Prop’s Origin Decider Premortem
Queensland’s forward pack delivered a brutal, dominant display in the Game 3 Series Decider at Suncorp Stadium, laying the foundation for a famous Maroons victory. The big men rolled up their sleeves and punished the Blues in the middle, perfectly executing coach Billy Slater’s gritty, ruthless game plan. Pat Carrigan crashing through off a short ball close to the line from Walker, followed by Nanai leaping high to snatch a Walker bomb, gave Queensland the lead and they never looked back.
The boys in the engine room simply refused to take a backward step. Through relentless carries and bone-crunching defence, the Maroons’ forwards completely sucked the energy out of New South Wales, laying a flawless platform for the outside backs to shine.
Mastermind coach Billy Slater deserves massive kudos here. Slater had this squad laser-focused on the details, instilling an unwavering self-belief that allowed the boys to absorb early pressure and strike when it mattered most. His tactical genius and ability to channel that undeniable Queensland spirit were the difference-makers in a decider for the ages.
Queensland won 26 – 10 over New South Wales, deservedly retaining the shield after the Game 1 send-off. Man of the Match Sam Walker claimed the Wally Lewis Medal after an outstanding all-round performance.
How did I go?
Round 18, which was Origin-affected, started on Friday night, with the Panthers playing the Rabbitohs. Even without their Origin stars, the Panthers were way too good. Walker’s ridiculous kick did not help, and Souths were no match, losing 36-14. Gray’s no try was an interesting call, but Penrith were too good.
The first Saturday game saw the Tigers against the Dragons, and the improving Dragons registered their second victory 24-10. The Tigers led until the 70th minute when the Dragons scored 2 late tries. Holmes had his best game of the year and seems to be much better suited on the wing. The second match had the desperate Broncos against the Sharks. They played with plenty of spirit, but fell short by 28-16. At 22-14 and with 8 minutes to go, the Broncos took 2 rather than go for a try. The Sharks scored and the Broncos now must win every game. Hynes had his best game for the Sharks, and they kept their spot in the 8.
On Sunday, the Eels were at home to a disappointing Manly. They showed a completely different side from last week and won 23-14, after being behind 8-6 at half-time. Finally, the best game of the round had the Knights at home to the Dolphins. In a highly entertaining match played in poor conditions, the Knights ran out 13-12 winners after a 75th minute field goal to Brown. The Dolphins were good and had their chances and both sides look like they will be there when the whips are cracking.
Round 19 starts on Friday and has the Warriors up against the Tigers. You would have to think that after last week’s performance, the Warriors will be too strong in this game. Neither side is really affected by Origin, and West Tigers are on notice now for this season to be a success. Meanwhile, the Warriors want to show they are genuine contenders.
On Saturday there are three games. The first one is the battle of the marine animals. The Dolphins are playing the Sharks and in the wild the rumour has it that the Dolphin will always beat the Shark. I think that may well be the case on Saturday. The Sharks are inconsistent, whilst the Dolphins were unlucky to lose with an under-strength side against Newcastle last week. I think the mammal will beat the fish. The second game has the Bulldogs at home to the Raiders, and this game is a bit of a lottery. The Raiders have been poor all year and the Bulldogs have been inconsistent. The Bulldogs’ last game was one of their best of the season thus far, so maybe they will get the unpredictable Raiders. Finally, on Saturday night the Roosters are at home against the Eels. The Eels showed good form last week in their win, but I cannot see them backing that up against the Roosters, who need to keep winning to keep that important spot in the top four.
There are three games on Sunday. The first one has the Rabbitohs at home to the Knights and, interestingly, they have dropped Jai Gray from the team, even though I thought he was one of their better players last week in a poor performance. Cody Walker should be punted for his petulance last week, but is merely suspended. I am thinking the Knights are playing too well and will be able to accommodate the Rabbits. The second Sunday game has the Sea Eagles at home to the Cowboys. The Sea Eagles will be smarting after last week’s poor performance against the Eels, and the Cowboys have got themselves just outside the 8 and are desperate to win this match. Finally, the Storm are home to the Titans and I cannot see the Storm dropping this game as they push up the ladder. The Titans are certainly better, but I do not think they will be able to hold out the Storm.
I know this will disappoint many, but there is no music this week. I have been busy again, but will be back next week. Can you find the clue?
The Smiths Rugby League 13
1 Will Smith 2 Craig Smith 3 Darren Smith 4 Ben Smith 5 Sandon Smith 6 Allan Smith 7 Billy Smith 8 Lindsay Smith 9 Cameron Smith10 Craig Smith 11 Chris Smith12 Gary Smith 13 Jason Smith Coach Brian Smith Sponsor Smiths Crisps.
7 NSW players this week.
Round 19 Tips
Warriors Dolphins Bulldogs Roosters Knights Cowboys Storm.
Brisbane, Dragons, and Panthers all have a bye
I beat the Prop Tipping Comp Leaderboard
A poor 2 last week and further sliding down the ladder
1 Timmoie (89) 2 Bimbi Bob Gerry (83) Banksy (82), Gladstone, RITV The Uncle (81) Flying Mattress Dolphin (79).
The top ESPN score at the end of Rd 16 is 98 which 3 tipsters have. The former leader Nanny eroded their lead by tipping 1.
My Pre Season Top Eight
1 Penrith 3 Roosters 6 Sharks 8 Souths 9 Cowboys 10 Bulldogs 11 Storm 16 Broncos
Odd Fact
New Zealand prop Craig Smith joined Adrian Lam in the Queensland Origin team during 1997, with the Steelers enforcer handed an Origin debut based on moving to the Sunshine State as a 16-year-old to complete his schooling! Born in Kaitaia, QLD, suspension meant Smith duly then played for the Kiwis line-up in 1998 and played 12 Tests for his native country.
Rugby League is no longer on Vacation- It is a Quest!
You gotta love footy.
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Ah, prop, i think you know how you went, although that is OK, you were not alone in your sentiments. My only piece of advice would be to choose players that are going to be on the field to score the early tries. A small thing i know. Contrary to what Wayne Bennett said, it is ok to die with the music in you.