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***Official*** NRL 2008 Thread
- Thread starter morgieb
- Start date
howardj
International Coach
Simon
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great?
Simon
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As usual I'm doing my season preview, obviously you'll all disagree again but this is just my 2 cents.
Brisbane Broncos
Strongest line up 1 Karmichael Hunt 2 Craig Frawley 3 Justin Hodges 4 Steve Michaels 5 Darius Boyd 6 Darren Lockyer 7 Peter Wallace 8 Ben Hannant 9 Michael Ennis 10 Joel Clinton 11 Sam Thaiday 12 Corey Parker 13 Tonie Carroll Reserves 14 PJ Marsh 15 Ashton Sims 16 David Stagg 17 David Taylor.
Overview
For the first time in their history Brisbane have been active in the player market, with up to five players brought from outside the club to make an impact in first grade this season. With coach Bennett leaving at the end of the year you'd think the players would be playing for him in season 08, despite the players lost they still have one of the strongest sides on paper in the comp and if they put it together another top four finish is likely. A lot depends on the service of Michael Ennis and PJ Marsh, with Shaun Berrigan gone these two guys have a massive role to play with Lockyer and Hunt. The biggest worry is the outside backs, will be largely relying on guys who have had question marks over their fitness throughout their careers, if Hodges or Michaels gets injured it's hard to see Nick Emmett being up to the job again.
Look Out For: Tom Hewitt, exciting winger or fullback from the Dragons, could cement a spot on the wing for Brisbane if Boyd or Frawley aren't up to the job early.
Top Tryscorer: Justin Hodges
Predicted Finish: 2nd
Canberra Raiders
Strongest line up 1 William Zillman 2 Colin Best 3 Joel Monaghan 4 Phil Graham 5 Adrian Purtell 6 Todd Carney 7 Marc Herbert 8 Scott Logan 9 Lincoln Withers 10 Troy Thompson 11 Thom Learoyd Lahrs 12 Neville Costigan 13 Alan Tongue Reserves 14 Dane Tilse 15 Michael Weymann 16 Marshall Chalk 17 Josh Miller.
Overview
As usual the Raiders are tipped to struggle, but a lack of big names on huge pay packets means they can afford to have more depth than most sides. They have five players capable of matching it in the halves with anyone and their forward pack is building a formidable look about it. The Raiders have a huge home ground advantage and it's usually enough to see them avoid the wooden spoon, however this year I think they can win more games away and sneak into the eight. The Todd Carney to Penrith saga still lingers though and if he decides to leave its possible he could see out the season in the Queensland Cup.
Look Out For: Marc Herbert, has long been considered by the Raiders as good as Todd Carney and with impressive form in the trials he could get first crack in the halves in front of Campese and Dobson.
Top Tryscorer: Joel Monaghan
Predicted Finish: 7th
Canterbury Bulldogs
Strongest line up 1 Luke Patten 2 Hazem El Masri 3 Willie Tonga 4 Daryl Millard 5 Matt Utai 6 Daniel Holdsworth 7 Ben Roberts 8 Chris Armit 9 Michael Sullivan 10 Justin Tsolous 11 Sonny Bill Williams 12 Andrew Ryan 13 Reni Maitua Reserves 14 Corey Hughes 15 Jarrad Hickey 16 Charlie Leano 17 Nick Kouparitsis.
Overview
As usual internal problems have hit the Bulldogs like a ton of bricks in the off season, the change of board, loss of Willie Mason and Brent Sherwin makes it look like a tough year. The side has a lot of quality still and its hard to see any team with SBW, Andrew Ryan and Reni Maitua in the forwards going badly, however the rest of the line up has one too many players that has underperformed in the past and I think they are just a little off the pace in 08. New recruit Michael Sullivan should do well but I don't think his creative style of play will suit the likely halves pairing of Roberts and Holdsworth. Given the line up there's every chance they could still finish top six but it would require several players finding new levels of personal bests and a very small injury toll.
Look Out For: Ben Barba, the new Thurston they say and has just signed a new contract. With Daniel Holdsworth still reportedly out of favour Barba will get a chance sooner rather than later, rumour has it he'll do well.
Top Tryscorer: Sonny Bill Williams
Predicted Finish: 13th
Cronulla Sharks
Strongest line up 1 Brett Kearney 2 Mitch Brown 3 Ben Pommeroy 4 Fraser Anderson 5 Luke Covell 6 Blake Green 7 Brett Kimmorely 8 Ben Ross 9 Isaac De Gois 10 Luke Douglas 11 Lance Thompson 12 Paul Gallen 13 Greg Bird Reserves 14 Jacob Selmes 15 Eddie Su'a 16 Brett Seymour 17 Reece Williams.
Overview
The Sharks are like a racehorse, you want to see them in action before you'll put any money on them to win. Have a very good side on paper but so many years of rubbish makes you think why would this year be any different? Have a hard working forward pack, creative halves and good finishes in the backline plus the return to action of Brett Kearney will give them added spark. No real weaknesses except for the 40 year hoodoo, I'd like to see them make the finals and they are definitely good enough, but I don't think they'll win enough crunch games and will just miss out on september football.
Look Out For: Karl Filiga, has a massive reputation already and hasn't even played first grade. He's on the big bucks so Sharks will want something from his this season. Will start in the centres but can see him making a move to the pack at different times when he grows up a bit more.
