Many fans believe that Keaon Koloamatangi, a standout player for South Sydney, should have been a top pick for the New South Wales Blues in Perth. His impressive performance against Melbourne, where he amassed 232 run metres in an 80-plus-minute effort despite being on a losing side, highlights his worthiness for selection. In contrast, Max King’s 25 minutes for just 47 metres makes Koloamatangi’s inclusion for the deciding match appear clear-cut. Pairing Koloamatangi with powerhouse Payne Haas could pose significant challenges for the Maroons.
Harry Grant made headlines during Melbourne’s narrow 25-24 victory over Souths, showcasing his talent with a try, a line break, and leading the tackle count. His skills as a hooker further emphasise the need for NSW to consider a more dynamic dummy-half in their lineup, such as Api Koroisau or Wayde Egan.
Adam Reynolds silenced critics with a stellar display against the Broncos, rallying the team from a shaky start to clinch an important win. His composure under pressure proved invaluable, especially in crucial moments as the Broncos fight for points in the lead-up to finals.
Junior Paulo and Dean Hawkins played pivotal roles for the Eels in their 36-20 triumph over the Titans. Paulo showed determination and skill, while Hawkins solidified his position as halfback during Mitchell Moses’ absence. The Eels remain in contention for the finals, only three points behind the top eight.
After a rough patch, Paul Alamoti made a triumphant return for the Panthers, contributing significantly to their unexpected victory over the Warriors. With a try and a line break, Alamoti’s performance rekindled hopes for a strong finish to the season.
James Fisher-Harris faced a challenging game against his former team, but his sportsmanship shone through as he congratulated the victorious Panthers after a disappointing personal performance.
On the other hand, Terrell May and Api Koroisau from the Tigers, despite their team’s loss against Canberra, displayed promising forms that could enhance their Origin credentials. May ran for an impressive 180 metres, while Koroisau excelled defensively with the highest tackle count.
Joe Tapine’s leadership since stepping in as captain has been remarkable, and his stellar play against the Tigers positions him as a frontrunner for the Dally M Captain of the Year. His efforts on the field have played a crucial role in the Raiders’ strong standing in the premiership.
In summary, the NRL season continues to flourish with emerging talents and seasoned players showcasing their skills, thus shaping crucial selections for the upcoming finals and representative matches.