tigers shouldn’t spend big money on a proven try scorer such as Corey Oates.
Oates, who has 188 NRL games to his name, equaled his record for most tries in a season with a double in Round 21 against the Roosters.
Corey Oats. Broncos V Storm. Picture: NRL ImagesSource: Supplied
Oates comes off contract at the end of this season with the Broncos, so he could become an immediate piece of the Tigers’ puzzle for next season.
He would also offer new coach Tim Sheens some versatility having experience playing in the back row.
DAVID KLEMER
Age: 28
Club: Newcastle Knights
Position: Prop
Current contract: expires at the end of 2023
Klemmer was reportedly close to having his contract torn up with the Knights after being issues with a breach notice for an on-field issue.
The former New South Wales prop is on a big-money contract with the Knights, but came under fire after he verbally abused trainer Hayden Knowles during a 14-point loss to the Bulldogs.
“A big overreaction’ Johns on Klemmer | 04:26
Parramatta were reportedly interested in signing the prop for the remainder of the 2022 season on loan before the incident.
While Klemmer has been among the Knights best players, the recent incident, and his hefty contract, could convince Newcastle to agree to release him early.
LIAM MARTIN
Age: 25
Club: Penrith Panthers
Position: second row
Current contract: expires at the end of 2023
Another player who comes off contract at the end of next season, Martin would be an incredible signing for the Tigers who could approach him from November 1.
Martin has been a key part of the Panthers’ dominance over the last few seasons and has reaped the rewards after cementing his place in the Blues Origin fold.
Liam Martin is among a list of big names who can talk with rivals since November 1.Source: Getty Images
The Panthers still need to lock down fellow Origin stars Brian To’o and Stephen Crichton which could mean Martin is gettable.
He would be a more than handy replacement for Papali’i if the Tigers can convince him to make the switch.
MARTIN TAUPAU
Age: 32
Club: Manly Sea Eagles
Position: second row
Current contract: expires at the end of the year
Sea Eagles enforcer Taupau reportedly requested an immediate release to join the Eels before the August 1 deadline.
It appears as if he wants out of Brookvale, and with his contract expiring at the end of the season, it’ll be interesting to see which colors he dons next season.
The former Kiwi international played for the Tigers for two seasons before moving to Manly for the 2016 season.
With plenty of power to throw around the field, Taupau can be an asset to any team when he’s in-form.
TYSON FRIZEL
Age: 30
Club: Newcastle Knights
Position: second row
Current contract: expires at the end of 2023
It wasn’t too long ago that Tyson Frizell was a regular for both the New South Wales Blues and Kangaroos teams.
Frizell made his name with the Dragons before securing a lucrative deal to sign with the Knights, where he’s played the last two seasons.
Tyson FrizellSource: Getty Images
While he still has one more year to run on that contract, Frizell could potentially be lured to the Tigers on a smaller deal than what he’s on now.
What’s more, his name has been mentioned as part of a potential swap deal for Luke Brooks.
While it was denied by Tim Sheens, there is clearly some movement around Frizell.
VICTOR RADLEY
Age: 24
Club: sydney roosters
Position: Lock
Current contract: expires at the end of 2023
Hypothetically speaking, Roosters lock Victor Radley has the potential to be an incredible signing for the Tigers.
The 24-year-old, who has sworn his international allegiance to England ahead of the World Cup, has premiership winning experience and 93 NRL games to his name.
What’s more, Phil Rothfield revealed on NRL360 that the Roosters are facing a cap crunch with seven players commanding more than half their salary cap.
The Sydney Roosters are facing a salary cap crisis with reports $5.2 million of their salary cap is tied up in seven players with others set for contract upgrades in 2023.
The Daily Telegraph’s Phil Rothfield revealed the Roosters have seven players in the NRL’s 100 highest players, which could provide a problem when some rising stars gain contract upgrades in the off-season.
“We have come up with the 100 highest paid players in the competition and what it does show is the Roosters with their list are going to have some cap pressure,” Rothfield said on NRL 360.
Stream every game of every round of the 2022 NRL Telstra Premiership Season Live & Ad-Break Free During Play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
“In 2022 they have got Tedesco on $1.1m, Luke Keary on $850,000, Joseph Manu ($720k), Jared Waerea-Hargreaves ($700k), Angus Crichton ($700k), Sio Siua Taukeiaho ($625k) and Victor Radley ( $510k) for a total of $5,205,000.
“The cap in 2021 is only $9.4 million so there is a lot of under paid players there.
“The problem for the Roosters is next year they have got to chuck Brandon Smith into that and you have also got to throw Joseph Suaalii into that who is on $700,000 next year.
“The other issue is Sam Walker is off-contract next year and as you know there aren’t many great young halves around, so he is going to have to get some serious money.”
Paul Kent questioned how the Roosters can pay the other 23 players in their squad less than half of what their seven highest paid stars earn.
MORE NRL NEWS
WHISPERS: Bronco out in cold as rivals deny approach, Eels gun open to code switch
ROSTER OVERHAUL: Tigers target ex-Raiders star Bateman as Sheens gets creative
NRL RUN HOME: Eels star sparks title arises as grim Broncos reality sets in
‘NOT A GOOD LOOK’: Tigers star reveals he wanted Storm loan switch
James Tedesco is one of seven Roosters stars in the top 100 highest paid NRL players.Source: Getty Images
“How do you get 23 more players in on $4.2 million?” Kent asked.
