Following the Brisbane Broncos’ dismal 32-0 loss to a depleted Manly side, coach Michael Maguire faces the daunting task of reshaping his team after their sixth defeat in seven matches. Key players under scrutiny include Ezra Mam, Cory Paix, Kobe Hetherington, and Billy Walters, all of whom delivered particularly poor performances. Mam missed five tackles and made three errors, while Paix’s single run yielded just one metre. Hetherington and Walters fared little better, contributing minimally in terms of runs and metres.
In a contrasting narrative, the St George Illawarra Dragons have discovered a promising talent in Loko Pasifiki Tonga. At only 19, following an impressive season culminating in an SG Ball Cup grand final victory, Tonga has made his mark in the NRL, recently scoring his first try against the Knights with a powerful run.
Meanwhile, Tom Dearden has put his name forward for the Queensland No.7 jersey, showcasing a brilliant performance that included scoring a try and providing two assists during the Cowboys’ tight win over the Tigers. As the Origin series approaches, the debate around Daly Cherry-Evans’ position intensifies following his underwhelming display.
The Warriors’ finals ambitions hinge on the form of fullback Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, who excelled with 342 metres and a try in a gritty win over the Rabbitohs. His consistency could be critical in securing a top-four finish.
The West Tigers, yearning for a morale-boosting win after a rocky week, displayed remarkable resilience despite ultimately losing to the Cowboys. Their near-comeback showcased a fighting spirit not often associated with a struggling team.
For the Newcastle Knights, coach Adam O’Brien’s constant reshuffling of the halves has yielded little success, and Jackson Hastings’ performances in the NSW Cup suggest he deserves another shot in the top tier. The team’s scoring struggles highlight their need for a skilled organiser and playmaker, which Hastings could provide.
Lastly, although the Melbourne Storm secured victory against the Gold Coast Titans, their performance raised concerns. With 20 missed tackles and multiple errors, the Storm’s reputation as premiership contenders seems to rest on their past achievements rather than current form. In summary, the ongoing NRL season is marked by team upheavals, emerging talents, and pressures mounting on coaches as they navigate through challenging circumstances.