The Football (all sorts) Thread

[i_amtrunks]

now they news didnt show all of his comments.. but what he said i thought had some merit...

basically he said that as a parent he tells his kids that that kind of behaviour is uncalled for and basically he said it should be your (the medias) responsibility to not show the event over and over sensationalising the event . it was more about setting an example to young kids that this kind of on field behaviour was wrong. not broadcast when kids can see it over and over...

or something to that effect.. it has merit but either way manly are whinging to much...

Fair enough, to a point. I do think it has had overkill on the tv, Especially on the Sunday footy shows, but at the same time it is the media's job to show it, break it down and review it. They have to sensationalise something! :D

The Manly us vs. them mentality. Bring on round 26, old boys round for the right to lose to Melbourne, and see how the Tigers, Cowboys and Dragons finish the season.

[Sharky]

Fair enough, to a point. I do think it has had overkill on the tv, Especially on the Sunday footy shows, but at the same time it is the media's job to show it, break it down and review it. They have to sensationalise something! :D

The Manly us vs. them mentality. Bring on round 26, old boys round for the right to lose to Melbourne, and see how the Tigers, Cowboys and Dragons finish the season.

ill be at shark park for the tigers clash.... gals 200 game for the sharks and dougies last... i have been watching him play from the juniors to now and will be sad to see him go...thats footy tho.. i just hope cronulla put up a good final showing....

[5FDP]

Callan Ward (http://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-premiership/bulldog-gone-western-bulldogs-midfielder-callan-ward-reportedly-accepts-greater-western-sydney-offer/story-e6frf3e3-1226126135631) is coming to GWS :D With 10,000 members signed-on for next year (including yours truly), things are starting to get exciting.

[Grievous]

I am so looking forward to Newcastle vs. Souths tonight...
Its sure to one of the games of the year...with a spot in
the finals at stake...

:D

[i_amtrunks]

I am so looking forward to Newcastle vs. Souths tonight...
Its sure to one of the games of the year...with a spot in
the finals at stake...

:D

Let's hope so! I'm a Knights fan, and they have a great record on old boys round (and what a bonus that this is the main Friday night game). That being said, when Souths win tonight I won't be too disappointed, they have been playing the better footy over the last month and are more likely to provide an upset...

I think the game of the round could be the Spoon battle, the other games will have players resting early or have no bearing on the standings.

-EDIT-
Just did some calculations... if Manly lose by about 48 or more points, then Brisbane leapfrog them into second... game on! :D

[SGB]

Does anyone think NRL ref Gavin Badger looks a bit like Communications Internet Censorship Minister Stephen Conroy?

[Grievous]

Man...what a disappointing game...

Hey Souths...you knew your season was on the line right?
You knew if you won you'd make the finals right?

They were pathetic!
:mad:

It was a great night for the Knights (Pun!) and I wish the
team the best of luck against Melbourne.

Dragons vs. Panthers...well...I wanted Penrith to win...
but the Saints just had more strike power.

[i_amtrunks]

Should be a fair bit written about momentum going into the finals series.

Cowboys have lost all they had after JT returned, Dragons are slowly rebuilding theirs, Warriors and Knights are too inconsistent to have any, and the Tigers have (depending on tonights results) all the momentum on their side.

Should be interesting to see how the Storm, Eagles and Broncos go tomorrow, and then next week!

[Grievous]

^I agree Trunks...Tigers have it all at the moment...but...
do they have the ability and the team to win the big prize?

And on another note...The Eels finished the year with a win
and no wooden spoon...in year that has been nothing but
pain for the Eels supporters...I'll take any positive I can.

And next year with Sandow and the Tonga brothers on board...
things can only get better.
:cool:

[i_amtrunks]

And next year with Sandow and the Tonga brothers on board...
things can only get better.
:cool:

Don't forget Ben Roberts too, so Hayne can continue to hide at Fullback with all these new potential halves players.
Parramatta and Cronulla have had the best signings for next season, time will tell if they utilise them correctly.

So far the Broncos vs. Eagles game has been a tale of two halves, first half was all Broncos, but Manly have blown them out of the water so far this second half, I wonder if the home crowd can get them home, or if Manly can overcome them...

If Brisbane win, what will Bellamy do? Will he rest players?

[mknell]

If Brisbane win, what will Bellamy do? Will he rest players?

That is exactly what Bellyache did

[i_amtrunks]

And they got punished for it...

Bribane and Melbourne with some injury (and Thiadays dangerous throw) concerns. Should make for some interesting reading this week to see what teams put their players through to get them fit, I heard that the Tigers and Knights are training easier this week, to be fully fit for their matches.

[Skullcruncher]

A great win by the crunchers in the Moist Cup. :p September prem's were unluckly on the day whos only loss of the year was the grand final.

Also won the public league I was in heh :cool:

Bring on the finals! Go the warriors! :D

[mknell]

A great win by the crunchers in the Moist Cup. :p September prem's were unluckly on the day whos only loss of the year was the grand final.

Also won the public league I was in heh :cool:

Bring on the finals! Go the warriors! :D

Lol good job mate, the guy you beat was a mate of Mine who you notched down a peg coz he won all his other leagues, this year I went terrible

[i_amtrunks]

Thankfully the Dally M went to a worthy win this year, may he have a better following sesaon than the last winner.

40,000+ tickets sold to the Tigers v Dragons match, good thing they are holding it at ANZ, the SFS would already be sold out.

Anyone else completely sick of Manly?

Time to boot their license up the F3 to Gosford for good this time, just to get rid of the whining! :p

[Skullcruncher]

Thankfully the Dally M went to a worthy win this year, may he have a better following sesaon than the last winner.

40,000+ tickets sold to the Tigers v Dragons match, good thing they are holding it at ANZ, the SFS would already be sold out.

Anyone else completely sick of Manly?

Time to boot their license up the F3 to Gosford for good this time, just to get rid of the whining! :p

Yes Manly zzzzzzzzzzz too arrogant for me. Hope they go out with two straight losses.

Just did the finals predictor on NRL.com I got Warriors v Storm for my Grandfinal heh not biased at all :D

[Sharky]

* Storm - It is hard to go past the storm for the GF. Cronk, Slater, Smith are on fire
* Manly - will miss Glenn Stewart and have been a little flat still one to watch
* Brisbane - will miss thaiaday but do look good
* Tigers don't look to have gotten there act together for full 80 minutes they were lucky to win against the sharks and will really need Lawrence back they do miss his impact and linebreaks benji can't work that many miracles
* Dragons - not much happening there really flat really poor as of late
* Warriors - look good dark horse of the finals
* Cowboys - doesn't matter how good JT is I think they may cause an upset but not enough left in the team for a run to the GF
* knights - I hear Newcastle was issued with a storm warning things could get ugly....fast

[i_amtrunks]

I wouldn't be wanting to face the Warriors during the finals, they dont have the best away record of the finals teams, but they can beat anyone, anywhere.

I'd love Manly to be bundled out in straight rounds for all their carrying on, but I cannot see it happening. I think we may have another top two Melbourne-Manly GF, I cannot see any other team being able to defeat either of those two teams in the GF.

I think a Tigers vs Warriors final would be the most entertaining of the possibilities, but would need crazy results to happen!

[Grievous]

And the Tigers slay the Dragons with a great second half!
And Tomorrow night is going to be even better...

There is no better time than finals time!
:D

[i_amtrunks]

Game of two halves tonight, not just for each team, but individual players as well. Lui was woeful then improved, whereas Soward was brilliant and lost his flair as the Dragons lost interest.

Funny how having to get back the 10m in the second half killed the Dragons defensive effort! :p Can't believe they were a "perfect" team for over 60 minutes either.

Brisbane vs. Warriors should be great, but I can't pretend that I care about the Manly vs. Cowboys game, as interesting to me as the Union World Cup channel 9 is doing such a half arsed job on. :rolleyes:

Unless Manly get thrashed and Brett Stewart gets tackled into dust. :D

[Bartrim]

Good win by the Tigers. Showed lots of character. After a years hiatus St Choke appear to be back in the nrl.

Union world cup is on... Which I love. The minnow nation matches are always exciting. Namibia really pushed Fiji but fell away in the final minutes.

[i_amtrunks]

Union world cup is on... Which I love. The minnow nation matches are always exciting. Namibia really pushed Fiji but fell away in the final minutes.

Too bad Channel 9 is doing such a poor job of broadcasting it.

The highlight of the NZ vs. Tonga clash was the opening anthems and Haka, could feel the passion and pride through the tv. SBW was very classy, could get some big $$$ if he wanted to come back to league.

Union get their world cup right, they have the right number of minnow nations that allow them for good matchups to even out the lopsided contests when a top 6 nation plays. They also ensure that prospective markets like Russia, the USA and Japan get a fair representation. Now if only they could make games featuring non pacific ocean based teams somewhat exciting for viewers! :p

[Skullcruncher]

Union get their world cup right, they have the right number of minnow nations that allow them for good matchups to even out the lopsided contests when a top 6 nation plays. They also ensure that prospective markets like Russia, the USA and Japan get a fair representation. Now if only they could make games featuring non pacific ocean based teams somewhat exciting for viewers! :p

Romania v Scotland was pretty good, up until the last 10 minutes when scotland pulled their finger out!

[i_amtrunks]

Surprise surprise the top 4 made it through to the next round, Newcastle and Cowboys over-run by better opposition.

Warriors were very disappointing, hopefully they turn up for the Tigers game, if they do, could be the most entertaining match of the finals series.
If playing to form, the Broncos will wipe they floor with the Dragons, who were very negative, dire and predictible on Friday.

Hopefully the Broncos/Dragons will then wipe Manly out of the race, I found it interesting that they only started playing well when the refs no longer kept them back the 10, and let them lay all over the play the ball. When they were back 10, they were terrible!

[i_amtrunks]

Gotta love the Bondi Haka! :p

And really like those Warriors jerseys, if I was a jersey collector that would be one I'd be interested in getting.

[Oldschool78]

Japan have improved since I saw them last world cup. They could get a win in their pool

[i_amtrunks]

Tigers got Tiger-ed last night, the Warriors were very hard done by with penalties, but fought back well, the Tigers looked tired in the last 20 minutes, had no spark in attack.

Heighington and Gibbs were so dominant, made the warriors huge pack look soft for most of the game.

Unlucky to lose to a flukey try, but the game was there to be won!

Come on Broncos, beat the Dragons so you can thrash Manly next week!

[Grievous]

One word...LOCKYER!!!

[i_amtrunks]

Brisbane vs. St George was easily one of the more enjoyable games of the year, any other team would have been 24-0 down at halftime, and probably would have fallen apart from that attacking pressure, but the Dragons held on, before hitting back as late as they possibly could.

Funny how the dragons were awful, but still held on with their defense, against most of the NRL teams, the Dragons would have won the game with the way they played tonight. The better team won, but what will it have taken out of them for next week? Only negative is that the Dragons last try scorer Hornby should not have been on the field, he should have been sent from the field 20 minutes earlier for his repeated and blatant unsportsman like fouls when interfering with the contested bombs. terrible that he only got called for it once in at least 5 attempts.

And loving that Ireland beat Australia in a boring goalfest, what a advertisement for the game here! :rolleyes:

[Skullcruncher]

And loving that Ireland beat Australia in a boring goalfest, what a advertisement for the game here! :rolleyes:

Your right there! Boring as anything. Only good thing(Apart from Australia losing) it should mix up the draw for the quarter and semi finals.

If Lockyer is out injured Manly will just roll them :( whats the bet even if he has broken cheekbone(s) he will still play??

[Bartrim]

From their first set of six at the start of the season I said one thing about the Tigers. They had read all the hype about how they were the only serious contenders to St George and expected everyone to lay down for them while they went through the motions. The difference from this year to 2005 is that when they had a side down by 12-16 points in 05 they really put them to the sword. So many times this season I could see that the game was theirs then Farah or Marshall would kick a field goal and they would try to defend a 13 or 19 point lead. So where as I am dissapointed that they are eliminated I feel they deserve it and hopefully will wake up next year.

The ra-ra has been great. I know alot of people find it boring but some of the defence efforts have been amazing. I've never seen so many tackles turned into stationary mauls causing turnovers. Truly momentous effort. Also the minnows are going great. It's only the lack of fitness from not being professionals and a lack of big game experience is causing them to fall away at the end but there have been some close first halves.

In the NFL St Louis appear to be suffering a bit of an injury crisis very early in the season. I can only hope that this may lead to the unearthing of another superstar like Kurt Warner... but how often does that happen?:o

[i_amtrunks]

So, will Locky play, how badly will Matai and Watmough target him with their usual cheap shots, and how far will Hodges and Thiaday run from to 'protect' him?

Predictions people! :D

[Grievous]

Matai and Watmough will no doubt be hunting Lockyer...
But I'm guessing Brisbane will counter this by having either
Thaiday or Parker playing bodyguard...Gillett & T'eo will
also possibly assist in protecting Lockyer off the bench.

