ethos
BroncoKiwi
Finals Week 1 - Roosters v Broncos Preview
September 11th 2008 02:34
Category: Weekly Tips
Sydney Roosters (4th) v Brisbane Broncos (5th)
Friday 7:45pm, Sydney Football Stadium
Total Games 30 – Broncos 19 wins, Roosters 11 wins
Most Recent Meeting – Round 2 2008, Broncos 20 def. Roosters 14
The last clash between the Roosters and Broncos was remembered for the sickening collision between Karmichael Hunt and Braith Anasta (pictured). No doubt we’ll see some similar fireworks on Friday evening. Remarkably, the Broncos have a fantastic record at the SFS (winning 11 out of 16 matches) and will head into this clash with plenty of confidence.
But I think it’s fair to say that both teams are not entering the finals series at their peak. The Roosters secured a much needed victory in dreadful conditions last week, holding the Dragons to zero in a dominant defensive effort, but have been inconsistent during the latter stages of the season. While on the other hand, Brisbane disposed of Newcastle but many experts remain critical of the lack of intensity in the Broncos’ pack.
However, as the old cliché goes, finals footy is a totally new ballgame. The Roosters strength is in their forwards and with Sia Soliola and Setaimata Sa in the centres they’ll look to play a physical game. Brisbane’s big boppers have come under fire in 2008 but I think the criticism will have a galvanising effect on the team. If the Broncos can hold the Sydney pack at bay, the likes of Darren Lockyer, Hunt and Justin Hodges should prove too classy and too fast.
Players to Watch:
Michael Ennis (Brisbane Broncos)
The hooker holds the key to a Broncos victory. If he can get the forwards rolling upfield it will give Lockyer and Peter Wallace time and space to weave their magic. But Ennis is prone to an occasional moment of stupidity and the last thing Brisbane need is to be penalised at a crucial stage of the game.
Anthony Minichiello (Sydney Roosters)
The Count made his return last round and he’ll be determined to put a injury-riddled season behind him with a strong performance. At his peak, the former Golden Boot winner is one of the most damaging runners in the game. The Broncos kick chase team will have to be on red alert. However, despite his class, he does lack match fitness. Darren Lockyer should be sending plenty of high bombs his way.
Prediction: Broncos by 8
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Comment by Anonymous
Bernard Lui
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Comment by ethos
NRL Live
Tough luck in terms of the result - the Roosters played a very tough game. They should get another chance next weekend.
And surely I deserve some sort of prize for correctly tipping the result and winning margin..
Result:
Sydney Roosters - 16
Tries: Iosia Soliola, Anthony Tupou
Goals: Craig Fitzgibbon 4/4
Brisbane Broncos - 24
Tries: Peter Wallace, Denan Kemp, David Stagg, Tonie Carroll
Goals: Corey Parker 2/2, Michael Ennis 2/3