THEFOOTY.com

Broncos and Dragons Salute the Judges

curly — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 23:36:00 GMT

The Brisbane Broncos welcomed back Tonie Carroll with a strong win over the New Zealand Warriors 28-14 after trailing 8-4 at half-time.

A dominant forward display from the Broncos with Joel Clinton, Lagi Setu, Sam Thiaday and David Taylor especially strong, gave the Broncos the foundation for the win. Carroll played a strong role in his time on park, which seemed to give Darren Lockyer a bit of an attacking spark.

The win was not without its moments with the Broncos only hitting the lead in the 45^th minute, but the Warriors struck back in the second half to lead 14-10 after a Steve Price try. At this stage the game was open and was anybody's.

However Brisbane finished the stronger, taking an eight point lead into the final five minutes and then scoring in the last minute to seal a drought breaking victory.

The win came at a cost, with Israel Folou (suspected fractured ankle), Joel Clinton (concussion) and Justin Hodges sore and sorry afterwards. They have a bye next week, which has come at just the right time.

In the other Friday Night, the St George-Illawarra Dragons blew a revitalised Sydney Roosters off the park in the second half after trailing 6-12 at half-time. Jamie Soward led the way with an amazing two-try performance in the 34-12 win. Ably supported by Matt Prior with another double, while Wendell Sailor outscored his wing partner by scoring a single. Brett Morris and Jamie Soward did their Origin chances no harm at all with their amazing displays.

Picks, Tips, Prices and Predictions Round 17

curly — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 11:33:00 GMT

The tippers at The Bacchus Brewing Tipping Competition are sick of Curly leading the way as he heads up that competition and has a commanding lead. 69% tipping is amongst the best around, and following his tips would have most tippers up around the top of their ladder.

Score To-date

No.	Rank	Name	Round 17 Points	Points	Diff.	%
1	1	Curly		160		69.0%
2	2	THEFOOTY.COMputer		130	-30	56.0%
3	3	Snowy		124	-36	53.4%
4	4	The Bacchus Boys		96	-64	41.4%

Tips for Week 17

FRIDAY NIGHT GAMES

BRISBANE BRONCOS v NEW ZEALAND WARRIORS

The Broncos are completely out of form and as a real show of their panic have called back enforcer Tonie Carroll. Lets hope that Carroll doesn't blot his career with a comeback that fails. The Warriors aren't in the best form as the Kiwi bro's wait for Stacey to fix everything. The Broncos should win at home.

Sports Tab Prices: Brisbane 1.36 Warriors $4

THEFOOTY.COMputer Says: - Broncos

Curly Says: Broncos

Snowy Says: Broncos

The Bacchus Boys Say: Broncos

DRAGONS V ROOSTERS

The Dragons have had a great season to date while the Chooks have been poor. The Chooks form has been improving and they snuck a win last weekend after some form against some of the better teams in the comp. The Dragons should win this, but the Chooks will be looking at a scalp, and who better than one of their arch-rivals.

Sports Tab Prices: Dragons $1.18 Roosters $4.65

THEFOOTY.COMputer Says: Dragons

Curly Says: Dragons

Snowy Says: Dragons

The Bacchus Boys Say: Dragons

SATURDAY GAMES

RABBITOHS V TIGERS

SOUTHS v TIGERS. A battle for the ages. Two foundation clubs battling it out in 2009. The Rabbitohs have been playing about 20 minutes each week, while the Tigers have been relying on Benji and Robbie, while Souths have just been playing with some young abandon. This game could be anything. It could be a 48-46 scoreline. Can't be split on the TAB.

Sports Tab Prices: Souths $1.85 Tigers $1.95

THEFOOTY.COMputer Says: Souths

Curly Says: Souths

Snowy Says: Souths

The Bacchus Boys Say: Tigers

NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS v CRONULLA SHARKS

At Home. In North Queensland. Sharks with another drama with expendable Brett Seymour gone. Cowboys to win and easily.

Sports Tab Prices: Cowboys $1.18 Sharks $4.60

THEFOOTY.COMputer Says: Cowboys

Curly Says: Cowboys

Snowy Says: Cowboys

The Bacchus Boys Say: Sharks

MELBOURNE STORM v NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS

This game should be a ripper. The Storm and the Knights playing great football this season. This game will be close. The Storm will be hurting after last weeks loss to the Raiders. They don't lose two games in a row often, while the Knights have been in some good form. This should be a great game. Melbourne are decided favourites on the TAB.

Sports Tab Prices: Storm $1.30 Knights $3.40

THEFOOTY.COMputer Says: Storm

Curly Says: Storm

Snowy Says: Knights

The Bacchus Boys Say: Knights

SUNDAY GAMES

PENRITH PANTHERS V PARRAMATTA EELS

The West Sydney derby. We have like the Panthers this season showing some brilliant form at times, while the Eels have just been disappointing.

Sports Tab Prices: Penrith $1.80 Eels $2.00

THEFOOTY.COMputer Says: Panthers

Curly Says: Panthers

Snowy Says: Panthers

The Bacchus Boys Say: Eels

RAIDERS V TITANS

The Raiders love their Saturday Night games at home. They don't necessarily love their Sunday games. Although, last week they did, knocking over the Storm at home was huge. The Titans are having a great season, winning without their stars and away from home, This should be a great test for them.

Sports Tab Prices: Raiders $1.47 Titans $2.60

THEFOOTY.COMputer Says: Titans

Curly Says: Titans

Snowy Says: Raiders

The Bacchus Boys Say: Titans

MONDAY GAME

SEA EAGLES V BULLDOGS

Once again, the Monday Night Footy game should be the game of the week. The comp leader Bulldogs up against last years Premiers in Manly. A great history between the clubs, and no love lost. The Bulldogs have been installed as underdogs. Manly at home, at beloved Brooky. Should be a ripper.

Sports Tab Prices: Manly $1.70 Bulldogs $2.10

THEFOOTY.COMputer Says: Bulldogs

Curly Says: Bulldogs

Snowy Says: Sea Eagles

The Bacchus Boys Say: Sea Eagles

Well, that's how we see this week.

Good luck with your tips and hope you back a winner.

Tips for Week 17

Curly	Snowy	THEFOOTY.COMputer	The Bacchus Boys
Broncos	Broncos	Broncos	Broncos
Cowboys	Cowboys	Cowboys	Sharks
Dragons	Dragons	Dragons	Dragons
Panthers	Panthers	Panthers	Eels
Rabbitohs	Rabbitohs	Rabbitohs	Tigers
Titans	Raiders	Titans	Titans
Bulldogs	Sea Eagles	Bulldogs	Sea Eagles
Storm	Knights	Storm	Knights

Teams for Round 17 NRL

admin — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 22:10:00 GMT

FRIDAY

BRISBANE BRONCOS v NEW ZEALAND WARRIORS at Suncorp Stadium, 7:35pm

BRISBANE: Karmichael Hunt, Antonio Winterstein, Steve Michaels, Justin Hodges, Israel Folau, Darren Lockyer (capt), Peter Wallace, Josh McGuire, Andrew McCullough, Joel Clinton, Alex Glenn, Sam Thaiday, Corey Parker. Interchange: Guy Williams, Lagi Setu, Tonie Carroll, Josh Hoffman, David Taylor (one to be omitted).

WARRIORS: Wade McKinnon, Kevin Locke, Jeroma Ropati, Joel Moon, Manu Vatuvei, Lance Hohaia, Stacey Jones, Sam Rapira, Ian Henderson, Steve Price (capt), Simon Mannering, Lewis Brown, Micheal Luck. Interchange: Aaron Heremaia, Jesse Royal, Ben Matulino, Jacob Lillyman, Patrick Ah Van, Russell Packer (two to be omitted)

Referees: Jared Maxwell, Bernard Sutton

ST GEORGE ILLAWARRA DRAGONS v SYDNEY ROOSTERS at WIN Jubilee Oval, 7:35pm

DRAGONS: Darius Boyd, Brett Morris, Matt Prior, Matt Cooper, Wendell Sailor, Jamie Soward, Ben Hornby (capt), Justin Poore, Dean Young, Jon Green, Jarrod Saffy, Ben Creagh, Neville Costigan. Interchange: Dan Hunt, Trent Merrin, Mathew Head, Jason Nightingale.

