NRL Round 1 Match Preview

The first game of the 2015 season will kick off on Thursday, with the Broncos hosting the Rabbitohs. It has felt like a long wait for fans, but finally rugby league returns.

Broncos v Rabbitohs

This match sees the Broncos begin their search for redemption, as everything old is new again with Wayne Bennett taking over. It has been a few tough years for the Brisbane club, agonisingly missing the Finals and failing to live up to their potential. It could be a tough first opponent, as the Premiers look to start their season off on the right foot. If the preseason is anything to go by, they are determined to again set a high standard to reach. Both teams travelled over to England for the World Club Series, so neither will be have an advantage of less fatigue. It is perhaps a tougher task for the Rabbitohs, who are on the road in this match, but hopefully that will not detract from this match.

Team News

Broncos = No surprises for the Broncos in their first match, as Anthony Milford partners Ben Hunt in the halves. Jordan Kahu is named at fullback and new signing Adam Blair also starts. A very strong team across the park has been named.

Rabbitohs = Business as usual in the backs. Interestingly, Glenn Stewart has been named to start in the second row and Ben Lowe at lock. This leaves both Chris Grevsmuhl and Tim Grant (18th) on the bench. Cameron McInnes (19th) and Daryl Millard (20th) are also named for the trip north.

History

Overall = Broncos 21 Draw 1 Rabbitohs 8

Last 5 matches = Broncos 2 Rabbitohs 3

At Suncorp Stadium = Broncos 9 Rabbitohs 4

Verdict

The Rabbitohs play a simple game plan that will aim to wear their opponents down, although they are promising more this season. The uncertainty around the Broncos will be how they perform under Bennett and with a new halves pairing. They have the strength in the forwards to match their opponents, but the Rabbitohs have an edge with Issac Luke at hooker. The Broncos are probably just not ready to produce their best football just yet, but they will build a consistent platform. Going by their last performance, the Rabbitohs will be ready to fire and will want to make a strong statement in their opening match. With uncertainty around the Broncos, the safer bet appears to be the visitors. They didn’t win many matches by 1-12 last year, but this opening match could change that, as they will be playing a new season in front of a very vocal Broncos crowd.

Suggested Bet

Rabbitohs 1-12 @ $3

By George, he is a chance! = George Burgess FTS @ $21 – He is a hard man to stop at the best of times and with his brother gone, expect to him to lift to another level. If the Rabbitohs get close to the line, watch for Luke to duck out of the ruck to pick up Burgess running hard at the line.

Eels v Sea Eagles

There is egger anticipation for this match, with several storylines running between the two sides. Plenty has been written about play movements, however the talented playmakers of DCE and Kieran Foran will be aware that they need to focus on their football and avoid all other distractions for 80minutes. The Eels want to start off their season on a positive note, but will have a handful against a gallant Manly team. On top of the rivalry, Anthony Watmough plays his first match against his former club where he was so successful and considered a legend. This was all part of the Eels plan to boost their forward stocks and enhance their power in the middle of the field. They have a point to prove after progressing in 2014 and do not want to slip back into their old habits. The Sea Eagles appear to be lacking strength in their forwards, yet have talented and experienced outside backs that adds to their potency. Emotion will be high, but that may matter little if either side is hopeful of grabbing a positive result.

Team News

Eels = No surprise to see Will Hopoate take over at fullback from Hayne, but whether or not this is the right move remains to be seen. New recruit, Anthony Watmough, is named in the back row, while the ‘other’ high profile recruit, Danny Wicks, is named as 18th man. Interesting to see both Beau Champion and Brad Takairangi in the centres.

Sea Eagles = Clint Gutherson is named to replace Steve Matai in the centres, as the Sea Eagles look a little “light-on” in the forwards. Surprisingly, Justin Horo has been named as 18th man. He was one player who stood out for Manly last year.

History

Overall = Eels 46 Draw 4 Sea Eagles 82

Last 5 matches = Eels 1 Sea Eagles 4

At Pirtek Stadium = Eels 10 Sea Eagles 11

Verdict

The Sea Eagles will struggle to match the Eels in the forwards, relying more on the contribution of their bench players to maintain consistent pressure. That makes the task on the shoulders of their halves more difficult, only compounding as the match progresses. Of course, there is still a lot of work for the Eels to do. Until proven otherwise, they are an inconsistent team that has a large question mark hanging over their head each time they take the field. Their opponents will also have a point to prove and will know how to grind out a win. For what it is worth, I believe the Sea Eagles will win this match, but there is better value in cheering for both teams to keep the winning margin within a converted try.

Suggested Bet

Either team Under 6.5 points @ $2.90

The trailor to continue rolling = Semi Radradra FTS and/or LTS @ $8 – Semi was an unstoppable force for majority of 2014. With a year under his belt, you would think that he is only going to develop further. The Eels will be wary of his attacking ability and will want to get him the ball as much as possible.