Top Tryscorer: Mitch Brown
Predicted Finish: 10th
Brisbane Broncos
Strongest line up 1 Karmichael Hunt 2 Craig Frawley 3 Justin Hodges 4 Steve Michaels 5 Darius Boyd 6 Darren Lockyer 7 Peter Wallace 8 Ben Hannant 9 Michael Ennis 10 Joel Clinton 11 Sam Thaiday 12 Corey Parker 13 Tonie Carroll Reserves 14 PJ Marsh 15 Ashton Sims 16 David Stagg 17 David Taylor.
Overview
For the first time in their history Brisbane have been active in the player market, with up to five players brought from outside the club to make an impact in first grade this season. With coach Bennett leaving at the end of the year you'd think the players would be playing for him in season 08, despite the players lost they still have one of the strongest sides on paper in the comp and if they put it together another top four finish is likely. A lot depends on the service of Michael Ennis and PJ Marsh, with Shaun Berrigan gone these two guys have a massive role to play with Lockyer and Hunt. The biggest worry is the outside backs, will be largely relying on guys who have had question marks over their fitness throughout their careers, if Hodges or Michaels gets injured it's hard to see Nick Emmett being up to the job again.
Look Out For: Tom Hewitt, exciting winger or fullback from the Dragons, could cement a spot on the wing for Brisbane if Boyd or Frawley aren't up to the job early.
Top Tryscorer: Justin Hodges
Predicted Finish: 2nd
Canberra Raiders
Strongest line up 1 William Zillman 2 Colin Best 3 Joel Monaghan 4 Phil Graham 5 Adrian Purtell 6 Todd Carney 7 Marc Herbert 8 Scott Logan 9 Lincoln Withers 10 Troy Thompson 11 Thom Learoyd Lahrs 12 Neville Costigan 13 Alan Tongue Reserves 14 Dane Tilse 15 Michael Weymann 16 Marshall Chalk 17 Josh Miller.
Overview
As usual the Raiders are tipped to struggle, but a lack of big names on huge pay packets means they can afford to have more depth than most sides. They have five players capable of matching it in the halves with anyone and their forward pack is building a formidable look about it. The Raiders have a huge home ground advantage and it's usually enough to see them avoid the wooden spoon, however this year I think they can win more games away and sneak into the eight. The Todd Carney to Penrith saga still lingers though and if he decides to leave its possible he could see out the season in the Queensland Cup.
Look Out For: Marc Herbert, has long been considered by the Raiders as good as Todd Carney and with impressive form in the trials he could get first crack in the halves in front of Campese and Dobson.
Top Tryscorer: Joel Monaghan
Predicted Finish: 7th
Canterbury Bulldogs
Strongest line up 1 Luke Patten 2 Hazem El Masri 3 Willie Tonga 4 Daryl Millard 5 Matt Utai 6 Daniel Holdsworth 7 Ben Roberts 8 Chris Armit 9 Michael Sullivan 10 Justin Tsolous 11 Sonny Bill Williams 12 Andrew Ryan 13 Reni Maitua Reserves 14 Corey Hughes 15 Jarrad Hickey 16 Charlie Leano 17 Nick Kouparitsis.
Overview
As usual internal problems have hit the Bulldogs like a ton of bricks in the off season, the change of board, loss of Willie Mason and Brent Sherwin makes it look like a tough year. The side has a lot of quality still and its hard to see any team with SBW, Andrew Ryan and Reni Maitua in the forwards going badly, however the rest of the line up has one too many players that has underperformed in the past and I think they are just a little off the pace in 08. New recruit Michael Sullivan should do well but I don't think his creative style of play will suit the likely halves pairing of Roberts and Holdsworth. Given the line up there's every chance they could still finish top six but it would require several players finding new levels of personal bests and a very small injury toll.
Look Out For: Ben Barba, the new Thurston they say and has just signed a new contract. With Daniel Holdsworth still reportedly out of favour Barba will get a chance sooner rather than later, rumour has it he'll do well.
Top Tryscorer: Sonny Bill Williams
Predicted Finish: 13th
Cronulla Sharks
Strongest line up 1 Brett Kearney 2 Mitch Brown 3 Ben Pommeroy 4 Fraser Anderson 5 Luke Covell 6 Blake Green 7 Brett Kimmorely 8 Ben Ross 9 Isaac De Gois 10 Luke Douglas 11 Lance Thompson 12 Paul Gallen 13 Greg Bird Reserves 14 Jacob Selmes 15 Eddie Su'a 16 Brett Seymour 17 Reece Williams.
Overview
The Sharks are like a racehorse, you want to see them in action before you'll put any money on them to win. Have a very good side on paper but so many years of rubbish makes you think why would this year be any different? Have a hard working forward pack, creative halves and good finishes in the backline plus the return to action of Brett Kearney will give them added spark. No real weaknesses except for the 40 year hoodoo, I'd like to see them make the finals and they are definitely good enough, but I don't think they'll win enough crunch games and will just miss out on september football.
Look Out For: Karl Filiga, has a massive reputation already and hasn't even played first grade. He's on the big bucks so Sharks will want something from his this season. Will start in the centres but can see him making a move to the pack at different times when he grows up a bit more.
Top Tryscorer: Mitch Brown
Predicted Finish: 10th
Simon
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Gold Coast Titans
Strongest line up 1 Preston Campbell 2 Shannon Walker 3 Brett Delaney 4 Chris Walker 5 Brenton Bowen 6 Mat Rogers 7 Scott Prince 8 Luke Bailey 9 Nathan Friend 10 Brad Meyers 11 Anthony Laffranchi 12 Mark Minichiello 13 Ashley Harrison Reserves 14 Matthew Cross 15 Luke Swain 16 Aaron Cannings 17 Ben Jeffrey.
