Welcome everyone, regulars and newcomers.

I’ve set up the Supercoach competition for 2026.

Here’s the details with the all important code you’ll need to join in.

League Title:

TotalRLSCLeague26

686466 - the six digit code you need to enter our league 

Please join straight away as there are limited places available.

Unlimited changes are allowed until the kick off of Round 1 

I've joined by setting so to start with there are a further 19 places available in this 20 place league.

It's a Head to Head and Total Points league.

Good luck

Graham

The Dolphins v Canterbury Bulldogs

Dolphins retain the starting XIII that beat the Storm with significantly  Jeremy Marshall-King named ion the bench

The Dogs make the one change with Josh Curran Benched and replaced in the second row by
Sitili Tupouniua.

Big win for the Fins over Melbourne in aquatic conditions at Suncorp last week. Conditions that do not suit the Dolphins game and significantly the potential return of Jeremy Marshall-King seen as key to the functionality of this Dolphins outfit.

Tip - Dolphin

Sydney Roosters v Gold Coast Titans

For the Roosters, Cody Ramsey replaces the injured Mark Nawaqanitawase on the wing, and Spence Leniu the concussed Lindsay Collins in the front row.

Josh Hannay rings the changes for the Titans, Lachlan Ilias is dropped and replaced by Jayden Campbell in the halves joined by Zaine Harrison. Oliver Pascoe replaces the benched Sam Verrills at Hooker. Sialetili Faeamani is replaced by Jensen Taumoepeau on the wing. Klese Haas  benched Kurtis Morrin in the front row,  with benched Arama Hau replaced in the second row by  Chris Randall whose position at lock is taken by Cooper Bai.

Josh Hannay was speechless about the Titans failure against Ricky’s Ravaged Raiders as was I who tipped them. Does this mean there is no hope at Allianz. Here’s a few points in their favour.

• ·         The Roosters played their best football of 2026 in the first half against the Bronx will their performance drop off this week.
• ·         The Roosters have a few injuries this Week.
• ·         The Titans won the corresponding game last year.
• ·         No-one gives the Titans a chance so they can play without fear.

Tip - Rooster

North Queensland Cowboys  v Paramatta Eels

Only the one change for the Cows with Jeremiah Nanai replaced by Sam Mcintyre in the second row)

Two changes for the Eels with Will Penisini replaced by Jordan Samrani at Centre and Tallyn Da Silva Ryley Smith at hooker.

Back in Tropical Townsville, I think the cows have too much firepower for the deleted Eels. It’s tough to win in Townsville with your starting XIII let alone when you have so many out. Eels main chance is to hit the Cows early and establish a lead because North Queensland strike me as frontrunners and not a team that can handle an early deficit.

Tip - Cowboy

St George-Illawarra Dragons v Newcastle Knights

For the Dragons fresh from the bye, Clinton Gutherson returns from a hamstring injury at fullback replacing the benched Tyrell Sloan, Dylan Egan also returns from an ACL injury to replace Luciano Leilua in the second row with Hamish Stewart replacing the benched Josh Kerr at lock .

Knights starting XIII unchanged.

At the ‘Gong, Will the Dragons put together a winning performance at WIN against a Knights team that can score repeatedly and often.

The Key to this game is whether it develops into a shootout. If the Dragons can hold Newcastle to 20 points or less, they are ion with a  chance. If the Knights get over 20 points Dragons could struggle. There is also the Gutherson factor, now he has been a great player and still has Rugby League nous, but when I watched him live last season it was obvious that Gutho had lost a yard in pace and should have been moved to the centres. That view remains more succinctly summed up by an Aussie Journo as “While the game has speeded up Gutho has slowed down” and fullback is a role in which you need a turn pf pace in today’s NRL.

Tip -  SGI to make more of a game of it but ultimately Knight!

South Sydney v Cronulla Sharks - SKY

Rabbits make heaps of changes with the injured Jack Wighton replaced at centre by Campbell Graham moving off the wing where he in turn is replaced by Edward Kosi,  Jye Grey returns at fullback for the benched Matt Dufty. Ashton Ward replaces Jamie Humphries in the halves. Keaon Koloamatangi moves to the front row from the second row  replacing the benched Tevita Tatola with Euan Aitken taking his place in the second row

Sharkies stick with the starting XIII that put 52 on the Tigers.

A close encounter looms at Accor, Souths are a serious team, and Wayne Bennet has also made the bold choice of replacing matt Dufty at Fullback with the future of the club in Jye Gray back from Injury. As I have written before the NRL is based upon defence and Dufty’s defence is lacking at NRL level which is why he never stuck at SGI or the Dogs before departing to Super League.

Latrell is playing lights out footy at the moment but also seems to have moments in the game where he appears to want to punch someone’s lights out. It will go badly for Souths if he is 10 minutes in the bin.

Another acid test for the Sharks in taking on a contender for the premiership as opposed to an ordinary side. The key to the game lies in defence. The Sharks kept West Tigers at bay having conceded 40 plus to the Cows the previous outing whereas Souths conceded 42 to the Knights which is why Wayne Bennett has shuffled the pack

Tip – Close but Shark

Manly Sea Eagles v Brisbane Broncos - SKY

The Silvertails welcome back Jamal Fogarty at Halfback replacing the benched Joey Walsh with Concussed  Kobe Hetherington replaced by Ethan Bullemore  in the front row.

The Bronx on the other hand have Jesse Arthurs replacing the suspended Kotoni Staggs in the Centre, Antonio Verhoeven replacing the Injured Deine Mariner in the wing and crucially Thomas Duffy replacing Adam Reynolds in the halves.

Match of the round with the battered Bronx travelling to Brookvale. The Silvertails impressed in defeat against the Penny Panthers and that game was a lot closer than I personally thought it would be which is credit to the Silvertails and Keiran Foran

I think the loss of Adam Reynolds is key here. It’s vital for the Bronx that he is on the field walking the side around the park, without hi things can get directionless which is why yjere has beena  late rush to get Ben Hunt back in the side from injury.

Tip - Silvertails

Melbourne Storm v West Tigers

One change for the storm with Jahrome Hughes making an earlier return than anticipated replacing Tyran Wishart in the halves.

Heaps of changes for the Tigers, with significantly Adam Doueihi replaced by Jock Madden in the halves. Faaletino Tavana replaced on the wing by Sunia Turuva who in turn is replaced at fullback by Heath Mason. Patrick Herbert replaces Starford To'a at Centre. Kai Pearce-Paul replacing  Samuela Fainu in the second row), and Siobe Fainu replacing Tony Sukkar in the second row.

Having declared Melbourne untippable last week they would have to fancy their chances of snapping a seven-game losing streak against the troubled tigers where the wheels are starting to come off due to injuries If they are going to win a game then it’s this one and Cameron Munster needs to aim if he is going to make the Quuensland Origin team.

Tip – Coin Flip but Storm

Canberra Raiders v Penrith Panthers - SKY

For Canberra Hudson Young returns in the Second Row at the expense of  Joseph Roddy Daine Laurie is benched at Fullback and replaced by Kaeo Weekes whose spot in the halves is taken by Ethan Strange with Morgan Smithies replacing the benched Jayden Brailey at Lock.

Penrith stick with the same starting XIII

Big win for Ricky’s Rejuvenated Raiders at Gold Coast given the depleted numbers and are boosted by the return of Hudson Young who was immense against the storm

The Penny Panthers are not playing as well as they did earlier in the season but like all great sides were able to get into the grind against a spirited Silvertails outfit and get the result. Now that’s the real mark of a championship side not putting 50 odd points on an ordinary side but getting the competition points when you are not firing on all cylinders.

Tip - Panther

After Round 1

1. The Future is League  7

2= Barney 6

2= StormGirl 6

4= Graham 5

4= JimBronco 5

4= Lucky7  5

7= Dee Deuce 4

7= Jeff Stein 4

7= R L Winger 4

7= Spotty Herbert 4

7= The Red Rooster 4

12 StandOffHalf 3

   everyone

to our NRL Round 10 Tipping Competition.

You can enter every week or occasionally. Whatever you choose you'll be made welcome.

Bye: WARRIORS

All you need to do is:

1. Name the 8 winning teams (a drawn game after extra time counts as a win for both teams for the sake of our comp)

2. How many points will be scored by all the teams added together in R10? (Used as tie breaker for Champion Tipster title is more than one top scorers)

3. How many AWAY* wins will there be in the round? * When a game is played on the road the first team  is taken as the home team- 

4. Poll: How many teams will score only 9 points or fewer? Enter in your post and also at the top of the topic.

Entries welcome until the first game of the round kicks off this Thursday 8th May.

Award images are made and presented weekly. There's a tipping ladder kept throughout the season too which is kept as a separate thread on this forum.

EVERYONE is to join in this week 

Fixtures:

Bye: DRAGONS

JUST:

1. Name the 8 winning teams  (a drawn game after extra time counts as a win for both teams for the sake of our competition)

2. How many points will be scored by all the teams added together in R9? (Used as tie breaker for Champion Tipster award)

3. How many HOME wins will there be in the round? When a game is played on the road the first team  is taken as the home team.

4. Poll: How many teams will score 30 points or more? Enter in your post and also at the top of the topic.

Entries welcome until the first game of the round kicks off this Friday 1st May.

Award images are made and presented weekly. There's a tipping ladder kept throughout the season which is kept as a separate thread on this forum.

It's great to have you with us.

If you haven't entered before or not recently you'll be made very welcome. We've a great bunch of folk taking part this season.