“That is a lot of money in seven players.”
Braith Anasta asked Rothfield if he believes the Roosters will have to let some of their big earners go to build a successful team for 2023.
“Are you saying that the Roosters are in some salary cap pressure and they are going to find it hard to keep everyone next year?” Anasta asked.
Rothfield spoke to Roosters boss Nick Politis about the state of the Roosters salary cap heading into 2023.
Get all the latest NRL news, highlights and analysis delivered straight to your inbox with Fox Sports Sportmail. Sign up now!!
PK: ‘The fact is players get injured!’ | 02:24
“Angus Crichton is not on that list and his contract hasn’t been registered yet for 2023, so if you put Angus Crichton in you are going up to nearly $6 million,” Rothfield said.
“I spoke to Nick Politis today and his position on the salary cap is this. Boyd Cordner was medically retired which took $720,000 out of their salary cap.
“There were some minor players they let go in Sam Verills, Ronald Volkman, Lachlan Lam, Siosiua Taukeiaho and Daniel Suluka-Fifita went to Souths.
“So they have probably lost $1.5 million with those players including Taukeiaho.
“I still think it is going to be a squeeze, without setting alarm bells for their players or fans I think there are a few that are going to have to be tapped.”
Do Panthers deserve ‘arrogant’ tag? | 03:03
However, Brent Read revealed the salary cap is set to rise by $1.5 million at least for 2023 and beyond.
“We should say the cap hasn’t been set for next year and it will go up,” Read said.
“There is a big meeting on Thursday between the NRL and the club CEO’s about the salary cap.
“I think it will go up to at least $12 million next year.”
However, Anasta believes as it stands it looks like some players will have to take pay cuts to keep the team together.
“In looking at that they can’t really be in the market for anyone,” Anasta said.
“They are unlikely to be looking for new players and a few players may have to take pay cuts if they want to stay there it would seem by the numbers.”
Jake Turpin is out in the cold after the Broncos confirmed he will not be at the club next season, while a potential suitor has denied they are interested in his services.
Meanwhile, the Broncos are set to give Kobe Hetherington a pay rise in a bid to ward off NRL rivals and Eels star Will Penisini is open to a switch to rugby union.
Read on for all the latest NRL Transfer Whispers.
Stream every game of every round of the 2022 NRL Telstra Premiership Season Live & Ad-Break Free During Play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
BRONCOS HOOKER IN NRL WILDERNESS
Jake Turpin is out in the cold after the Broncos confirmed he will not be at the club next season, while the Knights have denied they are interested in his services.
Newscorp reported Turpin will not be at the Broncos next season, while the Knights have denied they will make a play to lure him to the Hunter.
The Broncos are set to invest in incumbents Billy Walters and Cory Paix as well as rising rookie Blake Mozer as their dummyhalf options moving forward.
Broncos coach Kevin Walters confirmed Turpin is not in the club’s long-term plans and will not be offered a new deal in 2022.
“At the moment, there is nothing for Jake with us for next year unfortunately,” Walters told Newscorp.
“The reality is it was going to be hard to keep Jake.
“We have Billy (Walters) and Cory Paix in our squad at the moment, so as much as you would love to keep all your players, with the salary-cap it’s difficult.
Payten opens up on time with Cowboys | 06:27
“’Turps’ has played some great games for the Broncos, and he is good at those little effort areas, particularly in defense, but with our roster, we don’t have any spots left for the hooker position.”
Knights Director of Football Peter Parr poured cold water on reports Newcastle will target Turpin as a back-up to Jayden Brailey.
“He is a wholehearted player but his name hasn’t been mentioned to me at all (by recruitment manager Clint Zammit), so we have no plans to sign him” Parr said.
The 25-year-old has scored four tries in 56 games for the Broncos since his debut in 2018 and won the club’s most consistent player award just last season.
MORE NRL NEWS
ROSTER OVERHAUL: Tigers target ex-Raiders star Bateman as Sheens gets creative
NRL RUN HOME: Eels star sparks title arises as grim Broncos reality sets in
‘NOT A GOOD LOOK’: Tigers star reveals he wanted Storm loan switch
‘MEDICAL DECISION’: Turbo opens up on Manly season…
Jake Turpin is on the lookout for a new club.Source: Getty Images
EELS STAR OPEN TO CODE SWITCH
Eels young gun Will Penisini is open to a switch to rugby union in the future as the club looks to lock him to a long-term extension.
Newscorp reported Penisini, who played the rival code at school with Roosters star Joseph Suaalii at Kings College, hasn’t shut the door on a potential move to the 15-man game in the future.
“I’m not closing the door on rugby union,” Penisini told News Corp.
“Right now, I am content with where I am at Parramatta and I’m loving rugby league at the moment. I am just at the start of my career and I want to build my game and focus on playing consistent footy for Parramatta and try not to look too far ahead about the decision between rugby league or rugby union.”
The Eels are already trying to extend Penisini beyond his current deal, which expires in 2023.
The 20-year-old center has scored seven tries in 25 games for the Eels since his debut in 2021 and has already played one Test for Tonga, who he is likely to feature for at the World Cup.
