2009 State of Origin - Game I
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Last thing Galls needed was another loss anyway.
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Wing warns Baby Blues of Origin intensity
Wing warns Baby Blues of Origin intensityTVNZ, New ZealandNSW utility Craig Wing has warned the Baby Blues not to underestimate the intensity of State of Origin football, particularly against a Queensland side with a history of never giving up. Wing is the most successful player in the NSW squad and along ...
Source: http://tvnz.co.nz/rugby-league-news/wing-warns-baby-blues-origin-intensity-2763417
Wing warns Baby Blues of Origin intensity
5:23PM May 30, 2009
AAP
NSW utility Craig Wing has warned the Baby Blues not to underestimate the intensity of State of Origin football, particularly against a Queensland side with a history of never giving up.
Wing is the most successful player in the NSW squad and along with late inclusion Luke Lewis, they are the only Blues to have won more Origin games than they've lost in their careers.
Wing, a 10-game veteran, says he will tell the seven rookies in the NSW team that Origin is a relentless experience where even the smallest moment of complacency could mean the difference between winning and losing.
"My advice is don't stop," he said.
"On the field just do not stop. If you stop you'll get caught out, no matter where the ball is.
"I've been in that Origin where Timmo (Shaun Timmins) kicked the field goal and the one where Finchy (Brett Finch) kicked that field goal (to win).
"It's the littlest things that can turn a game and win a game.
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"If the effort is there the whole time regardless of the score then anything can happen."
Queensland stars Johnathan Thurston and Justin Hodges have talked a strong game all week, putting the spotlight on the debutants for NSW by insisting they'll be "scared" when they finally enter the Origin cauldron.
Wing is old enough and wise enough to sidestep the mind games, and says he will remind NSW that Queensland's incumbent Test backline means nothing when push comes to shove on Wednesday night at Etihad Stadium.
"We're not really concerned about them, we're just focusing on ourselves," said Wing.
"It takes many things (to win in Origin) but really it's just attitude and commitment.
"I've played in games where we were favourites and if you looked on paper we had a better team and we lost because they had a better attitude than us and put in more effort.
"That is what it comes down to. We have enough skilful players here to make anything happen, and the same on their side, but it's just the team that wants to work the hardest usually comes out with the win."
"From my experience in Origin, if the effort is there anything can happen."
Wing warns Baby Blues of Origin intensityTVNZ, New ZealandNSW utility Craig Wing has warned the Baby Blues not to underestimate the intensity of State of Origin football, particularly against a Queensland side with a history of never giving up. Wing is the most successful player in the NSW squad and along ...
Source: http://tvnz.co.nz/rugby-league-news/wing-warns-baby-blues-origin-intensity-2763417
Wing warns Baby Blues of Origin intensity
5:23PM May 30, 2009
AAP
NSW utility Craig Wing has warned the Baby Blues not to underestimate the intensity of State of Origin football, particularly against a Queensland side with a history of never giving up.
Wing is the most successful player in the NSW squad and along with late inclusion Luke Lewis, they are the only Blues to have won more Origin games than they've lost in their careers.
Wing, a 10-game veteran, says he will tell the seven rookies in the NSW team that Origin is a relentless experience where even the smallest moment of complacency could mean the difference between winning and losing.
"My advice is don't stop," he said.
"On the field just do not stop. If you stop you'll get caught out, no matter where the ball is.
"I've been in that Origin where Timmo (Shaun Timmins) kicked the field goal and the one where Finchy (Brett Finch) kicked that field goal (to win).
"It's the littlest things that can turn a game and win a game.
Advertisement
Click here to find out more!
"If the effort is there the whole time regardless of the score then anything can happen."
Queensland stars Johnathan Thurston and Justin Hodges have talked a strong game all week, putting the spotlight on the debutants for NSW by insisting they'll be "scared" when they finally enter the Origin cauldron.
Wing is old enough and wise enough to sidestep the mind games, and says he will remind NSW that Queensland's incumbent Test backline means nothing when push comes to shove on Wednesday night at Etihad Stadium.
"We're not really concerned about them, we're just focusing on ourselves," said Wing.
"It takes many things (to win in Origin) but really it's just attitude and commitment.
"I've played in games where we were favourites and if you looked on paper we had a better team and we lost because they had a better attitude than us and put in more effort.
"That is what it comes down to. We have enough skilful players here to make anything happen, and the same on their side, but it's just the team that wants to work the hardest usually comes out with the win."
"From my experience in Origin, if the effort is there anything can happen."
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Laffranchi tipped to start - Gold Coast News
Laffranchi tipped to startGold Coast News - goldcoast.com.au, AustraliaHis Cronulla club is embroiled in scandal and turmoil while his captaincy is under review for a racial slur in a game last week which attracted a $10000 fine from the NRL. ``I can't comment on Gal's mental situation,'' said Laffranchi. ...
Source: http://www.goldcoast.com.au/article/2009/05/30/83855_gold-coast-top-story.html
Laffranchi tipped to start
May 30th, 2009
- AAP
AFTER missing initial selection Gold Coast Titans' and Test forward Anthony Laffranchi is a good chance to be in the NSW Blues' run-on side for Wednesday's State of Origin rugby league clash in Melbourne.
Laffranchi is set to gain from the loss of fellow Test forward Paul Gallen to a shoulder injury.
A devastated Gallen told teammates today he would step aside after failing to complete training, giving the Blues three full days to prepare without disruption.
Gallen is the second Test forward forced out of Craig Bellamy's new-look side but the addition of Gold Coast's Laffranchi certainly won't weaken the Blues.
``Gal is a big loss to the team. We play a similar role, but I won't go out there and do what Paul Gallen does,'' said Laffranchi.