ROOSTERS: Sam Perrett, Sandor Earl, Mitchell Aubusson, Ben Jones, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Setaimata Sa, Mitchell Pearce, Nate Myles, Jake Friend, Lopini Paea, Anthony Cherrington, Willie Mason, Craig Fitzgibbon (capt). Interchange: Shane Shackleton, Frank-Paul Nuuausala, Tom Symonds, Nick Kouparitsas.

Referees: Tony Archer, Tony De Las Heras

SATURDAY

SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS v WESTS TIGERS at ANZ Stadium, 5:30pm

RABBITOHS: Nathan Merritt, Jamie Simpson, Colin Best, Ben Lowe, Fetuli Talanoa, John Sutton, Chris Sandow, Scott Geddes, Craig Wing, Roy Asotasi (capt), Luke Stuart, David Fa'alogo, Michael Crocker. Interchange: Issac Luke, Eddy Pettybourne, Shannan McPherson, Garret Crossman, David Kidwell (one to be omitted)

TIGERS: Shannon Gallant, Taniela Tuiaki, Blake Ayshford, Chris Lawrence, Beau Ryan, Benji Marshall, Tim Moltzen, Bryce Gibbs, Robbie Farah (capt), Todd Payten, Gareth Ellis, Danny Galea, Corey Payne. Interchange: John Morris, Dene Halatau, John Skandalis, Daine Laurie.

Referees: Steve Lyons, Alan Shortall

MELBOURNE STORM v NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS at Olympic Park, 7:30pm

STORM: Billy Slater, Steve Turner, Will Chambers, Greg Inglis, Joseph Tomane, Brett Finch, Cooper Cronk, Brett White, Cameron Smith (capt), Adam Blair, Sika Manu, Ryan Hoffman, Dallas Johnson. Interchange: Ryan Hinchcliffe, Scott Anderson, Aiden Tolman, Jeff Lima.

KNIGHTS: Kurt Gidley (capt), Keith Lulia, Junior Sau, Adam MacDougall, Akulia Uate, Ben Rogers, Jarrod Mullen, Mark Taufua, Isaac DeGois, Chris Houston, Steve Simpson, Zeb Taia, Matt Hilder. Interchange: Wes Naiqama, Marvin Karawana, Richie Faaoso, Danny Wicks.

Referees: Shayne Hayne, Matt Cecchin

NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS v CRONULLA SHARKS at Dairy Farmers Stadium, 7:30pm

COWBOYS: Matthew Bowen, Michael Bani, Ty Williams, Willie Tonga, John Williams, Grant Rovelli, Johnathan Thurston (capt), Shane Tronc, Aaron Payne, Matthew Scott, Carl Webb, Scott Bolton, Luke O'Donnell. Interchange: Anthony Watts, Steve Southern, Antonio Kaufusi, Steve Rapira, James Tamou, Manase Manuokafoa (two to be omitted).

SHARKS: Nathan Stapleton, Blake Ferguson, Matt Wright, Mitch Brown, Luke Covell (capt), Reece Williams, Scott Porter, Kade Snowden, Corey Hughes, Luke Douglas, Grant Millington, Anthony Tupou, Atelea Vea. Interchange: Bryan Norrie, Johnny Mannah, Ben Pomeroy, Terence Seu Seu.

Referees: Ben Cummins, Brett Suttor

SUNDAY

CANBERRA RAIDERS v GOLD COAST TITANS at Canberra Stadium, 2.00pm

RAIDERS: Josh Dugan, Justin Carney, Jarrod Croker, Joel Monaghan, Phil Graham, Terry Campese, Marc Herbert, David Shillington, Glen Buttriss, Troy Thompson, Tom Learoyd-Lahrs, Bronson Harrison, Alan Tongue (capt). Interchange: Trevor Thurling, Nigel Plum, Josh Miller, Dane Tilse.

TITANS: Preston Campbell, Kevin Gordon, Esi Tonga, Brett Delaney, Chris Walker, Mat Rogers, Scott Prince (capt), Matthew White, Nathan Friend, Michael Henderson, Anthony Laffranchi, Brad Meyers, Daniel Conn. Interchange: Aaron Cannings, Will Matthews, Josh Graham, William Zillman, David Mead (one to be omitted)

Referees: Gavin Badger, Chris James

PENRITH PANTHERS v PARRAMATTA EELS at CUA Stadium, 3.00pm

PANTHERS: Jarrod Sammut, Brad Tighe, Michael Jennings, Gavin Cooper, Junior Tia Kilifi, Wade Graham, Luke Walsh, Frank Puletua, Paul Aiton, Tim Grant, Trent Waterhouse (capt), Frank Pritchard, Nathan Smith. Interchange: Joseph Paulo, Matthew Bell, Joel Romelo, Maurice Blair, Sam McKendry, Andrew Emelio (two to be omitted).

EELS: Jarryd Hayne, Luke Burt, Joel Reddy, Krisnan Inu, Eric Grothe, Daniel Mortimer, Jeff Robson, Nathan Cayless (capt), Matthew Keating, Fuifui Moimoi, Nathan Hindmarsh, Joe Galuvao, Todd Lowrie. Interchange: Kevin Kingston, Jeremy Latimore, Broderick Wright, Tim Mannah

Referees: Jason Robinson, Gerard Sutton

MONDAY

MANLY SEA EAGLES v BULLDOGS at Brookvale Oval, 7.00pm

MANLY: Michael Robertson, Ben Farrar, Jamie Lyon, Steve Matai, David Williams, Chris Bailey, Matt Orford (capt), Brent Kite, Matt Ballin, Josh Perry, Anthony Watmough, Glenn Hall, Glenn Stewart. Interchange: Heath L'Estrange, Jason King, George Rose, Tony Williams, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Adam Cuthbertson (two to be omitted).

BULLDOGS: BULLDOGS: Luke Patten, Hazem El Masri, Josh Morris, Daryl Millard, Bryson Goodwin, Ben Roberts, Brett Kimmorley, Jarrad Hickey, Mick Ennis, Michael Hodgson, Gary Warburton, Andrew Ryan (capt), David Stagg. Interchange: Brad Morrin, Greg Eastwood, Yileen Gordon, Daniel Holdsworth.

Referees: Tony Archer, Jared Maxwell

A Knights Tale: A tale of two halves

curly — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 10:44:00 GMT

A Knights Tale: A tale of two halves

The Newcastle Knights rewarded Steve Simpsons 200^th game for the club with a win over the Souths Sydney Rabbitohs by 25-20

The Rabbitohs were brilliant in the first half and justifiably led 12-6 and scored two tries after the Knights got the first touchdown after just 8 minutes. Chris Sandow and John Sutton combined well in the first half and their forwards led my Mick Crocker showed some mettle. The Rabbitohs were the better side and the six point scoreline difference flattered the Knights.

The Knights second half started from the kickoff with a barnstorming run by Richie Fa'aoso. This was then capped off a couple of minutes later with some smart play by Isaac DeGois who turned the defence around with an inside ball to Fa'aoso. Scores even.

The Knights ploughed ahead with two tries down the right hand side to take a twelve point lead. The Rabbitohs now started making simple errors as they continued to attack down their left side, but fundamental errors thwarted any momentum they had.

A Jarrad Mullen field goal in the 73^rd minute, took the Rabbitohs out of the equation and ensured a Knights Victory. The Rabbitohs last chance to snatch a victory, disappeared when the fluffed a chance to trap Uate in the ingoal to guarantee the Rabbits a repeat set. However just minutes later Richie Fa'alogo, after a clever John Sutton chip and some Chris Sandow brilliance holding the ball in a seemingly impossible manner, then took a tough contact from the fullback, and then found the support player storming through down the left corridor. They never gave up, and continued to throw the ball in some brilliant last minute attack which led to a Jamie Simpson try to close the gap.