Canterbury Bulldogs v North Queensland Cowboys

For the Dogs, Sitili Tupouniua replaces the inured Viliame Kikau (second row), Enari Tuala  replaces Marcelo Montoya on the wing with Jake Turpin joining Montoya on the bench (his position at hooker being taken by Bailey Hayward.

Cowboys make a couple of changes with Zak Laybutt replacing the injured Murray Taulagi on the wing and Thomas Mikaele replacing the benched Jeremiah Nanai in the second row.

This game is shaping as a matchup between a Dogs side that struggles to score points but concedes plenty and a Cowboys outfit that scores points and concedes them. If it turns into a points-fest you would have to fancy the Cows even if this is being played at Accor Stadium, simply because they have the gamebreakers the Dogs lack In Purdue and Drinkwater. But having written that the team that gets two scores in front may run away with the game with the other unable to haul back the deficit.

Tip = Cowboys

The Dolphins v Melbourne Storm

Trai Fuller replaces the injured Jake Averillo in the centres his position in the halves taken by
Brad Schneider Morgan Knowles replaces Thom as Flegler at Lock and Tom Gilbert comes into the front row. No Jeremy Marshall-King

Craig Bellamy has swung the axe, partly from necessity and part out of necessity in a side that has lost six in a row. Replacing the injured Jahrome Hughes in the halves is Tyran Wishart. Nick Meaney moves from wing to centre displacing Manaia Waitere to the bench and is replaced on the wing by Hugo Peel with Ativalu Lisati replacing  the benched Joe Chan in the second row also in the second row Shawn Bore replaces Cooper Clarke with Alex McDonald replacing g Trent Loiero at Lock.

As with the Penny Panthers last year, Melbourne at present have become untippable this season. In would things to turn around alter when Xavier Coates returns to the side but until then Melbourne’s “aura” has dissipated .

While Craig Bellamy’s tenure is secure at the Storm with credit in the bank. Kristian Woolf has a bit of a credit crunch at present as coach of a side tipped as premiership outsiders’ pre-season. He needs a win and just as importantly the Fins need a win without Jeremy Marshall-King. But given the Storms problems particularly with giving away field position and edge defence if Jamayne Isaako, Herbie Farnworth and the Hammer get going  it could turn ugly.

Tip - Dolphins

Gold Coast v Canberra

Two changes for the Titans  with AJ Brimson at centre and Chris Randall at lock benching Jaylan De Groot and Cooper Bai respectively

Changes aplenty for Ricky’s Rattled Raiders,  Simi Sasagi replaces Zac Hosking in the Second Row as does Ata Mariota replacing Noah Martin. Some Shuffling going on with Sebastian Kris moving from wing to centre and Savelio Tamale going in the opposite direction. Morgan Smithies is benched from the front row to be replaced by Corey Hordsburgh who in turn is replaced at lock by  Jayden Brailey at lock.

Two young free scoring sides that can pile on the points quickly but also concede quickly but the absence through suspension and injury of Hudson Young Josh Papalili tilt the game towards the Gold Coast as I am backing g the Titans to win the forward battle in this game . It would be an important win over last years table toppers for the Titans as it would underscore progress under Josh Hannay This could also prove to be a high-scoring points fest.

Tip - Titan

Paramatta Eels v New Zealand Warriors - SKY

Paramatta unchanged.

For the Wahs, Ali Leiataua is replaced at centre by Adam Pompey

The Wahs have Luke Metcalf on the bench but have resisted the temptation to bring him back as part of a halves combination with Tanah Boyd. After all the two games that the Wahs have lost this season have involved the Boyd- Metcalf combination in the halves.

Paramatta disappointed last week in the second half at Manly as they are playing at Comms Bank you would expect a better effort from the Eels despite the fact that the Wahs will as always have heaps of support from the Kiwi expats. But for the Eels to be in with a punchers chance they need a Origin selection nudge to come from Mitch Moses and the Foxx.

Tip -  Warrior

Sydney Roosters v Brisbane Broncos - SKY

Roosters unchanged

Brisbane Brig back Reece Walsh at fullback for Hayze Perham who drops to the bench Xavier Willison moves to the second row to accommodate the return from suspension of Patrick Carrigan at lock and in doing so replaces Brendan Piakura.

Broncos wins in adversity are showing that they are no show ponies, based upon their defence, by contrast the Roosters have a show ponies’ reputation and were skinned last year by the Bronx. If the Roosters are to be taken seriously as premiership contenders, then this game against a weakened Bronx outfit is a must-win. We have been here before with the Roosters obliterating ordinary sides and falling apart against the top clubs.

It depends on how much you regard Trent Robinson’s coaching v Michael Maguire as to who will prove to be the show ponies in this encounter.

Tip – Close but Bronx

Newcastle Knights v South Sydney

Justin Holbrook has a raft of returnees, Kaylin Ponga returns at Full back moving Fletcher Sharpe to the Halves replacing the benched Sandon Smith. Bradman Best returns to the centres in place of Fletcher Hunt. Greg Marzxhew returns to the Wing in place of James Schiller. Dylan Lucas comes into the second row in place of Francis Manuleleua and Trey Mooney replaces Pasami Saulo in the front Row with Tyson Frizzel named on the bench)

For Souths, Keaon Koloamatangi replaces the injured Brandon Smith in the second row.

Latrell is in fine form at the moment and there appear to be no signs of wear and tear on the Rabbits ageing legs but last week was the worst Melbourne Storm performance I have ever seen and like the Roosters v Dragons scoreline the result looks less impressive when you consider the opposition performance.

I have been banging the drum on this forum but different Newcastle outfit under Justin Holbrook. They have the capacity to put on points at pace, defence is a concern, but two things are key in the modern NRL Youth and Pace and the Knights have it.

The bookies may not favour them, but I think the Knights playing with a full deck of cards so to speak will win this particular joust.

Tip - Knight

Cronulla Sharks v West Tigers

For the Sharks, Briton Nikora replaces the benched Billy Burns in the second row and Cemeron McInnes replaces the benched) Jesse Colquhoun at lock.

A lot of Injuries for the Tigers, Sunia Turuva replaces Jahream Bula at fullback, his place on the wing being taken by Jeral Skelton. Tony Sukkar replaces Kai Pearce-Paul in the second row and Tristan Hope has the unenviable task of replacing the suspended Api Koroisau at hooker.

Sharks return home on the crest of a slump having conceded a shedload of points in the second half against the Roosters in Perth and 42 to the Cows in Townsville. The concern for Craig Fitzgibbon has to be the leaking defence. Can they really leak that many points three games in a row?

Tigers have key players out and while things on the field are progressing well news of  Jarome Luai’s PNG trip kind of leads to a weary “Tigertown Turmoil” mentality that sees Wests snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. The club must be cursed.

It’s at Shark Park and the Tigers are down some influential players. I am going with the Sharkies.

Tip - Shark

Penrith Panthers v Manly Sea Eagles - SKY

Penrith unchanged

Silvertails also unchanged.

This is the game in which Keiran Foran’s coaching credentials gets severely examined. Taking on the penny panthers in their temporary home. I tip the Panthers suffocating defence to nullify the Manly backline, and I do not think Manly have the defensive qualities required to win against the Panthers.

Jamal Fogarty though is playing lights out for the Silvertails and how Canberra Miss him, but he is up against Nathan Cleary who like the Panthers is different class.

Tip - Panther
 

Craig has shared this with his playing group who like the rest of the club are fully behind him.

WELCOME to your NRL Tipping Competition 2026 

SLIGHTLY DIFFERENT START!

This is our first tipping competition the new season. Hope you had an enjoyable off season! This season Round 1 will be set in two parts.

 This is Part 1, the Las Vegas matches, which are both played Sunday 1st March

Everyone reading this is welcome to enter the competition and the ones that follow each week throughout the season culminating in the Grand Final. 
Whether you've taken part before or you fancy having a go this season for the first time you're guaranteed a warm welcome.

Entries are allowed each week up until the kick off of the first game in the round.

You can enter every week (hopefully) or occasionally
N.B. The first two games of the season are on SUNDAY, 1st March in Las Vegas with the remaining matches of the round following next Thursday 5th March onwards - it's a tricky tipping start then!

I'll set Part 2 after the Sunday matches have been played and the results posted for them.

Fixtures:

I'm using WatchNRL again this season so can watch the ones I fancy which kick off at unearthly times using the replay option when it's more convenient.

ROUND 1 QUESTIONS: 

Just:

1. Name the 2 winning teams.

The poll and other questions will be set in Part 2

Entries welcome until the first game of Pt 1 of the round kicks off this Sunday 1st March 2026

An animated award will be given on completion of Part 2 of the round, the weekend after this.

Match tipping scores will be added together as the season progresses to produce a Tipsters' Ladder which will be pinned to the top of the forum topic list page.
The best of luck to everyone. 
Enjoy your Rugby League!

There may be a slight delay with the Round 1 results postings as I will be away. I'll do what I can and catch up asap.

Graham   

WELCOME 
Entries are allowed each week up until the kick off of the first game in the round
NB This round's first game is  on THURSDAY

Everyone is welcome whether you are regulars, occasional, or new to tipping with us.