Knights v Warriors

The Knights and Warriors feature in the first match of Super Saturday this season, promising to be an exciting battle between two teams that underachieved in 2014. The Knights enjoy a favourable record at home, but that was non-existent in 2014. Simply errors let them down and now with Rick Stone in charge, the weight of expectation has been reduced somewhat. As for the Warriors, another start to the season begins massive hope for their chances in 2015. They are again appearing to be a side that will be too strong for most opponents but as always, they have to be prepared to execute on game day. Ironically enough, travel was a problem for them last year and now they must open their new campaign with an away match. They need to play more to exciting strengths that are on offer and allow their halves greater room to move and create in attacking positions.

Team News

Knights = Amazingly, Kangaroo Sione Mata’utia has been left on the bench as 18th, with Joseph Leilua starting in the centres. Both are quality players but you think there would be a spot somewhere for Mata’utia. Adam Clydsdale and Tyler Randell will share the utility roles.

Warriors = Two rookies will make their debut, with Tuimoala Lolohea named on the wing and Solomone Kata in the centres. New recruit, Ryan Hoffman, starts in the second row alongside Bodene Thompson, another recruit. Nathan Friend will add some impact from the bench and Chad Townsend will play 5/8.

History

Overall = Knights 16 Draw 1 Warriors 15

Last 5 matches = Knights 2 Warriors 3

At Hunter Stadium = Knights 8 Warriors 6

Verdict

The Knights appear to be heading into this match as a fragile team that is yet to establish themselves as potential contenders. Expectation is running high for the Warriors as per usual and now is the time for them to deliver. In comparing the two teams, it is difficult to see how the Knights will hold the Warriors out. Although, you cannot forget their struggles on the road previously, especially early on in the season. In saying that, they enjoy a record in Newcastle that is better than most other away venues; and like many other teams this weekend, they will be out to make an early statement. This early on in the season, the Warriors are the right choice to make, simply based on the potential that they offer compared with their opponents from 1 through to 17. It will be close though and expect the Knights to make things very difficult for them.

Suggested Bet

Warriors 1-12 @ $3.10

Flying Tomkins = Sam Tomkins FTS and/or LTS @ $13 – He will have benefitted from a year at his new club last year and now is the time for him to hit his straps. He is vital to the Warriors attack and expect him to roam freely in the middle of the field.

Titans v Tigers

The Titans will be glad to hear the starting whistle this season, as the embattled club looks to put a horror end to the preseason behind them. Their opponents will not want to let them off the hook too easily, as the Tigers are aiming to bounce back into form and put a poor year behind them. Things were looking up for both teams early in 2015, but now the Tigers appear to be the only ones with sunshine on the horizon. The Titans face an uphill battle to regain any momentum but embattled situations can often galvanise a team and bring out the best in them. The Tigers have youngsters within their team that they are hoping can live up to their potential. Luke Brooks will be leading this team around and will benefit from the year of experience previously. Whether or not that will be a disadvantage, as teams will have a greater understanding of his weaknesses remains to be seen. Either way, this game offers a new beginning for both teams.

Team News

Titans = The Titans have not named any of their players caught up in the preseason cocaine drama. There is a court hearing on Thursday and that could change things. Kierran Moseley will play hooker, with Edward Pettybourne to start at prop and Matt Robinson in the second row. They’re struggling on the bench also, with Agnatius Paasi making his debut.

Tigers = Kavin Naiqama replaces David Nofoaluma on the wing, while young-gun Mitchell Moses debut’s in the halves at 5/8. Dene Halatau is named at lock and will be hoping for a successful return from injury. Rookies Brenden Santi (17th) and Kyle Lovett (18th) are named on the extended bench.

History

Overall = Titans 7 Tigers 6

Last 5 matches = Titans 2 Tigers 3

At Cbus Super Stadium = Titans 4 Tigers 3

Verdict

While the Titans are experiencing a range of issues, the Tigers are probably still not at their peak just yet. They have talent within their team, but it will take time for them to gel together in 2015. It would be beneficial in this match if they were to play with more freedom and challenge themselves in attack. Often facing a team that is struggling will create a negative mindset and Jason Taylor will have his hands full trying to ensure that this isn’t the case. Fact is, with the drama occurring at the Titans, they are unable to field a team that will be competitive over 80 minutes. They will have their brighter moments and be galvanised by the issues, but ultimately the Tigers will be too strong here. The Tigers attacking ability suggests that the margin could get beyond 13 points, but it is too early on in the season to make a call like that on a team that finished at the bottom end of the table in 2014. The safer option is the smaller margin.