The final score showed a tight contest, but it was the Knights dominance over a half hour was enough to take out the Bunnies.

Raiders over Storm

rusty — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 02:16:00 GMT

In a stunning form reversal, the Canberra Raiders overcame the Melbourne Storm 26-16 at Canberra Stadium. The Raiders dominated the early part of the game, while tthe Storm sat back on their heels. After 29 minutes the Raiders led 14-0 and a monumental upset was on the cards. The Storm bounced back with a try right on half-time and the score stood at 14-4.

Expectations were high that the Storm would come back in the second half, but it was the Raiders who scored next to lead 20-4 in the 50th Minute. The Storm showed just how dangerous they can be, and how they should never be counted out, and by the 65th minute the Storm had brought the game back to a four point ballgame.

15 minutes to go and the match seemed certain to be won by the Storm. A late rally and fantastic defence held the game to the Raiders and a last minute try gave the game its 26-16 scoreline.

The Broncos Hit the Skids- Four Losses in a Row

rusty — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 02:03:00 GMT

The Brisbane Broncos fell out of the top eight, on points for and against, as they lost to the Jarryd Hayne and Kristen Inu inspired Parramatta Eels 21-14. The Eels jumped early and went to a eight-nil lead, for the Broncos to score before the half-time break to bring the score to 8-4 at half-time.

The Eels went to a 14-4 lead and looked to have the game well in their keeping, however the game took on another dimension late in the second half as the Broncos clawed back to a 14 all scoreline. The scores remained deadlocked for some time, until in the 77th minute Luke Burt broked the deadlock with a 42 metre field goal. The cake was iced with a late try to Daniel Mortimer to bring up the unusual score.

The Broncos are in some serious peril, and this is the first time this season they find themselves out of the eight. Many have now tended evidence that the Broncos season hangs in the balance and it doesn't get any easier as they take on the big New Zealand Warriors pack in their next game. The Broncos forwards are even more depleted with the season ending injury to Nick Kenny, the only Broncos with forward thrust these days.

Wrap-up of fixtures played 27 June 2009: Brisbane Second Division

admin — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 22:36:00 GMT

Easts Juniors beat Valleys 38-28 in Premier Grade to stay in the competition lead on 28 points. Carina beat Aspley 32-4 to be in second place on 19 points with Banyo on 18 points, after beating Arana Hills 16-10. In the other match, Deception Bay beat Wynnum Juniors 28-6 and Redlands had the bye, leaving Deception Bay and Valleys both on 17 points, Aspley on 10, Arana Hills on 9, Redlands on 8 and Wynnum Juniors on 6 points.

Dayboro and Mitchelton did not play in Northside 2 as their match was played as the Ted Beaumont Trophy, but Dayboro stay in the competition lead on 25 points. Pine Rivers beat Sandgate Brighton 28-12 to move to 22 points, while Nundah Devils beat Valleys 26-14 to share 21 points with Mitchelton and Valleys stay on 19 points. Normanby beat Northside Natives 40-18 to move to 18 points, while Bayside Warriors beat Samford 20-10 to go to 16 points. In the other match, Pythons beat Aspley 34-24, leaving both teams on 10 points, with Natives on 9, Sandgate Brighton on 6 and Samford on 3 points.

In Southside 2, St Brendans beat Inala 30-22 to retain the competition lead on 23 points and Centenary beat Sunnybank 20-10 to be in second place on 22 points, with Inala on 20 points and Sunnybank on 15 points. In the other matches, Wynnum Juniors beat Mt Gravatt 14-10 and Slacks Creek beat Rochedale 38-4 to leave Mt Gravatt on 14, Wynnum and Slacks Creek on 12 and Rochedale on 4 points.

The competition leaders in Northside 3, Brothers Juniors, were beaten 12-10 by Deception Bay but retain the competition lead on 26 points. Pine Central Holy Spirit beat St Josephs 32-14 to stay in second place, on 23 points. Arana Hills and Ferny Grove share 20 points after Ferny Grove beat Arana Hills 30-18, with Deception Bay’s win moving them to 18 points. Northern Raiders were beaten 22-16 by Mitchelton to stay on 17 points, while St Josephs stay on 16 points. Aspley had the bye to move to 13, with Mitchelton on 12, while Burpengary beat Bayside Warriors 30-28 to move to 10 points, with the Warriors on 5 points.

In Southside 3, St Brendans beat Waterford 42-6 to be in the competition lead on 24 points, while Carina and Logan Wanderers share 23 points after Carina beat Edens Landing 34-8 and Logan Wanderers beat North Stradbroke Island 40-28. Mustangs had the bye to be on 21 points, while Redlands beat Souths 24-20 to go to 19 points, with Edens Landing on 17 and North Stradbroke Island on 14 points. In the other match, Wynnum beat Sunnybank 22-16 to leave Sunnybank on 12, Souths on 11, Wynnum on 10 and Waterford on 8 points.

Bulimba Valleys remain undefeated in Southside 4, on 31 points after beating Logan City Chiefs 56-20. Carina beat Logan Wanderers 26-12 to move to 22 points, while Centenary beat Waterford 36-6 to go to 19 points. Logan Brothers and Beenleigh share 16 points after Logan Brothers beat Sunnybank 28-16 and the match between Beenleigh and Mustangs was washed out. In the other match, Inala beat Slacks Creek 54-18, leaving Slacks Creek on 14 points, Waterford on 13, Sunnybank and Inala both on 12, Logan Wanderers and Logan City Chiefs both on 11 and Mustangs on 1 point.

In the Under 22 Albert Bishop Shield, Logan Brothers had the bye to retain the competition lead on 25 points, Easts Juniors beat Albany Creek 28-0 to be on 24 points and Capalaba beat Graceville 34-12 to be on 23 points. Albany Creek is on 15 points, while Valleys beat St Josephs 36-12 to go to 14 points with Graceville on 12 and St Josephs on 10 points. In the other match, Arana Hills beat Browns Plains 46 18 to move to 7 points, with Browns Plains on 2 points.

Aspley and Pine Central share the competition lead in the Under 20 Arthur Sparks Shield, on 20 points after Aspley was beaten 40-28 by Mt Gravatt and Pine Central beat Carina 30-6. Mustangs and Carina share 19 points after Mustangs received a forfeit from Banyo. Sunnybank received a forfeit from Valleys to go to 16 points, with St Josephs and Mt Gravatt sharing 15 points after St Josephs had the bye. In the other match, Deception Bay beat Mitchelton 28-8, leaving both teams on 11 points, with Valleys on 6 and Banyo on 4 points.

The Chooks Over the Sharks

curly — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 11:22:00 GMT

Two of the worst performing clubs played out an enthralling clash with the Chooks defeating the Sharks 19-12 after being down 12-6 at half-time.While the Chooks were down at half-time, it was the Roosters that bounded away in the second half with two quick tries to take the lead 18-12. A field goal in the 72nd minute gave the game the final scoreline.

Titans & Skilled Stadium A Winning combo

rusty — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 10:48:00 GMT

Popey is wrapped. The team he follows called the Gold Coast Titans cemented their relationship with Skilled Stadium with a solid win over the New Zealand Warriors 28-12. The Titans were ripped apart with the loss of Luke Bailey and Ashley Harrison, but you would have thought it was the Kiwis who were decimated as they played an insipid brand of football in the first half.

The halftime score of 16-2 to the Titans, was the result of the Titans domination which continued for much of the second half, until a late consolation try to the Warriors brought it to 28-12.