``We knew he had a sore shoulder all week but he trained strongly yesterday. Obviously he may have pulled up a bit sore today.
``He tried to get through the session but had a bit of trouble there. I was filling in as per normal. He couldn't finish the session.
``He addressed the whole team ... I let him train as much as he could, hoping he could get through. I feel for the guy. I'm sure he'll bounce back if the shoulder's right and I'm sure he'll feature again.''
Bellamy hasn't decided whether Laffranchi or Penrith's Luke Lewis, who replaced suspended Glenn Stewart, will start at Etihad Stadium on Wednesday but the Titans star is determined to make the most of his second chance at the Blues.
``Initially it was hard and disappointing,'' he said of being overlooked.
``I wanted nothing more than NSW to win, especially game one. They picked a great team initially. Still now we've got a great squad here together.
``Throughout the whole series, if we use 19 guys we've all put our contribution in.''
Gallen's aggression is the biggest loss to the NSW side, but Laffranchi said there were enough tough players in the side to worry the experienced Queenslanders.
``We're all in it together. Once you get a team working for each other,'' he said.
``Don't get me wrong. Gal is that type of player, the bloke you love playing with and the one you hate playing against.
``Externally, people have their own opinions. The Queenslanders have their own opinion, they've got a group of guys who have been together for a while. But internally, we're pretty comfortable with where we're at.''
The disappointment of missing the Origin opener compounds perhaps the darkest period in Gallen's short but illustrious career.
His Cronulla club is embroiled in scandal and turmoil while his captaincy is under review for a racial slur in a game last week which attracted a $10,000 fine from the NRL.
``I can't comment on Gal's mental situation,'' said Laffranchi.
``Mentally he's a tough guy. There was no mental lapse around the camp.''
Laffranchi tipped to startGold Coast News - goldcoast.com.au, AustraliaHis Cronulla club is embroiled in scandal and turmoil while his captaincy is under review for a racial slur in a game last week which attracted a $10000 fine from the NRL. ``I can't comment on Gal's mental situation,'' said Laffranchi. ...
Source: http://www.goldcoast.com.au/article/2009/05/30/83855_gold-coast-top-story.html
Laffranchi tipped to start
May 30th, 2009
- AAP
AFTER missing initial selection Gold Coast Titans' and Test forward Anthony Laffranchi is a good chance to be in the NSW Blues' run-on side for Wednesday's State of Origin rugby league clash in Melbourne.
Laffranchi is set to gain from the loss of fellow Test forward Paul Gallen to a shoulder injury.
A devastated Gallen told teammates today he would step aside after failing to complete training, giving the Blues three full days to prepare without disruption.
Gallen is the second Test forward forced out of Craig Bellamy's new-look side but the addition of Gold Coast's Laffranchi certainly won't weaken the Blues.
``Gal is a big loss to the team. We play a similar role, but I won't go out there and do what Paul Gallen does,'' said Laffranchi.
``We knew he had a sore shoulder all week but he trained strongly yesterday. Obviously he may have pulled up a bit sore today.
``He tried to get through the session but had a bit of trouble there. I was filling in as per normal. He couldn't finish the session.
``He addressed the whole team ... I let him train as much as he could, hoping he could get through. I feel for the guy. I'm sure he'll bounce back if the shoulder's right and I'm sure he'll feature again.''
Bellamy hasn't decided whether Laffranchi or Penrith's Luke Lewis, who replaced suspended Glenn Stewart, will start at Etihad Stadium on Wednesday but the Titans star is determined to make the most of his second chance at the Blues.
``Initially it was hard and disappointing,'' he said of being overlooked.
``I wanted nothing more than NSW to win, especially game one. They picked a great team initially. Still now we've got a great squad here together.
``Throughout the whole series, if we use 19 guys we've all put our contribution in.''
Gallen's aggression is the biggest loss to the NSW side, but Laffranchi said there were enough tough players in the side to worry the experienced Queenslanders.
``We're all in it together. Once you get a team working for each other,'' he said.
``Don't get me wrong. Gal is that type of player, the bloke you love playing with and the one you hate playing against.
``Externally, people have their own opinions. The Queenslanders have their own opinion, they've got a group of guys who have been together for a while. But internally, we're pretty comfortable with where we're at.''
The disappointment of missing the Origin opener compounds perhaps the darkest period in Gallen's short but illustrious career.
His Cronulla club is embroiled in scandal and turmoil while his captaincy is under review for a racial slur in a game last week which attracted a $10,000 fine from the NRL.
``I can't comment on Gal's mental situation,'' said Laffranchi.
``Mentally he's a tough guy. There was no mental lapse around the camp.''
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Blues star withdraws
Blues star withdrawsCourier Mail, AustraliaPhotograph: Tim Carrafa / The Daily Telegraph JUST when Paul Gallen thought life couldn't get any worse, the NSW lock and besieged Sharks skipper was yesterday ruled out of Wednesday's State of Origin opener with a shoulder injury. ...
Source: http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/sport/nrl/story/0,26746,25561209-5003409,00.html
Blues star withdraws
By David Riccio
May 31, 2009 12:00am
Late change ... Paul Gallen has been forced to withdraw from the NSW Origin side with Anthony Laffranchi to take his place. Photograph: Tim Carrafa / The Daily Telegraph
JUST when Paul Gallen thought life couldn't get any worse, the NSW lock and besieged Sharks skipper was yesterday ruled out of Wednesday's State of Origin opener with a shoulder injury.
The latest setback has thrown out preparations for a Blues outfit trying to integrate seven debutants into their Origin plans, against a Queensland outfit that is loaded with Test players and hot favourites to win a record fourth straight series.