Will Penisini is open to a switch to rugby union.Source: Getty Images
BRONCOS UP OFFER TO YOUNG GUN AS RIVALS CIRCLE
Broncos lock Kobe Hetherington is set for a massive pay rise as Brisbane aim to ward off approaches from rival clubs for his services.
Newscorp reported Hetherington is set to earn a pay rise of $200,000 a year as the club aims to lock him up on a two-year extension.
However, it is believed Hetherington, who is starting for Brisbane in the absence of the suspended Patrick Carrigan, could command upwards of $300,000 on the open market.
Hetherington is a versatile forward who can cover back row, front row and hooker, with no shortage of clubs keen on a player of his ability.
The 23-year-old has scored three tries in 33 games for the Broncos since his debut in 2021 and has been a mainstay of Kevin Walters’ pack rotation this season.
Kobe Hetherington is set for a pay rise.Source: Getty Images
Get all the latest NRL news, highlights and analysis delivered straight to your inbox with Fox Sports Sportmail. Sign up now!!
Cowboys coach Todd Payten has made a startling admission about young gun Tom Dearden, revealing the rising playmaker was a “shell of a person” when he arrived at the club.
Dearden, 21, was once heralded as a star of the future at the Brisbane Broncos before he reportedly fell out of favor with head coach Kevin Walters.
The five-eighth signed with rivals North Queensland on a three-year deal, and was later a granted a mid-season transfer.
Stream every game of every round of the 2022 NRL Telstra Premiership Season Live & Ad-Break Free During Play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
Papali’i to backflip on $1.9m & Tigers? | 07:26
Both clubs were struggling towards the bottom of the ladder, with the Broncos having claimed the wooden spoon for the first time in their history the season before.
While Dearden insisted that his confidence hadn’t taken a hit by how things turned out at the Broncos, coach Payten has now revealed he saw things differently.
“He was a shell of a person, I’ve got to say,” Payten told Matty Johns on Fox League’s face to face
“He was nervous and second guessing himself, whether it was on or off the pitch.
“What I did like about him was the way he trained. He’s super competitive, he’s really professional, and playing footy means something to him.
Tom Trbojevic reveals World Cup doubts | 01:12
“He’s wanted to play NRL since he was a kid and you can see that in the way he goes about it.”
North Queensland took a backwards step in 2021 and finished a place behind the Broncos in 15th.
But a stellar pre-season, with Dearden among the standouts, has thrust the club into premiership contention this year.
Payten said while the senior players helped lead the team throughout the successful pre-season, younger players including Dearden, Reuben Cotter and Tom Gilbert also impressed.
These players helped the Cowboys learn from their mistakes, as they trained by practicing things that “they weren’t expecting”.
“They train hard, everyone trains hard so that’s a given. Through our review, I’m talking about the coaches review… we watched all of the tries that we’d conceded which was not fun to view,” Payten said.
MORE NRL NEWS
‘NOT CONVINCING’: Twist in star’s Tigers backflip saga as Warriors reunion emerges
‘ENGINEERED’: NRL accused of making Ricky scapegoat with ‘harsh’ ban
‘NOT AT OUR CLUB’: Payten reveals Thurston didn’t want him amid GF grudge
TEAMS ANALYSIS: Broncos’ backline shake-up; Knights recall enforcer
“A lot of those, I think about 60 per cent of those would come from missed tackles that should’ve been made or guys not competing enough.
“We conceded the most tries from kicks in the competition and that affected our headspace in games. We’d defend two sets and then from a guy not getting their job done or someone not competing hard enough, we’d conceded a try.
“As soon as something upset the rhythm or went against them, we didn’t have the mental or physical capacity to get on with the job.
“(We had to) just build around upsetting rhythm in different ways. Doing things that they weren’t expecting to do at different times and causing a little bit of chaos and seeing how they handled it.
“We got better as the preseason went on.”
Daly Cherry-Evans and Tom DeardenSource: Supplied
Dearden has reaped the rewards of the Cowboys’ successful season, as they currently sit in second behind the Panthers, by making his Origin debut for Queensland.
The up-and-comer announced himself on one of the game’s biggest stages, as he helped inspire his state to win in the decider at Suncorp Stadium.
The Panthers are facing an injury crisis ahead of their blockbuster clash with the Melbourne Storm.
The Premiers are already without a host of players and could now add young gun Taylan May to the list.
Read on for all the latest NRL team news
THURSDAY
Penrith Panthers vs Melbourne Storm 7.50pm at BlueBet Stadium
panthers team: 1. Dylan Edwards 2. Taylan May 3. Izack Tago 4. Stephen Crichton 5. Brian To’o 6. Jaeman Salmon 7. Sean O’Sullivan 8. Moses Leota 9. Apisai Koroisau 10. Matt Eisenhuth 11. Chris Smith 12 Liam Martin 13. Isaah Yeo 14. Mitch Kenny 15. Scott Sorensen 16. Spencer Leniu 17. Sunia Turuva 18. Charlie Staines 19. J’maine Hopgood 20. Robert Jennings 21. Kurt Falls 22. Viliame Kikau
Early Mail: The Panthers’ injury toll could be about to get worse after young gun Taylor May turned up to training in a sling. He was named in the Panthers side on Tuesday but will be in doubt for the blockbuster clash with the Storm.