An interesting observation about the Warriors is the return of Stacey Jones, has seen the New Zealanders falter this season.One win from the Grand Final last year, and this year they seem an undisciplined rabble. Last season saw an alround effort from the team, whereas this year we see a team waiting for the Little Master to do his thing. Maybe this is a Kiwi thing, but they seemed steadier last year with the like of Fein, Rovelli leading the way.With Jones, they appear no show.

Friday Night scores

curly — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 22:42:00 GMT

There were doubts about the Bulldogs without the go-forward of Ben Hannant. But those doubts were erased with stirling performances from Michael Ennis and Josh Morris as they commanded the Bulldog outfit over a enthusiastic Cowboys team 30-18. Bryson Goodwin scored a double, again showing just how much he has progressed at the Dogs. Surely, Ennis and Morris will both be chosen for the Blues Origin.

The other Friday night was a chance for the Dragons to show-off their brick wall defence with a grinding 21-10. Brett Morris, Jamie Soward and Ben Hornby supported cases for selection for the Blues.

Picks, Tips, Prices and Predictions Round 16

admin — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 11:15:00 GMT

Well Here is the Points ladder. Curly had a perfect round so the lead is getting obscene. I won't say much more.

Score To-date

No.	Rank	Name	Points	Diff.	%
1	1	Curly	152		69.7%
2	2	THEFOOTY.COMputer	122	-30	56.0%
3	3	Snowy	112	-40	51.4%
4	4	The Bacchus Boys	92	-60	42.2%

Tips for Week 16

FRIDAY NIGHT GAMES

WESTS TIGERS v ST GEORGE ILLAWARRA DRAGONS

The Dragons look hot to trot this year and they face the inconsistent Tigers. The betting markets have been kind to the Tigers based on their form, maybe they are expecting an Origin let-down from the Dragons. Based on their form on Wednesday night, the Dragons Origin players will be jumping out of their skin to atone.

Sports Tab Prices: Dragons $1.40 Tigers $2.90

THEFOOTY.COMputer Says: - Dragons

Curly Says: Dragons

Snowy Says: Dragons

The Bacchus Boys Say: Tigers

BULLDOGS v NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS

This should be a great game. THE FORM team of the year, the Bulldogs, are playing the Cowboys who are in great form of late. Jonathon Thurston will be on a high from Origin and should lead the Cowboys well. Whether it is enough to take on the Dogs? The Doggies will miss Ben Hannant, and his go-forward. Expect a close game. The panel is split.

Sports Tab Prices: Bulldogs $1.45 Cowboys $2.65

THEFOOTY.COMputer Says: Bulldogs

Curly Says: Cowboys

Snowy Says: Bulldogs

The Bacchus Boys Say: Cowboys

SATURDAY GAMES

GOLD COAST TITANS v WARRIORS

The Titans are almost unbeatable at home. The Warriors are so inconsistent, you could almost say they stand no chance at Robina. The Titans will be refreshed from their week off, and should flog the New Zealanders.

Sports Tab Prices: Titans $1.48 Warriors $2.55

THEFOOTY.COMputer Says: Titans

Curly Says: Titans

Snowy Says: Titans

The Bacchus Boys Say: Titans

SYDNEY ROOSTERS v CRONULLA SHARKS

THE BATTLE of the Round. The Sharks chasing another win, as they have beaten some ordinary sides of late. The Chooks are getting better and while the panel is split, expect the Roosters in a 13+ victory.

Sports Tab Prices: Sharks $1.87 Roosters $1.93

THEFOOTY.COMputer Says: Sharks

Curly Says: Roosters

Snowy Says: Roosters

The Bacchus Boys Say: Roosters

SUNDAY GAMES

CANBERRA RAIDERS v MELBOURNE STORM

The Storm over the Raiders by heaps. The Storm boys will be pumped and will have the Raiders measure. The Raiders will play their typical 20 minutes and may get close, but the professional Storm will do the job.

Sports Tab Prices: Storm $1.47 Storm $2.65

THEFOOTY.COMputer Says: Storm

Curly Says: Storm

Snowy Says: Raiders

The Bacchus Boys Say: Storm

PARRAMATTA EELS v BRISBANE BRONCOS

This is the strange one. The Poor form of both teams could make this game a great one. It will be a ratings winner believe it or not. The Broncos should be the more desperate one, as a loss will see them slide out of the eight. Watch for the Jarryd Hayne show.

Sports Tab Prices: Brisbane $1.60 Eels $2.35

THEFOOTY.COMputer Says: Broncos

Curly Says: Broncos

Snowy Says: Eels

The Bacchus Boys Say: Broncos

MONDAY GAME

NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS v SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS

Kurt Gidley is hurting. Last time after Origin the Knights fell over. Whether the Rabbitohs can bring them undone is debatable.

Sports Tab Prices: Knights $1.40 Rabbitohs $2.65

THEFOOTY.COMputer Says: Knights

Curly Says: Knights

Snowy Says: Rabbits

The Bacchus Boys Say: Rabbits

BLUEPRINT for Origin 3

curly — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 07:36:00 GMT

Far be it for me to help the Blues, but they have the goods to challenge Queensland and Game Three 2009 must be the line in the sand for them to move forward. Their Game 2 effort was abysmal and Game 1 wasn't much better.

Here is what I would do.

They need to back Kurt Gidley. They have put him in this Captain position, and they need to back him. Changes must be made in the backline. Origin is about big, strong, fast centres and wingers. I would team Matt Cooper and Jarryd Hayne on the left and Josh Morris and Brett Morris on the right.

I would pick Michael Ennis as the hooker and team him with Brett Kimmorley at half-back. Jarrad Mullen would be my five-eight, with Ben Hornby on the bench for utility

Front rows to support Ennis would be Tom Learoyd Lars, Michael Weyman, and Justin Poore. I would keep Glenn Stewart, Luke O'Donnell, Anthony Watmough and Ben Creagh as the backrowers. I would bring Nathan Hindmarsh back.

So my Blues team would look like this.

Gidley
Hayne
Cooper
Morris
Morris
Mullen
Kimmorley
Weyman
Ennis
Poore
Hindmarsh
Creagh
Watmough
O'Donnell
Stewart
Learoyd-Lars
Hornby

This would be my seventeen. However I would then name another eight players to take into camp. These players would be players like Michael Jennings who will be the base of which NSW take their Origin team. New faces, new talent. It would be Hindmarsh, Cooper and Kimmorleys job to save face in Game 3, but to also provide the environment for the up and comers to learn about Origin.

NSW then base their selections on 2010 on the youngsters and hopefully with the Game 3 grounding they should receive they will stay away from the "deer in the spotlights" syndrome that affected the first gamers in Game 1.

It won't probably happen

QLD Create History. Tough out a Great Win

curly — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 12:10:00 GMT

QLD Create History. Tough out a Great Win

The first half of the game was highlighted by a strong Qld attacking effort, a dazed Greg Inglis taken from the field after a cheap shot from Trent Barrett, A freak 80m try to Jaryd Hayne and two poor video referee decisions. It was also notable for some pent up NSW frustration and a much slower ruck speed.

The first Queensland was scored by Greg Inglis when Brent Kite got lazy on inside and just stopped when he had a chance to take G.I. . He just stopped and left it for his captain Kurt Gidley who was trampled by GI.

David Williams was having a horror debut, coughing up the ball twice for catastrophic circumstances. Willie Tonga had two rip-ticklers of a tackle forcing both Williams errors.

The second Qld try through Israel Folou busting through Robbie Farrah and Justin Poore Soft NSW defence in the middle of the ruck. 18 minutes QLD 12-0. Another notable moment when an ironic cheer from the crowd in the 20^th minute for David Williams actually holding the ball in kick return.

More drama came when Trent Barrett hit Greg Inglis with a high shot in the 21^st minute, which shook Inglis up. It was a cheap shot and deserved more than just being placed on report. GI escorted from field and Qld fans are hopeful that he can return.

