Almanac Rugby League – NRL 2022 Round 13: Waiting for State of Origin next week.

 

With the representative season upon us, it is noticeable that the cream is rising to the top when it comes to our very best (available) players. For NSW just think Tedesco, Cleary, Cook, Yeo, Wighton and Luai; for Queensland think Ponga, Holmes, Munster, Fa’asuamaleaui, Capewell and Papalii.

 

Both coaches have sprung a few surprises in naming their squads. Fittler has overlooked Addo-Carr and Jake Trbojevic altogether while Frizzell isn’t in the final 17 at this stage. Slater has gone for youth and enthusiasm in Coates, Cobbo, Cotter and Nanai but hasn’t been able to find a place for Sam Walker yet. Let’s see how these extended lists evolve over the three-game series.

 

The squads named for Origin I also point to the future with a few to debut next week with others of the next generation brought into camp to start and, in a few cases, continue to be groomed for selection not too far away. For NSW think Staggs, Crichton, Hynes and Suaalii; for Queensland think Cobbo, Cotter, Carrigan, Nanai, Dearden, Tabuai-Fidow, and Taulagi. The future of State of Origin looks to be more open and attacking if this is anything to go by.

 

For now, let’s allow the squads to prepare for the series opener while we take a look at the state of the NRL after 12 rounds.

 

It’s pretty hard to argue with Paul Crawley (News Corp newspapers) when he says that the Panthers are in a league of their own. Their dismissal of the Cowboys was clinical even though the northerners defended mightily. Lessder teams would have conceded 40+. The Roosters remain the dark horse; I backed them earlier in the year and I still think that, with their roster, they’ll get to the last four in September. The Sharks and the Rabbitohs are enigmatic, to say the least – likely finalists, but then what? The Eels have a habit of winning tough but that won’t be enough when it counts; they have to find their best more often. And what do you make of the Broncos?  So lethal at times but they need to knock over the sides above them to be taken really seriously and they have to sort of the Haas business asap.

 

In Round 13 starting tonight, the Titans (minus Big Tino) host the Cowboys (minus Holmes, Cotter and Nanai). You’d have to say that if the Titans can’t win in that situation they will continue to wallow in the bottom four. A couple of incredibly dumb decisions cost them dearly against the Broncos; sort out a few of those issues and they’ll be right in this one. I just cannot find enough reasons to go with the Titans, even against the depleted Cowboys.

 

Tomorrow night it’s the Panthers against the Bulldogs. The Panthers lose six players to Origin, the Bulldogs none. But the Panthers have the game plan, depth, belief and momentum – how can you tip against them? Conversely, the Bulldogs aren’t bottom of the table for no reason. Addo-Carr will want to put on a show to demonstrate that he should be in the Origin side but I don’t think that will be enough to get the Bulldogs up. Imagine being at full strength and still losing to an opposition missing at least half a dozen first choice players?

 

On Saturday night the Sea Eagles are back at Brookie with only DCE on Origin duty – but what a loss along with Tom Turbo! Jake T, like Addo-Carr, will be smarting after his Origin omission so we can expect a big game from him. John Schuster gets an opportunity to play at No 6, the spot he believes should be his. The Warriors are at full strength and have a real opportunity here but Shaun Johnson has to turn up for them to have any chance. I think the Sea Eagles will just scrape in.

 

On Sunday afternoon the Raiders (minus Wighton, and Papalii) host the Roosters (minus Tedesco, Tupou and Collins). You’d think that will hurt Canberra more as the Roosters have more depth to their squad. The Raiders missed an opportunity against the Eels and have the ability but can’t find the last play often enough. The Roosters will be too strong and continue their recent movement up the ladder. I expect Sam Walker to make a statement to the Queensland selectors – I’m good enough therefore I’m old enough. (Personally, I think waiting another year before blooding him will be a good thing.)

 

So my winners this week are the Cowboys, Panthers, Sea Eagles and Roosters.

 

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About Ian Hauser

A relaxed, Noosa-based retiree with a (very) modest sporting CV. A loyal Queenslander, especially when it comes to cricket and rugby league. Enjoys travel, coffee and cake, reading, and has been known to appreciate a glass or three of wine. One of Footy Almanac's online editors who enjoys the occasional editing opportunity to assist aspiring writers.

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