Round 4 Fixtures:

BYE: Rabbitohs

ROUND 4 QUESTIONS:
*Poll Competition: 
How many teams altogether will score only 9 points or less in NRL Round 4? Put your prediction in your post and in the poll at the top

*Match tipping Competition:
Name the 8 winning teams in NRL Round 4  A drawn game after extra time counts as a win for both teams for the sake of our comp
*Points Competition
How many points will be scored by all the teams added together in R4? This is a competition in itself and will act as a tie breaker for the match tipping comp if necessary. 
*AWAY Win Competition: 
How many AWAY wins will there be in NRL R4? In rounds where the game is on the road and played at a neutral venue, the team named first in the fixture will be regarded as the home team for the purposes of this competition.
 

An animated award image will be created and posted with the results summary. 
Match tipping scores will be added together as the season progresses to produce a Tipsters' Ladder which is pinned to the top of the forum topic list page
The best of luck to everyone. 
Enjoy your Rugby League!   

WELCOME... Everyone whether you're a regular or occasional entrant

FIXTURES ROUND 6:

Bye: DOLPHINS

1. Name the 8 winning teams

2. How many points will be scored by all the teams added together in R6? also acts as tie breaker in match tipping

3. How many AWAY wins will there be in the round? Team named first is regarded as the home team when the game is on the road

4. Poll: which game will produce the biggest margin of victory? Enter in your post and also at the top of the topic.

Entries welcome until the first game of the round kicks off on Thursday 9th April

Enjoy your Rugby League

EVERYONE WELCOME  

If you haven't entered before, this is the week to give it a go.

Occasional entries welcome.

Fixtures:

Bye SHARKS

All you need to do is:

1. Name the 8 winning teams   (a drawn game after extra time counts as a win for both teams for the sake of our comp)

2. How many points will be scored by all the teams added together in R7? (Used as tie breaker for Champion Tipster)

3. How many HOME wins will there be in the round? When a game is played on the road the first team is taken as the home team.

4. Poll: Which game will produce the biggest total of points? Enter in your post and also at the top of the topic.

Entries welcome until the first game of the round kicks off this Thursday.

Reading this? Join in the fun.

Newcomers especially welcome. You can do a one off tip, tip occasionally or tip every week, whatever suits you.

We've a great bunch of tipsters on here.

Bye TITANS

Thursday R8 1st game: 10:50am K.O. UK time

7:50pm Aussie time AEST

All you need to do is:

1. Name the 8 winning teams (a drawn game after extra time counts as a win for both teams for the sake of our comp)

2. How many points will be scored by all the teams added together in R8? (Used as tie breaker if necessary)

3. How many AWAY wins will there be in the round? When a game is played on the road the first team  is taken as the home team.

4. Poll: Which game will produce the lowest total of points? Enter in your post and also at the top of the topic.

Entries welcome until the first game of the round kicks off this Thursday 24th April.

We keep and display records of our progress and make awards images.  There's a tipping ladder kept throughout the season too.

Right then, have a go… and …

Enjoy your Rugby League

Currently they are on a six match streak, unusually for them it's a losing streak.

What are the reasons then that they have suddenly come off the rails in 2026 despite having Craig Bellamy still in the driving seat?

...........

Key factors contributing to their poor form include:

Defensive Collapse: The Storm have conceded 50 points in a game for the first time since 2003 (a 50-10 loss to the Panthers in Round 5). If anything they were even worse in Round 8.

Poor Discipline & Execution: Captain Harry Grant noted a completion rate as low as 55% in recent matches and a general lack of effort. 

Personnel & Depth Issues: The team has lost many experienced players without adequate replacements, leaving them vulnerable and thin on depth.

Injury Blows: Key playmaker Jahrome Hughes (R10), Xavier Coates (R10), Marion Seve(TBC), Eliesa Katoa(Indefinite) are all currently out.

Lack of Syncronisation: many different players are defending together on the edges for the first time, leading to a lack of defensive "sync" under pressure. They are not 'clicking'.

Forward Line Up: The weakest in the club's history. They struggle to create any kind of platform and have been second best in these five losing games.

The team name, which was announced ahead of kick-off between the Australian Prime Minister’s XIII and Papua New Guinea, came after the PNG NRL Franchise Board and PNG Government launched a competition to name the team in August.

The other name shortlisted was the Pythons.

West Tigers v Canberra Raiders (Thu)

Played at a sold-out Leichardt Oval

Despite a close defeat, Benji Marshall makes a few changes to the side that played the Bronx Starford To’a replaces Heamasi Makasini on the wing, and Luke Laulilii replaces the benched Patrick Herbert at centre.
For Canberra, Noah Martin has the unenviable job of rreplacing HudsonYoung in the second row,

The suspension of Hudson Young is huge for Rickys rebounding Raiders even more than the injury to Josh Papalii. They come up against a West Tigers side that as Benji acknowledges is not there get but making progress. The problem for the Raiders is much as they score points they also concede and every Raider game turns int a shootout.

Defensively the Tigers are vastly improved on previous years and that likely to be the key to this game.

Tip – Tiger

North Queensland Cowboys v Cronulla Sharks (Fri)

For the Cows, Murray Taulagi replaces Zac Laybutt on the wing, Reed Mahoney returns at Hooker replacing the benched Soni Luke and Jeremiah Nanai replaces the also benched Kai O’Donnell in the second row.

Sharkies fresh from the bye week bring make the tactical change of moving Mawene Hiroti from centre to wing to replace Sione Katoa while Siosifa Talakai takes Hiroti’s place in the centres. Cameron McInnes is on the bench and set to make his first appearance in 2026.

The Cows non-performance against Manly was poor after four straight wins. Now that the StGeorge Drama has ended the spotlight may again fall upon Todd Payten. As the Cowboys continue to stutter along this season.

The sharks unexpected second half collapse in Perth against the Roosters has re-ignited old knock against them that they are good against ordinary teams, yet ordinary against good teams. But when all is said and done, they are the better of the two teams and have a 5-1 winning record in Tropical Townsville.

Tip –Shark

Brisbane Broncos v Canterbury Bulldogs (Fri) - SKY

The Bronx casualty ward increased in last week’s win at Campbelltown with injuries to Payne Haas and Corey Jensen meaning a return for Ben Talty and Jack Gosiewski to the front row. With Patrick Carrigan still suspended and Corey Paix replacing Josh Rogers at Hooker.

For the Dogs, Jonathan Sua replaces the injured Jacob Kiraz in the wing and Stephen (Critter) Crichton returns at centre to replace the benched Josh Curran who had a les than stellar game against the Eels.

The Bronx showing real steel to hold on at Campbelltown after the loss of Payne Haas. In another example of the importance of keeping Adam Reynolds (held together by sticking tape) on the Field. But can they cope with so many losses in the pack.

This is a crucial game for the Dogs credibility as premiership contenders; The battered Bronx are there to be beaten even here at Suncorp and should the Dogs fail to win. You may well see more tinkering with the side with Connor Tracey being under threat as the Gould father targets a “creamier” alternative Fullback.

Tip - Bronx

St George-Illawarra Dragons vs Sydney Roosters (Sat)

The most significant change for SGI is the benching of Kyle Flanagan for Kade Reed at Halfback. Ryan Couchman Returns joining his brother in the Second Row replacing the suspended Jaydn Sua. Tactically Moses Suli comes at centre with Matthew Feagai moving to wing in place if the benched David Fale and Hamish Stewart replace the benched Josh Kerr at Lock with the money man Christian Tuipulotu ion the bench.

Roosters Unchanged starting XIII

Banana Skin game coming up for the Roosters. Wiil the “Dean Young effect” prove as much a tonic as the “Keiran Foran” effect has done for the Silvertails.

Roosters now very much a second half side both against the Sharks and Knights

Shane Flanagan went a day earlier than I expected following the south Sydney loss and new SGI coach Dean Young obviously going out to please the punters by benching Kyle Fklanagan and replacing him with Kade Reed who impressed in the trial games.

The forward battle between the two sides is pretty even but no doubt both sides will be targeting the halves combinations who are lightweight in DCE and Sam Walker against Daniel Atkinson and Kade Reed. The Roosters maty have the edge in having Hugo Savala playing at Centre as a ready-made replacement.

A lot will depend upon the opening 20 minutes, if SGI can get a lead, then momentum in this ANZAC fixture may carry them home to an upset win. Conversely if the Roosters get three scores ahead in the same timeframe it could turn ugly for the Red V

Tip – Rooster

New Zealand Warriors v The Dolphins (Sat) – SKY

Only the one change in the Wahs starting line up with Taine Tuaupiki replacing Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad

Only the one change for the Fins following their Golden Point loss to the Penny Panthers in Darwin with Brad Schneider replacing Kodi Nikorima in the halves.

This could be ahigh scoring game Two factors that tilts the scales against the Fins, firstly lingering fatigue caused by an overtime loss in 30-degree heat but also then having to cross the ditch to go to Wellington to face the Wahs in front of a sellout crowd.

And as Dolphins Coach certainly needs a result as with Shane Flanagan gone media attention will now focus on other underperforming teams and their coaches of which Kristian Woolf is one with the fins failing to live up to their pre-season billing as top 8 contenders. It is not imminent and could change when Jeremy Marshall-King, a key performer for the Dolphins, returns but should the Dolphins fail, again, to reach the top 8 then it’s hard to see how the current coach makes it to 2027.

That said, the Wahs can be a maddeningly frustrating team to watch, and they can fall apart against a side prepared to come to Mount Smart and take the game to them as the Tigers did.

Tip – Wahs

Melbourne Storm v South Sydney (Sat) - SKY

One tactical change for the Storm with Nick Meaney and Manaia Waitere making the reverse journey
A similar tactical change for Souths with Brandon smith moving from Hooker to Second Row and Bronson Garlick making the reverse journey.

