Thursday, September 10, 2009
2009 Playoffs: Week 1
Bit easier this week, only 4 to tip. Historically there is at least one upset each week in terms of the lower ranked team tipping over the top side. Last year saw the first time the 1st ranked team (Storm) lost to the 8th ranked team (Warriors). I'm not tipping any upsets though the away team is good enough to win any of them.
Storm v Sea Eagles
Storm by 4
Both teams have been up and down lately with patches of excellent play interspersed with piss poor stuff. The Storm have Inglis back and they are pretty hard to beat at home so I'll tip them in a tight, tough battle.
Titans v Broncos
Titans by 10
I've been dubious about the Titans for quite some time. However I reckon that in front of a soldout home crowd they will look to prove the doubters wrong and touch up a Broncos side which is deep down plain ordinary.
Bulldogs v Knights
Bulldogs by 10
Clearly the most mediocre looking playoff match. A Bulldogs side which has shown less and less of an edge as the year has gone on v a side that could have easily missed the playoffs and nobody would have noticed. Bulldogs to use the home advantage to take care of business.
Dragons v Eels
Dragons by 12
Damn. Would be nice to see the Dragons lose and have to play again next week and I think it will be much tighter but there's probably a reason the Dragons came 1st and the Eels 8th.
Storm v Sea Eagles
Storm by 4
Both teams have been up and down lately with patches of excellent play interspersed with piss poor stuff. The Storm have Inglis back and they are pretty hard to beat at home so I'll tip them in a tight, tough battle.
Titans v Broncos
Titans by 10
I've been dubious about the Titans for quite some time. However I reckon that in front of a soldout home crowd they will look to prove the doubters wrong and touch up a Broncos side which is deep down plain ordinary.
Bulldogs v Knights
Bulldogs by 10
Clearly the most mediocre looking playoff match. A Bulldogs side which has shown less and less of an edge as the year has gone on v a side that could have easily missed the playoffs and nobody would have noticed. Bulldogs to use the home advantage to take care of business.
Dragons v Eels
Dragons by 12
Damn. Would be nice to see the Dragons lose and have to play again next week and I think it will be much tighter but there's probably a reason the Dragons came 1st and the Eels 8th.
Labels: nrl, NRL 2009, nrl tipping
Thursday, September 03, 2009
NRL week 26
This is it. Lucky last. Has the NRL banned Mad Mondays yet? Mind you, is there a bar left in Sydney that hasn't banned every NRL player yet?
Tigers v Bulldogs
Bulldogs by 4
The Tigers will want to finish the season with a bang. They are playing good enough footie to knock over the Dogs but the Dogs just have a little more to play for.
Dragons v Eels
Eels by 8
The Eels are an irresistable force, while I have always forced myself to resist the Dragons. Though it isn't hard.
Warriors v Storm
Storm by 10
If the Warriors were at full strength I'd be tempted to tip an upset because they seem to go well against the Storm and have a bit to prove. But a weakened lineup should see them just get taught another lesson.
Sea Eagles v Titans
Titans by 8
The Titans just keep rolling on and on much to my surprise. Meanwhile the Sea Eagles just can't seem to click into 4th gear at all.
Sharks v Rabbitohs
Rabbitohs by 16
The Rabbits will play an attacking style and look to open the Sharks up. If the Sharks can defend like last week they are a chance but I just can't see them scoring enough points to win it. Mad Monday beckons. Lock up you women and children, front doors, liquor cabinet and anything that else that is removable.
Roosters v Cowboys
Cowboys by 14
A bit of a who cares game. Always good to see the Roosters lose though.
Knights v Panthers
Knights by 10
I cannot for the life of me see this Panthers side win a game away from home that means something. At the same time the Knights are quite a moody side that runs hot and cold week to week and more often than not in the same match so if they give the Panthers a look in they'll regret it.
Broncos v Raiders
Broncos by 16
Yep, the Broncos are back. Kind of. It's a shame they spent most of the year showing good sides how to beat them. Pass the ball along your backline and run over the try line. That was about all the effort required. It shouldn't be a long finals campaign for them.
Tigers v Bulldogs
Bulldogs by 4
The Tigers will want to finish the season with a bang. They are playing good enough footie to knock over the Dogs but the Dogs just have a little more to play for.
Dragons v Eels
Eels by 8
The Eels are an irresistable force, while I have always forced myself to resist the Dragons. Though it isn't hard.
Warriors v Storm
Storm by 10
If the Warriors were at full strength I'd be tempted to tip an upset because they seem to go well against the Storm and have a bit to prove. But a weakened lineup should see them just get taught another lesson.
Sea Eagles v Titans
Titans by 8
The Titans just keep rolling on and on much to my surprise. Meanwhile the Sea Eagles just can't seem to click into 4th gear at all.