I'm hoping Manly are to distracted by trying to hurt Lockyer
and that will allow Peter Wallace and Andrew McCullough to
slice them to ribbons.

You can clearly tell I'm backing the Broncos...and I'm also
hoping the Warriors can upset the Storm.

Broncos vs. Warriors in the Grand Final!
:D

[i_amtrunks]

Broncos vs. Warriors in the Grand Final!
:D

Lowest rating GF since the introduction of the NRL! :p
Bondi would be celebrating though!

I'll barrack for anyone but Manly, I like all three of the other teams that have made it thorugh to the Prelims.

And I think the Tigers will have to let go of Lui, two incidents of the same nature at the same time of the year...

Too bad that they let Moltzen go, he is a better fullback than half, but he had good hands, which is a pre-requisite when you play alongside Benji..

[Bartrim]

And I think the Tigers will have to let go of Lui, two incidents of the same nature at the same time of the year...


When I first opened the fox sports news webpage I thought I had opened a cached copy from last year. Whether he is innocent or not I think he should be let go as two charges of the same incident (a horrible thing too) is just too much of a no no.

[Sharky]

So, will Locky play, how badly will Matai and Watmough target him with their usual cheap shots, and how far will Hodges and Thiaday run from to 'protect' him?

Predictions people! :D

Nope locky ruled himself out about an hour ago....... He may have played his last game

Lui

I wonder if the charges will be dropped again this time

[Grievous]

With Lockyer out...it will be interesting to see what Brisbane do...

Do they stick Gillett in the 6...or keep him on the bench and
use Ben Hunt...or even Corey Norman?

Most of the pressure now falls on Peter Wallace...but perhaps
Brisbane will counter this by starting Gillett and having him
play wide with Alex Glenn dropping to the bench.

Brisbane need to increase their attacking options to keep
Manly guessing.

The real wide card is Justin Hodges...who could decide the
fate of the game by simply being more involved. While I
personally don't like the guy...he has amazing skills and
needs to step up to another level if Brisbane are to have
a chance.

On another note...it would really suck if Lockyer has played
his last game...he deserves better than that.
:(

[Bartrim]

On another note...it would really suck if Lockyer has played
his last game...he deserves better than that.
:(

Agreed

[Oldschool78]

Is the Warriors game sold out? Headin over there tomorrow may be able to go along

[Prowl]

Feeling the love for Manly thats for sure. If Lockyer played he would be fair game as he ain't no koala.

A fitting ending for a great player by kicking the winning field goal to get your team to the preliminary final.

He can retire as a winner & that is far better than losing to the might of the Eagles on Friday.

[Skullcruncher]

Is the Warriors game sold out? Headin over there tomorrow may be able to go along

Maybe, I got mine on tuesday 1 hour after tickets went on sale to the public and the sales looked pretty strong there judging by the seats I got. :cool:

[i_amtrunks]

I'd love to see the Broncos beat the Whiners tomorrow night and give Locky a chance to go out a GF winner, as long as they dont put him on the bench for the entire game and only give him a few of the final minutes to play. :p

Wallace will ahve to step up, Hodges will ahev to play as a centre-second 5/8, parker will have to take more in play kicks and Glenn will have to really protect Gillett, it will completely change the way the Broncos structure their attack, however Gillett will be a defensive boost (not that Lockyer is a bad defender!

Only 13,000 tickets sold to tomorrow nights game, and I'd wager that many of them would be Broncos fans, they always attend finals in force, no matter the location. It is sad that such a strong Sydney side cannot garner more interest from their fans, I know that they will get a lot of walk up fans, but we should be selling out all finals matches at the SFS.
Thankfully we dont have a Manly v Cronulla game, or we wouldnt even be able to sell out North Sydney Oval! :D

[Skullcruncher]

Same ^^

Bring back the Bears! They were my first rugby league team I followed and got me into league. Halligan, Larson, Moore, Jackson and Big Toole those were the days.

[Skullcruncher]

Great Game Warriors deserved to beat the Storm - They had more in both attack and defense. Not sure how it looked on TV but at the game the storms big three didnt seem to do much. Their most dangerous player was skia manu.

Warriors or Manly for the win people?

[Decepticon]

Yay! West coast eagles lost!!! Perhaps they won't get rammed down our throats this week on the news now that they are out!!!!:D

[Bartrim]

Warriors or Manly for the win people?

Is this a rhetorical question? I don't know anyone who doesn't go for these teams that prefer Manly over the Warriors.:p

On a side note I noticed Shaun Berrigan was named for the Auckland Vulcans in the NSW cup semis. Does this mean he'll be fit for the Grand Final? I hope so as the only thing I hate about the Warriors at the moment is Krisnan Inu.

[i_amtrunks]

Is this a rhetorical question? I don't know anyone who doesn't go for these teams that prefer Manly over the Warriors.:p

On a side note I noticed Shaun Berrigan was named for the Auckland Vulcans in the NSW cup semis. Does this mean he'll be fit for the Grand Final? I hope so as the only thing I hate about the Warriors at the moment is Krisnan Inu.

Berrigan missed the semi, but will hopefully play for the Vulcans on Sunday. Bulldogs are going for three straight NSW cups victories, so should make for a fantastic curtain raiser, too bad the Toyota Cup will be inbetween reserve grade and the NRL Final. I know why you are not a fan of Inu! :D

NRL Final looks like it will be a game for the forwards, whichever teams forwards dominate, will allow their young halves to control the game. Manly were allowed to lay all over the ruck and wrestle to their hearts content against Brisbane, and they did it well. Williams should be free to play, but Matai should be rubbed out for a long time, he slide in late and with no intent on stopping a try, only taking out a player, ruined a very good game from Manly.
Glenn Stewart will improve the chances of Manly, even though he should have been rubbed out of the game for far longer (as should Lussick, Brett Stewart et al.)

Here is hoping that the Aus based Kiwis get behind their team, I imagine the media will be pro Manly, but the crowd will be pro Warriors, I know I'm whole heartedly supporting the Warriors!

[Skullcruncher]

Phil Gould will be sitting back enjoying the fact that he has got his man Cleary. As a warriors and Cleary fan its sad to seem him go. There have been plently of haters in NZ towards him but his ability to bring through the younger players has been proven.

Inu was a usless bag of potatoes at the beginning of the year but to his credit he has put the effort in at the end of year so probably will keep his place. I personally think they should have kept Moon and shipped Inu off to places far away.

Hopefully no matter the result on sunday hopefully the players can continue it on next year..... but it may be difficult when the new coach is just a bag of wind.

[Sharky]

the sharks vulcans game was a good game.

a tim smith brain snap pretty much cost the sharks a spot.. but man are the warriors impressive over all three grades this year

i need to check but did they win the club championship this yers??


as the saying goes.. i support two teams <insert main team here> and whoever plays manly!!

[Grievous]

Nice work Warriors...Bye Bye Storm...try again next year.

I say the Warriors do the Haka on Grand Final day...
and they get all their players from all three grades to perform it.

That would be epic!


as the saying goes.. i support two teams <insert main team here> and whoever plays manly!!
That pretty much sums it up...Go the Warriors!

:D

[i_amtrunks]

Both teams should be a near full strength, should be an interesting GF.

Toyota Cup will be an attack-fest, but the NSW cup game is the game with the most potential, both squads are full of up and coming/fringe NRL players, and veterans leading the way. Vulcans are team full of flair, while the Dogs are the structured, wear teams down then break out to score in the final quarter of the match.

I'm cheering for the Warriors, but I think Manly will be incredibly hard to beat.

[Bartrim]

I thought I saw something with Matai on the cover of the daily telegraph saying he was looking to hurt someone in the grand final... Is this true? It was only a passing glance at a customers shop so I wasn't sure I read it correctly. If that is the case I would give anything to be the ref in the grand final next week. I hate attitudes like that. I would be "Alright kickoff. Go sit down Matai":D


Saw a very interesting debate today. Will the NRL give the title to Manly to keep it in Sydney? (even though Des whinged about the semis being soooooooooooooo far from Manly:rolleyes:) or will they give it to the warriors to take some shine off the RWC? In a real world the Warriors would win as most of Manlys players should of been suspended for the rest of the season... Guess we will just have to wait and see.

Oh and I hate Inu for two reasons. One he is a smug (insert expletive) who after spending the season in reserve grade does one fluke thing and acts like he is the greatest thing since sliced bread... and two... well he used to play for Parramatta.

[Sharky]

i think a warriors win would be good for the game in general..the game has such a large kiwi following in NZ Melbourne and even Bondi....a Premiership to NZ would be a financial boost to the game in NZ too

[Prowl]

I want to see another thrashing dealt out by Manly. As for Matai I am astounded he was even placed on report as it was not illegal nor was it malicious. Perhaps he should have gone "Slater style" & lead with studs to the face?

Full squad bar Williams & King so I expect a good game.

[Bartrim]

Well it looks like they are trying to give it to Manly. How George Rose wasn't sent off, how Watmough wasn't penalized for playing the ball sideways and how that last try was even allowed past that first blatant obstruction is beyond me. Atleast this proves Checcin isn't worthy to ref a grand final... let alone a first grade game.

[Prowl]

Well it looks like they are trying to give it to Manly. How George Rose wasn't sent off, how Watmough wasn't penalized for playing the ball sideways and how that last try was even allowed past that first blatant obstruction is beyond me. Atleast this proves Checcin isn't worthy to ref a grand final... let alone a first grade game.

Bla bla bla, cry cry cry. Who are the premiers? Thats right the best team in the comp.

I like how you point out only the ref errors that went for Manly. I suppose you think Forans denied try was a knock on too :rolleyes:. Just as many went against them & the game was a quality one to watch with both teams giving 100% unlike last years claytons premiership.

[Bartrim]

Bla bla bla, cry cry cry. Who are the premiers? Thats right the best team in the comp.

I like how you point out only the ref errors that went for Manly. I suppose you think Forans denied try was a knock on too :rolleyes:. Just as many went against them & the game was a quality one to watch with both teams giving 100% unlike last years claytons premiership.

Actually I thought Foran's try should of been awarded. If you note when I posted the previous comment it was at halftime so without having psychic abilities I couldn't of mentioned Foran's try. The warriors got some calls their way but the majority went manlys way. If the nrl had the guts to take a stance then half of the manly side would of been missing after that brawl. It definitely was a brutal gf. Never seen so many head cuts in one game. I wouldn't say the best team won the competition... I would of said Brisbane were the form team of the nrl (even if they are a one player team, will be interesting next year) but Manly were the best team on the day and in football that's all that matters. Still think the refs should of had the guts to send Rose off as that shot was malicious because he was left flat footed by the warriors player. It would of made an interesting grand final if that happened.

Oh why couldn't Inu play with those hands 2 weeks ago:(

I'm keen to see the kiwi side as to where Foran plays as I think Johnson will be in the halves with Benji.

[Oldschool78]

Well, Manly won...... :( What can i say they were too good. That try before half time really made the hill a tough one to climb. Warriors made a few errors too at crucial times the didnt help

[i_amtrunks]

Gotta agree with Bartrim, Manly definitely got the rub of the decisions, I would have liked to have seen Rose sent for 10, but lets face it, the refs will never do the right thing in GF, since they cant be tough on cheap shots in the normal rounds. The try on half time was ridiculous, I cannot see why the video ref cannot contact the on field refs to let them know of all the blunders they are making.

Warriors were too sloppy with their handling for most of the game, and the better team won on the day, however I would have loved to see how Manly would have coped with the NZ dominance in the last 25 minutes had they not had the refs give them the buffer of a try and all the beneficial calls in the first half.
Also would have been interesting to see how Manly's season went if the judiciary had have done the right thing after the brawl and last weeks game, I don't agree that Stewart was best on ground, Johnson and both Manly halves were far better, and Lyon also proved he is a big game player.

At least the NSW cup game was a blast, and further proof that it should return to being the premier reserve grade played before NRL mathces rather than the Toyota cup, which while entertaining at times, was atrocious for defense!

Rose might get a 2 match ban, but it is a little too late, missing the world match championship is no punishment. Locky's last Aussie test in 2 weeks, then a series in England... Bring on the cricket season! :D

[Prowl]

Actually I thought Foran's try should of been awarded. If you note when I posted the previous comment it was at halftime so without having psychic abilities I couldn't of mentioned Foran's try.

A valid point which I just noticed. My apologies on that one :)




I wouldn't say the best team won the competition... I would of said Brisbane were the form team of the nrl (even if they are a one player team, will be interesting next year) but Manly were the best team on the day and in football that's all that matters.

If Brisbane were the form team they would have been minor premiers & made the GF. They didn't because they were not but they will be a serious force next year as their junior players are maturing nicely.

Manly have been the most consistant team the last 5 years along with the Storm & should be recognised as such.