Suggested Bet

Tigers 1-12 @ $3.25

A fresh start = Kevin Naiqama FTS and/or LTS @ $9 – He has moved clubs this season and has a chance to make a mark for his new club. He is only filling in at the moment for a player who is out through injury but when he gets in an attacking position, he can be extremely difficult for defenders to halt.

Cowboys v Roosters

Arguably the most anticipated game of the weekend, the Cowboys will host the Roosters in the conclusion to Super Saturday. There is plenty on offer in this match, featuring two sides that have squads that can take them deep into the Finals series. Much has been thought of the Cowboys for a number of years now, however they have been unable to deliver. Now, they need to make the most of their chance, with this squad running out of chances with an aging roster. The Roosters are rejuvenated, fresh from their elimination by the Rabbitohs in the Grand Final qualifier. They have several attacking threats, but missing Jake Friend at hooker will hurt them somewhat. Expectation will be high for them, given the squad that they possess and the potential of younger players coming through their system. One thing is for sure, this match is going to be an early indication of the quality that is needed to participate with the best teams in the NRL in 2015.

Team News

Cowboys = New recruit Ben Hannat will start at prop, alongside Matt Scott. Michael Morgan retains the fullback role, keeping out injury-plagued star Lachlan Coote. Rory Kostjasyn and Jake Granville will share the hooking duties, with the latter coming off the bench.

Roosters = Roger Tuivasa-Sheck will start in the vacant fullback role. Matt McIllwrick is the new face at hooker, covering for the injured Jake Friend and Isaac Lui will be hoping to make a name for himself, starting for SBW. Blake Ferguson has been named at centre, pushing SKD to wing. Dylan Napa and Kane Evans will offer plenty of impact off the bench.

History

Overall = Cowboys 9 Roosters 22

Last 5 matches = Cowboys 3 Roosters 2

At 1300 Smile Stadium = Cowboys 5 Roosters 11

Verdict

This game is a real close call. On one hand, the Cowboys will have the added advantage of being accustomed to the expected hot conditions. However, the Roosters have a team that possess strengths across the field and appear as though many sides in the competition will have a tough time handling them. In the opening rounds, the home ground advantage could mean the difference between winning and losing. The Cowboys look as though they will be too strong in this contest, but the better option lies within the difficulty of this contest. As this match is tipped to be tight, the ideal option is selecting either side to win, below a converted try. Sure, the Cowboys are expected to be at their attacking best, but the Roosters have proven in the past that under Trent Robinson, they’re will to knuckle down and defend for as long as possible.

Suggested Bet

Either team under 6.5 points @ $3

Fergie’s back = Blake Ferguson FTS @ $17 – there was no mistaking his potential before his suspension. Ferguson is one of the best centres in the match and is a threat in any attacking position. The Roosters will be aware of his ability and will attempt to get him the ball as much as possible.

Panthers v Bulldogs

Sunday afternoon action kicks off with a replay of an exciting encounter in Week 2 of the Finals. The Panthers will be looking to make amends for their loss in that match and will head into this season with hopes of going better. Many believe that they will be a capable side, but don’t think too far ahead. They have their flaws in many ways (SEE HERE) and in the end; it may bring about their downfall. The Bulldogs are also promising plenty in 2015 and have a capable squad that is dangerous across the park. However, despite their impressive performance at times, at other points they proved to be incapable of performing over 80 minutes. The Panthers will be ready to heap the pressure on their opponents and the battle in the forwards is where this match will be one. In saying that, you can be sure that the Bulldogs will be targeting the Panthers halves and testing whether or not they can reach the same level they did last season.

Team News

Panthers = George Jennings will make his debut on the wing, as will Reagan Campbell-Gillard off the bench in jersey 16. James Segeyaro should play 80minutes but there is a hint that Apisai Koroisau could be a late inclusion, named in jersey 19 and Isaah Yeo in 18.

Bulldogs = Brett Morris wins the spot at fullback, while Curtis Rona will start on the wing. New recruit Michael Lichaa will start at hooker and it will be interesting to see if he lives up to his hype. Moses Mbye is named as 18th man.

History

Overall = Panthers 34 Draw 3 Bulldogs 39

Last 5 matches = Panthers 2 Bulldogs 3

At Pepper Stadium = Panthers 19 Draw 1 Bulldogs 22

Verdict

Hopes are high for the Panthers this season based on their efforts in 2014, however plenty has changed since then. This match offers a large test to their ability this year and it will be an uphill battle for 80 minutes. The Bulldogs are a capable team that was unlucky towards the end of 2014. Fatigue got the better of them and they have only improved their team since then. Conditions during the afternoon will enhance their capabilities, as they are one team that likes to throw the ball around from the middle of the field. The Panthers will have their hands full trying to hold them out for 80 minutes. Although it is a big call, the Bulldogs appear to be equipped with the talent to run up a rather large margin on their opponents in this contest.