Overview
This season is even more unpredictable than last year for the Titans, 07 went pretty much to script, they won some good matches and if anything overachieved. This year they have a slightly stronger team and another year of experience means they should challenge for the eight, however expectations could be too much for them. Without doubt Scott Prince is one of the best halfbacks in the comp and the Titans will be again relying on him a lot, Mat Rogers is likely to partner him in the halves and it will be interesting to see how they go together. The forward pack is excellent and will give them a good platform to work from and the backs have a lot of tries in them. They'll be close to the bottom of the table i feel but it will be so close this season they will still be in with a chance of making the finals till the final rounds.
Look Out For: Shannon Walker, massive wraps on this guy, usuaully a fullback but will have to make do with starting on the wing, apparently can score a try or two. Can't wait to see him go round.
Top Tryscorer: Shannon Walker
Predicted Finish: 15th
Manly Sea Eagles
Strongest line up 1 Brett Stewart 2 Michael Robertson 3 Steve Bell 4 Steve Matai 5 David Vaeliki 6 Jamie Lyon 7 Matt Orford 8 Jason King 9 Matt Ballin 10 Brent Kite 11 Glenn Stewart 12 Anthony Watmough 13 Luke Williamson Reserves 14 Steve Menzies 15 Adam Cuthbertson 16 Mark Bryant 17 Josh Perry.
Overview
Have lost a couple of good players but still look at strong as last year. The pressure is on Matt Ballin to replace Michael Monaghan and a winger has to come from somewhere to do the finishing of Chris Hicks. I'd be surprised if we saw them on grand final day again but they will certainly be up there. Jamie Lyon at five eighth is never going to work and Matt Orford while improving his game all the time is not the premiership wininng halfback Manly want him to be. They look light on for forwards outside the top 17 or 18 players so if they get some injuries they will be in massive trouble. Brookvale is a big home ground advantage for them too, so winning most of their games in Sydney should ensure a finals birth.
Look Out For: Michael Bani, possibly the man to replace Hicks on that wing. May get a chance early in the year to prove his worth, there isn't a lot of competition for that spot so he will have a chance to make it his own.
Top Tryscorer: Brett Stewart
Predicted Finish: 5th
Melbourne Storm
Strongest line up 1 Billy Slater 2 Anthony Quinn 3 Israel Folau 4 Ben MacDougall 5 Steve Turner 6 Greg Inglis 7 Cooper Cronk 8 Antonio Kaufusi 9 Cameron Smith 10 Brett White 11 Jeremy Smith 12 Ryan Hoffman 13 Dallas Johnson Reserves 14 Matt Geyer 15 Jeff Lima 16 Adam Blair 17 Michael Crocker.
Overview
The premiers will be looking to make their third straight grand final and with a team like this is hard to see them missing it. Have so much depth and versatility in their squad an injury or two wont effect them like it will the rest of the competition. The only thing standing in their way is the premiers curse which has struck fairly reguarly for the last decade, you'd think they will have enough plans in place to avoid it happening but this year I feel they might lose a few more games. Ben MacDougall coming back is helpful with the loss of Matt King but he has competition for his spot from a few youngsters. State of Origin time will be crucial for them with the likelyhood of six or seven players being picked.
Look Out For: Will Chambers, talented winger or centre who is one of the guys who will come into contention for a spot in the outside backs, has already had a taste of first grade and wont be overawed by playing in a big match.
Top Tryscorer: Steve Turner
Predicted Finish: 3rd
Newcastle Knights
Strongest line up 1 Kurt Gidley 2 James McManus 3 Adam MacDougall 4 Wes Naqaima 5 Cooper Vuna 6 Jarred Mullen 7 Luke Walsh 8 Ben Cross 9 Danny Buderus 10 Mitchell Sargeant 11 Chris Bailey 12 Corey Paterson 13 Steve Simpson Reserves 14 Matt Hilder 15 Chris Houston 16 Jesse Royal 17 Danny Wicks.
Overview
A strong looking team on paper and Newcastle sides always play with a lot of pride and passion, but this season looks as the second in their rebuilding phase as a few more guys come to grips with the week in week out grind of first grade. Have got some of the most talented youngsters in the game with Bailey, Paterson, Walsh and Mullen all proving in 07 they have big futures. I don't think their balance is quite right this year though, with a lot of younger guys improving they also have quite a few players that might be past their best and not enough at the peak of their powers. The forward pack will be heavily reliant on Steve Simpson and Ben Cross to get go forward as the rest of the pack don't have the workhorse look about them.
Look Out For: Jesse Royal, big prop with a big future. Should get a lot of game time this year and could develop into a real leader for the Knights if he lives up to his potential.
Top Tryscorer: Kurt Gidley
Predicted Finish: 14th
Strongest line up 1 Preston Campbell 2 Shannon Walker 3 Brett Delaney 4 Chris Walker 5 Brenton Bowen 6 Mat Rogers 7 Scott Prince 8 Luke Bailey 9 Nathan Friend 10 Brad Meyers 11 Anthony Laffranchi 12 Mark Minichiello 13 Ashley Harrison Reserves 14 Matthew Cross 15 Luke Swain 16 Aaron Cannings 17 Ben Jeffrey.
Overview
This season is even more unpredictable than last year for the Titans, 07 went pretty much to script, they won some good matches and if anything overachieved. This year they have a slightly stronger team and another year of experience means they should challenge for the eight, however expectations could be too much for them. Without doubt Scott Prince is one of the best halfbacks in the comp and the Titans will be again relying on him a lot, Mat Rogers is likely to partner him in the halves and it will be interesting to see how they go together. The forward pack is excellent and will give them a good platform to work from and the backs have a lot of tries in them. They'll be close to the bottom of the table i feel but it will be so close this season they will still be in with a chance of making the finals till the final rounds.