Sharks v Rabbitohs
Rabbitohs by 16
The Rabbits will play an attacking style and look to open the Sharks up. If the Sharks can defend like last week they are a chance but I just can't see them scoring enough points to win it. Mad Monday beckons. Lock up you women and children, front doors, liquor cabinet and anything that else that is removable.
Roosters v Cowboys
Cowboys by 14
A bit of a who cares game. Always good to see the Roosters lose though.
Knights v Panthers
Knights by 10
I cannot for the life of me see this Panthers side win a game away from home that means something. At the same time the Knights are quite a moody side that runs hot and cold week to week and more often than not in the same match so if they give the Panthers a look in they'll regret it.
Broncos v Raiders
Broncos by 16
Yep, the Broncos are back. Kind of. It's a shame they spent most of the year showing good sides how to beat them. Pass the ball along your backline and run over the try line. That was about all the effort required. It shouldn't be a long finals campaign for them.
Labels: nrl, nrl 09, nrl tipping
Thursday, August 27, 2009
NRL week 25
I know it's week 25 because it's the penultimate round!!!
Can't come soon enough for some teams. Still an interesting few scenarios on offer. If the faltering Storm slip up then the Sea Eagles could take a home semi. At the same time if the Sea Eagles lose one of their last 2 they may find they are away v the Dragons or Bulldogs in the playoffs. The Eels despite being the form team in the comp in the past 6 weeks are still outside the playoffs (albeit on points differential). Two wins though and they will make it. The Tigers also have been the other form team (6 wins from their past 7) but they are a point outside the 8.
The other teams just in the 8 are the Broncos, Knights and Panthers and they all won last week so it's a real crush.
The first 3 clashes are the money matches. All between sides in the 8 or hunting for it. The other 5 clashes are between teams in the 8 v sides who's season is gone. There might be one party pooper hiding in those 5 but I can't see it at this time of the year.
Eels v Panthers
Eels by 10
You'd have to wouldn't you? It'll take a special effort to burst this yellow and blue bubble and it's unlikely to come from the Panthers in enemy territory. The Eels to leap frog the Panthers into the 8.
Cowboys v Broncos
Broncos by 4
The Cowboys just don't deserve to be in the playoffs if you ask me (and nobody ever does). If they lose their season is over so that may inspire them but the Broncos have turned their year round in 2 weeks. Broncos to ride the Cowboys this time.
Titans v Tigers
Tigers by 8
This should be an intriguing clash. The Tigers still played well last week despite losing and if they play the same way again I can see them taking care of this seasons pretenders. How the Titans have locked in 3rd spot is beyond me. Cartwright must be one hell of a coach.
Storm v Roosters
Storm by 18
The Storm are so good at dicking hopeless teams but struggle when teams front up in the middle of the park. The Roosters are too soft to pull that off though.
Rabbitohs v Dragons
Dragons by 10
This is hard to pick in some ways. A traditional rivalry that goes way back and the Dragons are out of nick. The theory is that Bennett is training them too hard deliberately to get some conditioning into them for the tough games down the stretch. Time will tell, but the Bunnies season officially ended last weekend so not enough to inspire them I reckon.
Sea Eagles v Sharks
Sea Eagles by 24
The Sharks are making up the numbers. The Sea Eagles have a sniff of a home playoff as they are a point off 4th. At the same time they are only a point off 9th so there is extreme pressure and they should make fishburgers out of Cronulla.
Bulldogs v Warriors
Bulldogs by 22
The Warriors might make a game of it but remember, the 30 points v the roosters which was supposed to be an attacking wakeup call was followed by a score of 4, then the 32 v the Panthers was followed by scores of 10 and 4. Don't expect anything to have been learnt last week either. Bulldogs fans to send El Masri off like a champion before smashing some trains up on the way home.
Raiders v Knights
Raiders by 4
Who the fuck knows? I mean seriously. Who the fuck knows?
Can't come soon enough for some teams. Still an interesting few scenarios on offer. If the faltering Storm slip up then the Sea Eagles could take a home semi. At the same time if the Sea Eagles lose one of their last 2 they may find they are away v the Dragons or Bulldogs in the playoffs. The Eels despite being the form team in the comp in the past 6 weeks are still outside the playoffs (albeit on points differential). Two wins though and they will make it. The Tigers also have been the other form team (6 wins from their past 7) but they are a point outside the 8.
The other teams just in the 8 are the Broncos, Knights and Panthers and they all won last week so it's a real crush.
The first 3 clashes are the money matches. All between sides in the 8 or hunting for it. The other 5 clashes are between teams in the 8 v sides who's season is gone. There might be one party pooper hiding in those 5 but I can't see it at this time of the year.
Eels v Panthers
Eels by 10
You'd have to wouldn't you? It'll take a special effort to burst this yellow and blue bubble and it's unlikely to come from the Panthers in enemy territory. The Eels to leap frog the Panthers into the 8.
Cowboys v Broncos
Broncos by 4
The Cowboys just don't deserve to be in the playoffs if you ask me (and nobody ever does). If they lose their season is over so that may inspire them but the Broncos have turned their year round in 2 weeks. Broncos to ride the Cowboys this time.