Peter Wallace is having a poor game although not being helped by his team-mates. Poor pass from dummy-half Robbie Farrah gifted the next try to QLD to lead 18-0 after just 25 minutes.

After 25 minutes the key NSW players are playing poorly, with Robbie Farrah and Peter Wallace the main culprits. Too much dropped ball again turning over the 26^th minute allowing QLD attacking position again, but Jarryd Hayne sneaked an intercept and ran 90 minutes to score the first NSW try. Hayne misses and Qld score, as it was it could be the catalyst for NSW to bounce back. Gidley converts and at the the score sits at Qld 18-NSW 6 at the 30 minute mark.

Glenn Stewart drops the ball in the next set of six giving Qld field position again. A freak bounce off the uprights provided the NSW with the ball and stops the Qld attack. A controversial decision to deny a try to Ashley Harrison. No valied reason could be the reason behind this decision as Willie Tonga attempted to throw a pass backwards on the 5^th tackle. The ball bounced off a NSW head, bounces into the arms on Ashley Harrison who plants the ball for a try. Somehow, it was determined that it was not a try? Both Phil Gould and Wally Lewis saw it as a try and were amazed and incredulous that it wasn't awarded.

The next set saw some fireworks after the previous set provided the spark for some pent up NSW frustration with Luke O'Donnell being the main culprit. Justin Poore and Mick Crocker had a tete-to-tete after Poore appeared to bite Crocker in a tackle. The reason was obscured by the TV commentators and the vision, but Crocker reacted over something as the tackle was fairly innocent. Crocker with a live by the sword, die by the sword didn't lay a complaint.

With the crowd back in the game Hayne scores a sneaky one from dummy half when the QLD markers. Another controversial decision with the marker , Luke O'Donnell clearly holding Israel Folou and not giving him access to tackle Hayne. Benefit of the doubt was the ruling which bemused renowned Blue Peter Sterling was again amazed for the decision. Thats two poor decisions from the video ref and has gifted NSW 10 points and with QLD holding an 18-10 lead at half-time have kept NSW in the game.

After ten minutes of the second half, NSW are visibly tougher and stronger while QLD are struggling with injury. Qld are holding in there but the momentum is with NSW. Josh Morris hits the field with Robbie Farrah being interchanged with a reshuffle with Gidley into hook, and Hayne into fullback.

It's all NSW at this time, but NSW relived some pressure with a poor kick gifting QLD 20 metres. Mick Crocker however drops the ball again for the third time in the second half. Crocker could be the QLD liability. NSW are reading the QLD plays well and it will only be QLD grit that gets them home.

NSW scored in the 62th minute after a poor attempt on a bomb. Sustained pressure from NSW . Strength from Williams made the try as he just rode over Darius Boyd to slam down the ball and put NSW within a try. A mixed night for Williams, but the try should make it something to tell his grandkids. 18-14 with just 15 minutes to go.

ANOTHER DROPPED BALL FROM MICK CROCKER in the 65^th minute gives NSW great attacking space. QLD are gone at the moment, and Crocker is proving the liability. He needs to pull his head in and hold the ball. Another set for QLD to defend. A Steve Price charge-down give QLD the ball and they need some spark and some motivation in this set. It amost came in the way of Billy Slater, but NSW hold on to get the ball.

Qld really did tough out this game and were rewarded by a try in the final minutes with Cameron Smith scoring to put the game and the series beyond doubt. The fact that it was Luke O'Donnell who made the mistake for NSW for QLD to score made it very sweet for Qld supporters. Both he and Anthony Watmough sailed close to the wind with elbows and forearms in most tackles, didn't go unnoticed from those north of the border. The try was converted and put QLD 24-14.

Credit to NSW who really put it to QLD tonight and again, dominated the second half. The finishing touches again were missing and Trent Barrett played well, but Peter Wallace has played his last Origin game. The composure and passion of a Jonathon Thurston was the key ingredient needed by the Blues.

The game won't go down as a classic Origin but will be remembered for a QLD team that guttsed out a great win in true adversity with some decisions from match officials thrown in. Qld deserve four series in a row, and thoroughly deserve this victory and every accolade that can be thrown at them.

NRL Teams Named for Round 16

admin — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 10:46:00 GMT

FRIDAY

WESTS TIGERS v ST GEORGE ILLAWARRA DRAGONS at Sydney Football Stadium, 7.35pm

TIGERS: Tim Moltzen, Taniela Tuiaki, Blake Ayshford, Chris Lawrence, Beau Ryan, John Morris, Benji Marshall, Bryce Gibbs, Robbie Farah (capt), John Skandalis, Gareth Ellis, Todd Payten, Corey Payne. Interchange: Dene Halatau, Danny Galea, Alan Schirnack, Daine Laurie, Rhys Hanbury (one to be omitted).

DRAGONS: Darius Boyd, Brett Morris, Jason Nightingale, Matt Cooper, Wendell Sailor, Jamie Soward, Ben Hornby (capt), Justin Poore, Dean Young, Michael Weyman, Jarrod Saffy, Ben Creagh, Neville Costigan. Interchange: Jon Green, Matt Prior, Dan Hunt, Mathew Head, Trent Merrin, Chase Stanley, Luke Priddis (three to be omitted)

Referees: Jason Robinson, Tony De Las Heras

BULLDOGS v NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS at ANZ Stadium, 7.35pm

BULLDOGS: Luke Patten, Hazem El Masri, Josh Morris, Daryl Millard, Bryson Goodwin, Ben Roberts, Brett Kimmorley, Ben Hannant, Mick Ennis, Michael Hodgson, Gary Warburton, Andrew Ryan (capt), David Stagg. Interchange: Brad Morrin, Greg Eastwood, Yileen Gordon, Daniel Holdsworth.

COWBOYS: Ty Williams, Michael Bani, Ben Harris, Willie Tonga, John Williams, Travis Burns, Johnathan Thurston (capt), Shane Tronc, Aaron Payne, Matthew Scott, Carl Webb, Scott Bolton, Luke O'Donnell. Interchange: Anthony Watts, Steve Southern, Antonio Kaufusi, Manase Manuokafoa, Grant Rovelli, Steve Rapira, James Tamou (three to be omitted).

Referees: Jared Maxwell, Bernard Sutton

SATURDAY

GOLD COAST TITANS v WARRIORS at Skilled Park, 5.30pm

TITANS: Preston Campbell, Kevin Gordon, Esi Tonga, Brett Delaney, Chris Walker, Mat Rogers, Scott Prince (capt), Matthew White, Nathan Friend, Michael Henderson, Anthony Laffranchi, Brad Meyers, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Aaron Cannings, Will Matthews, Luke O'Dwyer, William Zillman, Josh Graham, Daniel Conn (two to be omitted)

WARRIORS: Wade McKinnon, Kevin Locke, Patrick Ah Van, Joel Moon, Manu Vatuvei, Lance Hohaia, Stacey Jones, Sam Rapira, Ian Henderson, Steve Price (capt), Simon Mannering, Lewis Brown, Micheal Luck. Interchange: Aaron Heremaia, Jesse Royal, Ben Matulino, Jacob Lillyman, Russell Packer (one to be omitted)

Referees: Ben Cummins, Alan Shortall

SYDNEY ROOSTERS v CRONULLA SHARKS at Sydney Football Stadium, 7.30pm

ROOSTERS: Sam Perrett, Sisa Waqa, Mitchell Aubusson, Ben Jones, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Setaimata Sa, Mitchell Pearce, Nate Myles, Jake Friend, Lopini Paea, Anthony Cherrington, Willie Mason, Craig Fitzgibbon (capt). Interchange: Shane Shackleton, Frank-Paul Nuuausala, Tom Symonds, Nick Kouparitsas.