Look Out For: Shannon Walker, massive wraps on this guy, usuaully a fullback but will have to make do with starting on the wing, apparently can score a try or two. Can't wait to see him go round.
Top Tryscorer: Shannon Walker
Predicted Finish: 15th
Manly Sea Eagles
Strongest line up 1 Brett Stewart 2 Michael Robertson 3 Steve Bell 4 Steve Matai 5 David Vaeliki 6 Jamie Lyon 7 Matt Orford 8 Jason King 9 Matt Ballin 10 Brent Kite 11 Glenn Stewart 12 Anthony Watmough 13 Luke Williamson Reserves 14 Steve Menzies 15 Adam Cuthbertson 16 Mark Bryant 17 Josh Perry.
Overview
Have lost a couple of good players but still look at strong as last year. The pressure is on Matt Ballin to replace Michael Monaghan and a winger has to come from somewhere to do the finishing of Chris Hicks. I'd be surprised if we saw them on grand final day again but they will certainly be up there. Jamie Lyon at five eighth is never going to work and Matt Orford while improving his game all the time is not the premiership wininng halfback Manly want him to be. They look light on for forwards outside the top 17 or 18 players so if they get some injuries they will be in massive trouble. Brookvale is a big home ground advantage for them too, so winning most of their games in Sydney should ensure a finals birth.
Look Out For: Michael Bani, possibly the man to replace Hicks on that wing. May get a chance early in the year to prove his worth, there isn't a lot of competition for that spot so he will have a chance to make it his own.
Top Tryscorer: Brett Stewart
Predicted Finish: 5th
Melbourne Storm
Strongest line up 1 Billy Slater 2 Anthony Quinn 3 Israel Folau 4 Ben MacDougall 5 Steve Turner 6 Greg Inglis 7 Cooper Cronk 8 Antonio Kaufusi 9 Cameron Smith 10 Brett White 11 Jeremy Smith 12 Ryan Hoffman 13 Dallas Johnson Reserves 14 Matt Geyer 15 Jeff Lima 16 Adam Blair 17 Michael Crocker.
Overview
The premiers will be looking to make their third straight grand final and with a team like this is hard to see them missing it. Have so much depth and versatility in their squad an injury or two wont effect them like it will the rest of the competition. The only thing standing in their way is the premiers curse which has struck fairly reguarly for the last decade, you'd think they will have enough plans in place to avoid it happening but this year I feel they might lose a few more games. Ben MacDougall coming back is helpful with the loss of Matt King but he has competition for his spot from a few youngsters. State of Origin time will be crucial for them with the likelyhood of six or seven players being picked.
Look Out For: Will Chambers, talented winger or centre who is one of the guys who will come into contention for a spot in the outside backs, has already had a taste of first grade and wont be overawed by playing in a big match.
Top Tryscorer: Steve Turner
Predicted Finish: 3rd
Newcastle Knights
Strongest line up 1 Kurt Gidley 2 James McManus 3 Adam MacDougall 4 Wes Naqaima 5 Cooper Vuna 6 Jarred Mullen 7 Luke Walsh 8 Ben Cross 9 Danny Buderus 10 Mitchell Sargeant 11 Chris Bailey 12 Corey Paterson 13 Steve Simpson Reserves 14 Matt Hilder 15 Chris Houston 16 Jesse Royal 17 Danny Wicks.
Overview
A strong looking team on paper and Newcastle sides always play with a lot of pride and passion, but this season looks as the second in their rebuilding phase as a few more guys come to grips with the week in week out grind of first grade. Have got some of the most talented youngsters in the game with Bailey, Paterson, Walsh and Mullen all proving in 07 they have big futures. I don't think their balance is quite right this year though, with a lot of younger guys improving they also have quite a few players that might be past their best and not enough at the peak of their powers. The forward pack will be heavily reliant on Steve Simpson and Ben Cross to get go forward as the rest of the pack don't have the workhorse look about them.
Look Out For: Jesse Royal, big prop with a big future. Should get a lot of game time this year and could develop into a real leader for the Knights if he lives up to his potential.
Top Tryscorer: Kurt Gidley
Predicted Finish: 14th
Simon
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not according to Brian Smith, i think its a bit odd myself but apparently Simpson will play 13 this year...
dontcloseyoureyes
BARNES OUT
I'm pretty sure he had Eels up on top of his ladder prediction, yeah. I hope they do well, my 2nd team. My dad and his family are die-hards. Would love to see a Roosters-Eels final, if for nothing else to see the treatment Finch would get.
NUFAN
Y no Afghanistan flag
Good read Simon. I dont disagree with many lineups at all which is quite suprising since you've done 8 teams.
What I disagree with
- Lee Te Maari to be included for the Bulldogs perhaps at the expense of Leano.
- I can't see Craig Frawley getting a run for the Broncos either. That final spot should go to your 'look out for' Tom Hewitt or maybe even Denan Kemp.
- Kevin Kingston into the 17 for the Sharks instead of either Green or Seymour. Actually think Greg Bird will more then likely play 6 this year too.
What I disagree with
- Lee Te Maari to be included for the Bulldogs perhaps at the expense of Leano.
- I can't see Craig Frawley getting a run for the Broncos either. That final spot should go to your 'look out for' Tom Hewitt or maybe even Denan Kemp.