If your trying to break a losing streak it helps to have a team come to AAMI that has never won, there in Souths.

South Sydney did not look great against SGI last week and the game only broke open when Jayden Su’ a was sent off. Wat’s going in Melbourne’s favour is that this is probably a forward pack that the storm can match. And you need to consider Craig Bellamy’s record against Wayne Bennet 15 out of 15. That and the return of Xavier Coates in a fortnight or so should ensure respectability for Melbourne’s final placing.

Unlike many on this board I did not think Matt Dufty was that great either. He was lacking on the Cook Try and people tend to forget the reason why Dufty was not longer in the NRL was his defence , with sides priding themselves on defensive solidity, at least until the six again rule came in which if you go by the majority of comments of NRL message boards is not that popular. Due to the basketball style scores this season with the average points scored in the first 7 rounds 58 per game.

Going against the bookies here for the storm to break their losing streak

Tip – Storm

Newcastle Knights v Penrith Panthers (Sun)
For the Knights, James Schiller replaces the Injured Greg Marzhew on the wing.

The Panthers bring in Freddy Lussick as hooker for the injured Mitch Kenny and Casey at centre for the benched Izack Tago.

Newcastle have been IMO the surprise packet this season under Justin Holbrook but are in a two-game losing streak having lost to the Tigers and the Roosters. The fact that the Knights can score points ius unquestioned. Their problem lies in conceding points.

The Knock against the Penny Panthers in this game is the lingering effect of that Golden Point win in 30-degree heart in Darwin. They are however a vastly side than the Knights but do need to have established a substantial lead by the 60^th minute for if the Knights are still within a score of the Panthers, then the Panthers might wilt and an upset would be ion the cards.

Tip – Panther

Manly Sea Eagles v Paramatta Eels (Sun)

For the silver tails the injured Tom Trbojevic is replaced at Fullback by Toluta'u Koula who sport in the centres is taken by Clayton Faulalo

For The Eels, Sean Russell does return this week in the centres replacing Araz Nanva and Dylan Walker replaces Jack De Belin at Lock.

The silvertails without Turbo face a Paramatta Team with their Tails up after beating the Dogs and with first choice players returning. When you look at the Manly record under Keiran Foran the wins have been against the erratic Dolphins, St George-Illawarra and the equally erratic North Queensland Cowboys.

Paramatta bounce into Four Pines Park, having put up a great defensive effort against the Dogs and any team with Mich Moses and The FOXX has a punchers chance.

Tip – a closer game than most think going with Manly but may regret it.

NRL round eight and there’s many a club sending out an SOS (Save Our Season) message at this point in time. After this round there is a third of the 24-game season gone.

West Tigers v Canberra Raiders (Thu)

Played at a sold-out Leichardt Oval

Despite a close defeat, Benji Marshall makes a few changes to the side that played the Bronx Starford To’a replaces Heamasi Makasini on the wing, and Luke Laulilii replaces the benched Patrick Herbert at centre.
For Canberra, Noah Martin has the unenviable job of rreplacing HudsonYoung in the second row,

The suspension of Hudson Young is huge for Rickys rebounding Raiders even more than the injury to Josh Papalii. They come up against a West Tigers side that as Benji acknowledges is not there get but making progress. The problem for the Raiders is much as they score points they also concede and every Raider game turns int a shootout.

Defensively the Tigers are vastly improved on previous years and that likely to be the key to this game.

Tip – Tiger

North Queensland Cowboys v Cronulla Sharks (Fri)

For the Cows, Murray Taulagi replaces Zac Laybutt on the wing, Reed Mahoney returns at Hooker replacing the benched Soni Luke and Jeremiah Nanai replaces the also benched Kai O’Donnell in the second row.

Sharkies fresh from the bye week bring make the tactical change of moving Mawene Hiroti from centre to wing to replace Sione Katoa while Siosifa Talakai takes Hiroti’s place in the centres. Cameron McInnes is on the bench and set to make his first appearance in 2026.

The Cows non-performance against Manly was poor after four straight wins. Now that the StGeorge Drama has ended the spotlight may again fall upon Todd Payten. As the Cowboys continue to stutter along this season.

The sharks unexpected second half collapse in Perth against the Roosters has re-ignited old knock against them that they are good against ordinary teams, yet ordinary against good teams. But when all is said and done, they are the better of the two teams and have a 5-1 winning record in Tropical Townsville.

Tip –Shark

Brisbane Broncos v Canterbury Bulldogs (Fri) - SKY

The Bronx casualty ward increased in last week’s win at Campbelltown with injuries to Payne Haas and Corey Jensen meaning a return for Ben Talty and Jack Gosiewski to the front row. With Patrick Carrigan still suspended and Corey Paix replacing Josh Rogers at Hooker.

For the Dogs, Jonathan Sua replaces the injured Jacob Kiraz in the wing and Stephen (Critter) Crichton returns at centre to replace the benched Josh Curran who had a les than stellar game against the Eels.

The Bronx showing real steel to hold on at Campbelltown after the loss of Payne Haas. In another example of the importance of keeping Adam Reynolds (held together by sticking tape) on the Field. But can they cope with so many losses in the pack.

This is a crucial game for the Dogs credibility as premiership contenders; The battered Bronx are there to be beaten even here at Suncorp and should the Dogs fail to win. You may well see more tinkering with the side with Connor Tracey being under threat as the Gould father targets a “creamier” alternative Fullback.

Tip - Bronx

St George-Illawarra Dragons vs Sydney Roosters (Sat)

The most significant change for SGI is the benching of Kyle Flanagan for Kade Reed at Halfback. Ryan Couchman Returns joining his brother in the Second Row replacing the suspended Jaydn Sua. Tactically Moses Suli comes at centre with Matthew Feagai moving to wing in place if the benched David Fale and Hamish Stewart replace the benched Josh Kerr at Lock with the money man Christian Tuipulotu ion the bench.

Roosters Unchanged starting XIII

Banana Skin game coming up for the Roosters. Wiil the “Dean Young effect” prove as much a tonic as the “Keiran Foran” effect has done for the Silvertails.

Roosters now very much a second half side both against the Sharks and Knights

Shane Flanagan went a day earlier than I expected following the south Sydney loss and new SGI coach Dean Young obviously going out to please the punters by benching Kyle Fklanagan and replacing him with Kade Reed who impressed in the trial games.

The forward battle between the two sides is pretty even but no doubt both sides will be targeting the halves combinations who are lightweight in DCE and Sam Walker against Daniel Atkinson and Kade Reed. The Roosters maty have the edge in having Hugo Savala playing at Centre as a ready-made replacement.

A lot will depend upon the opening 20 minutes, if SGI can get a lead, then momentum in this ANZAC fixture may carry them home to an upset win. Conversely if the Roosters get three scores ahead in the same timeframe it could turn ugly for the Red V

Tip – Rooster

New Zealand Warriors v The Dolphins (Sat) – SKY

Only the one change in the Wahs starting line up with Taine Tuaupiki replacing Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad

Only the one change for the Fins following their Golden Point loss to the Penny Panthers in Darwin with Brad Schneider replacing Kodi Nikorima in the halves.

This could be ahigh scoring game Two factors that tilts the scales against the Fins, firstly lingering fatigue caused by an overtime loss in 30-degree heat but also then having to cross the ditch to go to Wellington to face the Wahs in front of a sellout crowd.

And as Dolphins Coach certainly needs a result as with Shane Flanagan gone media attention will now focus on other underperforming teams and their coaches of which Kristian Woolf is one with the fins failing to live up to their pre-season billing as top 8 contenders. It is not imminent and could change when Jeremy Marshall-King, a key performer for the Dolphins, returns but should the Dolphins fail, again, to reach the top 8 then it’s hard to see how the current coach makes it to 2027.

That said, the Wahs can be a maddeningly frustrating team to watch, and they can fall apart against a side prepared to come to Mount Smart and take the game to them as the Tigers did.

Tip – Wahs

Melbourne Storm v South Sydney (Sat) - SKY

One tactical change for the Storm with Nick Meaney and Manaia Waitere making the reverse journey
A similar tactical change for Souths with Brandon smith moving from Hooker to Second Row and Bronson Garlick making the reverse journey.

If your trying to break a losing streak it helps to have a team come to AAMI that has never won, there in Souths.

South Sydney did not look great against SGI last week and the game only broke open when Jayden Su’ a was sent off. Wat’s going in Melbourne’s favour is that this is probably a forward pack that the storm can match. And you need to consider Craig Bellamy’s record against Wayne Bennet 15 out of 15. That and the return of Xavier Coates in a fortnight or so should ensure respectability for Melbourne’s final placing.

Unlike many on this board I did not think Matt Dufty was that great either. He was lacking on the Cook Try and people tend to forget the reason why Dufty was not longer in the NRL was his defence , with sides priding themselves on defensive solidity, at least until the six again rule came in which if you go by the majority of comments of NRL message boards is not that popular. Due to the basketball style scores this season with the average points scored in the first 7 rounds 58 per game.

Going against the bookies here for the storm to break their losing streak

Tip – Storm

Newcastle Knights v Penrith Panthers (Sun)
For the Knights, James Schiller replaces the Injured Greg Marzhew on the wing.

The Panthers bring in Freddy Lussick as hooker for the injured Mitch Kenny and Casey at centre for the benched Izack Tago.

Newcastle have been IMO the surprise packet this season under Justin Holbrook but are in a two-game losing streak having lost to the Tigers and the Roosters. The fact that the Knights can score points ius unquestioned. Their problem lies in conceding points.