Still think the refs should of had the guts to send Rose off as that shot was malicious because he was left flat footed by the warriors player. It would of made an interesting grand final if that happened.


With a unbiased opinion I don't think the Rose cheap shot warranted sending off. Maybe 10 minutes in the bin but it was not a send off offence.

[Bartrim]

A valid point which I just noticed. My apologies on that one :)


If Brisbane were the form team they would have been minor premiers & made the GF. They didn't because they were not but they will be a serious force next year as their junior players are maturing nicely.

Manly have been the most consistant team the last 5 years along with the Storm & should be recognised as such.


With a unbiased opinion I don't think the Rose cheap shot warranted sending off. Maybe 10 minutes in the bin but it was not a send off offence.

Just quoted the whole message as I couldnt be bothered breaking it up:o

First point... 'Tis cool:)

I have thought that while Lockyer plays for Brisbane they are a one trick pony and without him they did come close to beating Manly so I think if he had played they would of beaten Manly thus proving point... but thats football. No point arguing "ifs", "shoulds" and "coulds".

My mother in law is a die hard Parra Fan (which means she hates both GF teams) and she felt Rose should of been sent off... But again too late for that.

Since I'm over cricket bring on NFL... although maybe not considering the way St Louis have started:o

[5FDP]

The 49ers are 3-1 on the season. The best bit was their come from behind victory yesterday against the Eagles... my neighbours team :D

[Prowl]

I have thought that while Lockyer plays for Brisbane they are a one trick pony and without him they did come close to beating Manly so I think if he had played they would of beaten Manly thus proving point... but thats football. No point arguing "ifs", "shoulds" and "coulds".


I think that is a valid point although we had several players out in that match as well. The round 26 result should be disregarded as whilst a good performance Manly was missing way too many key players (yes it was through our fault) & Manly belted them in round 12 34-10 when both squads were full. I still contest that Manly have been the best team all year but we are all entitled to our opinion & life would be very boring if everyone agreed on everything :)




My mother in law is a die hard Parra Fan (which means she hates both GF teams) and she felt Rose should of been sent off... But again too late for that.

She must be bitter as last weeks lemons with nearly 30 years of mediocrity from the Eels & would have to bear the scars of the 2001 GF. I know I would!

[Bartrim]

She must be bitter as last weeks lemons with nearly 30 years of mediocrity from the Eels & would have to bear the scars of the 2001 GF. I know I would!

Not as bitter as my mum who is also a rabid Eels fan. Back in the 80's one of my familys "fantastic" rituals was for mum and dad to take us to the tab on friday arvos and let us play "pick the winners" and "pick the margins" for the NRL (Yes I know parents of the year encouraging their kids to gamble:rolleyes:). Anyway one week playing pick the margins Mum had it everything right. The last game was her beloved Eels vs someone else and she had the Eels to win by 1-12 for a large sum of money (I believe $15,000) and Peter Sterling kicked a field goal on full time to win the game by 13.

Yes she still hasn't gotten over it.

[Prowl]

Not as bitter as my mum who is also a rabid Eels fan. Back in the 80's one of my familys "fantastic" rituals was for mum and dad to take us to the tab on friday arvos and let us play "pick the winners" and "pick the margins" for the NRL (Yes I know parents of the year encouraging their kids to gamble:rolleyes:). Anyway one week playing pick the margins Mum had it everything right. The last game was her beloved Eels vs someone else and she had the Eels to win by 1-12 for a large sum of money (I believe $15,000) and Peter Sterling kicked a field goal on full time to win the game by 13.

Yes she still hasn't gotten over it.

LOL. I am a gambling addict (have not had a bet in nearly 4 years touch wood) & I still remember the sick feeling I would get when I would miss out on a big win. I was physically ill when Kostya Tszyu beat Zab Judah in the 2nd round as I had stacked up a considerable sum on a 3rd round KO & stood to win over $25K. I had a first 4 in Eagle Farm that went to a photo for 4th & 5th & I missed out on approximately $50K.

Those were the days ;). I hate to think how I would be now with mobile betting.

[i_amtrunks]

So in news that has shocked no-one, the Stewart brothers have wimped out of national duty, taking a leaf from Lyon's book. :rolleyes:
Brett obviously knows that without his big brother protecting him, if he even got on the field (if they rested Slater and Boyd) he would get no support from his team-mates due to his behaviour both on and off the field.

And Glenn is just petrified of facing off against Blair without having idiots like Lussick and his brother running in 50 metres to help king hit his opponents.

It's not the best Aussie side ever compiled, but isn't too bad considering injuries.

And hasler is no idiot, he knows Manly cannot keep their squad together past 2012, and knows the place is falling apart off the field due to monetary and ego issus, so he has gotten out of there for a handsome sum of money to a club that looks like they will go from strength to strength over the next few years.

[Bartrim]

I was actually shocked by the lack of speciality players selected for the Aussie squad. As good as Cherry-Evans form was did he deserve to be selected when they had Thurston and Cronk, not to mention Smith and Farah have both played half so they could fill in if needed. I would rather of selected another specialist prop or centre. Maybe would of ditched a backrower too.

I don't how the Kiwis will go this year but it looks like they could really dominate the Aussies over the coming years. They have always had a strong pack but never had a solid halves combination. Now with Johnson and Marshall and Foran as a back up with some strong running outside backs like The Beast and SKD I believe they will knock the arrogance out of the Australian side over the coming years.

[i_amtrunks]

I don't how the Kiwis will go this year but it looks like they could really dominate the Aussies over the coming years. They have always had a strong pack but never had a solid halves combination. Now with Johnson and Marshall and Foran as a back up with some strong running outside backs like The Beast and SKD I believe they will knock the arrogance out of the Australian side over the coming years.

Australian team selection has baffled me for years.

New Zealand are deserved world champions, and I think they will win more than they will lose over the next decade. Australia will be really struggling in 3-4 years time when our halves all retire, before our next crop are ready to replace them, all the good leader positioned players (6,7,9) seem to be Kiwi!

Aussie forwards stocks are good (just look at the QLD side, and the NSW pack will be strong for years), but the Kiwis have far better class for the foreseeable future.

[5FDP]

Yay, the 49ers won 48-3 today against the Bucs :D 49ers are back baby! I'll go away again...

[Bartrim]

Yay, the 49ers won 48-3 today against the Bucs :D 49ers are back baby! I'll go away again...

That takes me back to the days when I first started watching the NFl on Sasturday afternoons with Don Lane. Montana just got injured. Steve Young took over at QB. Jerry Rice was the best WR in the game and the Bucs would be lucky to win 2 games a season:D

[Oldschool78]

It appears weve got a Double header on this Weekend!
Kiwis vs Kangaroos
All Blacks vs Wallabies
Oh yeah Bring on Sunday!

[Bartrim]

The wobblies were very lucky to beat the 'boks. They did scramble well on their own goal line but the try was scored after a bok mistake on their own 5metre line against the run of play. I feel sorry for Pat McCabe or whoever gets the number 12 jersey playing bodyguard for that useless, over rated spud Quade Cooper. The All Blacks will destroy them.

[Oldschool78]

that useless, over rated spud Quade Cooper. The All Blacks will destroy them.


Agree with the Quade Cooper call, what the hell is he in the side for!
But I think it will be a lot closer than destruction

[Bartrim]

Agree with the Quade Cooper call, what the hell is he in the side for!
But I think it will be a lot closer than destruction

I meant the All Blacks will destroy Cooper... or whoever is assigned body guard duty ie: inside centre.

[Oldschool78]

I meant the All Blacks will destroy Cooper... or whoever is assigned body guard duty ie: inside centre.


Oh yeah thats for sure, Aussie defended their heart out the other night. Their main problem is The ABs will put the heat on cooper for sure.
Its funny over here in NZ especially canterbury, some people have supported Oz ever since Robbie Deans missed out on the coaching role when they left Henry in.

[Bartrim]

Ha Ha Quade Cooper. How does it feel to be our number one choice fly-half and have the all-blacks 3rd stringer run rings around you? If I was Berrick Barnes I would consider switching back to league if I'm going to be second fiddle to that clown. The way the wobblies are playing they could even finish fourth.

NZ should not have any dramas winning the cup... and well deserved. They have been the benchmark in rugby for years IMO

[Oldschool78]

I had to laugh, when Brad thorn had a big grin on his face while he was pushing quade away..... by the face! An old Bronco

[i_amtrunks]

Ha Ha Quade Cooper. How does it feel to be our number one choice fly-half and have the all-blacks 3rd stringer run rings around you? If I was Berrick Barnes I would consider switching back to league if I'm going to be second fiddle to that clown. The way the wobblies are playing they could even finish fourth.

NZ should not have any dramas winning the cup... and well deserved. They have been the benchmark in rugby for years IMO

Agreed 100% the All Blacks cruised to victory in about third gear last night, and I doubt they will have to work any harder to defeat a clueless and dull french outfit. As far as the borefest of this World cup is concerned, there are only two questions to be answered:
- How much will the All Blacks win by?
- How much will Wales defeat the Wallabies by (if they field a decent strength side)?

Bring on the four nations and a rugby code that is made for entertainment, not penalty kicks!

[SharkyMcShark]

Sack off uni work early to go home and watch football

Watch team cop worst beating at hands of fierce local rivals since 1926

Excellent... :(

[i_amtrunks]

Sack off uni work early to go home and watch football

Watch team cop worst beating at hands of fierce local rivals since 1926

Excellent... :(

Would you be referring to that 5 goal drubbing in the Manchester Derby? :p

Union Cup Final was a decent game for rugby fanatics who can understand and appreciate the forward and rucking skills shown, as well as the grind, but it was a terrible game for showing off rugby's strength to new and (slowly) growing markets like Russia, US and smaller European nations.

[Bartrim]

Union Cup Final was a decent game for rugby fanatics who can understand and appreciate the forward and rucking skills shown, as well as the grind, but it was a terrible game for showing off rugby's strength to new and (slowly) growing markets like Russia, US and smaller European nations.

Agreed.

So Daniel Mortimer is the Roosters saviour next year huh? Good luck with that Bondi

[mknell]

Agreed.

So Daniel Mortimer is the Roosters saviour next year huh? Good luck with that Bondi

Knowing Parra's luck he will turn around and have a blinder of a year like every player we let go

[i_amtrunks]

So Carney and Cronulla are a match made in heaven, team circling the drain buying a player who likes to sleep next to the drain...

Hopefully Gallen's off field behaviour influences him more than his on field thuggery does.

[Bartrim]

Yeah let's send the NRL's resident drunk to party central.:rolleyes:

[Sharky]

WOW HARSH WORDS ABOUT CRONULLA....

I didnt want to the club sign him.. but then they did well with Tim Smith. he behaved himself well...(now he is off overeas again..)

and cronulla is no more of a party place then lets say Bondi or Manly or Newcastle or Gold Coast or Melbourne....... seriously didnt matter where the kid goes if he wants to find a drink and a party he will find one..

[i_amtrunks]

and cronulla is no more of a party place then lets say Bondi or Manly or Newcastle or Gold Coast or Melbourne....... seriously didnt matter where the kid goes if he wants to find a drink and a party he will find one..

Very true.

If the reports of the amount of money Cronulla has outlayed for him over 2 years, he better be in good form, and take it easy on the drink. At least they had the smarts to put clauses and other safe guards in his contract so they can get rid of him if he gets the itch again.

[Sharky]

Very true.

If the reports of the amount of money Cronulla has outlayed for him over 2 years, he better be in good form, and take it easy on the drink. At least they had the smarts to put clauses and other safe guards in his contract so they can get rid of him if he gets the itch again.

yeah well that figure they are throwing around the media is what he "could" earn if he stays incident free. 200K for 2012 with upgrades in the next season and incentive payments..

still if carney recaptures his 2010 form it is a bargain...

[i_amtrunks]

still if carney recaptures his 2010 form it is a bargain...

And if he falls off the wagon again in 2013, he saves the Sharks a bucketful as well.

20 man touring squad named for the next test, wonder what Kiwi team will rock up?

[Bartrim]

WOW HARSH WORDS ABOUT CRONULLA....

I didnt want to the club sign him.. but then they did well with Tim Smith. he behaved himself well...(now he is off overeas again..)

and cronulla is no more of a party place then lets say Bondi or Manly or Newcastle or Gold Coast or Melbourne....... seriously didnt matter where the kid goes if he wants to find a drink and a party he will find one..

They were a bit harsh and I apologise for that. I think I was more annoyed that Carney got yet another chance in the NRL.

[Bartrim]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6YE37MiB9co

WTF is this?!?!?!?

[Bartrim]

VICTORY!!!!!!

http://blog.stlouisrams.com/2011/10/30/rams-vs-saints-running-blog-2/

[5FDP]

49ers leading 17-3 at the half. I would never have thought we'd be 6-1 after the bye week with a 4 game lead in the NFC West :cool: :D

[i_amtrunks]

Isaac Luke is looking to be tackled into dust upon his return to the NRL next season...