- Kevin Kingston into the 17 for the Sharks instead of either Green or Seymour. Actually think Greg Bird will more then likely play 6 this year too.
chaminda_00
Hall of Fame Member
Bani will start ahead of Vaeliki. Vaeliki was only brought to replace Matai when he suspended for half the season for high tackles. Our forward depth is gun, best in the comp. If you 5-6 injuries in forwards your going to be ****ed anyway regardless if you have depth, as you most likely to have some rep players out.
Simon
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Probably agree with you on all three of those, Frawley is an interesting one, he played really well at the end of last season so might get first chance, however I'm hoping Hewitt or Beale get a crack. Kemp will get his chance at fullback when Locky retires and Hunt goes to the halves...
BoyBrumby
Englishman
Would an ambitious young bloke really want to wait that long tho? Broncs lost Anderson & Tupou last year & it's a fair guess not getting a regular go was part of their thinking in moving.
NUFAN
Y no Afghanistan flag
I just think he's going to have to wait, unless he goes onto the wing.
Look around at all the other clubs, there are so many quality fullbacks.
Which club would be willing to buy him and play him at fullback when sides are at full strength?
Simon
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New Zealand Warriors
Strongest line up 1 Patrick Ah Van 2 Manu Vatuvei 3 Jerome Ropati 4 Brent Tate 5 Ryan Shortland 6 Michael Witt 7 Grant Rovelli 8 Sam Rapira 9 Nathan Fien 10 Steven Price 11 Ruben Wiki 12 Simon Mannering 13 Michael Luck Reserves 14 Lance Hohaia 15 Logan Swann 16 Epalahame Lauki 17 Evarn Tuimavave.
Overview
As always the Warriors are a bit of an unknown package, it really depends which team turns up on the day. In 07 they improved their consistentcy and should continue that this year and make the finals. Losing Wade McKinnon for the entire season through injury is a huge blow, without a ready made fullback to come in someone will have to step up. Warriors teams usually have big aggressive forwards and this year is no different, they probably have more depth in this area than most sides too. The balance of the backrow is as good as any with Wiki a workhorse in attack and Luck in defence while Mannering is more of the creative player. These three should provide the cornerstone to the Warriors making September action.
Look Out For: Sonny Fai, promising young forward who will no doubt get some game time this year, if he fullfils his potential he could be anything, possibly even a bolter for the World Cup.
Top Tryscorer: Jerome Ropati
Predicted Finish: 6th
North Queensland Cowboys
Strongest line up 1 Matt Bowen 2 Ty Williams 3 Ben Farrar 4 Ben Harris 5 Ashley Graham 6 Travis Burns 7 Johnathon Thurston 8 Ray Cashmere 9 Aaron Payne 10 Shane Tronc 11 Luke O'Donnell 12 Jacob Lillyman 13 Sione Faumuina Reserves 14 Carl Webb 15 Steve Southern 16 David Faiumu 17 Matthew Scott.
Overview
One of the strongest teams in the competition and should make a huge impact this year. The biggest concern is the injury to Thurston which will keep him out of action early in the season and we all know the Cowboys problems when he isnt in the team, if they can win some games early without him then they are a real shot of winning the minor premiership. I believe they have the strongest backline along with Parramatta in the competition, new recruit Travis Burns will make a huge difference and if he settles into the Cowboys way of play then they'll do well. The on going coaching saga could be a problem for them too, if they can put off field drama's behind them then this season will be successful.
Look Out For: Ben Harris, former Bulldogs centre has returned to the NRL this season and will be a massive boost for the cowboys, he's a natural tryscorer so look for him to get over the stripe plenty of times in 08.
Top Tryscorer: Matt Bowen
Predicted Finish: 4th
Parramatta Eels
Strongest line up: 1 Jarryd Hayne 2 Luke Burt 3 Krisnan Inu 4 Ben Smith 5 Eric Grothe 6 Brett Finch 7 Tim Smith 8 Nathan Cayless 9 Matt Keating 10 Fuifui Moi Moi 11 Nathan Hindmarsh 12 Chad Robinson 13 Feleti Mateo Reserves 14 Mark Riddell 15 Joe Gauvao 16 Daniel Wagon 17 Josh Cordoba.
Overview
Could this finally be the year of the Eels? 22 years since their last premiership and this side is a real show, the backs have got plenty of tries in them and the forwards look like they will go all day, however the halves are again the issue. Will Tim Smith be even on the field come finals time and Brett Finch has never won a comp, there are a lot of issues to be sorted before they can be called real contenders. Once they get everything sorted they are one of the few teams that can match it with the Storm and lets hope they do. They again have a number of promising juniors putting pressure on the guys in first grade and this year if they don't perform theres a chance another Inu could be produced.
Look Out For: Matt Keating, with PJ Marsh leaving he'll get his chance this year and I think he'll grab it with both hands. Has been considered a future leader of the club for a while and he's got the temprement to be a good NRL player.
Top Tryscorer: Ben Smith
Predicted Finish: 1st
Penrith Panthers
Strongest line up 1 Rhys Wesser 2 Michael Gordon 3 Michael Jennings 4 Luke Lewis 5 Luke Rooney 6 Joe Williams 7 Jarrod Sammut 8 Adam Woolnough 9 Luke Priddis 10 Petero Civoniceva 11 Frank Pritchard 12 Trent Waterhouse 13 Nathan Smith Reserves 14 Tim Grant 15 Frank Puletua 16 Paul Aiton 17 Matthew Bell.