If the task wasn't monumental enough against a Maroons team containing the entire backline and front row from this month's Test against New Zealand, Gallen's absence strips five Origin matches from an already inexperienced Blues pack.
The Sharks skipper had been severely hampered by a right shoulder problem in camp all week, but he trained strongly on Friday to raise hopes he would be fit to play.
However, Gallen broke down during an opposed session against the Melbourne Storm under-20s side yesterday morning.
Blues star withdrawsCourier Mail, AustraliaPhotograph: Tim Carrafa / The Daily Telegraph JUST when Paul Gallen thought life couldn't get any worse, the NSW lock and besieged Sharks skipper was yesterday ruled out of Wednesday's State of Origin opener with a shoulder injury. ...
Source: http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/sport/nrl/story/0,26746,25561209-5003409,00.html
Blues star withdraws
By David Riccio
May 31, 2009 12:00am
Late change ... Paul Gallen has been forced to withdraw from the NSW Origin side with Anthony Laffranchi to take his place. Photograph: Tim Carrafa / The Daily Telegraph
JUST when Paul Gallen thought life couldn't get any worse, the NSW lock and besieged Sharks skipper was yesterday ruled out of Wednesday's State of Origin opener with a shoulder injury.
The latest setback has thrown out preparations for a Blues outfit trying to integrate seven debutants into their Origin plans, against a Queensland outfit that is loaded with Test players and hot favourites to win a record fourth straight series.
If the task wasn't monumental enough against a Maroons team containing the entire backline and front row from this month's Test against New Zealand, Gallen's absence strips five Origin matches from an already inexperienced Blues pack.
The Sharks skipper had been severely hampered by a right shoulder problem in camp all week, but he trained strongly on Friday to raise hopes he would be fit to play.
However, Gallen broke down during an opposed session against the Melbourne Storm under-20s side yesterday morning.
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Raud awakening as Tommy spells it out for NSWSydney Morning Herald, AustraliaThe Big Wrap was surprised to see Kaleen Morrow pop up in a Sunday newspaper photo with her two daughters donating the contents of their piggy banks to the embattled Cronulla club. CEO Tony Zappia said in the article that the gesture reflected the ...
Source: http://www.smh.com.au/news/sport/raud-awakening-as-tommy-spells-it-out-for-nsw/2009/05/31/1243708350392.html
Raud awakening as Tommy spells it out for NSW
Greg Prichard
June 1, 2009
THE BIG WRAP
TOMMY RAUDONIKIS says the NSW players have to realise how embarrassing it would be for anyone ever connected with the Blues in the history of State of Origin if Queensland were to win a record fourth straight series. It wouldn't be Origin without a word from former NSW coach Raudonikis, and, as usual, he isn't short of an opinion. "I would be trying to get as much hatred for Queensland in my players as I could, but I'm a bit worried they don't seem to be doing that," Tommy told The Big Wrap. "I've seen film of the boys training on the news, and I'm not sure if they're intense enough. They should be frothing at the mouth. Maybe it will build up closer to the match, but I hope they are getting it into their heads that losing a fourth straight series would be sinful. It would be the biggest embarrassment in Origin history, for all those people who have been involved with the Blues, and I hope [NSW coach] Craig Bellamy and his people are drilling that into their heads. This is not an ordinary Origin series - this is history. We've got to have no sympathy for those Queenslanders. We've got to hit them hard in defence, hit them on suspicion. I'm 100 per cent behind the Blues. Craig should play that song I recorded, Harden Up, to the players, to make sure they're right on their mettle."
<EDITED> Full article can be found here
Source: http://www.smh.com.au/news/sport/raud-awakening-as-tommy-spells-it-out-for-nsw/2009/05/31/1243708350392.html
Raud awakening as Tommy spells it out for NSW
Greg Prichard
June 1, 2009
THE BIG WRAP
TOMMY RAUDONIKIS says the NSW players have to realise how embarrassing it would be for anyone ever connected with the Blues in the history of State of Origin if Queensland were to win a record fourth straight series. It wouldn't be Origin without a word from former NSW coach Raudonikis, and, as usual, he isn't short of an opinion. "I would be trying to get as much hatred for Queensland in my players as I could, but I'm a bit worried they don't seem to be doing that," Tommy told The Big Wrap. "I've seen film of the boys training on the news, and I'm not sure if they're intense enough. They should be frothing at the mouth. Maybe it will build up closer to the match, but I hope they are getting it into their heads that losing a fourth straight series would be sinful. It would be the biggest embarrassment in Origin history, for all those people who have been involved with the Blues, and I hope [NSW coach] Craig Bellamy and his people are drilling that into their heads. This is not an ordinary Origin series - this is history. We've got to have no sympathy for those Queenslanders. We've got to hit them hard in defence, hit them on suspicion. I'm 100 per cent behind the Blues. Craig should play that song I recorded, Harden Up, to the players, to make sure they're right on their mettle."
<EDITED> Full article can be found here
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Raud awakening as Tommy spells it out for NSWSydney Morning Herald, AustraliaThe Big Wrap was surprised to see Kaleen Morrow pop up in a Sunday newspaper photo with her two daughters donating the contents of their piggy banks to the embattled Cronulla club. CEO Tony Zappia said in the article that the gesture reflected the ...