Not really going to bother with the world cup until the finals, the standards of reffing and playing will be worse than a Canberra vs. Eels NRL match. :rolleyes:

[Bartrim]

Isaac Luke is looking to be tackled into dust upon his return to the NRL next season...

Not really going to bother with the world cup until the finals, the standards of reffing and playing will be worse than a Canberra vs. Eels NRL match. :rolleyes:

Is it Luke making the decision to tackle this way or Kearney coaching him to tackle that way? I'm just wondering if it will become an Eels tactic next year.

Good to see the Golden Lions win the Currie Cup final against the Sharks. Since South Africa departed the World Cup earlier then expected the Sharks got to use their Springboks in the final (all 7-8 of them I believe) while the Lions had Butch James on the bench. Didn't help the Sharks at all. The Lions really played for each other and proved that a champion team will always beat a team of champions.:)

[Bartrim]

Rob Lui is gone to the cowboys. Apparently Moltzen will be out for a while with shoulder surgery though. Guess young Miller has to step up:)

Des is gone from the Eagles... wonder if the Dogs will pick his contract up a year early.

Sharks have plenty of 6,7 and 9's next year. Interesting to see what combination they finally settle on.

[i_amtrunks]

Rob Lui is gone to the cowboys. Apparently Moltzen will be out for a while with shoulder surgery though. Guess young Miller has to step up:)

Tigers have the depth, and better to blood young raw players at season start than season end. Lui is as much on his last chance as Myles and Carney.

The number of big injuries on the 4 Nations series is getting worrying..


Des is gone from the Eagles... wonder if the Dogs will pick his contract up a year early.

Would have to be idiots not to. Should be interesting to see how Manly fare, Toovey should be able to more or less copy this years gameplans and succeed since he has the same team. Hopefully the dogs stay smart and dont buy the Stewarts and Lussicks and other Eagle trash.


Sharks have plenty of 6,7 and 9's next year. Interesting to see what combination they finally settle on.

Maybe a case of too much choice as opposed to none these past few years. Feel sorry for Flanagan, he needs time to work out his best combos, but if the Sharks dont improve a lot and win most of their games early then his head will be on the block before he can settle things down.

[Sharky]

Sharks have plenty of 6,7 and 9's next year. Interesting to see what combination they finally settle on.

Rumors are Wade G. Will be shifting positions with Todd C and Chad T in the middle (with Chad been rotated in and out) Cronulla has always used the two Hooker option which will probably be John M and Isaac DG plenty of front rowers too with Jon green, Ben Ross and Gibbs joining (don't think they will fill the void of Douglas/snowden tho not that I think snow den was that effective this year)

Will be interesting to see how Todd goes too. If he struggles like Tim smith did or finds form again

On Lui I think comparing them to carney and Myles isn't really fair.. Carney and miles haven't hit a woman yet.... It a different level of grub

[GoktimusPrime]

RIP Gary Speed
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-in-wales/2011/11/28/farewell-gary-speed-you-will-be-sorely-missed-91466-29852655/

[Prowl]

RIP Gary Speed
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-in-wales/2011/11/28/farewell-gary-speed-you-will-be-sorely-missed-91466-29852655/

Very sad as he was a consumate professional in all areas & a bloody great asset to Newcastle when he played for them.

[SharkyMcShark]

Was shocked to hear the news about Speed yesterday.

He appearred on Football Focus on Saturday and was by all accounts happy and talkative.

RIP

[Bartrim]

Oh no! My Lambs are travelling to Candlestick to play the red hot 49ers and Bradford is injured:(

On another note was anyone else shocked Sydney FC ended Brisbanes streak?

[5FDP]

Oh no! My Lambs are travelling to Candlestick to play the red hot 49ers and Bradford is injured:(


<insert evil laugh here> :D

Seriously though... all the best. The games about to start shortly.

EDIT: 26-0 and NFC West Champs with 4 games left in the regular season :D When I see you next Bartrim, I got a Harbaugh handshake for you :p

[Bartrim]

<insert evil laugh here> :D

Seriously though... all the best. The games about to start shortly.

EDIT: 26-0 and NFC West Champs with 4 games left in the regular season :D When I see you next Bartrim, I got a Harbaugh handshake for you :p

Yeah it sort of played out how I expected:(

[Prowl]

Heard some unconfirmed rumors that Gary Speed had a 10 year gay affair & the other guy was going to go public with all the details. It would explain his sudden suicide if he feared that happening.

[Bartrim]

The Rams are playing on ESPN. This is the first Rams game of the season I've watched in whole. I was trying to be positive, thinking I might of been overly critical since I had only seen high (low)lights. Well I was wrong. They were terrible. Yeah they have massive injury concerns but some of these guys can't even tackle.:(

[5FDP]

The Rams are playing on ESPN. This is the first Rams game of the season I've watched in whole. I was trying to be positive, thinking I might of been overly critical since I had only seen high (low)lights. Well I was wrong. They were terrible. Yeah they have massive injury concerns but some of these guys can't even tackle.:(

Is it the first game you've watched due to lack of local coverage or you just haven't had the time?

I signed-up for Foxtel 15 years ago just for the NFL (this was before ESPN was one of the channels and there was only Fox Sports 1) but have cancelled this year due to the lack of 49er games being shown. They fail to understand that there are more teams in the league other than the Colts and Patriots :rolleyes:

I now get my games by other means - a nice person by the name of 'phatwarez'. Have watched all the 49ers games this year :D Can't believe we got done by the Cards though.... that's embarrassing :o

[SharkyMcShark]

My favourite ever football Paul Scholes has come out of retirement for the rest of this season!

This is my favourite day ever.

[5FDP]

49ers are playing in their first playoff game this Sunday since 2002. I'm gonna be glued to the TV all morning. GO 9ERS!

[5FDP]

49ers have made the NFC Championship Game, the first time since 1997-98!! Waiting to see who they'll be up against (Giants are up 20-10 against the Packers right now :eek:). Already have next Monday off work and if they win and go to their first SB in 17 years, I'll be booking flights :D

http://static.nfl.com/static/content/catch_all/nfl_image/j_smith_2_120114_CP.jpg

[Bartrim]

49ers have made the NFC Championship Game, the first time since 1997-98!! Waiting to see who they'll be up against (Giants are up 20-10 against the Packers right now :eek:). Already have next Monday off work and if they win and go to their first SB in 17 years, I'll be booking flights :D

http://static.nfl.com/static/content/catch_all/nfl_image/j_smith_2_120114_CP.jpg

Good Luck man. It was a hell of a game. Most exciting last quarter I've seen in ages.

[Skullcruncher]

NRL Dream team is open for registrations....

[i_amtrunks]

NRL Dream team is open for registrations....

Not a lot of cheapies that I expect to make me a stack of money this year... maybe Buderus...

[Skullcruncher]

Not a lot of cheapies that I expect to make me a stack of money this year... maybe Buderus...

Yeah I was trying to start with cameron smith but that was impossible...so buderus is my early pick... I though matt king would be a bit cheaper than he is.

[i_amtrunks]

Yeah I was trying to start with cameron smith but that was impossible...so buderus is my early pick... I though matt king would be a bit cheaper than he is.

$140 is pretty cheap. If only the souths halves can get the ball out wide enough to him.

Not sure if players like Smith, Fensom and Gallen are a little overpriced or way overpriced foor this point in the season. I really want Gordan in my squad but he too is far too expensive for his worth coming back from long injury.

So Im backing my money on Parker, some of the new Sharks players that will have a much increased workload now they have left the Tigers and hoping that the Warriors pack will be even better directed with Nathan Friend on their squad.

If only I could pick Friend, Smith, Buderus, Srama and Tolman and still afford a decent squad I would. :D

[Bartrim]

After going to the Tigers vs Roosters trial I am very hyped over young James Tedesco. This kid will be the goods:) and Sheens knows how to blood young uns so they dont get overwhelmed.

[Skullcruncher]

After going to the Tigers vs Roosters trial I am very hyped over young James Tedesco. This kid will be the goods:) and Sheens knows how to blood young uns so they dont get overwhelmed.

heh hopefully he goes awesome - hes in my DT.

Any chance of a OTCA Dream team League/comp this year?

[Bartrim]

Is it the daily telegraph comp?

[Skullcruncher]

Is it the daily telegraph comp?

And/or the NRL one - whatever the peeps are down with?

[mknell]

And/or the NRL one - whatever the peeps are down with?

Nrl.com one set up

362358

[Skullcruncher]

Nrl.com one set up

362358

Cheers! Less than 24 hours till season 2012 kick off, wheres the nrl fans gone? :D

[5FDP]

Cheers! Less than 24 hours till season 2012 kick off, wheres the nrl fans gone? :D

They've all seen the light and come across to the AFL :D







Joking people. Remain calm.

[i_amtrunks]

Still think NRL season is too long, but glad it is back.

Laughed my butt off about Gold Coast in the A league. Soccer is not going to be able to sustain 10 national teams without a GC team, and they went down the gurgler partly due to their owner, but mostly due to their limited support!

[SGB]

Good game between the Dragons and the Knights this evening.

Anyone find it rather odd that an NRL game was played on a Thursday evening?

[i_amtrunks]

Good game between the Dragons and the Knights this evening.

Anyone find it rather odd that an NRL game was played on a Thursday evening?

It was due to a scheduling clash with the cricket tri-series starting later than usual so running into March.

Instead of back to back Friday night games that would have completely blocked the cricket, they opted to show one each night.

Personally I am a fan of the Tursday night concept, better to have it that way than a live and delayed match keeping you up till midnight on Friday. Can't see the NRL teams agreeing, too much hassle with scheduling plus probably wouldnt be great for ticket sales on Thursday (like the Monday night matches) but great for tv audiences.

[Bartrim]

Poor James Tedesco:(

Well there have been some close games this round. I'm not sure if it's because the clubs are all so evenly matched or everyone is really rusty. Seriously some of the completition rates are of park footy level.

[Sharky]

Poor James Tedesco:(

Well there have been some close games this round. I'm not sure if it's because the clubs are all so evenly matched or everyone is really rusty. Seriously some of the completition rates are of park footy level.

I have to feel for the kid.. A local boy who worked hard and I know the pain he is going through.

Tigs were lucky I think.. Lucky Cronulla has not quite learnt how to finish properly and I think a lot of players from all clubs are feeling the rust

[i_amtrunks]

Agreed on the handling problems. Sure it was wet in most games, but those rates were terrible.

One round does not a competition make, but already Canberra and the Titans must be happy on their good starts, Cowboys and Parra must be very disappointed with theirs, everyone else was involved in some good tough matches.

I hope the independent commission makes Golden point go to way of the McIntyre finals system. I know it is too good for ratings and for media to talk about to probably just have draws and no extra time; but it should be golden try as opposed to golden point or the full extra 10 minutes; whoever is ahead at the end wins.
Alternatively have it so a draw after 80 means each team gets a point, then the winner of golden time gets another? The comp is too close from 1-12 to not reward the tight games, you'd hate to see team/s miss out on the top eight due to multiple overtime losses.

Tedesco and Gordon being out makes some big headaches for the two west Sydney teams. When Coote gets himself injured Penrith will have to blood some newbies.

Next few weeks will be interesting to watch teams like Canberra, the Sharks and the Titans, the teams who have the most to improve, and to see if the Storm, Warriors or Beagles have gone backwards.

[Bartrim]

Well that was a game I'll hopefully soon forget.

[SGB]

Great win by the Dragons tonight. Major form turn around compared to their abysmal effort last week.



Well that was a game I'll hopefully soon forget.
Which game? Dragons v Tigers or Broncos v Knights?

[Sharky]

The tigers really miss Ellis.. Fulton had a good game I thought but not many others.. Tigers are very far from the premiership favorites the experts foolishly claimed in the pre season...

[i_amtrunks]

Two lacklustre games tonight. Broncos did enough against a poor Knights team that seemed to be carrying a few injuries.

Tigers must be too, they were terrible tonight, may be in more trouble with judicial hearings this week. Don't believe for a second Farah meant it, but anything over horizontal is a big no-no. His saving grace may be that there seemed to be no hand placed between the legs.

At least supercoach has been blown wide open with Parker out for a few weeks.

[Bartrim]

Which game? Dragons v Tigers or Broncos v Knights?

Tigers. As Trunks, Mknell, Sharky, dirge and countless others will tell you I am a diehard Tigers supporter. I'm not saying we deserved to win but I was extremely annoyed that those two high shots by The Dragons didn't get penalised in game.:mad:

I didn't see all the second game but it looked like the Knights were the walking wounded. Everytime I changed over to that game someone in a red and blue jumper was hobbling around. They did well against the Broncos.