storm-team: 1. Nick Meaney 2. David Nofoaluma 3. Marion Seve 4. Justin Olam 5. Xavier Coates 6. Cameron Munster 7. Cooper Johns 8. Jesse Bromwich 9. Harry Grant 10. Nelson Asofa-Solomona 11. Tom Eisenhuth 12. Kenny Bromwich 13. Josh King 14. Brandon Smith 15. Tui Kamikamica 16. Chris Lewis 17. Tyran Wishart 18. Alec MacDonald 19. Dean Ieremia 20. Young Tonumaipea 21. Jordan Grant 22. Jack Howarth
Broncos set to make changes after losses | 01:53
FRIDAY
Warriors vs Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs 6pm at Mt Smart Stadium
warriors team: 1. Reece Walsh 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 3. Viliami Vailea 4. Marcelo Montoya 5. Edward Kosi 6. Daejarn Asi 7. Shaun Johnson 8. Addin Fonua-Blake 9. Wayde Egan 10. Tohu Harris 11. Euan Aitken 12 Jack Murchie 13. Josh Curran 14. Freddy Lussick 15. Bunty Afoa 16. Eliesa Katoa 17. Jackson Frei 18. Bayley Sironen 20. Adam Pompey 21. Taniela Otukolo 22. Tom Ale 23. Rocco Berry
bulldogs team: 1. Jake Averillo 2. Jacob Kiraz 3. Aaron Schoupp 4. Braidon Burns 5. Josh Addo-Carr 6. Matt Burton 7. Kyle Flanagan 8. Max King 9. Jeremy Marshall-King 10. Paul Vaughan 11. Josh Jackson 12 Jackson Topine 13. Raymond Faitala-Mariner 14. Zach Dokar-Clay 15. Joe Stimson 16. Harrison Edwards 17. Chris Patolo 19. Declan Casey 20. Kurtis Morrin 21. Bailey Biondi-Odo 22. Jeral Skelton 23. Phillip Makatoa
Parramatta Eels vs South Sydney Rabbitohs 7.55pm at CommBank Stadium
eels team: 1. Clinton Gutherson 2. Maika Sivo 3. Viliami Penisini 4. Tom Opacic 5. Waqa Blake 6. Dylan Brown 7. Jakob Arthur 8. Reagan Campbell-Gillard 9. Reed Mahoney 10. Junior Paulo 11. Shaun Lane 12. Isaiah Papali’i 13. Ryan Matterson 14. Ofahiki Ogden 15. Bryce Cartwright 16. Oregon Kaufusi 17. Marata Niukore 18. Makahesi Makatoa 19. Bailey Simonsson 20. Ky Rodwell 21. Sean Russell 22. Elie El Zakhem
REVEALED: NRL’s punishment for Ricky for ugly spray as Kent slams
NEW ERA: Storm in ‘serious decline’ if Munster leaves as ‘biggest test’ looms
‘RATTLED THE CAGE’: The moment Eels star began mulling over Tigers backflip
Eels tired of ’embarrassment’ by Souths | 01:22
SATURDAY
Sydney Roosters vs North Queensland Cowboys 3pm at SCG
roosters team: 1. James Tedesco 2. Daniel Tupou 3. Paul Momirovski 4. Joseph Manu 5. Joseph Suaalii 6. Luke Keary 7. Sam Walker 8. Jared Waerea-Hargreaves 9. Sam Verrills 10. Matthew Lodge 11. Angus Crichton 12. Nat Butcher 13. Victor Radley 14. Connor Watson 15. Egan Butcher 16. Drew Hutchison 17. Terrell May 18. Adam Keighran 19. Fletcher Baker 20. Kevin Naiqama 21. Ben Thomas 22. Siua Wong
cowboys team: 1. Scott Drinkwater 2. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow 3. Valentine Holmes 4. Peta Hiku 5. Murray Taulagi 6. Tom Dearden 7. Chad Townsend 8. Coen Hess 9. Reece Robson 10. Reuben Cotter 11. Tom Gilbert 12. Jeremiah Nanai 13. Jason Taumalolo 14. Jordan McLean 15. Jamayne Taunoa-Brown 16. Luciano Leilua 17. Griffin Neame 18. Brendan Elliot 19. Ben Hampton 20. Jake Granville 21. Riley Price 22. Connelly Lemuelu
Wests Tigers vs Cronulla Sharks 5.30pm at Scully Park, Tamworth
tigers team: 1. Daine Laurie 2. Brent Naden 3. James Roberts 4. Asu Kepaoa 5. Starford To’a 6. Adam Doueihi 7. Jock Madden 8. James Tamou 9. Fa’amanu Brown 10. Zane Musgrove 11. Alex Seyfarth 12 Kelma Tuilagi 13. Joe Ofahengaue 14. Fonua Pole 15. Austin Dias 16. Thomas Freebairn 17. Tyrone Peachey 18. Luke Garner 19. Jake Simpkin 20. Brandon Tumeth 21. Junior Tupou 22. Justin Matamua