The Knock against the Penny Panthers in this game is the lingering effect of that Golden Point win in 30-degree heart in Darwin. They are however a vastly side than the Knights but do need to have established a substantial lead by the 60^th minute for if the Knights are still within a score of the Panthers, then the Panthers might wilt and an upset would be ion the cards.

Tip – Panther

Manly Sea Eagles v Paramatta Eels (Sun)

For the silver tails the injured Tom Trbojevic is replaced at Fullback by Toluta'u Koula who sport in the centres is taken by Clayton Faulalo

For The Eels, Sean Russell does return this week in the centres replacing Araz Nanva and Dylan Walker replaces Jack De Belin at Lock.

The silvertails without Turbo face a Paramatta Team with their Tails up after beating the Dogs and with first choice players returning. When you look at the Manly record under Keiran Foran the wins have been against the erratic Dolphins, St George-Illawarra and the equally erratic North Queensland Cowboys.

Paramatta bounce into Four Pines Park, having put up a great defensive effort against the Dogs and any team with Mich Moses and The FOXX has a punchers chance.

Tip – a closer game than most think going with Manly but may regret it.

WELCOME to our ...

MAGIC ROUND

Fixtures:

Bye RAIDERS

All matches played at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

All you need to do is:

1. Name the 8 winning teams (a drawn game after extra time counts as a win for both teams for the sake of our comp)

2. How many points will be scored by all the teams added together in R11? (Used as tie breaker for Champion Tipster title is more than one top scorers)

3. How many HOME wins will there be in the round? When a game is played on the road the first team  is taken as the home team.

4. Poll: Which game will produce most tries altogether? (the number of tries scored by both teams added together) Enter in your post and also at the top of the topic.

Entries welcome until the first game of the round kicks off this Friday 15th May

Award images are made and presented weekly. There's a tipping ladder kept throughout the season too which is kept as a separate thread on this forum. 

Enjoy your Rugby League

The Dragons entered this season with the weakest roster in living memory, local juniors and senior players want out of the club and no player worth his salt will sign with the club not even for a million bucks a season. The only players the Dragons can get are players whose best games are long behind them.

Enough is enough this joint venture has to end. One premiership in 27 years is just not good enough and adds up to an epic miserable failure. The Dragons need to get back to Kogarah in Sydney and rebuild the brand as St George Dragons buy players and get competitive again. As for the Illawarra Steelers let the Gordon family stick their money into them and get the Illawarra Steelers up and running again in the NSW Cup and maybe somewhere down the track in the 2030's try to get an NRL license again.

Me being a life long Dragons supporter am I happy about the sacking....No. Am I happy with the appointment of Dean Young as interim coach....Most definitely not.

Do Storm need him? Not sure 

Do Storm want him? Apparently so or why the court case, and the upping of the offer for him?

Is it a good thing? No, I reckon not, otherwise what is a contract worth?

I won’t join in the many thousands of social media attacks on Zac though. It’s not my way.

I hope this is settled in a way that satisfies Parra.

If they force him to stay… I can feel another question coming… Will he be wanted by the coach and will he perform to his best? Do they want someone in the squad who doesn’t want to be there?

Your thoughts?

That’s my excuse anyway….

North Queensland Cowboys v Manly Sea Eagles (Thu)

For the Cows the injure Murray Taulagi and Reed Mahoney (hooker) are replaced by Braidon Burns on the Wing and Soni Luke at Hooker respectively.

The silvertails starting XII is unchanged with a lot of forward power on the bench.

Played at that den of iniquity, tropical Townsville. In the defences of the good people of that town, I felt safer walking around Townsville that I do walking round Lakemba, Redfern or London in broad daylight

The Cows came home against the Bronx winning a shootout and it seems the way in which the Cowboys can win matches by scoring more points than the opposition which makes for an entertaining game. Jason Taumololo is in prime form gaining big yardage, Jaxon Purdie see as the star of the future replacing Scott Drinkwater as the full back, But Drinkwater himself is in prime form and one of the main drivers of the win at Suncorp and I am surprised by the talk of letting him go. It also appears to ne a change from the previous idea that Jaxson Purdue would replace Jake Clifford to form a Halves Partnership with Jack Dearden.

Manly are still on the crest of a Kieran Foran bounce but I do think this is the game in which the Cows will achieve forward dominance over the Silvertails and regardless I do back the Cows at home to win a shootout with Manly’s backline.

Tip – Cowboy

Canberra Raiders v Melbourne Storm (Fri) – SKY

For Canberra, Corey Horsburgh returns from the NSW C up to replace the benched Morgan Smithies at Lock, Josh Papalii replaces the benched Ata Mariota in the front row Matthrew Timoko comes in at Centre moving Sebastian Kris onto the wing where Savelio Tamale finds himself dropped to the NSW cup and Noah Martin replaces the benched Zak Hosking in the second row

Melbourne Storm only make the one change with Manaia Waitere replacing Moses Leo on the wing

Probably the closest ether club has to a derby between Ricky’s rebounding Raiders and the stuttering Storm

For the last few seasons there has been a sense that we have seen some un-Melbourne performances with a side that has been increasingly forward lite and with a lot of the salary cap taken up by the team starts, Harry Grant (28), Jahrome Hughes (32) and Cameron Munster (31) and it’s Munster that is the interesting issue here out of contract next year and IMO on the downslide. All sporting dynasties end sooner or later and what happens is that coaches get attached to certain players based on what they have done rather than what they are doing and to me that’s the issue at the Storm.

Rick’s Raiders won against Souths in part down to Souths missed conversions and a brilliant solo Kayo Weeks try. The new Six again ruling would favour sides that are both youthful as the Raiders are and have pace in the backline as the Raiders do. However, as Ricky knows only too well indiscipline is costing the Raiders and with the increased speed of the game a 10 minute sin binning can amount to a 12 point swing against the Raiders. Ricky’s certainly knows how to make a point with Corey Horsbrough last week and Savelio Tamale this week in the NSW cup side.

Having written all that, it is in the Capital and I will take the Raiders to sneak home in a tight one.

Tip –Raider

The Dolphins v Penrith Panthers (Fri)

The only change for the Dolphins is Brad Scheider for the benched Kurt Donoghoe

For Penrith – Izack Tago replaces the suspended Casey Mclean in the centres and Luke Garner the Injured, Liam Martin in the second row

Played at the Top-ends in Darwin in conditions that make Townsville cool.

Whisper it but while attention is focussed on the Dragons coaching situation. Kristian Wool’s coaching credentials are coming into question here as the Fins who were tipped for the top 8 start the season 2-3 and with “the Hammer” coming off contract at the end of the year, Dolphins management must be thinking for the Hammer to stay the club needs to be able to show it is a contender. That hits the nail on the head so to speak.

I was stunned as the Penny Panthers demise at Allianz, especially after they overcame a 16-point deficit to draw level before succumbing to the Dogs. They remain however a Premiership outfit, and I would expect Ivan Cleary’s side to be firing on all cylinders in Darwin with any complacency blown away.

Tip - Panther

New Zealand Warriors vs Gold Coast Titans (Sat)

For the Wahs, Kurt Capewell replaces the benched Marata Niukore in the second row. 

Gold Coast - Unchanged

We have been here before with the Gold Coast Titans, yes they put 52 on a depleted Paramatta but last year the beat the Roosters at Allianz under Des Haesler but then they did not kick on and were sporadic until the end of the season.

And they have to travel over the ditch to play a rampant Wahs team that sems to play better without Luke Metclaf. Certainly, it’s a Wahs team that is physically powerful enough to run over the Titans. In front of a near sellout crowd at Mount Smart.

Tip – Warrior

South Sydney vs St George-Ilawarra Dragons (Sat) – SKY

For Souths, Matt Dufty replaces the injured Jye Gray at Fullback with Lachlan Hubner replacing David Fifita in the Second Row.

SGI surprisingly make just the oner change with Mathew Feagai replacing the injured Moses Suli at Centre.

Two teams that need a win but for differing reasons, for Souths, this teams window for a premiership is now with Cody Walker already hinting at retirement, Alex Johnstone and Jack Wighton also entering their RL dotage and Latrell off contract at the end of the season not to mention Keaon Koloamatangi off to the Dragons. Though Payne Haas is a fair replacement.

The Dragons, despite a lot a media sympathy, need a win for Shane Flanagan’s job security though everyone agrees that SGI needs more surgery than just removing another coach. It is a club after all that only appointed a recruitment manager in Daniel Anderson Six months ago way behind the rest of the NRL. Despite reluctance if we get to the end of ANZAC day and SGI are 0-8  Shane Flanagan will be toast as pressure will be on the board to do something with 33% pf the season gone. Although to be honest I cannot see how 1-7 should make that much difference.

Tip – Rabbit

West Tigers v Brisbane Broncos (Sat).

For The Tigers, as expected Jarome Luai replaces The benched Jock Madden in the Halves. Taylan May returns at Centre with Sunia Turuva moving to wing in place of Jeral Skelton (

The Bronx has Xavier Willison replacing the suspended Patrick Carrigan at Lock and Adam Reynolds replacing the benched Thomas Duffy with Josh Rogers replacing Corey Paix at Hooker

At Campbelltown and who would have thought that Wests would be the bookies favourite in this game pre-season.

The Bronx arrive in Campbellton without Reece Walsh and Ben Hunt and with Adam Reynoklds always touch and go when o the park. It was a gutsy Bronx effort against the Cows at Suncorp and they may feel aggrieved at being duded by a “disruptor” call which swung the game against them.