[Skullcruncher]

At least supercoach has been blown wide open with Parker out for a few weeks.

heh I think I'm gone already... two bad trades in week 1 and parkers now stitting on my bench... oh well I guess more research needs to be done in the pre season next year. :D

[Metallikato]

Tigers. As Trunks, Mknell, Sharky, dirge and countless others will tell you I am a diehard Tigers supporter.

I somewhat feel your pain. I was a Balmain tragic back in the day but I've never truly got into this Wests Tigers idea, not that I had anything against the Magpies, they were a traditional club and ARL loyal, but the whole thing has never sat well with me.
But whether it's Balmain or Wests they are without a doubt one of the most frustrating teams to follow. I'm only a casual Tigers/Rugby League fan nowadays (cricket is my number 1 game) but I watched most of it last night, always leaving themselves too much to do and forever struggling to complete tackles and prevent offloads.

But if you want to know about a reeeeally frustrating team, try following Somerset in English County cricket. ;)

[i_amtrunks]

I was extremely annoyed that those two high shots by The Dragons didn't get penalised in game.:mad:

Couldn't agree more, swinging an arm intentionally into a lowered head of an opponent is a dog act, like diving at the knees of a stationary player or pushing the head of a player into the ground to help yourself get off the ground. I wish that they would penalise every instance of the acts to rub them out of the game.

I think there were about 6 incidents last night where players should have been penalised and put on report but got neither as the on field refs are happy to let the match officials refer the players straight to the tribunal.

Refs will make mistakes, but the only thing they seem to be consistent in is being inconsistent. :rolleyes:

[5FDP]

After 6 marathon hours last night, the GWS Giants banner for their inaugural game in the AFL tomorrow night is ready to go! Seems a shame that the players will just destroy it in 10 seconds :( :p

All sports fans are invited to make their way to ANZ Stadium tomorrow night and be part of history. Game starts at 7 PM... just be sure to come dressed in orange ;)

[Bartrim]

After 6 marathon hours last night, the GWS Giants banner for their inaugural game in the AFL tomorrow night is ready to go! Seems a shame that the players will just destroy it in 10 seconds :( :p

All sports fans are invited to make their way to ANZ Stadium tomorrow night and be part of history. Game starts at 7 PM... just be sure to come dressed in orange ;)

Wow thats amazing man. Even though I don't really care for the game I hope they do well for you:)

[i_amtrunks]

Heres hoping that the Giants can win a few this year and have a better inaugral year than the Suns both on and off the field (which will be tough with the Suns being such a money maker!)

Rabbitohs were smart moving their clash to Perth this week before the AFL really starts up!

Will be interesting to see how your Tigers go Bartrim, Ellis at hooker with groat and Woods in support. Woods is on his last chance with me for Supercoach to do some decent work...

[Bartrim]

Heres hoping that the Giants can win a few this year and have a better inaugral year than the Suns both on and off the field (which will be tough with the Suns being such a money maker!)

Rabbitohs were smart moving their clash to Perth this week before the AFL really starts up!

Will be interesting to see how your Tigers go Bartrim, Ellis at hooker with groat and Woods in support. Woods is on his last chance with me for Supercoach to do some decent work...

Ummm I believe Fulton is hooker. He has played there before but not my preferred choice. Anyway we are lucky we are playing an understrength Canberra side otherwise anyone else (except maybe Parra and the Titans) would carve us up.

[Sharky]

I found it funny today at work was a bit of an afl day kinda.. Someone said GWS is a Great Waste of Space and then there was the article in today's paper about the swans claiming to be the real Sydney team... Yeah that's all well and good you were the first team in Sydney but come finals time you always plastering SMFC on all your merch.....at least GWS was born in NSW....

And I know for a fact I won't be watching them at all.

Onto the NRL I really hope the tigers pick up a win... With the luck they had in round 1 they could really be in some trouble... like parra... They have the talent but what is going wrong.

I think manlys big T Williams was a little hard done buy... Sure the tackle on De Gois was a bad tackle but I do not think it deserved the 7 weeks he copped. When Farrah got 2...

[i_amtrunks]

I think manlys big T Williams was a little hard done buy... Sure the tackle on De Gois was a bad tackle but I do not think it deserved the 7 weeks he copped. When Farrah got 2...

It was a shocking tackle that I don't think was intended. It was 5 weeks for that tackle and 2 weeks for the loading he had from previous issues. Loading is an issue for another time! :p

Farah got two weeks for a nasty but unintentional tackle he place d no hand between the legs and made no downward motion once the player was past the horizontal, the players forward momentum drove him into the ground.

Both fair punishments for the crimes, too bad the match review panel decided to pretend that all the intentional blows to the head/fac were to be ignored last week...

Penrith and Parra should be good to see what team is hungrier, both should be doing better with the squads they have, but the Souths Broncos game will be more interesting to me, two teams that are coming through a rebuilding phase with lots of younger players and new players coming through. If both sides stay injury free, they should both be contending well come September.

[Prowl]

I think manlys big T Williams was a little hard done buy... Sure the tackle on De Gois was a bad tackle but I do not think it deserved the 7 weeks he copped. When Farrah got 2...

Absolute dyed in the wool Manly fan here & I think the suspension was too severe. It was a 4 week offense to me & Farahs was just as bad if not worse yet he only gets 2 weeks?

Once again there is inconsistency with the judiciary & that is what gets me fired up.

BTW that was a quality win on Monday & sure I was hoping for a Manly win but your boys played a beautiful first 1/2 & Gallan once again shows his leadership by example.

[i_amtrunks]

BTW that was a quality win on Monday & sure I was hoping for a Manly win but your boys played a beautiful first 1/2 & Gallan once again shows his leadership by example.

Gallen is a beast, and you have to wonder how the Sharks would have survived the last five years without him. At least this year they have some secondary players who should be able to hold the ship while Gallen leads NSW.
Manly have had a horrible amount of travel this last 6 weeks, and a few injuries to boot, they have done far better than I had thought they would (and I thought they'd stay a top8 side that might contest for the four)

Penrith dominating this game, maybe the panthers are going to have a win lose season this year? All because Lewis is playing where he wants rather than protecting the halves (who dont need protection, Walsh and Burns are tough)
Parramatta are doing their best to make the old joke of what has 26 legs and cant climb a ladder true.

[Skullcruncher]

Penrith dominating this game, maybe the panthers are going to have a win lose season this year? All because Lewis is playing where he wants rather than protecting the halves (who dont need protection, Walsh and Burns are tough)
Parramatta are doing their best to make the old joke of what has 26 legs and cant climb a ladder true.

heh feel sorry for the parra fans reminds me of back in the early 90's - I would just hope the rabbitohs kept their opponents under 40 :D

[i_amtrunks]

So Newcastle are playing far superior football to what they did last Sunday against the Dogs, but it still is nowhere near good enough to fully compete with the Storm side.

Hoffman has played a blinder, and there are another half dozen Storm players that are just sensational tonight, but Uate is the guy I want to see run the ball every set, he has been busting through the best defensive team like an under 6's team would against the Eels! :D

Quinn should be gone for 6 weeks for that cheap shot on Sau he jumped up to hit him with a swinging arm around the neck, dangerous, reckless and intentional. Also not liking these late tackles around the leg that put so much pressure onto the lower spine. It appear at time like the players will snap in half when they get hit once their momentum has slowed.
Not a dig at the Storm, every team is doing it.

[i_amtrunks]

So Parra can only compete when a team switches off completely...

The Knights vs. Panthers game will be telling for NSW fans, Jennings, Gidley and Buderus have all come from the field injured, and none are players who leave the ground unless they have to, and Lewis is looking bad too.

To top it off the only half that Penrith have that is in any form is out for at least a month too.

Until about the 60 minute mark, Uate and Jennings were looking to be the only lock ins for the NSW backline at the moment. (others are certain to be picked, but not 100% on position). No Gidley could mean NSW pick 4 forwards on the bench.

[mknell]

So Parra can only compete when a team switches off completely...

The Knights vs. Panthers game will be telling for NSW fans, Jennings, Gidley and Buderus have all come from the field injured, and none are players who leave the ground unless they have to, and Lewis is looking bad too.

To top it off the only half that Penrith have that is in any form is out for at least a month too.

Until about the 60 minute mark, Uate and Jennings were looking to be the only lock ins for the NSW backline at the moment. (others are certain to be picked, but not 100% on position). No Gidley could mean NSW pick 4 forwards on the bench.

You forgot about Luke Lewis Injury too

[i_amtrunks]

You forgot about Luke Lewis Injury too

Yeah but he plays injured every week! :p

Lewis would be a big loss for the blues as he is so versatile, he can play wherever needed, even if he isn't great at that spot he'll always give it his best and do ok.

Sounds like if Uate, Lewis and Buderus pull through and play next week, they might be risky options. You can't be less than 100% for origin. Heard a lot of DeGois being mentioned for origin thanks to his good work with Carney and Gallen this season. It would be an interesting selection ahead of Farrah and Hinchcliffe.

[Bartrim]

Not that I think he deserves an origin call up this year but I'm guessing Buderus will be the hooker. If he is injured I think Hinchcliffe would be the best option. Farah has started to improve but his style of play doesn't suit Ricky Stuarts style of coaching. Ricky likes his thugs and dirty workers and Farah is too flashy to base that style of gameplay around. Why is Buderus' name even being thrown around? NSW should be trying to build a fresh spine and stick with it, like what QLD have done. A 32year old is not a solution to the problem.

[Sharky]

Why is Buderus' name even being thrown around? NSW should be trying to build a fresh spine and stick with it, like what QLD have done. A 32year old is not a solution to the problem.

this is what i believe as well what is the point of bringing him in for 1 series (or one game) and the replacing him there are plenty of hookers.. and really what is wrong with ricky pulling his two hooker ploy.. hinchcliff and degois rotating during the game (bring de gois off the bench 20 minutes in and watch him scurry through the qld pack).

all this talk of carney getting in i really dont think soward has done anything wrong to get dropped, sure carney is playing well but that is also off the back of robsons organisation and sharkies massive meter eating front rowers.

can NSW replicate that for carney. (althought pairing carney with pearce again is a good start and gallen will paly his natural above average game but what of the others???)

but then sometimes i dont even think ricky knows what he is going to do either....:p

[i_amtrunks]

but then sometimes i dont even think ricky knows what he is going to do either....:p

I think you just nailed the biggest problem that NSW have. You cannot just copy QLD and have an ex former origin great be the coach and hope that results follow. Stuart has proven that when left to his own devices and with the players he hunted in club level that he is not a good coach. He only did alright when continuing someone else's' hard work.

I know that they want to keep consistent in the playmakers, but Pearce is still too hot and cold week to week for mind, and Carney needs to be well supported in the halves to be properly effective. Not sure there is a great combo with him. Personally I like Wallace / Soward, but as a QLD supporter I am more than happy to see Pearce and Carney play or the blues.
DeGois is also a player who has struggled with injuries of late, and I cannot see them selecting him incase the halves misfire and they need to be yanked to make way for the utility.

The biggest mistake NSW can make right now is to select Ennis. He does not deserve to play club footy, let alone anything higher, and his form the past year has been woeful. However as others have said, Stuart loves his thugs so I wont be overly surprised.

[Bartrim]

Over the summer while sales repping in Batemans Bay I saw Ricky Stuart in a restaurant. The owners who are clients of mine are friends of his from when they lived in Canberra. They asked me if I wanted to meet him and get a photo... I declined.

[5FDP]

http://resources3.news.com.au/images/2012/05/12/1226353/706051-gws-giants.jpg

[Sharky]

gws giants win

how bad were the suns......


ill see your GWS win and raise you 1 defeat of the undefeated!!!!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v158/Sharkysparky/186727-sharks-v-storm_sm.jpg

:P

i was at the game and it was one of the best i have seen this year as far as quality and vocality of the crowd...

[5FDP]

how bad were the suns......

It was more of a case of how good were the Giants ;)

Being heavily involved within the club it was an experience that I'll remember and cherish for the rest of my life. You only get one 'first'. The after-party at Eastlakes for players / families / sponsors was a great way to cap off the win. Everyone's now firmly focused on taking down Brisbane next weekend.

Congrats to you and your team on the win Sharky :)

[Sharky]

It was more of a case of how good were the Giants ;)

Being heavily involved within the club it was an experience that I'll remember and cherish for the rest of my life. You only get one 'first'. The after-party at Eastlakes for players / families / sponsors was a great way to cap off the win. Everyone's now firmly focused on taking down Brisbane next weekend.

Congrats to you and your team on the win Sharky :)

its good to get the first win monkey off the back, i do see more potential in them then the GC Suns... i am sure there will be a upset or two for the giants in the seasons ahead.

[i_amtrunks]

12-4 lead to QLD, but NSW will fight back hard. 40-60 minute mark will be all NSW.