Source: http://www.smh.com.au/news/sport/raud-awakening-as-tommy-spells-it-out-for-nsw/2009/05/31/1243708350392.html
Raud awakening as Tommy spells it out for NSW
Greg Prichard
June 1, 2009
<EDITED> Full article can be found here
Straight talking Hindy
Nathan Hindmarsh further boosted his status as a speaker of sense when he appeared on The Footy Show on Thursday and gave his honest opinion on the upcoming State of Origin series. Usually, players - particularly former Blues or Maroons players - go along state lines when they are asked who will win, but Hindmarsh, who has played 16 Origins for the Blues, was straight up in tipping the Maroons. "I'm hoping I'm wrong. I'm hoping the Blues will win the series," Hindmarsh told The Big Wrap. "But I just think Queensland look the stronger side in this series, and I think you've got to give your honest opinion when you're asked for it on a show like that."
<EDITED>
Source: http://www.smh.com.au/news/sport/raud-awakening-as-tommy-spells-it-out-for-nsw/2009/05/31/1243708350392.html
Raud awakening as Tommy spells it out for NSW
Greg Prichard
June 1, 2009
<EDITED> Full article can be found here
Straight talking Hindy
Nathan Hindmarsh further boosted his status as a speaker of sense when he appeared on The Footy Show on Thursday and gave his honest opinion on the upcoming State of Origin series. Usually, players - particularly former Blues or Maroons players - go along state lines when they are asked who will win, but Hindmarsh, who has played 16 Origins for the Blues, was straight up in tipping the Maroons. "I'm hoping I'm wrong. I'm hoping the Blues will win the series," Hindmarsh told The Big Wrap. "But I just think Queensland look the stronger side in this series, and I think you've got to give your honest opinion when you're asked for it on a show like that."
<EDITED>
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Little bro becomes Farahs' shining light
Little bro becomes Farahs' shining lightMelbourne Herald Sun, Australia... as well versed in rugby league as their Mediterranean predecessors. "But it's not about where you live," older brother Eddie points out. "Robbie could easily move to Coogee or Bondi or Cronulla - like every other player - and still stay a Tiger. ...
Source: http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/sport/nrl/story/0,26799,25572700-5006066,00.html
Little bro becomes Farahs' shining light
By Josh Massoud
June 02, 2009 12:00am
Working overtime to support four children on a humble cabbie's income, her parents Peter and Sonia were not planning on another mouth to feed when the 1980s began.
But their eldest child, Jocelyn - outnumbered by three male siblings - was determined to correct the family's gender imbalance.
"We were happy with four children, but all Jocelyn wanted was a little sister," Peter said.
"It took four and a half years but we finally gave in and decided to try for another girl.
"When Robbie was born she was so upset she cried."
Jocelyn could well be crying again tomorrow night - but now her tears will come from pride.
More than 25 years on, Robbie's journey from Campsie kid to Origin wunderkind is complete.
At Etihad Stadium, 40 of his greatest supporters will gather wearing NSW jerseys, the family name emblazoned across the back.
Accommodating them was the first thing on Farah's mind after his selection last week.
"Robbie made sure that we all had tickets together, flights and hotel - he made sure of it all," Sonia said.
Having parked his taxi for good a few years ago, Peter has since battled health problems that make him susceptible to the bitter cold that awaits in Melbourne.
"But even it means I'd die, I'll still go and watch Robbie in this game," he declared.
This solidarity keeps Farah in unfashionable Campsie, sleeping a floor below his parents in the same chocolate-coloured brick house Peter built himself 27 years ago.
Earlier this year Farah knocked back Gold Coast life to stay in a street with a Lebanese mixed business instead of flashy nightclubs, discarded TVs on the nature strip instead of a strip of golden sand and hijab-clad mothers struggling with groceries instead of meter maids bouncing about with handfuls of coins.
But despite being raised here, Farah is no longer a household name in his own suburb. Short strolls to bustling Beamish St for KFC or BBQ duck are rarely interrupted, with the recent influx of Korean residents not as well versed in rugby league as their Mediterranean predecessors.
"But it's not about where you live," older brother Eddie points out.
"Robbie could easily move to Coogee or Bondi or Cronulla - like every other player - and still stay a Tiger.
"For Robbie, it's about staying close to his family. It's about who he lives with, not where."
From the top of Farah's street, the decaying floodlights of Belmore Oval can be seen. They drew him to rugby league, a sport none of his older brothers played.
"And if I had my way he wouldn't have played it either," Peter said.
"I thought it was too rough, but it was all Robbie wanted.
"And if it wasn't for his first coach at Enfield, he wouldn't have been able to play. I was too busy driving the taxi, but Robbie managed to get a lift with his coach to training and the games."
And if not for Enfield folding during the Super League war, Farah would not have joined Leichhardt Wanderers and become a Tiger.
And if that didn't happen, who knows where he would be tomorrow night?
Finally, the path is clear for the baby brother Jocelyn did not want to become a Blue.
Little bro becomes Farahs' shining lightMelbourne Herald Sun, Australia... as well versed in rugby league as their Mediterranean predecessors. "But it's not about where you live," older brother Eddie points out. "Robbie could easily move to Coogee or Bondi or Cronulla - like every other player - and still stay a Tiger. ...
Source: http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/sport/nrl/story/0,26799,25572700-5006066,00.html
Little bro becomes Farahs' shining light
By Josh Massoud
June 02, 2009 12:00am
Working overtime to support four children on a humble cabbie's income, her parents Peter and Sonia were not planning on another mouth to feed when the 1980s began.
But their eldest child, Jocelyn - outnumbered by three male siblings - was determined to correct the family's gender imbalance.
"We were happy with four children, but all Jocelyn wanted was a little sister," Peter said.
"It took four and a half years but we finally gave in and decided to try for another girl.
"When Robbie was born she was so upset she cried."
Jocelyn could well be crying again tomorrow night - but now her tears will come from pride.
More than 25 years on, Robbie's journey from Campsie kid to Origin wunderkind is complete.