sharks team: 1. Kade Dykes 2. Lachlan Miller 3. Jesse Ramien 4. Siosifa Talakai 5. Ronaldo Mulitalo 6. Braydon Trindall 7. Nicho Hynes 8. Toby Rudolf 9. Blayke Brailey 10. Braden Hamlin-Uele 11. Briton Nikora 12. Wade Graham 13. Dale Finucane 14. Teig Wilton 15. Cameron McInnes 16. Aiden Tolman 17. Andrew Fifita 18. Kayal Iro 19. Royce Hunt 20. Luke Metcalf 21. Jesse Colquhoun 22. Matt Ikuvalu
Brisbane Broncos vs Newcastle Knights 7.35pm at Suncorp Stadium
broncos team: 1. Te Maire Martin 2. Corey Oates 3. Kotoni Staggs 4. Brenko Lee 5. Selwyn Cobbo 6. Ezra Mam 7. Adam Reynolds 8. Thomas Flegler 9. Billy Walters 10. Payne Haas 11. Kurt Capewell 12. Jordan Riki 13. Kobe Hetherington 14. Jake Turpin 15. Rhys Kennedy 16. Corey Jensen 17. Keenan Palasia 18. Cory Paix 19. Ryan James 20. Jordan Pereira 21. Delouise Hoeter 22. Zac Hosking
knights team: 1. Tex Hoy 2. Enari Tuala 3. Dane Gagai 4. Bradman Best 5. Dominic Young 6. Anthony Milford 7. Adam Clune 8. David Klemmer 9. Jayden Brailey 10. Daniel Saifiti 11. Tyson Frizell 12. Brodie Jones 13 Mathew Croker 14. Phoenix Crossland 15. Jacob Saifiti 16. Pasami Saulo 17. Simi Sasagi 18. Jack Johns 19. Sauaso Sue 20. Chris Randall 21. Edrick Lee 22. Hymel Hunt
Rudolf opens up on Pride support | 01:19
Get all the latest NRL news, highlights and analysis delivered straight to your inbox with Fox Sports Sportmail. Sign up now!!
SUNDAY
Canberra Raiders vs St George Illawarra Dragons 2pm at GIO Stadium
raiders team: 1. Xavier Savage 2. Albert Hopoate 3. Matthew Timoko 4. Sebastian Kris 5. Jordan Rapana 6. Jack Wighton 7. Jamal Fogarty 8. Josh Papali’i 9. Zac Woolford 10. Emre Guler 11. Hudson Young 12. Elliott Whitehead 13. Adam Elliott 14. Tom Starling 15. Ryan Sutton 16. Corey Horsburgh 17. Corey Harawira-Naera 18. James Schiller 19. Ata Mariota 20. Matt Frawley 21. Peter Hola 22. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad
dragons team: 1. Moses Mbye 2. Mathew Feagai 3. Jack Bird 4. Zac Lomax 5. Tautau Moga 6. Talatau Amone 7. Ben Hunt 8. Jack de Belin 9. Andrew McCullough 10. Blake Lawrie 11. Josh Mcguire 12. Jaydn Su ‘A 13. Michael Molo 14. Tyrell Sloan 15. Aaron Woods 16. Tyrell Fuimaono 17. Billy Burns 18. Jayden Sullivan 19. Jackson Ford 20. Jaiyden Hunt 21. Cody Ramsey 22. Jack Gosiewski
Gold Coast Titans vs Manly Sea Eagles 4.05pm at Cbus Super Stadium
titans team: 1. Jayden Campbell 2. Sosefo Fifita 3. Phillip Sami 4. Brian Kelly 5. Patrick Herbert 6. AJ Brimson 7. Tanah Boyd 8. Moeaki Fotuaika 9. Erin Clark 10. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui 11. David Fifita 12. Beau Fermor 13. Isaac Liu 14. Greg Marzhew 15. Herman Ese’ese 16. Jaimin Jolliffe 17. Sam McIntyre 18. Corey Thompson 19. Toby Sexton 20. Paul Turner 21. Klese Haas 22. Jarrod Wallace
Early Mail: The Daily Telegraph reports Titans coach Justin Holbrook could recall struggling half Toby Sexton. The cellar dwellers are looking to snap a 10-game losing streak and could promote Sexton from the extended bench
Sea Eagles team: 1. Reuben Garrick 2. Jason Saab 3. Morgan Harper 4. Tolutau Koula 5. Christian Tuipulotu 6. Kieran Foran 7. Daly Cherry-Evans 8. Toafofoa Sipley 9. Lachlan Croker 10. Martin Taupau 11. Haumole Olakau’atu 12 Andrew Davey 13. Jake Trbojevic 14. Dylan Walker 15. Ben Trbojevic 16. Ethan Bullemor 17. Josh Aloiai 18. Josh Schuster 19. Kurt De Luis 20. Brad Parker 21. Kaeo Weekes 22. Morgan Boyle
There’s good and bad news for the Storm with Nick Meaney returning at fullback but also star halfback Jahrome Hughes out with a shoulder injury.
Meanwhile, interim Warriors coach Stacey has recalled young five-eighth Daejarn Asi, allowing Wayde Egan to shift back to hooker for Friday’s clash with the Bulldogs.
And the Sharks and Tigers have had to fill holes in their backline after injuries to key players last week.
Read on for all the NRL Teams for Round 22.