Jennings deserved a second penalty, not sure about the send off. Felt soft, but he ran in a long way, before throwing that haymaker that nearly collected Lewis. QLD only up because of Greg Bird. His idiocy to start the fight got Jennings sent, then the penalty late was followed by the second try. Let's hope he doesnt go take it out on his girlfriend after the game. :rolleyes:

It feels like there will be alot of niggling in the second half, I think we might see a few fights, hopefully nothing too silly.

Uate is so used to Boyd's poor form, he is not marking him! Thurston is playing Boyd into form. Stewart and Slater have both been quiet, Uate and Tate have stepped up in their stead.

The worst thing I've seen so far is the Hayne cheap shot when he had been tackled and decided to punch Thurston in the jaw. Channel 9 team pretended it didnt happen, but the ABC call team were not impressed. He was lucky to get away with it, and it is absolute stupidity to even contemplate doing that when you are in possession!

[Bartrim]

I'm surprised how much game time Farah has had. Does Stuart know he plays for the Tigers?

[i_amtrunks]

So I can see how they gave the Inglis try, but I believe it was wrong.

There was no way that Farah had the time to react to play at the ball with his foot, it may have seemed like he did in slow motion, but in real time, he would have to be superhuman to intentionally kick the ball out.

Jennings deserved 10 in the bin for running in, Lewis did too, but he went in to pull players apart, Jennings threw the punch. Hayne should get a few weeks for the punch on Thurston and for taking dives later on in the match.

To me that was a QLD win 12-10 as NSW was done and dusted when they missed that goal kick they should have never gone for. Carney and Pearce were weak, the NSW bench was not utilised well and Gallen didn't play the game of three men so NSw were done. QLD were stuffed at the end, but NSW had nothing to throw at them.

I think Tate should have gotten man of the match, and that Farah was among NSW best, he was the best kicker NSW had, and the reason for all their go forward.

Loving the reveal that Harrigan never spoke to Ricky alst night, so either Sticky is lying or the Telegraph sports editor has once again made a story up.

[Sharky]

I think Tate should have gotten man of the match, and that Farah was among NSW best, he was the best kicker NSW had, and the reason for all their go forward.


Farah the best kicker is definatly a sad stat of affairs as he was dreadful too.. lets bomb tate. tate catch run ten metres... lets bomb tate... catch run... lets bomb tate... catch run... see the game plan... usless kicking to him twice but seven times.. hell hit billy up he was terrible under the ball...

tate was by far the best on ground.. and group 6 refs would of refed a better game...

[Bartrim]

Good grinding win by the Tigers and it looks like we might have a stable halves partner for Benji in young Sironen. PLayed very well for 25minutes he was on the field. Look very comfortable at 5/8.

[i_amtrunks]

Tigers may have only sealed it in the last 5 minutes, but they looked good. Cowboys looked a little flat come the end. Tamou is a beast, and Bowen is all class. Game of the round.

Knights can join the eels, panthers, and raiders in planning to not make the finals. Playing insipidly and none of the fringe players are playing well enough to force their way into the squad. Walsh would be killing in this Knights squad with kicks for McManus, Boyd and Uate, but Brian Smith forced him out years ago. :rolleyes:

Rick Stone did an awesome job, but I don't know if Bennett can reverse all the damage done by Smith before the end of his tenure.

Manly looked bad today as well, they had no imagination, Lyon and Cherry-Evans need to look for more than Glenn Stewart onto his brother for ideas.

[Bartrim]

Tamou has really turned his career around. A couple of seasons ago he was a lazy useless s##t. He showed some amazing strength and pace today. I love listening to Gus and Rabs commentate. Such great humour... just a shame channel 9 have turned them into advertising whores:(

[jazzcomp]

Is lingerie football to be shown on TV/Cable? Can't find it on tv guide.

[5FDP]

Is lingerie football to be shown on TV/Cable? Can't find it on tv guide.

It was shown on Fuel TV (Foxtel) Friday nights. Not sure about now; cancelled my Foxtel subscription last November.

[jazzcomp]

Oops, clarifying that there's a live game tomorrow - sydney olympic park.

[Sharky]

Working in the city has its advantages... Thursday Afternoon the NSW SOO team was in Mid City Rebel sports so i grabbed a ball and added this to my Sports Memorabilia Collection

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v158/Sharkysparky/2012_SOO_NSW_G2Squad.jpg

the 17 players to represent the BLUES in Game two...

[i_amtrunks]

Working in the city has its advantages... Thursday Afternoon the NSW SOO team was in Mid City Rebel sports so i grabbed a ball and added this to my Sports Memorabilia Collection

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v158/Sharkysparky/2012_SOO_NSW_G2Squad.jpg

the 17 players to represent the BLUES in Game two...

Nice. Bonus for you, having two Sharks players there as well!

Even better is that with the squad they have selected for game 2, NSW should be even better than game 1. If they play for the full 80 this time around they'll win it and send it to a must win at Suncorp.

[Sharky]

Nice. Bonus for you, having two Sharks players there as well!

Even better is that with the squad they have selected for game 2, NSW should be even better than game 1. If they play for the full 80 this time around they'll win it and send it to a must win at Suncorp.

Yeah well gallen was always gaurenteed but two is good.

That Tamou tho is an absolute monster of a man...

[Bartrim]

Working in the city has its advantages... Thursday Afternoon the NSW SOO team was in Mid City Rebel sports so i grabbed a ball and added this to my Sports Memorabilia Collection

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v158/Sharkysparky/2012_SOO_NSW_G2Squad.jpg

the 17 players to represent the BLUES in Game two...

Nice score man.

7 in a row for the Tigers!!!!!

[i_amtrunks]

Nice score man.

7 in a row for the Tigers!!!!!

Benji at #7 is working, but to me Ryan and Woods have been the main factors to the Tigers great run.

Still trying to undo all of Brian Smith's magical work at Newcastle. They were pathetic again tonight. We had a decent #7 coming along in Walsh but Smith didn't like him. Didn't like our forwards either, but bought players like Naquaima up to take outside back spots that local juniors should have filled.

[Bartrim]

Benji at #7 is working, but to me Ryan and Woods have been the main factors to the Tigers great run.

Still trying to undo all of Brian Smith's magical work at Newcastle. They were pathetic again tonight. We had a decent #7 coming along in Walsh but Smith didn't like him. Didn't like our forwards either, but bought players like Naquaima up to take outside back spots that local juniors should have filled.

I'm surprised that Benji at 7 is working so well. It has shown how much he has matured as a footballer. We have a good prospect in young Sironen too. I don't know what the Tigers are going to do with Moltzen next year as I think Tedesco is going to be a keeper.

Wayne Bennett certainly has his work cut out for him.

[Sharky]

i think newcastles recruitment was poor, snowden and boyd are both under performing...(although snowden was showing signs of this at cronulla towards te end of his run i put it down to him wanting to move on/ no motivation. he is a shadow to what he was) cuthbertson tahu all wasted.......

but then bennet was never going to work miracles in the firsst season ...next year there will be a different team.


and tigers.. i really thought that match was boring.. an arm wrestle yes but boring.. this is what disapoints me the most abot SOO.. you have games that could be great games but when the players are taken out it takes a shine out of it.. i would of loved to see Farrah V Smith at club level....

even todays game Sharks v Titans.. would of been a great match with both teams at full strength.. the titans on a roll and a good quality roll.. and the sharks hoping to bounce back.. now there are six players missing from the game.....hakf a team of talent.

[optimus1]

Anyone watching the Euro 2012 tournament?
Mostly predictable results but good to see Denmark upset the Dutch.
I'm looking forward to see how reigning champs Spain and underachievers England fare in their games....

[i_amtrunks]

QLD are lucky to be up at halftime, but NSW are dolts.

Why go for 2 points when you have a man advantage? You lose 60-90 precious seconds. I agree Cronk should have been sent, but Gallen should be sent the very next time he berates a referee like he did, that was disgusting and is yet another display of his actual character.

Must say I am not liking all the head shoving into the ground. Tamou is lucky that Farah reefed him off a number of players before he got penalised. Also not liking the swinging leg trips on standing players. Not in the spirit of the game.

As I've written this NSW have scored while a player up, so they didnt waste the man advantage, Lewis covered Stewart perfectly, Stewart has lost so much speed that he would have been caught without the assistance.

-post match-
Better team won, if Jennings had not luckily knocked the ball out of Tate's hands it would've been a different story, and they would have been the better team and lost two in a row!

Can't believe that Bird got man of the match, when Farah was by far the best on field, and further proved how wrong Stuart was. All Bird did all night was lay over the play the ball after being the third man in and try to start fights.
Carney was poor again, but at least Pearce got a couple of half decent kicks off, but the two number 9's were the best kickers tonight.
Lewis was awesome off the bench, but Merrin was barely used!
Brett Stewart did not have a good game, and as I mentioned before, he has lost his speed, and his butterfingers and general inability to stay on his feet under pressure cannot have helped his cause. Stuart probably won't want to alter his squad bar injury, but surely bringing in Morris or even Minichello (or Meritt, and put Hayne to fullback) would have to be an option?

As for Queensland, Thiaday wouldn't have made any difference, Petero may have played his last game, he needs too long a run up to be effective, and Boyd needs to be dropped for Barba. QLD lacked some punch in the first half, but came back strong in the second, they were missing that spark to punch through the NSW line. Game 3 infront of 50,000 Queenslanders should make for some interesting viewing.

Should be interesting to see how the players play this weekend up with so many injuries, you could tell that Slater was not 100%, neither was Watmough or Gallen by match end. I'd like to know how Parker got that gash, my first thought was that he'd snapped his bone out of the skin

[mknell]

As for Queensland, Thiaday wouldn't have made any difference, Petero may have played his last game, he needs too long a run up to be effective, and Boyd needs to be dropped for Barba. QLD lacked some punch in the first half, but came back strong in the second, they were missing that spark to punch through the NSW line. Game 3 infront of 50,000 Queenslanders should make for some interesting viewing.

Should be interesting to see how the players play this weekend up with so many injuries, you could tell that Slater was not 100%, neither was Watmough or Gallen by match end. I'd like to know how Parker got that gash, my first thought was that he'd snapped his bone out of the skin

Well Slater is now out for a month so most likely Barba will get a run

[i_amtrunks]

Well Slater is now out for a month so most likely Barba will get a run

That long? He played well for a guy on one leg. Especially under those high balls.

Tonga is a favoured son, so Barba might not just walk into the side. I think they might put Inglis to fullback and Tate to Centre, Tonga/barba to the wing.

[mknell]

That long? He played well for a guy on one leg. Especially under those high balls.

Tonga is a favoured son, so Barba might not just walk into the side. I think they might put Inglis to fullback and Tate to Centre, Tonga/barba to the wing.

Now they are saying Slater is out for up to 8 weeks, also Tonga is out injured (and well he was playing shit before that) So I think Barba may get a look in, though Bowen is always an option as well

[i_amtrunks]

Now they are saying Slater is out for up to 8 weeks, also Tonga is out injured (and well he was playing shit before that) So I think Barba may get a look in, though Bowen is always an option as well

Bowen is playing like a 21 year old again, and deserves a go, but he is small... Also hearing Inglis to Fullback and possibly Neilsen in at centre/wing with Tate.

[mknell]

Bowen is playing like a 21 year old again, and deserves a go, but he is small... Also hearing Inglis to Fullback and possibly Neilsen in at centre/wing with Tate.

Yeah that is an option too, though I think they would be smart to play barba on the bench or something, though if NSW kicks (in general play) the same way they did wednesday then they will loose, the 3 main QLD kickers kick so well

[Bartrim]

Read on the NRL website Farah didn't train on Thursday... Really?!?!?!:eek::p I wonder why.

Game 2 was great. That result will make game 3 so intense. Regarding Cronks sinbinning, I feel that it should of been a sin binng and a penalty try. My brother says you can't double dip on those situations. Why the hell not?! Cronk commited a professional foul and Carney and Slater arrived at the ball at the same time. Logically if Carney was not impeeded then he would of beat Slater by 2 metres.

To win game 3 Carney needs to step up. He still looks over awed by the whole situation. We also need a faster fullback. Someone like Slater or Hunt who will bring the ball back at full pace not jog up to the defence like Hayne or Stewart. In origin (especially if game 3 is as intense as I expect/hope) you need every metre you can get. I feel for Uate. With Wayne Bennets love of sweeping to the left he is hardly seeing any football and it is showing in his origin game.

Anyway BRING ON GAME3. I haven't been this pumped for origin since about 2006.

[GoktimusPrime]

I'm happy that Spain won. They need good news right now considering the craphouse state of their economy with the worst unemployment figures in the EU atm. :o

[SharkyMcShark]

I was going for Italy based on the premise that Spain have bored me this tournament, but they then scored 4 goals anyway so I was unfussed.

[i_amtrunks]

West Sydney Wanderers had their first training run today.
I don't know how, they do not even have half a squad!