Suggested Bet

Bulldogs 13+ @ $4

Sharks v Raiders

In a battle of the 2014 wooden spoon, both teams have a chance to start the season off on the right foot. The Sharks had a season to forget last year and with their old coach, Shane Flanagan, back on board, they will be aiming to turn that around. The Raiders will be focusing on a similar outcome but not too much has changed for them. There has been a turnover in players but they still have a lot of work in front of them. The Raiders will be aiming to achieve the same thing they set out to obtain last year, albeit with a new halves pairing. The Sharks had their excuses in 2014, whereas the Raiders were just plain poor in their execution. They lack imagination and failed to meet the defensive demands over 80 minutes. On the hand, the Sharks have added spark to their team and have a point to prove. Their home record was one thing that kept them motivated last year and there will be no better way for them to reward their home fans than a victory in their first home fixture.

Team News

Sharks = A new look Sharks lineup with Gerard Beale (centre), Ben Barba (5/8), Mitch Brown (wing) and Michael Ennis (hooker) all starting. Youngsters Valentine Holmes and Jack Bird are named on the extended and are hoping to get a chance to feature.

Raiders = A new-look spine, features Jack Wrighton (fullback), Blake Austin (5/8), Mitch Cornish (halfback) and Josh Hodgeson (hooker). New recruit, Frank-Paul Nuuausala will start from the bench.

History

Overall = Sharks 33 Raiders 29

Last 5 matches = Sharks 2 Raiders 3

At Remondis Stadium = Sharks 20 Raiders 9

Verdict

As far as this match goes, the Raiders are going to have to demonstrate some potential before they can be taken seriously. They are faced with a road trip in their first match, against a team that is desperate to turn things around from 2014. Sure, the Raiders will have the same motivation, but their squad looks vulnerable in numerous areas. It will take a few commanding wins before punters will side with them in any match, let alone one where a few people believe that they are capable of winning. In terms of selecting an ideal investment, the Sharks are also yet to prove a point; but with a superior squad, they should be able to win by 8 or more points.

Suggested Bet

Shark -7.5 @ $1.90

Double Up = Sharks -7.5/Under 42.5 @ $3.80 – If you add a points margin into this match, the value of your investment dramatically increases. Neither team was able to score many points last season and don’t forget, this match is set to KO at 6:30pm, where conditions will change throughout the match.

Dragons v Storm

The first Monday night match of the year has the exhilarated Dragons team hosting a Storm side that is out to prove a point. That is that they’re still a force to be reckoned with, despite their aging stars moving towards the end of their careers. The Dragons would be wishing that they had the same issues; rather they are facing another uphill battle to be competitive this season. When firing, they will be a handful for teams at the bottom end of the table, but it remains to be seen, just how competitive they will be against superior opponents. This match will be a good measure, however the Storm are also facing their challenges. With their players another year older, teams know how to target the Big 3 in order to limit their effectiveness in attack. Still, they are able to cope with what is thrown their way in most cases. Expectation is always high for them but after the poor season the Dragons had, they will be aiming to turn things around from the opening whistle in this match.

Team News

Dragons = Josh Dugan is named at fullback, while George Rose makes his first NRL start in a long time. Rookies Eto Nabuli (wing) and Rory O’Brien (bench) are named to feature, while departing Dragon Trent Merrin, will start from the bench.

Storm = Blake Green will partner Cooper Cronk in the halves, while Cameron Smith is expected to play despite an ankle injury. Kurt Mann will start in the centres and new recruit Dale Finucane will start at lock, behind Tohu Harris, who earns a promotion to the starting side following player movements.

History

Overall = Dragons 8 Draw 1 Storm 20

Last 5 matches = Dragons 2 Storm 3

At Jubilee Oval = Dragons 1 Storm 2

Verdict

The Dragons are in a similar boat to the Raiders. They are hoping for much more, but need to demonstrate some potential before punters will invest confidently in them. It is surprising to see such a small line offered for the visitors, even with the injury cloud around Smith. The Storm possess too many attack weapons for this Dragons team to hold and what is more important, Melbourne look stronger in the middle of the field. The Dragons will put up a fight to some degree and it may take the visitors until later in the match to wrestle victory away from them but ultimately, they will be too strong. The line is the best bet also, with the attacking potential of the boys in purple.

Suggested Bet

Storm -3.5 @ $1.90

Grab a little more = Storm over 6.5 points @ $2.35 – The smaller margin appears to be a safer option, but if you want more value, then consider this one. The Dragons need to improve dramatically before they will be able to hold the Storm. Be wary though, MNF can throw up a close encounter or two.

Forever Young = Young Tonumaipea FTS and/or LTS @ $10 – He proved his talent in 2014 and with potential flaws on the Dragons edges, the Storm will attack to his side of the field both on the ground and through the air.

Good luck!

Scooby