Stream every game of every round of the 2022 NRL Telstra Premiership Season Live & Ad-Break Free During Play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
THURSDAY
Penrith Panthers vs Melbourne Storm 7.50pm at BlueBet Stadium
panthers team: 1. Dylan Edwards 2. Taylan May 3. Izack Tago 4. Stephen Crichton 5. Brian To’o 6. Jaeman Salmon 7. Sean O’Sullivan 8. Moses Leota 9. Apisai Koroisau 10. Matt Eisenhuth 11. Chris Smith 12 Liam Martin 13. Isaah Yeo 14. Mitch Kenny 15. Scott Sorensen 16. Spencer Leniu 17. Sunia Turuva 18. Charlie Staines 19. J’maine Hopgood 20. Robert Jennings 21. Kurt Falls 22. Viliame Kikau
storm-team: 1. Nick Meaney 2. David Nofoaluma 3. Marion Seve 4. Justin Olam 5. Xavier Coates 6. Cameron Munster 7. Cooper Johns 8. Jesse Bromwich 9. Harry Grant 10. Nelson Asofa-Solomona 11. Tom Eisenhuth 12. Kenny Bromwich 13. Josh King 14. Brandon Smith 15. Tui Kamikamica 16. Chris Lewis 17. Tyran Wishart 18. Alec MacDonald 19. Dean Ieremia 20. Young Tonumaipea 21. Jordan Grant 22. Jack Howarth
Broncos set to make changes after losses | 01:53
FRIDAY
Warriors vs Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs 6pm at Mt Smart Stadium
warriors team: 1. Reece Walsh 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 3. Viliami Vailea 4. Marcelo Montoya 5. Edward Kosi 6. Daejarn Asi 7. Shaun Johnson 8. Addin Fonua-Blake 9. Wayde Egan 10. Tohu Harris 11. Euan Aitken 12 Jack Murchie 13. Josh Curran 14. Freddy Lussick 15. Bunty Afoa 16. Eliesa Katoa 17. Jackson Frei 18. Bayley Sironen 20. Adam Pompey 21. Taniela Otukolo 22. Tom Ale 23. Rocco Berry
bulldogs team: 1. Jake Averillo 2. Jacob Kiraz 3. Aaron Schoupp 4. Braidon Burns 5. Josh Addo-Carr 6. Matt Burton 7. Kyle Flanagan 8. Max King 9. Jeremy Marshall-King 10. Paul Vaughan 11. Josh Jackson 12 Jackson Topine 13. Raymond Faitala-Mariner 14. Zach Dokar-Clay 15. Joe Stimson 16. Harrison Edwards 17. Chris Patolo 19. Declan Casey 20. Kurtis Morrin 21. Bailey Biondi-Odo 22. Jeral Skelton 23. Phillip Makatoa
Parramatta Eels vs South Sydney Rabbitohs 7.55pm at CommBank Stadium
eels team: 1. Clinton Gutherson 2. Maika Sivo 3. Viliami Penisini 4. Tom Opacic 5. Waqa Blake 6. Dylan Brown 7. Jakob Arthur 8. Reagan Campbell-Gillard 9. Reed Mahoney 10. Junior Paulo 11. Shaun Lane 12. Isaiah Papali’i 13. Ryan Matterson 14. Ofahiki Ogden 15. Bryce Cartwright 16. Oregon Kaufusi 17. Marata Niukore 18. Makahesi Makatoa 19. Bailey Simonsson 20. Ky Rodwell 21. Sean Russell 22. Elie El Zakhem
REVEALED: NRL’s punishment for Ricky for ugly spray as Kent slams
NEW ERA: Storm in ‘serious decline’ if Munster leaves as ‘biggest test’ looms
‘RATTLED THE CAGE’: The moment Eels star began mulling over Tigers backflip
Eels tired of ’embarrassment’ by Souths | 01:22
SATURDAY
Sydney Roosters vs North Queensland Cowboys 3pm at SCG
roosters team: 1. James Tedesco 2. Daniel Tupou 3. Paul Momirovski 4. Joseph Manu 5. Joseph Suaalii 6. Luke Keary 7. Sam Walker 8. Jared Waerea-Hargreaves 9. Sam Verrills 10. Matthew Lodge 11. Angus Crichton 12. Nat Butcher 13. Victor Radley 14. Connor Watson 15. Egan Butcher 16. Drew Hutchison 17. Terrell May 18. Adam Keighran 19. Fletcher Baker 20. Kevin Naiqama 21. Ben Thomas 22. Siua Wong
cowboys team: 1. Scott Drinkwater 2. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow 3. Valentine Holmes 4. Peta Hiku 5. Murray Taulagi 6. Tom Dearden 7. Chad Townsend 8. Coen Hess 9. Reece Robson 10. Reuben Cotter 11. Tom Gilbert 12. Jeremiah Nanai 13. Jason Taumalolo 14. Jordan McLean 15. Jamayne Taunoa-Brown 16. Luciano Leilua 17. Griffin Neame 18. Brendan Elliot 19. Ben Hampton 20. Jake Granville 21. Riley Price 22. Connelly Lemuelu
Wests Tigers vs Cronulla Sharks 5.30pm at Scully Park, Tamworth
tigers team: 1. Daine Laurie 2. Brent Naden 3. James Roberts 4. Asu Kepaoa 5. Starford To’a 6. Adam Doueihi 7. Jock Madden 8. James Tamou 9. Fa’amanu Brown 10. Zane Musgrove 11. Alex Seyfarth 12 Kelma Tuilagi 13. Joe Ofahengaue 14. Fonua Pole 15. Austin Dias 16. Thomas Freebairn 17. Tyrone Peachey 18. Luke Garner 19. Jake Simpkin 20. Brandon Tumeth 21. Junior Tupou 22. Justin Matamua