And go the Canberra hoodoo. Must suck playing in about 0 degrees centigrade conditions! Plus you have to live in Canberra! :p

[Skullcruncher]

And go the Canberra hoodoo. Must suck playing in about 0 degrees centigrade conditions! Plus you have to live in Canberra! :p

Dammit I picked the dragons. I should have known better. In the middle of winter canberra is the worst place to watch league. I was there 4 years ago to watch the rabbitohs play and by the middle of the first half we were pretty much frozen to our seats :D

[i_amtrunks]

In a few hours we will see if the QLD'ers can win 7 years straight....

While I cannot wait for the match, win lose or draw, I'm really hoping to see Matty Bowen back in the QLD Jersey, if he helps Petero go out a champion I'd be ecstatic.

[Bartrim]

I don't think QLD deserved that win. Hodges shouldn't of been awarded a try whatever the rules state, that was a blatant obstruction. There is a difference between decoy runners running through the line and a coward running behind his team mate. Also how can NSW be penalized for taking too long to get off the tackled player when Cam Smith practically has a nap on top of the player he tackles someone?

[i_amtrunks]

Nailbiter!

I'd hate to have seen how NSW would have gone without the Morris twins and Farah, they were the go to guys for NSW, very sad to see how many of the blues just walked behind the play the ball after Cronk hit the field goal. They lost heart at the end again.

Inglis is a beast. The way he was bumping players off him without using elbows or forearms is incredible. Lewis was a superstar when he came on, he lifted NSW yet again, but sadly could not do it alone.

Farah should be man of the series, he was the best player in both games 1 and 2 and was jipped both times. Shows that Stuart is not a genius saviour, he didn't want Farah, and without him NSW had no go forward, decent kicks in play and would have had a massive hole in their defence (not to mention all the extra penalties Ennis would have given away!)

Wonderfully tight series, next year might finally be the year that NSW can compete and win a series, if Stuart isn't coach or isn't allowed to pick his favourite grubs NSW might even whitewash it. :D

[jazzcomp]

How does it feel for players or a coach losing 7 years straight?
This must suck.

Not a footy/rugby fan so I can't relate.

[Sharky]

Luke Lewis a Shark from 2013,

this is a huge boost to the club and will make it an even more solid back row then we already have. (even if we do happen to loose Jeremy Smith)

[Bartrim]

I don't know who Sheens is going to pick this week. Whoever he picks it will be a very second string lineup we use.

[i_amtrunks]

Apparently Groat got injured in the lower grades as well.
Biggest loss is Sironen, he was doing well in the #6 jersey.

Comeback time for Skandalis? :D

[5FDP]

I have THREE free tix for tomorrow afternoons Giants v Pies clash at Skoda Stadium for anyone that wants them. PM me up until 10 AM tomorrow morning if interested instead of posting here. It will be first in, first served.

[5FDP]

OUR SECOND WIN!!

http://desmond.imageshack.us/Himg402/scaled.php?server=402&filename=aflrd19gwsvportadelaide.jpg&res=landing

[Bartrim]

OUR SECOND WIN!!

http://desmond.imageshack.us/Himg402/scaled.php?server=402&filename=aflrd19gwsvportadelaide.jpg&res=landing

Congrats GWS

Great game of touch footy last night between the Eels and the Tigers.

[i_amtrunks]

Congrats GWS

Great game of touch footy last night between the Eels and the Tigers.

Was very entertaining, but not good for finals aspirations (survival aspiration at least). The rookie Fijian flyer was a marvel, he is like a long legged version of Uate, has the speed and the hits.

I wonder how hasler will try and deny Bulldogs form until the finals... :rolleyes:

[5FDP]

Congrats GWS

It was an awesome day! You may recognise someone in this photo (hint: not Kevin Sheedy) :D

http://img37.imageshack.us/img37/180/33423743185829323241226.jpg

[Skullcruncher]

Well its the Grand Final in the OTCA Matrix Cup.

Crunchers XIII vs Moist Machine On 9. Both teams navigated their way through the finals series to reach the grand final showdown. During the regular rounds the Moist Machine was the clear winner 883 - 1002, one of only two losses Crunchers XIII suffered in the season.

The prize on the line is bragging rights until 2013! :D

[mknell]

Well its the Grand Final in the OTCA Matrix Cup.

Crunchers XIII vs Moist Machine On 9. Both teams navigated their way through the finals series to reach the grand final showdown. During the regular rounds the Moist Machine was the clear winner 883 - 1002, one of only two losses Crunchers XIII suffered in the season.

The prize on the line is bragging rights until 2013! :D

Going on Projected scores you will smash me 927-878

[5FDP]

Yay, the NFL has returned!! Not only that, the 49ers beat the Packers at Lambeau Field - the first time they have done that since 1990!

[Sharky]

Are the rumors I hear true ...

Does Beau know the Black White and Blue....?????

[Bartrim]

Are the rumors I hear true ...

Does Beau know the Black White and Blue....?????

Apparently so :( Heighington is apparently heading for Parra and Ricky Stuart is even trying to get in Farahs ear from what my rumour mill is churning out.

Atleast St Louis won today in the NFL

[Skullcruncher]

Personally I used to like the Tigers, but the last couple of seasons really turned me off them... Heighton and Fulton are very similar players,they need one of them as lock and two others in the second row who are more tackle breaking types - fulton would be a bit better in my opinion as heighton moves only a little faster than michael crocker! :D

[i_amtrunks]

Apparently so :( Heighington is apparently heading for Parra and Ricky Stuart is even trying to get in Farahs ear from what my rumour mill is churning out.

Here I was thinking that Stuart hated Farah (due to never selecting him for Origin until he had no choice). If Farah was to leave the Tigers
1) the Tigers would be bottom 4 contenders, and
2) he would be better off going to the Dogs, if Canterbury replaced Ennis, they would a double deal: less penalties and errors, and a hooker who is not afraid of running and can kick.

I think Balmain must have merged with the wrong team. Cronulla are sadly going to be a strong team for the next few years, now all they need is to have few injuries to their halves and I cannot see many teams beating them next year now they have some good forwards to support the most disrespectful and hypocritical captain in the NRL, and some backs who aren't scared of the ball, and a great goal kicker in Gordon. Keep Carney fit and in form, give him a ball running partner and off they go.

I do not know who will be officiating this weekend in the finals, Manly must've slipped the refs a decent amount of money, they were the better team, but the officiating was more disgraceful than it has been all season. The NRL will be salivating at the free kick in Melbourne (only AFL game is in sydney) with the grudge match, bet the Stewarts have already planned what grubby late cheap shots to pull out, and matai will have his sights set on a couple of wingers heads, since he never gets the deserved time for his actions.

Dogs vs. Souths should get 50,000 if weather is good, finally a crowd similar to the AFL. Both this weekends games have the potential to be better and more entertaining than the GF. I know channel 9 would've loved a dogs souths final, and are probably hoping for an all Sydney final, probably Souths manly, since Souths have a heap of fans, and Manly's will only ever watch a game on the television. :rolleyes:

[Sharky]

Apparently so :( Heighington is apparently heading for Parra

from what i hear Heighnigton is headed to cronulla too,

the down side is Jeremy Smith is possibly headed to newcastle.. from what i believe his wife has family there and wants to be closer to them (or Jez want to go back to wayne where he won a premiership under him at the dragons)

Smith is the key tho. If he Leaves Both Tigers Players end up at Cronulla..

[Prowl]

Manly must've slipped the refs a decent amount of money, they were the better team, but the officiating was more disgraceful than it has been all season. The NRL will be salivating at the free kick in Melbourne (only AFL game is in sydney) with the grudge match, bet the Stewarts have already planned what grubby late cheap shots to pull out, and matai will have his sights set on a couple of wingers heads, since he never gets the deserved time for his actions.


Bla bla bla heard it all before. Manly are the most consistent team in the competition & there was no payoffs or anything of the sort. The Cowboys scored from a strip & forward pass & Manly scored from a knock on. Taufua's try was legit & anyone who knows the rules of the game could see that.

Not saying the standard of refereeing is anything but woeful but it swung both ways & unlike during the season it did not cost a team a win on the weekend.

If you think the Stewarts are grubby then I hate to think what your opinion of the Storm is. They are the biggest team of grubs in the comp & have been for years. As for Matai he plays at 100% for every tackle he makes & when you play at that intensity you will front the judiciary many times in your career.

BTW there is a little game in Melbourne this weekend on Saturday between the mighty Hawks & Crows. Still it will be nice to attend a game at AAMI without dealing with 70,000 AFL fans milling about.

[5FDP]

Atleast St Louis won today in the NFL

There's a first time for everything :D I'm looking forward to week 10 ;) :p

[Bidoofdude]

YEAH! WE GONNA SMASH COLLINGWOOD TONIGHT!!! YAYUH!

[Bartrim]

There's a first time for everything :D I'm looking forward to week 10 ;) :p

Not this season but just wait in the next couple of seasons. We will be back to our best.

Now leave me alone while I rememisce about "The Greatest Show on Turf":p

On the NRL front. I can't wait for season 2013 to kick off mainly because I have no idea who will be playing or coaching the Tigers so atleast we should have some answers by then.

[Sharky]

wow Manly are Dreadfull tonight.. the worst performance i have seen them dish up in a while. and only they are to blame.. (except maybe Captain Jaime.....) poor handling, poor discipline, really poor defence, dumb attacking options.. and really really poor handling...

tooves loves the word fire truck too... why do cameras pan to the coaches box we all know what they say..

[i_amtrunks]

(except maybe Captain Jaime.....)

It really is the Storm vs. Lyon, and in that deal he really hasn't done badly at all. Just goes to show that not playing Origin (as I am sure he would've been the first centre picked the past 3-4 series) has kept him fresh and health(ier). I'd love to know how he went from busted and hobbling 2 weeks ago, to fighting fit the past two weeks.

Melbourne were clinical, and thanks to Manly's ineptitude, never looked to get out of third gear, they look fresh and relaxed, which could be the biggest benefit going into the grand final, depending on which rabbitohs turn up tomorrow night.

NRL will be privately spewing, they would have very much wanted a Souths vs. Manly final or Dogs vs. Manly final, ratings, media and supporter gear sales would have been through the roof.

If Melbourne play like their last two games next week, they will win.

[Sharky]

If Melbourne play like their last two games next week, they will win.

i Agree, it is hard to see either bulldogs or souths (tomorrow nights game should of been the grand final) getting up over a storm outfit that is running smooth,

on a side note the wife won a Signed Bulldogs football in her school raffle, i want the dogs to win to make it worth more!!

[Prowl]

wow Manly are Dreadfull tonight.. the worst performance i have seen them dish up in a while. and only they are to blame.. (except maybe Captain Jaime.....) poor handling, poor discipline, really poor defence, dumb attacking options.. and really really poor handling...

tooves loves the word fire truck too... why do cameras pan to the coaches box we all know what they say..

I was at the game & as a passionate Manly supporter I was devastated at the way they played. Always a tough ask to win at AAMI but with a 55% completion rate combined with 42 missed tackles we lost the game more than the Storm won it.

Props to the Storm as they played very well & certainly deserved the win. Once again there was refereeing controversy & luckily this did not decide the game. God help the NRL if there is those type of rulings next Sunday.

[Sharky]

Once again there was refereeing controversy & luckily this did not decide the game.

That Billy Slater try was a shocking call, he clearly dropped the ball and had no control over it but those 4 little words "Benefit of the Doubt" can be used in any senario... and i think that that decision should be romved from the game.. if there is doubt it is no try

infact i dont think the video ref should make decisions on any trys, its time you use them as a refs tool and not a referee

have him as a assistant to the ref, the ref cant see everything (if they see anything at all) but the video ref should be used to answer specific questions and that is all..

take billys try, Chechin asked if Will Chambers impeded the defence and pointed out the offside manly defender the video ref should just look at that vision and rule on that, send the answer back to the ref and then the ref makes the call.. No Sir he did no interact with the defense and yes the manly defender was offside.

he should Ask the video ref about the grounding, he will look at it, he can relay the message i cant tell if he grounded it or if there was seperation between the arm and the ball.. then let the ref make the decision....

obviously the refs have an opinion on the try since they ask questions now...its just i think the video ref does more then he should be..there is a place in the game for the video ref just not the way they use it currently.

[Bartrim]

We don't need video refs to make decisions. When a try goes to the video ref the whole stadium can see the replays so since that includes the on field refs then why not let them make the call? Just have a guy in the video booth to control the replays to the refs discrection... or have a sideline booth like NFL.

I also don't believe tries should be awarded on benefit of the doubt. Tries should only be awarded if they are 100% tries. If there is any doubt then it shouldn't be a try.

[i_amtrunks]

I also don't believe tries should be awarded on benefit of the doubt. Tries should only be awarded if they are 100% tries. If there is any doubt then it shouldn't be a try.