At Etihad Stadium, 40 of his greatest supporters will gather wearing NSW jerseys, the family name emblazoned across the back.
Accommodating them was the first thing on Farah's mind after his selection last week.
"Robbie made sure that we all had tickets together, flights and hotel - he made sure of it all," Sonia said.
Having parked his taxi for good a few years ago, Peter has since battled health problems that make him susceptible to the bitter cold that awaits in Melbourne.
"But even it means I'd die, I'll still go and watch Robbie in this game," he declared.
This solidarity keeps Farah in unfashionable Campsie, sleeping a floor below his parents in the same chocolate-coloured brick house Peter built himself 27 years ago.
Earlier this year Farah knocked back Gold Coast life to stay in a street with a Lebanese mixed business instead of flashy nightclubs, discarded TVs on the nature strip instead of a strip of golden sand and hijab-clad mothers struggling with groceries instead of meter maids bouncing about with handfuls of coins.
But despite being raised here, Farah is no longer a household name in his own suburb. Short strolls to bustling Beamish St for KFC or BBQ duck are rarely interrupted, with the recent influx of Korean residents not as well versed in rugby league as their Mediterranean predecessors.
"But it's not about where you live," older brother Eddie points out.
"Robbie could easily move to Coogee or Bondi or Cronulla - like every other player - and still stay a Tiger.
"For Robbie, it's about staying close to his family. It's about who he lives with, not where."
From the top of Farah's street, the decaying floodlights of Belmore Oval can be seen. They drew him to rugby league, a sport none of his older brothers played.
"And if I had my way he wouldn't have played it either," Peter said.
"I thought it was too rough, but it was all Robbie wanted.
"And if it wasn't for his first coach at Enfield, he wouldn't have been able to play. I was too busy driving the taxi, but Robbie managed to get a lift with his coach to training and the games."
And if not for Enfield folding during the Super League war, Farah would not have joined Leichhardt Wanderers and become a Tiger.
And if that didn't happen, who knows where he would be tomorrow night?
Finally, the path is clear for the baby brother Jocelyn did not want to become a Blue.
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State of Origin preview
State of Origin previewNew South Wales Rugby League, AustraliaThey also need to watch for his damaging runs from dummy-half – he's made 75 so far this season to top the NRL. Where it will be won: The forwards first. Then the backs. And the tactical kicking games of both sides – and not just those used in attack ...
Source: http://www.nswrl.com.au/news/article.php?id=662
State of Origin preview
02nd June 2009
Queensland gets their chance to lay a concrete foundation on their bid for a record-making fourth straight series victory in Melbourne, with team selections on both sides of the border and Queensland’s tilt at Origin immortality generating more interest in Game One than any other game over the past decade.
No question this match-up has a bit of 'ying' and 'yang' about it.
In the Maroon corner lurks Mal Meninga's all-Australian backline which, if you believe the press, is guaranteed unstoppable. It’s certainly taken some "heat" off their ageing – although it must be admitted still punchy – forward pack headed by 35-year-old Steven Price and 32-year-old Petero Civoniceva, a pack NSW will be desperate to get on top of from the kick-off.
In the Blues' corner selectors have finally bitten the bullet and totally overhauled their squad with seven newcomers (it was eight originally before back-rower Glenn Stewart failed to beat his dangerous tackle charge at the judiciary). That includes Dragons' props Michael Weyman and Justin Poore and their team-mate Ben Creagh, plus Wests Tigers hooker Roobie Farah in the engine room, while five-eighth Terry Campese, centre Michael Jennings and winger James McManus make their debuts in the backline.
Queensland (with no players on debut) will field an unrivalled set of backs, plenty are suggesting the Blues have the firepower in the engine room to even things out.
Coach watch: Mal Meninga has an impressive 66 per cent winning record from his nine games at the helm for Queensland. But this game looms as defining for NSW mentor Craig Bellamy who enters with a 1-2 record.
Watch out Queensland: Our tip is the opening 20 minutes will be as fierce as any opening stanza in the history of Origin, with NSW in particular looking to dominate the early exchanges in an effort to gain control of the ruck.
The key for the Blues will be to force their opponents backwards when defending and slow down the play-the-balls; this will limit the opportunities for playmakers Darren Lockyer and Johnathan Thurston, who thrive when given good time to organise their troops while opposition defences are struggling to re-align. But when flustered? Like anyone, they can be forced into errors.
In attack NSW will look to gain a mountain of territory and give themselves good field position – and they have the ‘pig’ prop rotation to do it. To date Luke Bailey is making 142 metres a game, Michael Weyman 128, Justin Poore 116 and Brent Kite 104. Not to mention back-rowers Luke O’Donnell 125 metres and Ben Creagh 118.
Watch out NSW: While the brilliant and creative Queensland backline threatens danger all around the park there are a few key areas the Blues can monitor.
The first is to watch out for Lockyer heading down the blindside, or switching the point of the attack down the short side. He’ll look to catch out Jennings in particular, who has a question mark over his defence; the youngster missed four tackles against the Sharks a fortnight ago.
Justin Hodges will use his strength and a big right-foot step to beat his man, so defenders on the inside will need to be attentive to 'shut the gate' and pick up any trailers looking for an offload.
The same applies for Inglis, although he likes to exploit blindsides with strength before offloading to the flanks.
Next, Billy Slater will run behind decoys in the Blues' 30-metres zone, injecting himself as the second man to either take on the line or else suck in defenders and offload wide for wingers Folau and Boyd.
And Folau will be a go-to man in the air, so the Blues' outside defenders need to swarm in numbers and legally shield their ball receivers as Folau chases. They also need to watch for his damaging runs from dummy-half – he's made 75 so far this season to top the NRL.
