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The NRL began it’s five year Las Vegas residency in style with an impressive 2024 kick-off and lead up.

To say the NRL had taken over Vegas is an understatement. From the advertising to the Aussie ascent in the strip, the NRL were the biggest sporting brand in town.

Where other administrators and other codes just talk the talk, Team V’Landys, walks the walks.

Make no mistake, the Vegas gamble is certain to pay off.

The crowds will get bigger, interest from the US market will increase. NRL clubs are lining up for inclusion next year. Peter V’Landys even hinted there could be more teams at future season openers.

Both the NFL and NRL were born from the same rugby background. But the fast flowing non-stop NRL product will/has enthralled the locals who are used to the strategic 4 sec plays of NFL.

Not only has the ARLC done an incredible job getting this off the ground, but subtle rule changes (and some not so subtle like set restarts) contribute to make the game as fast and exciting as it is today.

Over 40,000 spectators made up of fans, expats and the curious took to Allegiant Stadium to watch the historic kick-off.

And the teams did not disappoint.

Sea Eagles v Rabbitohs

This match was a fantastic opening to the doubleheader.

A total of 11 touchdowns were scored. The referee’s whistle was used only on six occasions just to reinforce this is Rugby League not rugby.

Both teams completed high which added to the spectacle.

Manly hit the lead just before half time thanks to a Jason Saab intercept. But, they would have rued missed opportunities having made more line breaks and tackle busts.

The second half saw Souths score two quick tries and the commentary team’s obligatory Latrell Mitchel love-in commenced.

“What a colossus! Man on a mission. Man mountain…” and it went on and on.

But it only took a couple of Rabbitoh errors, and the Sea Eagles replied with four of their own.

With all the talk of Latrell, the difference between the two teams were their halves. Manly’s DCE and Luke Brooks outplayed their Bunny counterparts Ilias and Walker.

Sea Eagles win 36-24

Roosters v Broncos

This match was an arm wrestle with both teams running more direct than the previous match. The Roosters had all the possession and field position and held a four point half time lead courtesy to the softest interception try, scored by Joseph Manu, in the 4^th minute.

The Roosters made the most of the smaller dimensions and dominated the much fancied Broncos pack. This set the foundation for the Roosters spine to control the flow of the game. At the back, Broncos Kid Lightning Reece Walsh was heavily involved but was overshadowed by the Roosters captain James Tedesco.

The Broncos were within one try from the lead with 10 minutes remaining but ultimately 15 errors is what cost them any chance of victory.

Roosters win 20-10

Las Vegas is done and dusted for 2024. Now for the remainder of Round 1.