But they are up against the prowling Tigers and Benji ball in a major test of the Tigers top 8 credentials. I and the bookies gave them little chance of winning at Mount Smartt and they did now it’s interesting to see how Wests handle being the favourites in this game which pits  the Tigers offloading freewheeling style against an Ironclad Bronx defence in the Campbelltown Cauldron.

It’s going to be a tight but I fancy the Tigers will roar.

Tip – Tiger

Sydney Roosters v Newcastle Knights (Sun)

Roosters – Unchanged

The Knights are boosted by the return of Dylan Brown at Halfback to partner Sandon Smith in the halves with Fletcher Sharpe moving from the Halves to Full back displacing Fletcher Hunt who moves to Centre replacing Winston DeCourcey. Tyson Frizzel’s injury means Thomas Cant starts in the second row.

This could be a high scoring affair between the Knights and the Roosters.

There are a few comments that the Knight bubble has burst but I say in response, the knights are still further ahead than most expected that they would be at this time of the year, they hae done this without Kaylin Ponga and Dylan Brown and as previously stated Justin Holbrook can coach. Not forgetting that ex-Roosters, Sandon Smith and Dom Young may have a point to prove…Dom Young on Roosters Stint

Holbrook spent his time between jobs at the Roosters as Assistant Coach and this might prove to be a factor in the game. The Roosters themselves surprised me *(and possibly themselves in overhauling a 16 Point deficit with 28 unanswered points against the sharks. Overcoming what the BNRL now says was a ridiculous “disruptor” call against Robert Toia. Though notably they have not said the same about the one in the Bronx game probably because it influenced the result in a way that the Toia one did not.

In the second half the Roosters looked as strong on the pitch as they do on paper and with a 3-2 start to the season would be banking on these next two Home games this one and the one against SGI to move to 5-2 post ANZAC day and be seen as a contender rather than a club eternally playing catch up footy.

It should also be noted that like Souths, the Roosters too are in a “window” with not much longer left in the careers of DCE, James Redesco and Daniel Tupou and the impending departure of Angus Crichton and Mark Nawaqanitawase to Rugby Union.

Tip – Rooster

Paramatta Eels v Canterbury Bulldogs (Sun) – SKY

About the only ray of sunlight for the Eels is the return of Sean Russell at Centre with Brian Kelly moving to the wing for the benched Araz Nanva. Jack Williams and Charlie Guymer replaces Kelma Tuilagi and Kitione Kautoga in the second row. With Luca Moretti moving to the Front Row in place of Sam Tuivaiti.

The Dogs replace Max King with his broken Jaw in the front row with Leo Thompson.

I am not looking for excuses for Jason Ryles but perhaps even more than the injury list it was the Golden Point loss that impacted on the flat Parra performance on Sunday. And it is difficult to raise your game once you have gone three scorers down though the fans were within their rights to boo the side off at Comms Bank so e in place of expect a more competitive Eels side.

For the Dogs, it’s felt there is a drop of the week after a side has played the Panthers, but in this case the Dogs came home with the bone so confidence should be high, and they have had a nice long turnaround before this game.

The key to this game is who establishes an early lead and becomes the frontrunner

Tip – Bulldog

Looking at it live I thought he bounced it down. The video ref was able to go through the action frame by frame and found a frame where his hand was in contact with the ball while the ball was touching the ground. A try then?

When watched at normal speed the ball did bounce.

Thoughts:

Ref sent it up as a no try.

The Bunker's Review: After a lengthy review, the Bunker overturned the on-field decision, ruling that Young maintained control and exerted sufficient pressure to ground the ball before his feet went into touch.

My recollection is that similar occasions in the past have been judged no try.

Canterbury Bulldogs v Penrith Panthers (Thu)

For The Dogs, Bronson Xerri Comes in at Centre for the Injured Stephen Crichton.

For the Panthers Mitch Kenny returns dropping Freddy Lussick to the Bench.

Apparently, Nathan Cleary has not lost to the Bulldogs since 2019, and it is hard to see that changing with the form the Penny Panthers are in and remember the Panthers crushed the Dogs in the finals last season. It also true that the Galvin situation has still not resolved itself with now Matt Burton being shuffled around.

Tip – Panther

St George Illawarra v Manly Sea Eagles (Fri)

Played at Wollongong

For SGI, Tyrell Sloan who has been playing Full back in the NSW cup, comes in for the injured Clink Gutherson. Setu Tu in on the wing for David Fale. Kyle Flanagan returns in the halves for Lyhkan King-Togia and Toby Couchman replaces the benched Blake Lawrie.

Manly, Bring in Jason Saab for the benched Josh Feledy.

Normally I would always tip the Dragons at the ‘gong but these are not normal times, and I have been burned tipping the Dragons these past weeks. For Sure the Dragons need a win but fundamentally the halves combination is not good enough and the backline still lacks pace in addition to which Tyrell Sloan remains vulnerable under the high ball. Shane Flanagan may not wish to risk Kade Reed at this point in his career but may not have a choice before long.

I can remember a couple of seasons back being impressed by the Manly backline in a loss at Paramatta one week then seeing the same team comprehensively beaten at the ‘gong the following week \. The Silvertails have won 1 game out of 10 at Win stadium.

That said if the Manly forwards gain parity, Manly’ s backline can eviscerate the Dragons and let it not be forgotten that they need the points.

Tip – Sea Eagle

Brisbane Broncos vs North Queensland Cowboys (Fri) SKY

For the Bronx, Jessie Arthurs switches from the wing to fullback in place of the injured Reece Walsh and Josiah Karapani comes into the starting XII in Arthurs wing spot.

For North Queensland, Kai O’Donnell replaces Sam McIntypre in the Second Row.

Coming off the back of three consecutive wins against a Bronx team with doubts about Adam Reyniolds and with both Reece Walsh and Ben Hunt you might think the Cows never have a better chance to clock up a win at Suncorp.

But there are some things to bear in mind, firstly the Brisbane defence has been outstanding the past three games, secondly, Ezra Mam is in for the Bronx and finally, in respect of the Cows win they have been against, Gold Coast and the Dragons. This is a step up.

Tip – Coin flip but going Bronx.

South Sydney vs Canberra Raiders (sat)

Perth Game One

Souths see the return of Brandon Smith at hooker for the benched Bronson Garlick

Canberra sees Jed Stewart replace Xavier Savage on the wing.

Souths lose home advantage in this neutral site game and while probably might count on having the majority in the crowd barracking for them it is by no means certain. For Ricky’s Roving Raiders it’s getting near the point of no return for their premiership ambitions.

Souths now that they have sorted out their best combination of Jye Gray at Fullback and Latrell Mitchell in the centres and are stealthily moving up the table with a 4-1 record. Canberra by contrast, are being exposed defensively. Now as Ricky is my favourite coach, I would like to be able to post that this is the game Canberra turn things round but as a rugby realist I just do not see it.

Tip - Rabbit

Cronulla Sharks vs Sydney Roosters (Sat) SKY

Perth Game 2

Cr9nulla bring in Mawene Hiroti for the injured Jessie Ramien.

The Roosters see the return of Victor Radley for the benched Ehan Butcher at Lock and Hugo Savala at Centre for Billy Smith.

If this game had been played at Shark Park in Woolloware then I would have tipped the Sharkies but it’s being played at a neutral venue and, as with the first game you have to consider the effects of travel and the loss of home advantage particularity in the crowd.

Curiously for such a highly touted team, The Roosters would probably regard it as more of a statement win to beast the Sharks than vice-versa. If you looked at the sides on paper the standout players would be on the Roosters side, but Cronulla are a settled side that play a as a team with everyone knowing their role within that team can you say the same about the Roosters with both DCE and Sam Walker used to being the main man?

Tip – Coin Flip but going Shark.

Melbourne Storm v New Zealand Warriors (Sat). SKY

The Storm brings in Siulagi Tuimalatu-Brown on the wing in place of the benched Moses Leo and Jack Howarth at Centre in place of the benched Manaia Waitere

The Wahs bring in Chanel Harris-Tavita in the halves to replace the injured Luke Metcalf.

Whilst it is unconscionable to think that Melbourne could drop four in a row, there is a Fin de Siècle air about the Storm these days but you have to think that in the Victorian Capital the Storm will respond to last week’s thrashing though there is an interesting twist to this game in that the Wahs were 3-0 with Tanah Boyd and 0-2 with Tanah Boyd playing with Luke Metcalf. Now Metcalf is injured and Tanah Boyd the main man again will this mean that the Storm revert to early season form as the certainly have the forward power to challenge the Storm.

Tip – Closer than people think but Storm.

Paramatta Eels v Gold Coast Titans (Sun)

 Paramatta bring in Araz Nanva on the wing for the Injured Bailey Simonsson, Will Penisini for the Injured Sean Rissel at Centre and Ronald Volkman for the injured Jonah Pezet in the halves.

Gold Coast are Unchanged.

Gold Coast will never have a better chance to turn over the battered Eels, with several players out and playing their fourth game on the bounce at Comms Babk. After his conduct towards the Ref in the Easter Monday game Mitchell Moses needs to be on his best behaviour but they still have the FOXX in their ranks.

This is a test of how far Gold Coast have come under Josh Hannay being the bookies favourite for the game and they pace aplenty in the backs. Defensively they are improved but as a side still prone to making unforced errors which a good side can capitalise on.

And what was not mentioned about Easter Monday’s classic was just how good the Parra defence was.

Tip – close game but tipping Eel.