Where it will be won: The forwards first. Then the backs. And the tactical kicking games of both sides – and not just those used in attack – will go a long way to determining a winner.
Whoever wins the battle up front will get good opportunities to post points – it then falls to the attacks to play their part.
Expect Robbie Farah (leading dummy-half line break exponent with six) and Cameron Smith (second behind Farah with three) to make plenty of inroads late in each half.
Both sides have superb kick returners. The Blues' Kurt Gidley has made more overall runs than any other player in the NRL to date (210 times for a competition-high 1806 metres or 164 a game), while the Maroons’ Billie Slater (648 metres) and Darius Boyd (644 metres) are the best in the comp running the ball back from kicks.
Both camps need to make sure their kicks are mostly to space, to allow their defences time to group in the one line – or the dazzling array of talent on both sides of the park will let loose.
Also, look for the NSW kickers to go high on occasion to Billy Slater in general play – if the Melbourne custodian does have a weakness it’s his reliability under the high ball. Plus a good hang time will allow the kick-chasers the time to ensure they collar their man early.
The History: Played 84 (since 1980); NSW 40, Queensland 42, drawn 2. The Blues hold a 3-2 advantage over the Maroons in the five games played in Melbourne. Also, NSW have been victorious in Game I of a series on 15 occasions to Queensland’s 12.
Conclusion: It will be a fast, bruising and furious encounter. The match-ups across the park are stunning and it’s shaping as a game for the ages.
What's certain is that both sides have players with specific strengths they will be looking to tap into.
Having selected new players like Creagh and Jennings, they'll be looking for them to bring their unique skills to the party. For Creagh that means taking the ball one-off the ruck near the Maroons' 10-metre line and carrying defenders as he takes giant strides for the line. For Jennings and Jarryd Hayne it means drawing on the explosive speed that has helped them each to a competition-high 12 line breaks.
Meanwhile Dallas Johnson will be called upon for the resolve that's seen him notch more tackles than anyone else (515), Thurston will be a go-to man for line-break assists (11, tops in the NRL) and try assists (12, tops again).
We could go on, and we've missed plenty. But you get the picture.
Who will win? While Queensland deserve favouritism the Blues are in it up to their eyeballs. It doesn't matter who you cheer for, we just know you'll have plenty to cheer about.
Match officials: Referees – Tony Archer & Shayne Hayne; Sideline Officials – Steve Chiddy & Jeff Younis; Video Refs – Bill Harrigan and Tim Mander.
Televised: Channel Nine – Live from 7.30pm.
* Statistics: NRL Stats.
Source: NRL.com
State of Origin previewNew South Wales Rugby League, AustraliaThey also need to watch for his damaging runs from dummy-half – he's made 75 so far this season to top the NRL. Where it will be won: The forwards first. Then the backs. And the tactical kicking games of both sides – and not just those used in attack ...
Source: http://www.nswrl.com.au/news/article.php?id=662
State of Origin preview
02nd June 2009
Queensland gets their chance to lay a concrete foundation on their bid for a record-making fourth straight series victory in Melbourne, with team selections on both sides of the border and Queensland’s tilt at Origin immortality generating more interest in Game One than any other game over the past decade.
No question this match-up has a bit of 'ying' and 'yang' about it.
In the Maroon corner lurks Mal Meninga's all-Australian backline which, if you believe the press, is guaranteed unstoppable. It’s certainly taken some "heat" off their ageing – although it must be admitted still punchy – forward pack headed by 35-year-old Steven Price and 32-year-old Petero Civoniceva, a pack NSW will be desperate to get on top of from the kick-off.
In the Blues' corner selectors have finally bitten the bullet and totally overhauled their squad with seven newcomers (it was eight originally before back-rower Glenn Stewart failed to beat his dangerous tackle charge at the judiciary). That includes Dragons' props Michael Weyman and Justin Poore and their team-mate Ben Creagh, plus Wests Tigers hooker Roobie Farah in the engine room, while five-eighth Terry Campese, centre Michael Jennings and winger James McManus make their debuts in the backline.
Queensland (with no players on debut) will field an unrivalled set of backs, plenty are suggesting the Blues have the firepower in the engine room to even things out.
Coach watch: Mal Meninga has an impressive 66 per cent winning record from his nine games at the helm for Queensland. But this game looms as defining for NSW mentor Craig Bellamy who enters with a 1-2 record.
Watch out Queensland: Our tip is the opening 20 minutes will be as fierce as any opening stanza in the history of Origin, with NSW in particular looking to dominate the early exchanges in an effort to gain control of the ruck.
The key for the Blues will be to force their opponents backwards when defending and slow down the play-the-balls; this will limit the opportunities for playmakers Darren Lockyer and Johnathan Thurston, who thrive when given good time to organise their troops while opposition defences are struggling to re-align. But when flustered? Like anyone, they can be forced into errors.
In attack NSW will look to gain a mountain of territory and give themselves good field position – and they have the ‘pig’ prop rotation to do it. To date Luke Bailey is making 142 metres a game, Michael Weyman 128, Justin Poore 116 and Brent Kite 104. Not to mention back-rowers Luke O’Donnell 125 metres and Ben Creagh 118.
Watch out NSW: While the brilliant and creative Queensland backline threatens danger all around the park there are a few key areas the Blues can monitor.
The first is to watch out for Lockyer heading down the blindside, or switching the point of the attack down the short side. He’ll look to catch out Jennings in particular, who has a question mark over his defence; the youngster missed four tackles against the Sharks a fortnight ago.