SHARKS: Nathan Stapleton, Blake Ferguson, Matt Wright, Mitch Brown, Luke Covell, Trent Barrett (capt), Scott Porter, Kade Snowden, Corey Hughes, Luke Douglas, Reece Williams, Anthony Tupou, Paul Gallen. Interchange: Atelea Vea, Grant Millington, Ben Pomeroy, Terence Seu Seu, Johnny Mannah (one to be omitted)

Referees: Ashley Klein, Chris James

SUNDAY

CANBERRA RAIDERS v MELBOURNE STORM at Canberra Stadium, 2pm

RAIDERS: Josh Dugan, Justin Carney, Jarrod Croker, Joel Monaghan, Phil Graham, Terry Campese, Marc Herbert, David Shillington, Glen Buttriss, Troy Thompson, Tom Learoyd-Lahrs, Bronson Harrison, Alan Tongue (capt). Interchange: Trevor Thurling, Nigel Plum, Josh Miller, Dane Tilse, Joe Picker (one to be omitted)

STORM: Billy Slater, Steve Turner, Will Chambers, Greg Inglis, Joseph Tomane, Brett Finch, Cooper Cronk, Brett White, Cameron Smith (capt), Adam Blair, Sika Manu, Ryan Hoffman, Dallas Johnson. Interchange: Ryan Hinchcliffe, Matt Cross, Aiden Tolman, Jeff Lima, Anthony Quinn, Scott Anderson, James Maloney (three to be omitted)

Referees: Gavin Badger, Brett Suttor

PARRAMATTA EELS v BRISBANE BRONCOS at Parramatta Stadium, 3pm

EELS: Jarryd Hayne, Luke Burt, Joel Reddy, Krisnan Inu, Eric Grothe, Daniel Mortimer, Jeff Robson, Nathan Cayless (capt), Matthew Keating, Fuifui Moimoi, Nathan Hindmarsh, Joe Galuvao, Todd Lowrie. Interchange: Kevin Kingston, Tim Mannah, Jeremy Latimore, Broderick Wright.

BRISBANE: Karmichael Hunt, Antonio Winterstein, Steve Michaels, Israel Folau, Alex Glenn, Darren Lockyer (capt), Peter Wallace, Nick Kenny, PJ Marsh, Joel Clinton, Josh McGuire, Sam Thaiday, Corey Parker. Interchange: Andrew McCullough, Ashton Sims, Aaron Gorrell, Guy Williams, Dave Taylor, Lagi Setu, Palmer Wapau (three to be omitted).

Referees: Tony Archer, Matt Cecchin

MONDAY

NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS v SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS at EnergyAustralia Stadium, 7pm

KNIGHTS: Kurt Gidley (capt), Keith Lulia, Junior Sau, Adam MacDougall, Akulia Uate, Ben Rogers, Jarrod Mullen, Mark Taufua, Isaac DeGois, Chris Houston, Steve Simpson, Zeb Taia, Matt Hilder. Interchange: Wes Naiqama, Marvin Karawana, Richie Faaoso, Danny Wicks, Shannon McDonnell (one to be omitted)

RABBITOHS: Nathan Merritt, Jamie Simpson, Colin Best, Ben Lowe, Fetuli Talanoa, John Sutton, Chris Sandow, Scott Geddes, Craig Wing, Roy Asotasi (capt), Luke Stuart, David Fa'alogo, Michael Crocker. Interchange: Issac Luke, Eddy Pettybourne, David Kidwell, Jaiman Lowe, Shannan McPherson, Garret Crossman (two to be omitted)

Referees: Shayne Hayne, Gerard Sutton

Bye: Manly, Penrith

Depth the Concern for Henjak

snowy — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 20:40:00 GMT

The Brisbane Broncos are faltering and the coach Ivan Henjak is faltering. The depth of his ability is the question on most fans lips and the next month will be a test for the Wayne Bennet replacement.

Some of his decisions must be questioned. Last week in Qld State League, he had experienced journeyman Aaron Gorell playing for Wynnum and David Taylor playing for Central. Then he consigned young Ben Hunt and Dane Copley to their baptism of fire.

I don't understand that one bit. The fact he whinged about it at the press conference.

But without a doubt, the Broncos forwards let down the young debutants. They would have told Ben Hunt that they would look after and protect him. They didn't. And that is the problem with this Broncos team. No strike power, David Taylor would provide this, but Henjak seems clueless to this and refuses to play him.

The real test is of Henjak's coaching ability.

Baby Broncos Bounced….Easily

curly — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 10:56:00 GMT

The Cronulla Sharks posted their fourth win in a row with a commanding 46-12 victory over the Baby Broncos.

The Baby Broncos were asked to show pride for the Broncos jersey by coach Ivan Henjak. Instead they showed that you cannot buy experience, nor can you expect a young enthusiastic team to fix defensive deficiencies.

The Broncos have leaked like a sieve of late and tonight was no exception. Giving up 46 points to the Sharks showed, again, just how bad this side has gone. The Right Hand side defence was the poorest of the poor and they really need to look at the poor choices that young winger Jharal Yow Yeh has made in the last three weeks. The impact of missing Justin Hodges has made the selection of Yow Yeh a certainty, but the club needs to look at him. He dropped a bomb tonight which gifted the Sharks a try and again was poor defensively.

However, the blame cannot be laid on the youth of the team as they Broncos forwards were an experience outfit, featuring Nick Kenny, Joel Clinton and Corey Parker. The reality is that this forward pack was ordinary. I don't know what David Taylor needs to do to get back in first grade, but Henjak needs to list him back in the NRL to gain some drive for his floundering team.

The Sharks game and resurgance has been based on the enthusiasm being brought into the team by the younger players. The Sharks have now given them an outside chance of actually making the final eight after their horror start to the season.

Sunday Scores Round 15

curly — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 07:51:00 GMT

Manly and the Storm maintained the home winners in this Round 15 of the NRL. The depleted Storm defeated a valiant Wests Tigers 14-12 and withstood a comeback from the Tigers who trailed 14-6 with eleven minutes on the clock.

In a similar vein, Manly survived a final quarter comeback to knock over the Raiders 20-14. Trailing 20-0 the Raiders looked lethargic, but sprang into action to almost steal the spoils, with only a final minute error enabling the Sea Eagles supported to breathe easily.

Brisbane Second Division Results 20th June

admin — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 00:28:00 GMT

Easts Juniors beat Arana Hills 42-22 in Premier Grade to retain the competition lead on 26 points. Valleys and Carina share 17 points after Valleys beat Deception Bay 24-23 and Carina beat Redlands 34-12, while Banyo had the bye to move to 16 points. Deception Bay stays on 15 points, while, in the other match, Aspley beat Wynnum 10-6 to move to 10 points, with Arana on 9 and Wynnum and Redlands both on 6 points.

Dayboro was beaten 22-4 by Bayside Warriors in Northside 2, but keeps the competition lead on 25 points. Mitchelton beat Normanby 10-8 to be on 21 points, while Pine Rivers beat Samford 40-6 to be on 20 points and Nundah Devils beat Aspley 30-12 to share 19 points with Valleys, who beat Sandgate Brighton 32-10. Normanby is on 16 points with Bayside Warriors on 14 points. In the other match, Northside Natives beat Brisbane Pythons 34-31 to be on 9, with Pythons on 8, Sandgate on 6 and Samford on 3 points.

St Brendans retain the competition lead in Southside 2, on 21 points after beating Sunnybank 26-16. Inala and Wests Centenary share 20 points after Inala beat Wynnum Juniors 26-18 and Wests Centenary forfeited to Slacks Creek. In the other match, Rochedale beat Mt Gravatt 44-18 to leave Sunnybank on 15, Mt Gravatt on 14, Wynnum and Slacks Creek both on 10 and Rochedale on 4 points.

In Northside 3, Brothers Juniors had the bye to retain the competition lead on 26 points. Pine Central Holy Spirit beat Ferny Grove 80-10 to be in second place on 21 points, while Arana Hills beat Northern Raiders 28-14 to be 20 points, with Ferny Grove staying on 18 points and Northern Raiders on 17 points. Deception Bay and St Josephs share 16 points after Deception Bay beat St Josephs 40-14. In the other matches, Aspley beat Bayside Warriors 30-10 and Mitchelton beat Burpengary 42 18, leaving Aspley on 11, Mitchelton on 10, Burpengary on 8 and Bayside Warriors on 5 points.