Overview
Penrith will be this years big improvers, after a terrible 2007 they have plenty to look forward to this season. Their talented crop of youngsters have that one year extra experience and the addition of Civoniceva is huge. They have a hard working forward pack and some pretty good depth in the prop position, they will also be hoping for a full season from Trent Waterhouse. The halves positions are still up in the air after Gower and Wallace leaving, any of Sammut, Joe Williams, Ritchie Williams, Lewis or McCrone could fill the two positions, whoever does though has a big job in front of them. All their backs are natural tryscorers and this year they need more from positions 1-5 after Michael Jennings was the only back who showed any class in 07.
Look Out For: Josh McCrone, leader of the Raiders successful Flegg side last year was bought by the Raiders to play first grade. A Natural and skillfull halfback who has a top kicking game, if he's picked early in the seasons he's a big chance of rookie of the year honours.
Top Tryscorer: Michael Jennings
Predicted Finish: 9th
Strongest line up 1 Patrick Ah Van 2 Manu Vatuvei 3 Jerome Ropati 4 Brent Tate 5 Ryan Shortland 6 Michael Witt 7 Grant Rovelli 8 Sam Rapira 9 Nathan Fien 10 Steven Price 11 Ruben Wiki 12 Simon Mannering 13 Michael Luck Reserves 14 Lance Hohaia 15 Logan Swann 16 Epalahame Lauki 17 Evarn Tuimavave.
Overview
As always the Warriors are a bit of an unknown package, it really depends which team turns up on the day. In 07 they improved their consistentcy and should continue that this year and make the finals. Losing Wade McKinnon for the entire season through injury is a huge blow, without a ready made fullback to come in someone will have to step up. Warriors teams usually have big aggressive forwards and this year is no different, they probably have more depth in this area than most sides too. The balance of the backrow is as good as any with Wiki a workhorse in attack and Luck in defence while Mannering is more of the creative player. These three should provide the cornerstone to the Warriors making September action.
Look Out For: Sonny Fai, promising young forward who will no doubt get some game time this year, if he fullfils his potential he could be anything, possibly even a bolter for the World Cup.
Top Tryscorer: Jerome Ropati
Predicted Finish: 6th
North Queensland Cowboys
Strongest line up 1 Matt Bowen 2 Ty Williams 3 Ben Farrar 4 Ben Harris 5 Ashley Graham 6 Travis Burns 7 Johnathon Thurston 8 Ray Cashmere 9 Aaron Payne 10 Shane Tronc 11 Luke O'Donnell 12 Jacob Lillyman 13 Sione Faumuina Reserves 14 Carl Webb 15 Steve Southern 16 David Faiumu 17 Matthew Scott.
Overview
One of the strongest teams in the competition and should make a huge impact this year. The biggest concern is the injury to Thurston which will keep him out of action early in the season and we all know the Cowboys problems when he isnt in the team, if they can win some games early without him then they are a real shot of winning the minor premiership. I believe they have the strongest backline along with Parramatta in the competition, new recruit Travis Burns will make a huge difference and if he settles into the Cowboys way of play then they'll do well. The on going coaching saga could be a problem for them too, if they can put off field drama's behind them then this season will be successful.
Look Out For: Ben Harris, former Bulldogs centre has returned to the NRL this season and will be a massive boost for the cowboys, he's a natural tryscorer so look for him to get over the stripe plenty of times in 08.
Top Tryscorer: Matt Bowen
Predicted Finish: 4th
Parramatta Eels
Strongest line up: 1 Jarryd Hayne 2 Luke Burt 3 Krisnan Inu 4 Ben Smith 5 Eric Grothe 6 Brett Finch 7 Tim Smith 8 Nathan Cayless 9 Matt Keating 10 Fuifui Moi Moi 11 Nathan Hindmarsh 12 Chad Robinson 13 Feleti Mateo Reserves 14 Mark Riddell 15 Joe Gauvao 16 Daniel Wagon 17 Josh Cordoba.
Overview
Could this finally be the year of the Eels? 22 years since their last premiership and this side is a real show, the backs have got plenty of tries in them and the forwards look like they will go all day, however the halves are again the issue. Will Tim Smith be even on the field come finals time and Brett Finch has never won a comp, there are a lot of issues to be sorted before they can be called real contenders. Once they get everything sorted they are one of the few teams that can match it with the Storm and lets hope they do. They again have a number of promising juniors putting pressure on the guys in first grade and this year if they don't perform theres a chance another Inu could be produced.
Look Out For: Matt Keating, with PJ Marsh leaving he'll get his chance this year and I think he'll grab it with both hands. Has been considered a future leader of the club for a while and he's got the temprement to be a good NRL player.
Top Tryscorer: Ben Smith
Predicted Finish: 1st
Penrith Panthers
Strongest line up 1 Rhys Wesser 2 Michael Gordon 3 Michael Jennings 4 Luke Lewis 5 Luke Rooney 6 Joe Williams 7 Jarrod Sammut 8 Adam Woolnough 9 Luke Priddis 10 Petero Civoniceva 11 Frank Pritchard 12 Trent Waterhouse 13 Nathan Smith Reserves 14 Tim Grant 15 Frank Puletua 16 Paul Aiton 17 Matthew Bell.
Overview
Penrith will be this years big improvers, after a terrible 2007 they have plenty to look forward to this season. Their talented crop of youngsters have that one year extra experience and the addition of Civoniceva is huge. They have a hard working forward pack and some pretty good depth in the prop position, they will also be hoping for a full season from Trent Waterhouse. The halves positions are still up in the air after Gower and Wallace leaving, any of Sammut, Joe Williams, Ritchie Williams, Lewis or McCrone could fill the two positions, whoever does though has a big job in front of them. All their backs are natural tryscorers and this year they need more from positions 1-5 after Michael Jennings was the only back who showed any class in 07.