Justin Hodges will use his strength and a big right-foot step to beat his man, so defenders on the inside will need to be attentive to 'shut the gate' and pick up any trailers looking for an offload.
The same applies for Inglis, although he likes to exploit blindsides with strength before offloading to the flanks.
Next, Billy Slater will run behind decoys in the Blues' 30-metres zone, injecting himself as the second man to either take on the line or else suck in defenders and offload wide for wingers Folau and Boyd.
And Folau will be a go-to man in the air, so the Blues' outside defenders need to swarm in numbers and legally shield their ball receivers as Folau chases. They also need to watch for his damaging runs from dummy-half – he's made 75 so far this season to top the NRL.
Where it will be won: The forwards first. Then the backs. And the tactical kicking games of both sides – and not just those used in attack – will go a long way to determining a winner.
Whoever wins the battle up front will get good opportunities to post points – it then falls to the attacks to play their part.
Expect Robbie Farah (leading dummy-half line break exponent with six) and Cameron Smith (second behind Farah with three) to make plenty of inroads late in each half.
Both sides have superb kick returners. The Blues' Kurt Gidley has made more overall runs than any other player in the NRL to date (210 times for a competition-high 1806 metres or 164 a game), while the Maroons’ Billie Slater (648 metres) and Darius Boyd (644 metres) are the best in the comp running the ball back from kicks.
Both camps need to make sure their kicks are mostly to space, to allow their defences time to group in the one line – or the dazzling array of talent on both sides of the park will let loose.
Also, look for the NSW kickers to go high on occasion to Billy Slater in general play – if the Melbourne custodian does have a weakness it’s his reliability under the high ball. Plus a good hang time will allow the kick-chasers the time to ensure they collar their man early.
The History: Played 84 (since 1980); NSW 40, Queensland 42, drawn 2. The Blues hold a 3-2 advantage over the Maroons in the five games played in Melbourne. Also, NSW have been victorious in Game I of a series on 15 occasions to Queensland’s 12.
Conclusion: It will be a fast, bruising and furious encounter. The match-ups across the park are stunning and it’s shaping as a game for the ages.
What's certain is that both sides have players with specific strengths they will be looking to tap into.
Having selected new players like Creagh and Jennings, they'll be looking for them to bring their unique skills to the party. For Creagh that means taking the ball one-off the ruck near the Maroons' 10-metre line and carrying defenders as he takes giant strides for the line. For Jennings and Jarryd Hayne it means drawing on the explosive speed that has helped them each to a competition-high 12 line breaks.
Meanwhile Dallas Johnson will be called upon for the resolve that's seen him notch more tackles than anyone else (515), Thurston will be a go-to man for line-break assists (11, tops in the NRL) and try assists (12, tops again).
We could go on, and we've missed plenty. But you get the picture.
Who will win? While Queensland deserve favouritism the Blues are in it up to their eyeballs. It doesn't matter who you cheer for, we just know you'll have plenty to cheer about.
Match officials: Referees – Tony Archer & Shayne Hayne; Sideline Officials – Steve Chiddy & Jeff Younis; Video Refs – Bill Harrigan and Tim Mander.
Televised: Channel Nine – Live from 7.30pm.
* Statistics: NRL Stats.
Source: NRL.com
Last edited by a moderator:
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NRL teams - hot off the wire! Round 13
NRL teams - hot off the wire! Round 13League Unlimited, AustraliaBeau Falloon SHARKS: 1. Nathan Stapleton 2. Blake Ferguson 3. Matthew Wright 4. Reece Williams 5. Luke Covell 6. Trent Barrett 7. Scott Porter 8. Kade Snowden 9. Tony Caine 10. Luke Douglas 11. Atelea Vea 12. Anthony Tupou 13. ...
Source: http://www.leagueunlimited.com/article.php?newsid=17999
NRL teams - hot off the wire! Round 13
Written by: Phil Essam & Tim Costello
Jun 2, 2009 5:13pm
National Rugby League: 5 June - 8 June 2009
National Rugby League teams and fixtures - Round 12 2009
NSW Aussie Blues v XXXX Queensland Maroons
Wednesday 3 June 2009 20:00 - Etihad Stadium
Referees: Tony Archer & Shayne Hayne
Sideline Officials: Steve Chiddy & Jeff Younis
Video Referee: Bill Harrigan & Tim Mander
BLUES: 1. Kurt Gidley (c) 2. James McManus 3. Jamie Lyon 4. Michael Jennings 5. Jarryd Hayne 6. Terry Campese 7. Peter Wallace 8. Brent Kite 9. Robbie Farah 10. Luke Bailey 11. Ben Creagh 12. Luke O’Donnell 13. Paul Gallen
Interchange: 14. Craig Wing 15. Justin Poore 16. Glenn Stewart 17. Michael Weyman; 18th Man: Luke Lewis
MAROONS: 1. Billy Slater 2. Darius Boyd 3. Greg Inglis 4. Justin Hodges 5. Israel Folau 6. Darren Lockyer (c) 7. Johnathan Thurston 8. Steven Price 9. Cameron Smith 10. Petero Civoniceva 11. Ashley Harrison 12. Sam Thaiday 13. Dallas Johnson
Interchange: 14. Karmichael Hunt 15. Ben Hannant 16. Nate Myles 17. Michael Crocker
<EDITED> Full article can be found here
NRL teams - hot off the wire! Round 13League Unlimited, AustraliaBeau Falloon SHARKS: 1. Nathan Stapleton 2. Blake Ferguson 3. Matthew Wright 4. Reece Williams 5. Luke Covell 6. Trent Barrett 7. Scott Porter 8. Kade Snowden 9. Tony Caine 10. Luke Douglas 11. Atelea Vea 12. Anthony Tupou 13. ...