I agree with this, but I can't see them getting rid of the "benefit" ruling as that would appear as though they are not favouring the attacking team, and thus the defensive team will get another bonus (after the massive stuffups we've had around shepherds and obstructions.

The NRL needs to take a leaf (or three) from the NFL and use the sideline screens, or just utilise the giant screens at the stadiums and make the decisions themselves, if Stirling and Rabs can make the right calls more than 90% of the time just from a few different angles, surely the guys that are paid to make the calls can too.

[Prowl]

if Stirling and Rabs can make the right calls more than 90% of the time just from a few different angles, surely the guys that are paid to make the calls can too.

Thank god you did not say Gus Gould.

[i_amtrunks]

Thank god you did not say Gus Gould.

No way Jose. Waste of space he is.

So Dogs vs. Storm GF... I'm a happy Queensland fan! :D

[Sharky]

is anyone watching south melbourne v hawthorn?

[Trent]

Wooo!! We won!!

[snaketales]

what is this 'south melbourne'? :p

My wife had a bet on Sydney to win by less than 10..... :(

[Trent]

Unlucky. :p

[Prowl]

is anyone watching south melbourne v hawthorn?

I did & as a Hawks supporter I am gutted. Not that the better team won or lost as both teams played in the spirit of the game but losing such a close one is always hard. Congrats to the Swans though they came & executed their gameplan perfectly.

[Bartrim]

Tigers are in 2 of the 3 grand finals tomorrow... Just not the one that matters.

[spiderken17]

YEAH!!! Go the Swannies! I have had a heart attack inducing afternoon. It all came good in the end though. Good game. Awesome result :)
Now i have a week to recover before The Mountain.

[Sharky]

Tigers are in 2 of the 3 grand finals tomorrow... Just not the one that matters.

Hoping Big Ray Cashmere has a big one in the NSW Cup!!! ill be settling in for a big afternoon from 12pm!!

[i_amtrunks]

Tigers are in 2 of the 3 grand finals tomorrow... Just not the one that matters.

Last final for Balmain-Ryde too. Honestly it is about time that the Tigers had a single NSW cup team.

Missed the Sydney game due to a wedding, but having watched a replay, it was a great game, hopefully the NRL game is as good today, it has the potential to be a free flowing attacking game.

[i_amtrunks]

The right team won today, the Storm were the better team, but the Bulldogs did very well with their limited chances, but only truly looked dangerous on the breaks.

I was impressed with Graham all season, but to do what he did to Slater is just disgusting, and he will now forever be known as an ear biter. Absolutely pathetic. Also pathetic that he got to continue playing the grand final after that, it was very obvious he had done it.
Waqa could be in strife too or the punching, but will probably get away with it, the ol' Grand final and origin = anything goes rule. Did not have a high opinion of Ennis and Perrett before this game, and I think even less of them now, Perrett was grubby and late everytime he was near Slater or Neilsen. Ennis is a disgraceful choice for captain, his onfield behaviour is deplorable.

Sad to say that I am happy the refs didnt stuff anything up, it was my biggest fear as a neutral supporter.

Two pretty good finals from the popular football codes :p Now for the round ball seasons to begin.

[5FDP]

what is this 'south melbourne'? :p

A team that claims to be a Sydney based team however want their cake and eat it too by having SMFC (South Melbourne Football Club) on the back of their guernseys despite having relocated to Sydney over 30 years ago. When they win people refer to them as the 'Bloods', when they loose they're the Swans. Pleeeease :rolleyes: Get an identity.

[Skullcruncher]

A team that claims to be a Sydney based team however want their cake and eat it too by having SMFC (South Melbourne Football Club) on the back of their guernseys despite having relocated to Sydney over 30 years ago. When they win people refer to them as the 'Bloods', when they loose they're the Swans. Pleeeease :rolleyes: Get an identity.

heh I was hoping they would win because I go for any interstate team against melbourne teams because of the media afl how its melbournes game blah blah etc but now its South Melbourne everywhere wtf!

[Prowl]

The right team won today, the Storm were the better team, but the Bulldogs did very well with their limited chances, but only truly looked dangerous on the breaks.

I was impressed with Graham all season, but to do what he did to Slater is just disgusting, and he will now forever be known as an ear biter. Absolutely pathetic. Also pathetic that he got to continue playing the grand final after that, it was very obvious he had done it.
Waqa could be in strife too or the punching, but will probably get away with it, the ol' Grand final and origin = anything goes rule. Did not have a high opinion of Ennis and Perrett before this game, and I think even less of them now, Perrett was grubby and late everytime he was near Slater or Neilsen. Ennis is a disgraceful choice for captain, his onfield behaviour is deplorable.

Sad to say that I am happy the refs didnt stuff anything up, it was my biggest fear as a neutral supporter.

Two pretty good finals from the popular football codes :p Now for the round ball seasons to begin.

Slater is dirty as they come & I am not upset Graham gave him a nip. He leads with his knees in the in goal & engages in general grubbieness that would make the Gallen of years ago shake his head.

[Sharky]

A team that claims to be a Sydney based team however want their cake and eat it too by having SMFC (South Melbourne Football Club) on the back of their guernseys despite having relocated to Sydney over 30 years ago. When they win people refer to them as the 'Bloods', when they loose they're the Swans. Pleeeease :rolleyes: Get an identity.

My Sentiments exactly and is the reason why i cant stand the south Melbourne Swans.. when they do well it is always SMFC, i dispise the SMFC on the back of the shirt. this is a team that claims to be from sydney but really they are just another melbourne team.

GWS is the ONLY NSW team

[griffin]

So the trophy from the "Victorian" game went to Sydney, and the trophy from the "NSW" game went to Melbourne... like a trade. :p

[Bidoofdude]

YOU BET IT DID! WWOOOO SYDNEY!!!!!!11

[Bartrim]

I'm glad Melbourne won. Hate the Doggies with a passion. Balmain were robbed in the NSW cup. Mortimer played that ball sideline to sideline effectiviely taking the markers out of play. Loved the under 20's game. Joey got it wrong. Koribete is not a star of the future. He is a star of the present!

Watched the 49ers put away the Jets this morning. Yay! A girl I went to school with is a mad Jets fan and anytime they loose it is the officials fault or something. Never the better team won.

[5FDP]

GWS is the ONLY NSW team

QFT :cool: (I love you right now :eek: :D)


Watched the 49ers put away the Jets this morning.

How good was it!! :D If defense wins championships we got it in the bag :D

[i_amtrunks]

Slater is dirty as they come & I am not upset Graham gave him a nip. He leads with his knees in the in goal & engages in general grubbieness that would make the Gallen of years ago shake his head.

Can't see how someone ever deserves having their ear bitten, no matter how much of a grub you feel they are.

Seems to be a big discrepancy in expectations for Graham's penalty, some are saying 4-5, most saying 8-10. Last few biting charges have gone for one or the other too, so no real precedent. I like Graham, and thought he was a wonderful buy and a potential future leader at the club, but he has undone it all with one massive act of stupidity.

And Batrim, I could not agree with you more about Koribete, as long as he stays fit he will be a champion, same with Edrick Lee from the Raiders.

[Prowl]

Can't see how someone ever deserves having their ear bitten, no matter how much of a grub you feel they are.


It is not like he had a chunk taken out of his ear. He just got a little nip thats all. Graham was/is a fool but those lads from the north don't muck about in a scrap & Slater got off very lightly all things considered. A low act no doubt but more a warning nip than a full fledged bite like a dog giving you a little nip to say you have pissed it off.

I freely admit I don't like Slater but I respect his ability as a footballer.




Seems to be a big discrepancy in expectations for Graham's penalty, some are saying 4-5, most saying 8-10. Last few biting charges have gone for one or the other too, so no real precedent. I like Graham, and thought he was a wonderful buy and a potential future leader at the club, but he has undone it all with one massive act of stupidity.


He should rightly get 10-12 weeks but there are two issues. One is that he is pleading not guilty & two all the footage I have seen whilst damming does not clearly show him biting Slater. Anyone can read between the lines & see he bit him but can you conclusively state the footage shows him biting him or just getting his mouth near his ear?

[jazzcomp]

watch the video - wow!
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/highschool-prep-rally/utah-girls-soccer-player-apologizes-violently-kneeing-foe-145902691.html

[5FDP]

watch the video - wow!
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/highschool-prep-rally/utah-girls-soccer-player-apologizes-violently-kneeing-foe-145902691.html

FACT - Women's sports are brutal!

[Bartrim]

Even if you aren't a hardcore American Football fan (like 5FDP and myself) you can still enjoy this trick play.

If I haven't posted this before... which I probably have... I've been shocking for reposting things lately. Anyway if that is the case enjoy it again:D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0UIdI8khMkw

[5FDP]

Even if you aren't a hardcore American Football fan (like 5FDP and myself) you can still enjoy this trick play.

If I haven't posted this before... which I probably have... I've been shocking for reposting things lately. Anyway if that is the case enjoy it again:D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0UIdI8khMkw

That was so AWESOME :cool:

QB "I've had enough, I'm going home. Give me my ball"
*starts walking off*
CB's "Wait... what??!"

:D

Speaking of NFL, the 49ers must redeem themselves this morning against the Seahawks. Should be a great game. It's live on ONE at 11.25 AM EST for those that are interested.

[Bartrim]

Although not a real "trick" play this scene from "The Replacements" cracks me up everytime.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yKYJRnckd_o

[Bartrim]

So Mick Potter is our coach next year... He seems to have a good record in the UK. We will see if he can make the transition to the NRL.

[5FDP]

Good riddance Izzy! That is all.

[i_amtrunks]

Good riddance Izzy! That is all.

If the rumours of him going to the Eels are true, I wonder if Folau will be the first player to go from winning the wooden spoon in one code to another in a different code?

At least Parramatta should have a superstar player who can actually play and wants to play, if Sandow and Hayne are going to be the halves the eels will have the laziest playmakers, and no Hindmarsh to tackle the opposition or Burt to kick the goals for the few tries they score!

Wonder how GWS will get media time in Sydney without their convert? Can't recall more than a half dozen stories about them that didn't heavily feature Folau.

[Sharky]

Off the field Folau earned every penny the Air Fairy League dished out he was (unfortunately) a big marketing ploy but a good ambassador to the kids. I do think he had the skills for the game but he didn't start it early enough in his career. At least he won't wonder what might of been

Additionally a move to the eels is probably not a good move either. He is an excellent winger great under the high ball a good fend but he will need class to "feed" him the ball and parra will struggle season 2013 to find a spark.

I also see the tigers lost another player.....

[5FDP]

Wonder how GWS will get media time in Sydney without their convert? Can't recall more than a half dozen stories about them that didn't heavily feature Folau.

Don't worry about that. Their cup runneth over with talent - 25 first round draft choices from the last two years and that's not even counting players they picked up prior to officially entering the league. They have enough superstars in the making that they don't need Falou being the face of the Giants anymore.

The last couple of times I spoke to Izzy I could tell that his heart wasn't in it and that's fine, the games not for everyone. I'm actually glad that he made the decision now rather than next year when he would be taking valuable game time away from kids that really want to develope in a sport that they love and the Giants can field their best 22 players and hopefully win more games.

We'll get there, it's just a matter of time. Soon, people will be saying 'Sydney Swans who'? :D

[i_amtrunks]

We'll get there, it's just a matter of time. Soon, people will be saying 'Sydney Swans who'? :D

Only took 20 years before the Swans got decent media coverage in Sydney, and they had some great players as well.

Going to take more than some rookies and Melbourne blow-ins to get the attention they need. Too bad GWS is lacking in a local player/star, that is what they truly need to garner public interest.

I'd wager GWS would kill for what the Wanders have done in terms of publicity and media coverage, but the A-league has no competition, the NBL is hopelessly run and boring to watch.

[5FDP]

Only took 20 years before the Swans got decent media coverage in Sydney, and they had some great players as well.

There's a good reason for that - it took them 20 years to become successfull as a team ;) They didn't win a premiership as the Swans until 2005 which was also their first in 72 years and that was post the Tony Lockett era.


Going to take more than some rookies and Melbourne blow-ins to get the attention they need. Too bad GWS is lacking in a local player/star, that is what they truly need to garner public interest.

And that is exactly what the AFL is aiming for - local NSW product and it all starts at the grass roots. NSW has the second highest participation level behind Victoria and this rose by 27% on the back of the Giants coming into the AFL. Also, with their partnership with UWS, there's already some great talent coming through. Unfortunately, all players start their careers as rookies so it does take time before they become house-hold names.


I'd wager GWS would kill for what the Wanders have done in terms of publicity and media coverage, but the A-league has no competition, the NBL is hopelessly run and boring to watch.

Rock throwing, fights, and putting spectator safety at risk by lighting flares is not the sort of publicity the AFL wants. Also, the last time I checked, the A-League didn't have it's own channel on TV either. I will agree with you on your views of the NBL though :)