In Southside 3, St Brendans retain the competition lead on 22 points, despite being beaten 34-22 by Carina. Carina share 21 points with Logan Wanderers after Mustangs Brothers beat Logan Wanderers 26-18. Mustangs Brothers move to 19 points. Redlands and Edens Landing share 17 points after Redlands had the bye and Souths beat Edens landing 28-24. In the other matches Sunnybank beat North Stradbroke Island 40-30 and Waterford beat Wynnum Juniors 14-10, leaving North Stradbroke on 14, Sunnybank on 12, Souths on 11, and Wynnum and Waterford both on 8 points.

Bulimba Valleys beat Mustangs 38-10 to stay in the competition lead in Southside 4 on 29 points. Carina is in second place on 20 points, after being beaten 18-6 by Centenary, with Centenary moving to 17 points. Beenleigh stays on 15 points, after being beaten 40-18 by Slacks Creek. Logan Brother and Slacks Creek share 14 points after Logan Brothers beat Waterford 32-30, while Waterford is on 13 points. In the other matches, Logan Wanderers beat Logan City Chiefs 28-26 and Inala beat Sunnybank 18-16, leaving Sunnybank on 12, Logan Wanderers and Logan City Chiefs both on 11 points and Inala on 10 points.

Logan Brothers beat Valleys 40-6 in the Under 22 Albert Bishop Shield to retain the competition lead on 23 points. Easts Juniors received a forfeit from Browns Plains to be on 22 points, while Capalaba had the bye to be on 21 points. Albany Creek beat St Josephs 28-6 to 15 points. Valleys and Graceville share 12 points after Graceville beat Arana Hills 46-24. St Josephs are on 10 points, Arana Hills on 5 and Browns Plains are on 2 points.

In the Under 20 Arthur Sparks Shield, Aspley beat St Josephs 38-20 to stay in the competition lead, on 20 points. Carina beat Mt Gravatt 16-14 to be in second place, on 19 points, while Pine Central beat Banyo 54-6 to be on 18 points and Mustangs beat Valleys 56-8 to be 17 points. Sunnybank beat Mitchelton 50-16 to be on 14 points with St Josephs and Mt Gravatt sharing 13 points. Mitchelton is on 11 points, while Deception Bay had the bye to be on 9 points, with Valleys on 6 and Banyo on 4 points.

Edge of the Seat Cowboys

rusty — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 11:17:00 GMT

In a week where the Toyota Cup gained headlines about the defensive capabilities and it's scorelines, the NRL threatened to follow suit with an entertaining first half between the Cowboys and the Roosters with the Cowboys taking a 24-16 into the break.

However the second half was the exact opposite with a grinding defensive affair, with the Roosters brining the game into a cliff-hanger finish by scoring to bring the game into a 24-22 scoreline.

The Cowboys put the home fans onto the edge of their seats with two breaks by Mitchell Pearce giving them heart scares. The Roosters grabbed a repeat set of six with 30 seconds on the clock, but a Matt Scott hit on Craig Fitzgibbon, saw the Cowboys home with the 24-22 score.

The Chooks didn't just lose the game, but also look to have lost Braith Anasta with a serious ankle injury, while the Cowboys will be thankful for the two points in a match without their Origin stars.

Bulldogs Knock over Panthers.

snowy — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 11:31:00 GMT

The Bulldogs showed they are the best team in the competition with a clinical display against an eager Panthers outift, winning 19-12 on a cold, wet Friday eveing at ANZ Stadium.

The first half was a beauty with both teams showing some great attacking flair, but the defence of both teams was the highlight with the score locked at 6all at half-time. It may not have been the defensive brilliance, but the errors forced onto the teams with the weather becoming very ordinary. The attacking nature of both teams provided for much of the heart in the mouth stuff that made the game an enthralling encounter.

The Panthers scored first with Gavin Cooper putting on a display of brute strength against Jamel Idris, but the Bulldogs, with Brett Kimmorly especially leading the way never panicked and just ground out the win. The Blues selectors should have been looking the form of Kimmorly as he may very well be the answer to the Blues dilemma.

The Bulldogs amy lose young pup, Idris with a visually painful dislocated elbow, but their would be a hope that he won't miss much footy. The Doggies are definetely the form team of 2009, and they could be one of the few to go from wooden spooners to Premiers in one season.

Picks, Tips, Prices and Predictions Round 15

admin — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 11:08:00 GMT

Isn't this becoming boring. Curly has a commanding lead and lets compare him with the tipsters who tip for Big League. Using THEFOOTY.com tipping scores, Nigel Wall would be on 130 points, Footy Head of 128, Dan Ginnane 128, Ray Hadley 124, Glenn Munsie 120, Jennifer Hawkins 118, and Greg Alexandra 112 points.

The Origin period makes the competition and the tipping difficult so lets see if Curlys luck can hold.

Score To-date

No.	Rank	Name	Points	Diff.	%
1	1	Curly	140		67.3%
2	2	THEFOOTY.COMputer	114	-26	54.8%
3	3	Snowy	106	-34	51.0%
4	4	The Bacchus Boys	88	-52	42.3%

Tips for Week 15

FRIDAY NIGHT GAMES

Bulldogs v Panthers

Bulldogs should win this one. The Panthers promising season has stuttered in the last couple of weeks. The Bulldogs, almost unaffected by Origin, have the goods to knock over the Panthers and do so easily. Sorry Matty Elliot.

Sports Tab Prices: Bulldogs $1.28 Panthers $3.50

THEFOOTY.COMputer Says: - Bulldogs

Curly Says: Bulldogs

Snowy Says: Bulldogs

The Bacchus Boys Say: Bulldogs

SATURDAY GAMES

Cowboys v Roosters

The Chooks are Favourites. SERIOUS. The Chooks are faves. Yes I know the Boys don't have JT(and Willie Tonga and Luke O) but they actually did a good job against the Dragons last week. The Chooks have been improving in recent times. They have put up vastly improved showings, and the are unaffected by Origin except for Nate Myles. The Chooks have the experience and talent to win, but will their attitude be there?

Sports Tab Prices: Cowboys $1.95 Roosters $1.85

THEFOOTY.COMputer Says: Cowboys

Curly Says: Cowboys

Snowy Says: Roosters

The Bacchus Boys Say: Cowboys

SUNDAY GAMES

Storm v Tigers

The Storm are basically playing Origin this week. Tigers lose Farrah. Storm are faves? The loss of Farrah leaves the Tigers vulnerable against a Storm side missing Slater, Inglis, Smith and Johnson not to mention the coach Bellamy. Doesn't say much for the Tigers. The Panel is split.

Sports Tab Prices: Storm $1.47 Tigers $2.60

THEFOOTY.COMputer Says: Storm

Curly Says: Storm

Snowy Says: Tigers

The Bacchus Boys Say: Tigers

Sea Eagles v Raiders

Campese has been dropped and, while the boys at thefooty.com don't rate him (too inconsistent for our liking), they have a bit to prove. However they are coming up against a Sea Eagles team starting to find some form and starting to threaten the competition front runners. The Eagles for mine

Sports Tab Prices: Manly $1.70 Raiders $2.10

THEFOOTY.COMputer Says: Sea Eagles

Curly Says: Sea Eagles

Snowy Says: Sea Eagles

The Bacchus Boys Say: Raiders

MONDAY GAME

Sharks v Broncos

The Sharks should keep their winning form against a Broncos reeling from shithouse form and Origin.

Sports Tab Prices: Sharks $1.85 Broncos $1.95

THEFOOTY.COMputer Says: Broncos

Curly Says: Sharks

Snowy Says: Sharks

The Bacchus Boys Say: Broncos

Well, that's how we see this week.