Look Out For: Josh McCrone, leader of the Raiders successful Flegg side last year was bought by the Raiders to play first grade. A Natural and skillfull halfback who has a top kicking game, if he's picked early in the seasons he's a big chance of rookie of the year honours.
Top Tryscorer: Michael Jennings
Predicted Finish: 9th
Simon
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may be sooner than you think, end of next year I think Locky will leave us. Kemp is still a young kid and given how much potential he showed on debut vs Manly last year we'd be crazy to just let him leave.
edit: Tupou wasn't in first grade because he was lazy, wouldn't train hard enough and just had a poor attitude to the game. Wayne Bennett was never going to put up with it for long. Anderson we chose not to keep because we didnt think he had a future at the club.
Simon
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South Sydney Rabbitohs
Strongest line up 1 Nathan Merritt 2 Fetuli Talanao 3 Yileen Gordon 4 Nigel Vagana 5 Shannon Hegarty 6 Ben Rogers 7 Craig Wing 8 Luke Stuart 9 Isaac Luke 10 Roy Asotasi 11 David Kidwell 12 David Fa'alongo 13 John Sutton Reserves 14 Dean Widders 15 Jaiman Lowe 16 Scott Geddes 17 Michael Greenfield.
Overview
Only one new addition to the team this season with Craig Wing coming in, logic would suggest they should finish higher than last season's seventh, I think not. They over achieved in 2007 and this year should see a return back down the table, they are obviously a lot more competitive than a number of seasons ago but overall they have too many ageing players and a few fringe players that just aren't up to the job. Ben Rogers played out of his skin at the back end of last season and I don't think he can do it again. Much depends on the dummy half work of Isaac Luke and the go forward of Roy Asotasi, if either of these guys is slightly down on form then they'll struggle even more.
Look Out For: Eddie Paea, NSW under 19's captain and halfback got a taste of first grade towards the end of last season and was slightly off the pace. With an off season behind him he could make an impact in 08 if Craig Wing at halfback doesn't work.
Top Tryscorer: Nathan Merritt
Predicted Finish: 12th
St George/Illawarra Dragons
Strongest line up 1 Ben Hornby 2 Brett Morris 3 Mark Gasnier 4 Matt Cooper 5 Josh Morris 6 Rangi Chase 7 Jamie Soward 8 Justin Poore 9 Simon Woolford 10 Jason Ryles 11 Beau Scott 12 Ben Creagh 13 Dean Young Reserves 14 Kirk Reynoldson 15 Dan Hunt 16 Chase Stanley 17 Wendell Sailor.
Overview
On Paper this team would be closer to first than last but I think this is the year the club will finally implode. It's been coming for a while when everything falls apart and coach Brown really has run his race, he'll be lucky to see out ten rounds before he is replaced. Maybe I'm wrong and they'll do quite well, its entirely possible given they have nine rep players in their squad and a number of lethal outside backs who are capable of scoring multiple numbers of tries in a match. Much depends on their fowards who have long been critised for being a bit soft, if they can match it with the other sides week in week out then they could win more games than I think they will.
Look Out For: Brett Morris, he was may "look of for" last year but injury ruined his season and he's almost starting fresh as a rookie again. Came on the scene with a huge bang in 06 and is still a future rep player if he gets fit.
Top Tryscorer: Mark Gasnier
Predicted Finish: 16th
Sydney Roosters
Strongest line up 1 Anthony Minichiello 2 Amos Roberts 3 Sia Soliola 4 Sam Perrett 5 Shaun Kenny Dowell 6 Braith Anasta 7 Mitchell Pearce 8 Mark O'Meley 9 James Aubusson 10 Danny Nutley 11 Willie Mason 12 Craig Fitzgibbon 13 Anthony Tupou Reserves 14 Nate Myles 15 David Shillington 16 Lopini Paea 17 Setamata Sa.
Overview
Showed some good form at the back end of last year and they will be hoping to continue it into 2008. Without doubt have one of the strongest forward packs in the comp with the additions of O'Meley and Mason, this year they will want more out of Tupou and Myles though. The worry for them is the outside backs, Minichiello has been injured a long time and apart from Amos Roberts they lack a real strike weapon that can score 20 tries this season. A lot will depend on Mitchell Pearce too, now into his second season in the top grade he needs to get over his back injuries and lead the side in every game this season as the club doesnt have much depth in his position.
Look Out For: Setemata Sa, finally cracked the top grade in 07 and should be a prominent member of this years team. Can play any number of positions and form pending he should play every game this season.
Top Tryscorer: Amos Roberts
Predicted Finish: 8th
Wests Tigers
Strongest line up 1 Brett Hodgson 2 Nick Youngquest 3 Chris Lawrence 4 Dean Collis 5 Taniela Tuiaki 6 Benji Marshall 7 Matthew Head 8 Todd Payten 9 Robbie Farah 10 Keith Galloway 11 Corey Payne 12 Chris Heighington 13 Liam Fulton Reserves 14 John Morris 15 Dene Halatau 16 Bryce Gibbs 17 Ben Te'o.