Source: http://www.leagueunlimited.com/article.php?newsid=17999
NRL teams - hot off the wire! Round 13
Written by: Phil Essam & Tim Costello
Jun 2, 2009 5:13pm
National Rugby League: 5 June - 8 June 2009
National Rugby League teams and fixtures - Round 12 2009
NSW Aussie Blues v XXXX Queensland Maroons
Wednesday 3 June 2009 20:00 - Etihad Stadium
Referees: Tony Archer & Shayne Hayne
Sideline Officials: Steve Chiddy & Jeff Younis
Video Referee: Bill Harrigan & Tim Mander
BLUES: 1. Kurt Gidley (c) 2. James McManus 3. Jamie Lyon 4. Michael Jennings 5. Jarryd Hayne 6. Terry Campese 7. Peter Wallace 8. Brent Kite 9. Robbie Farah 10. Luke Bailey 11. Ben Creagh 12. Luke O’Donnell 13. Paul Gallen
Interchange: 14. Craig Wing 15. Justin Poore 16. Glenn Stewart 17. Michael Weyman; 18th Man: Luke Lewis
MAROONS: 1. Billy Slater 2. Darius Boyd 3. Greg Inglis 4. Justin Hodges 5. Israel Folau 6. Darren Lockyer (c) 7. Johnathan Thurston 8. Steven Price 9. Cameron Smith 10. Petero Civoniceva 11. Ashley Harrison 12. Sam Thaiday 13. Dallas Johnson
Interchange: 14. Karmichael Hunt 15. Ben Hannant 16. Nate Myles 17. Michael Crocker
<EDITED> Full article can be found here
Last edited by a moderator:
sharkiesfreak
Tiger Shark
THE BLUES NEED TO BRING BACK THE BRUISE BROTHERS AND GET GREG BIRD BACK INTO THE TEAM
brad
Great White
another video referee cockup. do they not know what benefit of the doubt is? if they thought it wasn't a try then why'd they need a dozen fukin looks at it? if we were awared the try qld don't score their first 3 as they wouldn't have had the ball. not saying it cost us the game but it totally changed the momentum into qld's hands. damn i wish gall played!
hitman124
Jaws
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For sure mate, also if he did put his foot on the line, why the hell did the touch judge keep running along all the way till he put the ball down, it was such a bullsh*t call.
NSW were up against it enough without the refs being against them, if haynes try was called as it should have been, the result could have been a completely different story.
Also, is it just me or was Gidley sh*thouse? Why the hell did he take the 2 in the first 5 mins?
NSW were up against it enough without the refs being against them, if haynes try was called as it should have been, the result could have been a completely different story.
Also, is it just me or was Gidley sh*thouse? Why the hell did he take the 2 in the first 5 mins?
fry888chip
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Either way, Queensland was by far the better team. Two of the NSW tries were down to luck. (so was the Thurston try)
Campese had a bad game, more like a spectator than a player. Wallace tried hard but his radar wasn't accurate enough. Jennings didn't get enough ball.
Next game, bring in Monaghan, Gallen (if he recovers). Drop McManus and one of the backrowers
Campese had a bad game, more like a spectator than a player. Wallace tried hard but his radar wasn't accurate enough. Jennings didn't get enough ball.
Next game, bring in Monaghan, Gallen (if he recovers). Drop McManus and one of the backrowers
sharkiesfreak
Tiger Shark
gallen will be there he will play for us this weekened on sunday against the warriors
the hayne try should have been allowed there was no way conclusively they could say that hos foot touched the ground ever....i think nsw were lucky with the ben creagh try bu maybe thats some justice.....the other **** up that occured was when ben creagh got tackled...stood up partially to play the ball and crocker comes in and smackes him...WTF how is that a qld penalty
the hayne try should have been allowed there was no way conclusively they could say that hos foot touched the ground ever....i think nsw were lucky with the ben creagh try bu maybe thats some justice.....the other **** up that occured was when ben creagh got tackled...stood up partially to play the ball and crocker comes in and smackes him...WTF how is that a qld penalty
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ok... here are my thoughts... two things stunk badly tonight...
1, the refereeing (hate to say it but Gus Gould actually makes sense to me on this) - the refs had a shocker and had too much of an impact on the result
and
2, the Channel 9 commentary... what's with the blithering hystrionic eidiocy of Ray Warren? That wears very thin... very thin. What value does it add?
As Richie Benaud once said... "Don't try to tell people what they can see for themselves"
... and whilst I'm on the subject of Ray Warren, why does he continually refer to Indigenous and Polynesian players as "boy" or "lad" and get away with it?
Very odd indeed - if a player did it to another player there would be a massive scandal... possibly even a huge fine... or maybe even a loss of position and public shaming.
1, the refereeing (hate to say it but Gus Gould actually makes sense to me on this) - the refs had a shocker and had too much of an impact on the result
and
2, the Channel 9 commentary... what's with the blithering hystrionic eidiocy of Ray Warren? That wears very thin... very thin. What value does it add?
As Richie Benaud once said... "Don't try to tell people what they can see for themselves"
... and whilst I'm on the subject of Ray Warren, why does he continually refer to Indigenous and Polynesian players as "boy" or "lad" and get away with it?
Very odd indeed - if a player did it to another player there would be a massive scandal... possibly even a huge fine... or maybe even a loss of position and public shaming.
fry888chip
Mako Shark
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I don't think Warren targets the Indigenous players, it's not uncommon for a 60-70 year old guy to call a 20 year old a "boy" or "lad".
Personally, I'd rather listen to Warren than Andrew Voss. That guy's voice annoys me