Good luck with your tips and hope you back a winner.

Tips for Week 15

Curly	Snowy	THEFOOTY.COMputer	The Bacchus Boys
Bulldogs	Bulldogs	Bulldogs	Bulldogs
Cowboys	Roosters	Cowboys	Cowboys
Sea Eagles	Sea Eagles	Sea Eagles	Raiders
Sharks	Sharks	Broncos	Broncos
Storm	Tigers	Storm	Tigers
Bulldogs	Bulldogs	Bulldogs	Bulldogs

NRL Round 15 Teams

curly — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 10:26:00 GMT

Just Five games this week.

FRIDAY

BULLDOGS v PENRITH PANTHERS at ANZ Stadium, 7.35pm
BULLDOGS: Luke Patten, Hazem El Masri, Josh Morris, Jamal Idris, Bryson Goodwin, Ben Roberts, Brett Kimmorley, Chris Armit, Mick Ennis, Michael Hodgson, Gary Warburton, Andrew Ryan (capt), David Stagg. Interchange: Brad Morrin, Greg Eastwood, Yileen Gordon, Daniel Holdsworth.PANTHERS: Jarrod Sammut, Brad Tighe, Gavin Cooper, Maurice Blair, Shane Elford, Wade Graham, Luke Walsh, Frank Puletua, Paul Aiton, Tim Grant, Trent Waterhouse (capt), Frank Pritchard, Nathan Smith. Interchange: Matthew Bell, Joseph Paulo, Masada Iosefa, Andrew Emelio, Junior Tia-Kilifi (one to be omitted)Referees: Gavin Badger, Matt Cecchin

SATURDAY

NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS v SYDNEY ROOSTERS at Dairy Farmers Stadium, 7.30pm
COWBOYS: Ty Williams, Michael Bani, Ashley Graham, John Williams, Shannon Hegarty, Travis Burns, Grant Rovelli, Shane Tronc, Aaron Payne, Matthew Scott, Carl Webb, Scott Bolton, Steve Southern. Interchange: Anthony Watts, Steve Rapira, Antonio Kaufusi, James Tamou, Ben Harris, Manase Manuokafoa (two to be omitted).ROOSTERS: Sam Perrett, Sisa Waqa, Setaimata Sa, Ben Jones, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Braith Anasta (capt), Mitchell Pearce, Lopini Paea, Jake Friend, Shane Shackleton, Anthony Cherrington, Willie Mason, Craig Fitzgibbon. Interchange: Ray Moujalli, Frank-Paul Nuuausala, Tom Symonds, Mitchell Aubusson.Referees: Jason Robinson, Tony De Las Heras

SUNDAY

MELBOURNE STORM v WESTS TIGERS at Olympic Park, 2pm
STORM: Steve Turner, Anthony Quinn, Will Chamber, Dane Nielsen, Joseph Tomane, Brett Finch, Cooper Cronk, Jeff Lima, Ryan Hinchcliffe, Adam Blair, Sika Manu, Ryan Hoffman, Aiden Tolman. Interchange: James Maloney, Matt Cross, Scott Anderson, Brett White, Wairangi Koopu, Ryan Tandy (two to be omitted)TIGERS: Tim Moltzen, Taniela Tuiaki, Rhys Hanbury, Dene Halatau, Beau Ryan, Blake Ayshford, Benji Marshall (capt), Bryce Gibbs, John Morris, John Skandalis, Todd Payten, Chris Heighington, Corey Payne. Interchange: Willie Mataka, Danny Galea, Alan Schirnack, Daine Laurie.Referees: Steve Lyons, Ashley KleinMANLY SEA EAGLES v CANBERRA RAIDERS at Brookvale Oval, 3pmSEA EAGLES: Michael Robertson, Tony Williams, Ben Farrar, Steve Matai, Andrew Suniula, Chris Bailey, Matt Orford (capt), Jason King, Matt Ballin, Josh Perry, Adam Cuthbertson, Glenn Hall, Shane Rodney. Interchange: Heath L'Estrange, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, George Rose, Vic Mauro.RAIDERS: David Milne, Justin Carney, Jarrod Croker, Joel Monaghan, Phil Graham, Terry Campese, Marc Herbert, Dane Tilse, Glen Buttriss, Scott Logan, Tom Learoyd-Lahrs, Bronson Harrison, Alan Tongue (c). Interchange: Trevor Thurling, Nigel Plum, Josh Miller, Troy Thompson, David Shillington (one to be omitted)Referees: Jared Maxwell, Bernard Sutton

MONDAY

CRONULLA SHARKS v BRISBANE BRONCOS at Toyota Stadium, 7pmSHARKS: Nathan Stapleton, Blake Ferguson, Matt Wright, Mitch Brown, Luke Covell, Blake Green, Scott Porter, Kade Snowden, Corey Hughes, Johnny Mannah, Atelea Vea, Luke Douglas, Reece Williams. Interchange: Jacob Selmes, Grant Millington, Ben Pomeroy, Terence Seu Seu.BRISBANE: Dale Copley, Antonio Winterstein, Steve MichaelS, Alex Glenn, Jharal Yow Yeh, Andrew McCullough, Ben Hunt, Nick Kenny, PJ Marsh, Joel Clinton, Josh McGuire, Ben Teo, Corey Parker. Interchange: Guy Williams, Palmer Wapau, Lagi Setu, Ashton Sims.Referees: Gavin Badger, Brett Suttor

Tonga in for Hodgo

curly — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 10:23:00 GMT

The Queensland team was named today with the only forced change being the re-introduction to Origin footy for Willie Tonga in place of the injured Justin Hodges.

Queensland: Billy Slater (Melbourne), Darius Boyd (St George Illawarra), Greg Inglis (Melbourne), Willie Tonga (North Queensland), Israel Folau (Brisbane), Darren Lockyer (capt, Brisbane), Johnathan Thurston (North Queensland), Steven Price (New Zealand Warriors), Cameron Smith (Melbourne), Petero Civoniceva (Penrith), Ashley Harrison (Gold Coast), Sam Thaiday (Brisbane), Dallas Johnson (Melbourne). Interchange: Karmichael Hunt (Brisbane), Ben Hannant (Bulldogs), Nate Myles (Sydney Roosters), Michael Crocker (South Sydney).

Tigers Stop the Rot: Knock over the Eels

curly — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 10:55:00 GMT

The Wests Tigers have stopped the rot tonight facing their sixth straight loss, by knocking over the Parramatta Eels 23-6.

The Parramatta Eels have had the wood on the Tigers in recent history, but that stood for nothing tonight as the Tigers were able to hang in to win, after starting poorly early, with some ordinary defensive efforts.

That should now be it for the Eels as they face a long remainder of the season and face the long story of "what-ifs" and witch-hunt associated with a lost season.

NSW Blues make Changes

curly — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 10:44:00 GMT

The NSW Blues have made changes to the side to take on Qld in the second State of Origin in Sydney. Terry Campese and Anthony Lafranchi have been dropped, while Luke Bailey, Luke Lewis and James McManus were not considered due to injury.

Trent Barrett replaces Campese at five-eight and his experience is expected to be a massive boost for the Blues.

The team is:

1Kurt Gidley (C)
Jaryd Hayne
Michael Jennings
Jamie Lyon
David Williams
Trent Barrett
Peter Wallace
Brent Kite
Robbie Farrah
Michael Weyman
Ben Creagh
Luke O'Donnell
Paul Gallon
Craig Wing
Justin Poore
Glen Stewart
Anthony Watmough.

The squad is riddled with injury concerns, with Kurt Gidley, Michael Jennings, Jamie Lyon and Craig Wing battling injury.

To combat this, emergency players have been named with Tom Learoyd-Lars, Joel Mogaghan and Josh Morries.

Interesting all the sentiment from Game 1 would appear to have gone out of the window, although it must be said that this team appears stronger than game 1.