Overview
Obviously not the strongest team in the league but also not the worst, I expect the Tigers to show a good account of themselves this season but I can see too many outstanding results. With Benji fit theres going to be some flair and some good tries scored but I see more of a tough grinding game coming from Wests this season. They have some excellent players in key positions and if Mat Head stays fit then they have picked up a bargain buy and he may just lead them to the finals. The forwards again look a bit light on, but the bench looks like one of the strongest in the league, the new interchange rules should suit them. Youngquest is likely to start on the wing but I think some rotations will happen and he'll miss out throughout the season.
Look Out For: Ben Te'o, big go forward man and is the future of the Tigers pack, will be hoping to get a regular start this season and it's not beyond him.
Top Tryscorer: Chris Lawrence
Predicted Finish: 11th
Strongest line up 1 Nathan Merritt 2 Fetuli Talanao 3 Yileen Gordon 4 Nigel Vagana 5 Shannon Hegarty 6 Ben Rogers 7 Craig Wing 8 Luke Stuart 9 Isaac Luke 10 Roy Asotasi 11 David Kidwell 12 David Fa'alongo 13 John Sutton Reserves 14 Dean Widders 15 Jaiman Lowe 16 Scott Geddes 17 Michael Greenfield.
Overview
Only one new addition to the team this season with Craig Wing coming in, logic would suggest they should finish higher than last season's seventh, I think not. They over achieved in 2007 and this year should see a return back down the table, they are obviously a lot more competitive than a number of seasons ago but overall they have too many ageing players and a few fringe players that just aren't up to the job. Ben Rogers played out of his skin at the back end of last season and I don't think he can do it again. Much depends on the dummy half work of Isaac Luke and the go forward of Roy Asotasi, if either of these guys is slightly down on form then they'll struggle even more.
Look Out For: Eddie Paea, NSW under 19's captain and halfback got a taste of first grade towards the end of last season and was slightly off the pace. With an off season behind him he could make an impact in 08 if Craig Wing at halfback doesn't work.
Top Tryscorer: Nathan Merritt
Predicted Finish: 12th
St George/Illawarra Dragons
Strongest line up 1 Ben Hornby 2 Brett Morris 3 Mark Gasnier 4 Matt Cooper 5 Josh Morris 6 Rangi Chase 7 Jamie Soward 8 Justin Poore 9 Simon Woolford 10 Jason Ryles 11 Beau Scott 12 Ben Creagh 13 Dean Young Reserves 14 Kirk Reynoldson 15 Dan Hunt 16 Chase Stanley 17 Wendell Sailor.
Overview
On Paper this team would be closer to first than last but I think this is the year the club will finally implode. It's been coming for a while when everything falls apart and coach Brown really has run his race, he'll be lucky to see out ten rounds before he is replaced. Maybe I'm wrong and they'll do quite well, its entirely possible given they have nine rep players in their squad and a number of lethal outside backs who are capable of scoring multiple numbers of tries in a match. Much depends on their fowards who have long been critised for being a bit soft, if they can match it with the other sides week in week out then they could win more games than I think they will.
Look Out For: Brett Morris, he was may "look of for" last year but injury ruined his season and he's almost starting fresh as a rookie again. Came on the scene with a huge bang in 06 and is still a future rep player if he gets fit.
Top Tryscorer: Mark Gasnier
Predicted Finish: 16th
Sydney Roosters
Strongest line up 1 Anthony Minichiello 2 Amos Roberts 3 Sia Soliola 4 Sam Perrett 5 Shaun Kenny Dowell 6 Braith Anasta 7 Mitchell Pearce 8 Mark O'Meley 9 James Aubusson 10 Danny Nutley 11 Willie Mason 12 Craig Fitzgibbon 13 Anthony Tupou Reserves 14 Nate Myles 15 David Shillington 16 Lopini Paea 17 Setamata Sa.
Overview
Showed some good form at the back end of last year and they will be hoping to continue it into 2008. Without doubt have one of the strongest forward packs in the comp with the additions of O'Meley and Mason, this year they will want more out of Tupou and Myles though. The worry for them is the outside backs, Minichiello has been injured a long time and apart from Amos Roberts they lack a real strike weapon that can score 20 tries this season. A lot will depend on Mitchell Pearce too, now into his second season in the top grade he needs to get over his back injuries and lead the side in every game this season as the club doesnt have much depth in his position.
Look Out For: Setemata Sa, finally cracked the top grade in 07 and should be a prominent member of this years team. Can play any number of positions and form pending he should play every game this season.
Top Tryscorer: Amos Roberts
Predicted Finish: 8th
Wests Tigers
Strongest line up 1 Brett Hodgson 2 Nick Youngquest 3 Chris Lawrence 4 Dean Collis 5 Taniela Tuiaki 6 Benji Marshall 7 Matthew Head 8 Todd Payten 9 Robbie Farah 10 Keith Galloway 11 Corey Payne 12 Chris Heighington 13 Liam Fulton Reserves 14 John Morris 15 Dene Halatau 16 Bryce Gibbs 17 Ben Te'o.
Overview
Obviously not the strongest team in the league but also not the worst, I expect the Tigers to show a good account of themselves this season but I can see too many outstanding results. With Benji fit theres going to be some flair and some good tries scored but I see more of a tough grinding game coming from Wests this season. They have some excellent players in key positions and if Mat Head stays fit then they have picked up a bargain buy and he may just lead them to the finals. The forwards again look a bit light on, but the bench looks like one of the strongest in the league, the new interchange rules should suit them. Youngquest is likely to start on the wing but I think some rotations will happen and he'll miss out throughout the season.
Look Out For: Ben Te'o, big go forward man and is the future of the Tigers pack, will be hoping to get a regular start this season and it's not beyond him.
Top Tryscorer: Chris Lawrence
Predicted Finish: 11th