West Tigers v Newcastle Knights

Played at Campbelltown

West Tigers bring in Jeral Skelton for Luke Laulilii on the Wing.

The Knights bring in Wilson De Courcey to replace the Injured Bradman Best at Centre.

I remember being at this game a few years ago in early season when the Knights defeated West’s it might have been Luai’s first year as a Tiger. Much as I am a fan of the direction of travel the Knights are going under Justin Holbrook, I do think that they have too many key players missing in this one For Wests, not only has the halves combination of Adam Doueihi and Jock Madden clicked but some of the ball handling by the Tigers in that game was reminiscent of the Tigers in 2005 when of course the current coach was the main man.

Tip – Tiger

Has this now disappeared? It appears so.

Nrl.com still does a 4 minute match highlights package for every game on their main site, but that's not part of the subscription of watchNRL. This consists of the tries and no more usually.

I thought the 18 minute edit was really useful to catch up on matches I haven't the time to watch in full.

WELCOME everyone, 

whether you've entered before or not... enter occasionally/regularly/ have a go this week - go on!

Entries are allowed each week up until the kick off of the first game in the round
NB This round's first game is  on THURSDAY

Fixtures:

Bye: ROOSTERS

1. Name the 8 winning teams

2. How many points will be scored by all the teams added together in R5? also acts as tie breaker in match tipping

3. How many HOME wins will there be in the round? Team named first is regarded as the home team when the game is on the road

4. Poll: which game will produce the closest result - the game won with the narrowest margin

Enjoy your Rugby League

The 31-year-old forward played for the Storm in Saturday night's loss to the North Queensland Cowboys, coming off the bench for 25 minutes in the 28-24 defeat.

'Melbourne Storm can confirm that forward Tui Kamikamica is currently in hospital following a medical episode on Monday morning,' the club said in a statement on Monday afternoon.

The delights of being able to use a spell check and not a mobile.

The Dolphins v Manly Sea Eagles (Thu)

Two teams that need a win. Fins unchanged from defeat at Suncorp. Keiran Foran also ticking with the Manly side that lost to the Rosters with the exception of Clayton Faulalo for the suspended Jason Saab

The Dolphins a pre-season top eight tip are 1 and 3 on the season. Manly 0-3 on the season all losses at home. Both sides have an exciting backline and can score but neither defends well. Will a change in coach change the Silvertails fortunes. One thing going against this is that this game is at KAYO stadium The Dolphins spiritual home at Redcliff. So the ground should be full, which is often not the case at Suncorp so home advantage should count

Tip – Dolphin

South Sydney v Canterbury Bulldiogs (Fri)

Souths have Campbell Graham back as Moala Graham-Taufa drops to the bench. Eyebrows raised by the absence of Brandon Smith.

The Dogs Have Sam Hughes and harry Hayes return with Josh Curran out

Surprised that up until recently Souths were not tipped to win at home, though I suspect in this game Dogs fans will be in the preponderance. Both sides are defensively sound if not high scorers. I was at this game two years agio and it was a narrow win for thew Bunnies and I expect the same.

Tip –Rabbit

Penrith Panthers vs Melboutrne4 Storm (Fri) - SKY

Penny Panthers include Freddy Lussick for the Suspended Mich Kenny

Melbourne Storm see Nick Meaney Return for the Injured Moses Leo

Is it the end of the Craig Bellamy era, certainly Melbourne have been most un Melbourne like in the last 12 months, losing games with a 10 point plus lead including the Grand Final and their last two and judging by the post-match press conference he has no answer for the second half fades.

While Bellamy may be regarded as the best coach of the modern era, he is likely to be overtaken in that pantheon by Ivan Cleary who’s sides regenerate each year and relationship with Son Nathan is almost Belichick and Brady like. Based on what I have seen it’s going to be on hell of a good side to beat the Penny Panthers at present.

Tip - Panther

St George -Ilawarra vs North Queensland Cowboys (sat)

For SGI, Lykhan King-Togia replaces the injured Kyle Flanagan. Moses Suli returns along with Toby Couchman. David Fale debuts on the wing instead of Tyrell Sloan.

For North Queensland, Tomas Chester returns from suspension dropping Zak Laybutt to the Bench

Coach Flanagan resists the temptation to blood young Josh Kerr I the absence of son Kyle, which may in the long-term work out for the Dragons. Moses Suli also makes a bit of an impact for the Dragons at Centre.

The Cowboys are a confidence side and two wins on the trot will have worked wonders for Tood Payten but they are at Kogarah and away from Townsville and although the Cows have won the last six encounters between the two sides. That snap could be broken of the Dragons are desperate enough. Apart from the last 20 minutes against the Storm at Wollongong. The Dragons have kept the game close and have not conceded too many points. They should be desperate and playing for their coach so I tip them in a tight one.

Tip – Dragon

Golod Coast Titans vs Brisbane Broncos (sat) - SKY

Titans unchanged from the side against SGI

Broncos bring back Payne Haas for Josiah Karapan and Gehemat Shibasaki keeps his place at the expense of Grant Anderson.

Fair play to the Titans, they beat SGI comfortably last week and they have broken their duck. They have pace and can score tries. And this derby fixture has not always gone the way of the Broncos.

That said, I did see the Bronx last week in their other Derby against the Dolphins and their defence impressed me more than their attack to be honest, The Bronx seem to have got it together after a slow start and when all is said and done they are the better of the two sides.

Tip – Bronco

Cronulla Sharks v New Zealand Warriors (Sat).

Sharks Unchanged

Mitch Barnett out for the Wahs

Sharks won at Canberra last week, a team they do seem to have the wood on and are at home against the Wahs who themselves come off a loss at home to West Tigers and with still some lingering doubts as to how the halves combination of Tanah Boyd and Luke Metcalf (playing at 6) works.

Home will be key here and I do not expect a reprise of the only time I saw the Sharkies loss against the Dolphins.

Tip – Shark

Newcastle Knights v Canberra Raiders (Sun)

Knights make one change with Trey Mooney back from suspension in for Pasami Saulo

Canberra bring back Josh Papali’I for the benched Morgan Smithies.

As I have posted, Justin Holbrook is a decent coach with a functioning Newcastle backline and 3 and 1 on the season.

Ricky’s Routed Raiders have the reverse record at 1 and 3 and suffer from switching off during matches which is costing them. The Raiders remain capable of scoring points through the backline the problem is they also concede points.

Tip – close game but tipping Knight

Paramatta Eels v West Tigers (mon) - SKY  

For Paramatta, Joash Papalii replaces the injured Isaiah Iongi at fullback

Wests Unchanged.

The traditional Easter Monday game at Comms Bank in which home advantage will be negated by the travelling Tigers fans. This is a very close game to call and although Benji’s boys won across the ditch at Mount Smart. The eels were well beaten by Penrith, I only saw the second half of that game but would make the point that Parra scored more points than anyone else against Penrith this season,

Benji’s boys surprised many, including myself, by winning across the ditch at the Warriors. Maybe this is the season in which the Tigers break through into the top 8.

You have to wonder how Parra will react to the loss in the battle of the West. So am tipping the Tigers ton be roared home in another tight one.

Tip – West Tigers

The Dragons lost their first six rounds in the 1978 Telstra Premiership:

Round 1: Sea Eagles 19 def. Dragons 5

Round 2: Magpies 25 def. Dragons 4

Round 3: Rabbitohs 8 def. Dragons 4

Round 4: Bears 21 def. Dragons 9

Round 5: Roosters 22 def. Dragons 6

Round 6: Sharks 25 def. Dragons 17 

The Dragons broke this streak in Round 7 against the Eels, which resulted in a win.

My thoughts and prayers are with Nathan and his family and friends as he battles this terrible disease.

I hope he gets the best of help and support as he moves forward in this very difficult part of his life.

WELCOME 

Everyone reading this is welcome to enter this weekly competition which runs throughout the season -not to worry if you missed last week, or the week before, just join us this week, you'll be very welcome. We've a growing number of tipsters, why not throw your hat into the ring and join us.

NB This round's first game is again on  THURSDAY

Entries must be in before the first match kicks off.

ROUND 3 QUESTIONS:
1. POLL: How many teams will score 30 points or more in Round 3? - enter poll above and in your post
2. Name the 8  winning teams in NRL Round 3
3. How many points will be scored by all the teams added together in R3? - also used as tie breaker for Champion Tipster Award if there are more than one equal top scoring match tipsters
4. How many HOME wins will there be in NRL R3? If the game is on the road the team named first will be regarded as the home team.
Fixtures:

Bye: Sea Eagles

An animated award for winners will be created and posted each week after the results are known
Match tipping scores will be added together as the season progresses to produce a Tipsters' Ladder which is pinned to the top of the forum topic list page
The best of luck to everyone. 
Enjoy your Rugby League!

Firstly, premierships are not won in March. If you recall last season, Canterbury and Canberra were tearing it up and the Penny Panthers could not buy a win. This year its the Panthers and the Wahs who are the early pacesetters. But its a long season with many twists and turns and injuries and loss of form will play a part. It's who catches fire in September / October that will be premiers.

Secondly, speeding up the game for entertainment purposes is causing many an injury and just this week Craig Bellamy said if this continues players careers would be shorter. Personally I define entertainment as seeing the best playing the best not sides hobbled by injuries.

Finally even Phil Gould is getting the tipping game wrong with the peoples  champion tipping a SGI win at Paramatta.

Manly Sea Eagles v Sydney Roosters

A clash of two sides and two coaches in need of a win the Manly side unchanged from their last defeat. The Roosters with Billy Smith back from an e-scootrr injury.

