In a surprising turn of events, Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo implemented strategies reminiscent of the Queensland State of Origin team to neutralise Nathan Cleary’s influence during last Thursday night’s match at Accor Stadium, where Canterbury triumphed over Penrith with a score of 32-16. Cleary, the highly regarded Panthers playmaker, struggled significantly, managing only a single try assist to Tom Jenkins, marking one of his least impressive performances of the season. The Bulldogs excelled in shutting down Cleary’s space and time, showcasing an aggressive defensive strategy that has proven effective against him in the past.
Throughout the match, the Bulldogs exhibited remarkable intensity and hunger, with all 13 players exceeding 100 running metres, a rarity that underscored their dominance. Despite this setback, the Panthers, though now grappling with consistency, remain a formidable contender in the league.
In other NRL news, the Roosters secured a challenging 34-22 victory over the Sharks, with notable contributions from veteran Daly Cherry-Evans. The outcome may have serious implications for Sharks hooker Blayke Brailey, who showcased exceptional skill with three try assists, positioning himself as a strong contender for State of Origin selection, while his competition, Roosters’ Reece Robson, is lauded more for his defensive capabilities.
In a standout performance, the Titans demonstrated that pure speed is a key component for success in the current NRL climate. They secured a staggering 52-10 victory over the Eels, showcasing talent such as Keano Kini and AJ Brimson, and signalling their potential to challenge for finals contention. This marked a significant turning point for a Titans team that has thawed from an underwhelming season start.
Meanwhile, the Storm faced unprecedented struggles against the Warriors, enduring a concerning 38-14 loss. Melbourne coach Craig Bellamy’s frustration was evident as he addressed his players, who appeared to lack confidence and clarity on the field. Conversely, the Warriors, bolstered by the performance of prop Jackson Ford, may emerge as serious title threats, challenging the previously dominant Penrith side.
The Rabbitohs have sparked concerns surrounding their annual trips to Perth for away games, with yet another loss diminishing their home ground advantage. Their recent narrow defeat to the Raiders raises questions about the financial sense of such long-distance games.
Lastly, Todd Payten’s cautious management of star player Jason Taumalolo is finally paying dividends, as the Cowboys’ captain displayed remarkable form in a crucial match against the Broncos. Additionally, the Roosters appear to have scored with the acquisition of Reuben Garrick, who made an impressive impact in his first match since joining the club, suggesting a bright future ahead for the Roosters.
Overall, the NRL continues to reveal exciting twists and unexpected performances as teams vying for finals spots adjust their strategies and refine their gameplay.