Viva Las Vegas
What can I say that hasn’t already been reported.
What a fantastic way to launch the NRL season as well as spreading Rugby League into the USA.
The inclusion of the English Super League added to the day. It was the start of many one-sided results with nothing more embarrassing than the Jillaroos 90-4 thrashing of England in the Women’s Test.
The NRL kicked off in style with the Raiders proving most pundits (and Tipsters) wrong with a dominating performance to beat the Warriors 30-8. The Warriors loss highlighted the lack of halves running their team.
The other game saw reigning Premiers, Premiers, Premiers, Premiers the Panthers account for the Sharks 28-22. The scoreline was not indicative of how in control Penrith were. The gap between them and most of the competition remains.
Vegas On The Improve
Vegas 2.0 was a massive improvement over last year. The fan involvement, crowd attendance, TV ratings (here, UK, NZ and USA) just gets bigger and better. There will be a lot of fans hoping their team is part of V 3.0.
Having said that, the NRL are always looking to improve and the reduction of matches would be the first step. Four games back to back is way too much considering Magic Round is capped at three.
I have heard mention of playing the World Club Championship at this event. That would also be a great innovation that would work for the NRL Premiers as they would have the round 1 bye. Not sure how it works for the Super League Champions, it is round 3 for them.
Broncos Go Back To Back
Not since 1992/93 have the Broncos won B2B trophies.
Ok, so this was the Witzer Pre-Season Challenge. Yes, I know trial matches. Who really cares?
But it was the manner in which the Broncos won that should attract attention. The Broncos B+C teams humiliated a near full strength Titans side. The following week, the Broncos easily defeated the Bulldogs with key players playing for both teams.
What is noticeable is the new toughness and grit Coach Maguire has instilled throughout the whole playing group.
Then there is the depth. Fox Sports commentators even joked the Broncos could fill a Top 40 roster. Take a look at the halves options as an example. Adam Reynolds, Ben Hunt, Ezra Mam, Jock Madden, Billy Walters.
It reminds me of the Roosters in the early 2000s when they bought every half back so no one else could have them.
But it is the inclusion of $1M Ben Hunt that will have supporters at 16 other clubs scratching their heads on how this was allowed.
The Broncos have lost two aging wingers and a Sailor during the offseason to accommodate Benny.
They are a force this season and join the Storm and Panthers as the only teams that can win the 2025 Premiership.
But, it’s still only round one.
Alfie Crashes The NRL
Tropical Cyclone Alfred is due to hit our shores in hours. The NRL has reacted quickly to move the Dolphins and Rabbitohs game to Sydney to limit the impact to the competition.
The Dolphins will now host the Rabbitohs in round 17.
There are now reports a number of Dolphins players will be unavailable as they, rightly so, shore up their homes and stay with their families. Will the Friday Night Football match go ahead?
The NRL under Peter V’Landys’ leadership has always shown they are nimble and will make big calls when needed.
Here at Footy Tipper, we have dusted off our COVID-19 plans and can handle any changes the NRL may make to the schedule.
To family, friends and our northern neighbours, stay safe and stay strong over the next few days.
Rob
Image(s) courtesy of: dolphinsnrl.com.au, 9News