sharks team: 1. Kade Dykes 2. Lachlan Miller 3. Jesse Ramien 4. Siosifa Talakai 5. Ronaldo Mulitalo 6. Braydon Trindall 7. Nicho Hynes 8. Toby Rudolf 9. Blayke Brailey 10. Braden Hamlin-Uele 11. Briton Nikora 12. Wade Graham 13. Dale Finucane 14. Teig Wilton 15. Cameron McInnes 16. Aiden Tolman 17. Andrew Fifita 18. Kayal Iro 19. Royce Hunt 20. Luke Metcalf 21. Jesse Colquhoun 22. Matt Ikuvalu
Brisbane Broncos vs Newcastle Knights 7.35pm at Suncorp Stadium
broncos team: 1. Te Maire Martin 2. Corey Oates 3. Kotoni Staggs 4. Brenko Lee 5. Selwyn Cobbo 6. Ezra Mam 7. Adam Reynolds 8. Thomas Flegler 9. Billy Walters 10. Payne Haas 11. Kurt Capewell 12. Jordan Riki 13. Kobe Hetherington 14. Jake Turpin 15. Rhys Kennedy 16. Corey Jensen 17. Keenan Palasia 18. Cory Paix 19. Ryan James 20. Jordan Pereira 21. Delouise Hoeter 22. Zac Hosking
knights team: 1. Tex Hoy 2. Enari Tuala 3. Dane Gagai 4. Bradman Best 5. Dominic Young 6. Anthony Milford 7. Adam Clune 8. David Klemmer 9. Jayden Brailey 10. Daniel Saifiti 11. Tyson Frizell 12. Brodie Jones 13 Mathew Croker 14. Phoenix Crossland 15. Jacob Saifiti 16. Pasami Saulo 17. Simi Sasagi 18. Jack Johns 19. Sauaso Sue 20. Chris Randall 21. Edrick Lee 22. Hymel Hunt
Rudolf opens up on Pride support | 01:19
Get all the latest NRL news, highlights and analysis delivered straight to your inbox with Fox Sports Sportmail. Sign up now!!
SUNDAY
Canberra Raiders vs St George Illawarra Dragons 2pm at GIO Stadium
raiders team: 1. Xavier Savage 2. Albert Hopoate 3. Matthew Timoko 4. Sebastian Kris 5. Jordan Rapana 6. Jack Wighton 7. Jamal Fogarty 8. Josh Papali’i 9. Zac Woolford 10. Emre Guler 11. Hudson Young 12. Elliott Whitehead 13. Adam Elliott 14. Tom Starling 15. Ryan Sutton 16. Corey Horsburgh 17. Corey Harawira-Naera 18. James Schiller 19. Ata Mariota 20. Matt Frawley 21. Peter Hola 22. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad
dragons team: 1. Moses Mbye 2. Mathew Feagai 3. Jack Bird 4. Zac Lomax 5. Tautau Moga 6. Talatau Amone 7. Ben Hunt 8. Jack de Belin 9. Andrew McCullough 10. Blake Lawrie 11. Josh Mcguire 12. Jaydn Su ‘A 13. Michael Molo 14. Tyrell Sloan 15. Aaron Woods 16. Tyrell Fuimaono 17. Billy Burns 18. Jayden Sullivan 19. Jackson Ford 20. Jaiyden Hunt 21. Cody Ramsey 22. Jack Gosiewski
Gold Coast Titans vs Manly Sea Eagles 4.05pm at Cbus Super Stadium
titans team: 1. Jayden Campbell 2. Sosefo Fifita 3. Phillip Sami 4. Brian Kelly 5. Patrick Herbert 6. AJ Brimson 7. Tanah Boyd 8. Moeaki Fotuaika 9. Erin Clark 10. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui 11. David Fifita 12. Beau Fermor 13. Isaac Liu 14. Greg Marzhew 15. Herman Ese’ese 16. Jaimin Jolliffe 17. Sam McIntyre 18. Corey Thompson 19. Toby Sexton 20. Paul Turner 21. Klese Haas 22. Jarrod Wallace
Sea Eagles team: 1. Reuben Garrick 2. Jason Saab 3. Morgan Harper 4. Tolutau Koula 5. Christian Tuipulotu 6. Kieran Foran 7. Daly Cherry-Evans 8. Toafofoa Sipley 9. Lachlan Croker 10. Martin Taupau 11. Haumole Olakau’atu 12 Andrew Davey 13. Jake Trbojevic 14. Dylan Walker 15. Ben Trbojevic 16. Ethan Bullemor 17. Josh Aloiai 18. Josh Schuster 19. Kurt De Luis 20. Brad Parker 21. Kaeo Weekes 22. Morgan Boyle
Isaiah Papali’i has confirmed he is yet to make a decision on whether he will honor the contract he’s signed with the Tigers or backflip on it to remain at the Eels.
Papali’i told 9 News that he’ll make a call “in the off-season” and also revealed the moment he began mulling over his future.
The 23-year-old signed a big-money three-year contract last November with the Tigers beginning next season.
Stream every game of every round of the 2022 NRL Telstra Premiership Season Live & Ad-Break Free During Play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
However just under a month ago reports emerged that Papali’i had a change of heart and was considering backflipping on the contract.