Turbo turmoil at Manly with Turbo (Tom》and Burbo (Ben) staning up for brother Jurbo (Jake] with the sydney journos , notably Brent Read, doubting his worth to the side.

Whilst speaking about retirement DCE droped a hint that this sea1son could ge a pne -off in that he will.not stand in rbe way of progress. Which is interesting as the papers have pocked up the point I was making last round thar the halves combination with Sam Walker just is not working.

The game itself tomorrow will be played in conditions akin to a biblical flood according to the local weather forecasts. This means a forward contest and the Roodters forward pack need to seriously aim up after last weeks towelling from the Panthers.

Tip - very close gane, I will go Rooster but without any confidence.

New Zealand Warriors v West Tigers

Across the ditch, the Wahs face the wounded Tigers without Jarome Luai who should have won last week at Gosford. Jock Madden in for Luai.

Luke Metcalf is back at 6 to partner Tanah Boyd who retains the numbrr 7 shirt during his purple patch returns also for Charnze Nicoll-Klockstadt and Adam Pompey.

Tip - Wahs

Brisbane Broncos v The Dolphins

The Bronx hace won all but one of their derby fixtures against the Dolphins.Yet this is not a foregone conclusion. I was imoressed by thr Dolphis Defence at Shark Park and they have the attacking toold in Izaako, thr Hammer and Herbie. to put points on the board.

More off field turmoil at Red Hill beibg covered on a separate thread on this forum.

No Payne Hass for the Bronx replaced by Xavier Willison Adam Reynolds returns pushing Ben Hunt back to the bench.

Thonss Flegler back for the Fins.

Tip - A closer gane than.people think but I wiil take the safe option and go Bronx.

Canterbury Bulldogs v Newcastke Knights

A very straightforward game to call with the Dogs defence likely to cancel out the Knights offence.

This means the limitations that the Dogs have on offence will not be a factor in this game.

Silill Tupouniua returns for the Dogs.

Tip - Bulldog

Penrith Panthers v Paramatta Eels.

Though nominally a Panthers home game. Panther support will be outnumbered by the Eels fans.

Although Paramatta are very unfancied in this match they do have a habit of overturning the Panthers in the battle of the West.

Jack Williams comes into the starting line up in place of J"maine Hopgood

Tip - Panther

North Queensland Cowboys v Melbourne Storm

Played in tropical Townsvilke which according to the press this week is Australia' s crime capital.

The Cows were unconvincing in defeating the hapless Titans. Playing a Storm side who faded in the second half at hone to the Bronx.

Concerns raised about the form of Caneron Munster and hus part in the Bronx defeat. Rumour had it last season that Munster was to go to Perth Bears as their marquee signing and Jonah Pezet was to take over Munsters role. Peset has gone and Munster remsins whther that will prove the right choice will be borne out either way this season.

Zak Laybutt back for the Cows with Trent Lolero back for the storm.

Tip Storm it would be a crime not to...

Canberra Raiders v Cronula Sharks

Two sides in need if a win. If there is a team that has the wood on Rickys Rattled Raiders, it is the Sharks in recent.years.

Bith sides coming off disappointing perfirnances at home againdt the Bulldogs and Dolphins respectively.

Morgan Smithies in for the suspended Josh Papalii for the Raiders. 

Tieg Wilton replaces Briton Nikora for the Sharks.

Tip -Very close game in prospect, Raider on the basis this is played in the capital.

Gold Coast Titans v St George-Ilawarra

Trial game optimism for the Titans has dissapated in a string of defeats to the extent that Josh Hannay had to read the riot act at half time against the Cows.

Big question marks being raised about Tino and the rest of the forwards.

They face an SGI side that enough chsnces to win against Paramatta and did not due to the play of the halfbacks.

What is strange is that in the reserve grade game against the Eels SGI absolutely smashed the Eels with the Kerr - King-Togia combination and Tyrell Sloan playing at full back.

If your getting territorial posession but not converting into points then you need to change the halves combination in game. Maybe this will be the game it happens in because another defeat and this will be forced on Shane Flanagan

Gold Coast unchanged.

SGI bring in Blake Lawrie for Toby Couchmzn and Hamish Stewart for the suspended Ryan Couchman.

Tip - SGI

Canberra Raidsrs v Canterbury Bulldogs

Last season's clash in the capital was the original game of two halves as the Bulldogs bit back to win.

Canberra will be looking to rebound from their second half collapse at Mount Smart and Ricky rings the changes bringing back Josh Papali'i in the pack benching Morgan Smithie

As I witnessed it, the Wahs pack rolled over Canberra in the second half but Canterbury are still a club that could be regarded as forward lite and as such pose less of a threat.

Canterbury have their own drama to deal with as Bronson Xerri makes way for Emari Tuola. The Gouldfather strikes again and you have to eonder on the impact in the Dogs cam

Tip - close gane but I go with Ricky's Rebounding Raiders through home advantag

Sydney Roosters v Penrith Panthers

Reece Robson makes his first grade debut for the Tricolours. Potentially this means origin player Connor Watson.moving on as Benian Iaelu seems to be the favoured understudy.

For the Penny Panthers, Liam Martin returns and Freddy Lussick replaces Jack Cogger who heads to the bench

Despite the pre-season hype, I do not see how the Roosters win this one and the Panthers are in position to target Mark N whose defensive frailty is a liabilt

Tip - Panther power to prevail.

Melbourne Storm v Brisbane Broncos

Melbourne unchanged and finding ways to win.Sa'a Falongo at fullback proving dare I say it to be a.more durable upgrade on Ryan Papenhuizen who was often unavailable through i jur

The Bronx ring the changes. No Adam Reynolds means Ben Hunt starts in the halves and Gehemat Shibasaki is dropped for Grant Anderson.

Owing to their status as the first NRL club established in League mad Queensland. The Bronx are the biggrst club in the NRL. They are newsworthly and two losses on the bounce is putting the blowtorch on Michsel Maguire.

Tip - This could the the game for a Bronx bounceback but Melbourne for me.

Newcastle Knights v New Zealand Warriors

Victory at Brookvale came at rhe cost of the temporary loss of Kaylin Ponga and Dylan Brown to injury.The good news is the return of the effervescent Fletcher Sharpe in the halves with Fletcher Hunt taking over at fullback

The Wahs picked up a series of injuries last Friday losing Kurt Capewell, Charnel Harris-Tevita and Charnize Nicholl-Klokstadt. Replaced by Taine Tuoupiki at fullback, Leika Halisima, who had a breakthrough game gainst the Raiders, and start Luke Hansen in the halves alonside Tanah Boy

Some feel the Wahs are ready to take off, but I say cool those jets, because its one thing beating sides coming oger the ditch and a complrtely different prospect having to make the retun journey.

I have moy tipped the Knights so far this season but I have made the point that with platers such as Bradman Best, Greg Marzhew, Phoenix Crossland and our own Dom Young you have a backline thst can put points on the board as long as the forwards can at least reach parity with the opposition.

And rhere is one other factor, Justin Holbrook, who is a very good coach and who was punted at Gold Coast just as he was beginning to turn the club around as he is doing at the Knights

Tip - I am going against the grain here but I do think Newcastle can sneak this.

Cronulla Sharks v The Dolphins

Both clubs field an unchanged line up and opinions on both clubs also remain unchanged.

The Sharkies have ptoved they are good against ordinary sides yet ordinary against good sides.

The Dolphins, remain the great unpredictables of the NRL.Rubbish for 60 minutes yet brilliant for the last 20 minutes. At some point a side containing the Hammer and Herbie will"click" and muller the opposition.

Tip - Always problematic tipping a gane involving the Dolphins, but I fancy Cronulla will get into the grind against the fins and tip them for the win at Shark Park.

South Sydney v West Tigers

Played on neutral territory at Gosford.

Souths having got over the distration of Alex Johnston's milestone have London lad Jaime Humphries back in the halves and Tallis Duncan in for Euan Aitken. In addition to the birth of Latrell's fourth child.

West Tigers make one chsnge after milking the Cows at Leichardt.with Jamal Skelton coming in for thr injured Terrell May.

Tip - a very difficult game to call between the two sides.but I an going for Wests in this game.

Paramatta Eels v St George-Illawarra

The Paramatta I and others expected to see turned up at Suncorp last week, and bring back J'maine Hopgood post suspension. Jack De Belin starts from the bench with a point to prove against his old club.

For SGI, Jacob Liddle is on rge ben h and this is significant in that he can alternate and spell Damian Cook who I have the ultimate respect for but is no longer an 80 minute player

Tip - A very tight game, but one factor could be crucial and that is Valentine Holmes hit and.miss efforts with the boot which will come back to haunt SGI at some poibt this season.

North Queensland Cowboys v Gold Coast Titans.

Vital game for Todd Payten, as the Cows welcome back Reuben Cotter to the pack.

For Gold Coat the only move of significabxe is Jayden Campbell on the bench.

It's not inconcievable that Todd Payten's tenure at North Queensland will end with defeat to the Titans.

Josh Hanbsy hadno such job insecurity issyed ss such. The main podiyivebof being the Titans cosch is thsg exmpectations have been set set at low bar.

Tip- The importance of the game for Todd Payten and the Cowboys may influncr the outcone. If Gold Cost were to estanlish a 14 point lead as last week this will be a true test of coaching, players and fans. I tip the Cows because ghry are at home abd shoukd play with despetation but would not be surprised by a Titans triumph.