Speaking to 9 News on Monday, Papali’i was still unsure about what he was going to do.
“Obviously people ask me about it, just even on the street or family and friends are hitting me up but that’s kind of for my manager look after and even if I don’t stay here or I do go next year, I want to make sure that this year has no regrets,” he said.
“I reckon somewhere in the off-season because this is distracting me at the moment,” he added when asked when he wants to make a decision by.
“We have a massive opportunity and I don’t want to leave any stone unturned this year and look back on it and think ‘I shouldn’t have left that stuff get in the way’.”
One game suspension harsh on Ricky? | 03:27
MORE NRL NEWS
IN TROUBLE: Stuart facing unprecedented ban with NRL boss ‘so angry’
TALKING POINTS: NRL facing moment of truth after ‘ugly’ Ricky spray
DRAMA: Knights trainer breaks silence, reveals word that made Klemmer saga ‘worse’
Papali’i also revealed that it was the sacking of Michael Maguire in June that “rattled the cage” for him.
“I think it was the coaching axing that went on,” the Kiwi international said.
“When I did sign it was talking to Madge — he’s an awesome coach. That rattled the cage a bit and I guess you have to have those conversations and I guess that was a massive factor for me.”
Get all the latest NRL news, highlights and analysis delivered straight to your inbox with Fox Sports Sportmail. Sign up now!!
Nothing seemed to go right for Brisbane Broncos on Thursday evening, but Kevin Walters’ men were perhaps lucky to be awarded their second try against the Sydney Roosters at the SCG.
The Broncos were trailing by 20 points in the 60th minute when five-eighth Ezra Mam floated a pass over the Roosters defensive line towards winger Corey Oates, who dived over for the try.
But replays suggested the pass was forward, with Mam releasing the ball behind the 10m line and Oates catching it approximately eight meters out.
Stream every game of every round of the 2022 NRL Telstra Premiership Season Live & Ad-Break Free During Play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
The referee believed the ball was passed backwards but floated forwards — which is legal. The Sydney crowd didn’t agree though, with a chorus of boos echoing around the stadium when replays were shown on the big screen.
“Man, that’s way forward,” Channel 9 commentator Mathew Thompson said. “Oh he’s going to let it go. He’s let it go!
“It can’t have been thrown back either.”
Melbourne Storm legend Cameron Smith continued: “Seriously? Unless it’s come off a Rooster’s hand … I think that ball has drifted forward about three meters.”
Former New South Wales representative Michael Ennis agreed on Fox League. “The pass from Ezra Mam looked like it was two meters forward out of his hands from him,” he said.
“It certainly went forward.”
Regardless, the Roosters have taken another important step towards securing a top eight berth after beating Brisbane 34-16.
Trent Robinson’s men weren’t at their ruthless best, but a fourth straight win has put their premiership rivals on notice.
The Roosters started the round at risk of dropping to ninth but will finish the weekend either seventh or eighth, keeping their closest pursuers at bay for at least another week.
They have a tough run home over the closing month – meeting North Queensland, Wests Tigers, Melbourne and South Sydney – but who would be foolish enough to declare the Chooks won’t reach the finals for a sixth straight season?
And any team featuring James Tedesco, Joey Manu, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Luke Keary, Victor Radley and Joseph Suaalii will be a threat come September.
“We feel like we’ve worked hard enough this year and tried different things (and) it’s time to play better,” Robinson said.
“The last month has been good and we’re improving but we’ve got to keep going.”
Skipper Tedesco added: “We’re still chasing that 80-minute performance but we’re getting better and better.”
The Roosters led this must-win game 18-0 after as many minutes, pouring through the Broncos’ ineffectual defense and eating up the meters with ease.
It took the hosts just five minutes to open the Broncos up, a lovely bat-on pass from Tedesco handing Paul Momirovski an open passage to the line.
Sam Walker engineered the next try three minutes later with a clever chip kick into the in-goal for Nat Butcher to reach out and ground the ball with his fingertips.
When Angus Crichton pushed through some Brisbane’s flimsy right-edge defense to reach out and score, the Roosters were headed for an 18-0 lead and complete control of a one-sided contest.
Luke Keary of the Roosters celebrates with teammates. Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty ImagesSource: Getty Images
Then they took the foot from the throat, inviting Brisbane back into the game.
The Broncos scored through Corey Oates to narrow the gap to 14 as the Roosters’ completion rate went through the floor.
Robinson told the Tricolours to park the fancy stuff in the second half – and they did – but they still came up with three tries to snuff out any hope of a Brisbane revival.
Keary was superb, putting the finishing touches on a standout performance with a brilliant individual try 12 minutes from the end.
We were expecting a strong response from the Broncos following their shock loss to Wests Tigers, but they fired a few decent shots in another worrying performance.
Their attack was pedestrian and clunky for most of the night and there wasn’t much in the way of whack in defense.
The visitors were chasing the game from the outset and did well to avoid a blowout, although they never really looked like mounting any sort of concerted comeback.
“At 18-0 we got a bit of momentum back and (then) a couple of things didn’t go to plan,” Brisbane skipper Adam Reynolds said.
“It’s obviously disappointing, but it’s a learning curve. We’re still a young team that’s figuring it out.”
Brisbane could finish the round as low as seventh if Parramatta and Souths win their respective matches.