Titans v Tigers
Tigers by 8
This should be an intriguing clash. The Tigers still played well last week despite losing and if they play the same way again I can see them taking care of this seasons pretenders. How the Titans have locked in 3rd spot is beyond me. Cartwright must be one hell of a coach.
Storm v Roosters
Storm by 18
The Storm are so good at dicking hopeless teams but struggle when teams front up in the middle of the park. The Roosters are too soft to pull that off though.
Rabbitohs v Dragons
Dragons by 10
This is hard to pick in some ways. A traditional rivalry that goes way back and the Dragons are out of nick. The theory is that Bennett is training them too hard deliberately to get some conditioning into them for the tough games down the stretch. Time will tell, but the Bunnies season officially ended last weekend so not enough to inspire them I reckon.
Sea Eagles v Sharks
Sea Eagles by 24
The Sharks are making up the numbers. The Sea Eagles have a sniff of a home playoff as they are a point off 4th. At the same time they are only a point off 9th so there is extreme pressure and they should make fishburgers out of Cronulla.
Bulldogs v Warriors
Bulldogs by 22
The Warriors might make a game of it but remember, the 30 points v the roosters which was supposed to be an attacking wakeup call was followed by a score of 4, then the 32 v the Panthers was followed by scores of 10 and 4. Don't expect anything to have been learnt last week either. Bulldogs fans to send El Masri off like a champion before smashing some trains up on the way home.
Raiders v Knights
Raiders by 4
Who the fuck knows? I mean seriously. Who the fuck knows?
Labels: nrl, nrl tipping, nrl tipping 09
Thursday, August 20, 2009
NRL week 24? 37? 96?
The race has nearly been run. I've pulled a few hammy's along the way but I'm gonna get there!!!!
Tigers v Eels
Eels by 4
This should be an absolute rip roaring cracker of a match. Or one side could blow the other ones confidence and with it, season away. I could go either way but the dice came up blue and yellow.
Dragons v Broncos
Dragons by 10
Unthinkable a couple of weeks ago but the Broncos probably won't lose this game by 70 points. In fact there is an extremely small chance of an upset. But it's so small I'm not going to be a dickhead and pick it.
Knights v Cowboys
Knights by 4
Another interesting clash. The Cowboys are all over the shop and the Knights played some good footie last weekend to knockoff the Storm. I have a feeling that they might struggle to do that 2 weeks running and they are awful finishers which will play on their minds but maybe a big turnout will provide the defibrolator they need for one more week on their season.
Panthers v Rabbitohs
Panthers by 6
The Rabbitohs are travelling a touch better but only because the Panthers were munted off the park by the Broncos. Teams that were killed on the road often bounce back at home the net week. Fingers crossed for this tipster.
Titans v Sharks
Titans by 14
The Sharks season died long ago. they played a bit of decent footie just for the hell of it but now they have remembered that a) they are shit and b) their season really did die long ago so c) they have nothing left to play for except Mad Monday. Uh, oh!
Warriors v Raiders
Raiders by 6
I really want to pick the Warriors but I just can't. They have given up. The Raiders whould have but showed last week they've got some rock'n'roll left on them smacking the shit out of the side that should win the comp. The Warriors need to swallow some fucken man pills and bash the shit out of somebody for the first time in a long time.
Storm v Sea Eagles
Storm by 4
Please oh please let the Storm win this. I have no further comment.
Bulldogs v Roosters
Bulldogs by 24
The biggest mismatch of the round. So the Roosters to win it then. Fucking NRL!!!
Tigers v Eels
Eels by 4
This should be an absolute rip roaring cracker of a match. Or one side could blow the other ones confidence and with it, season away. I could go either way but the dice came up blue and yellow.
Dragons v Broncos
Dragons by 10
Unthinkable a couple of weeks ago but the Broncos probably won't lose this game by 70 points. In fact there is an extremely small chance of an upset. But it's so small I'm not going to be a dickhead and pick it.
Knights v Cowboys
Knights by 4
Another interesting clash. The Cowboys are all over the shop and the Knights played some good footie last weekend to knockoff the Storm. I have a feeling that they might struggle to do that 2 weeks running and they are awful finishers which will play on their minds but maybe a big turnout will provide the defibrolator they need for one more week on their season.
Panthers v Rabbitohs
Panthers by 6
The Rabbitohs are travelling a touch better but only because the Panthers were munted off the park by the Broncos. Teams that were killed on the road often bounce back at home the net week. Fingers crossed for this tipster.
Titans v Sharks
Titans by 14
The Sharks season died long ago. they played a bit of decent footie just for the hell of it but now they have remembered that a) they are shit and b) their season really did die long ago so c) they have nothing left to play for except Mad Monday. Uh, oh!
Warriors v Raiders
Raiders by 6
I really want to pick the Warriors but I just can't. They have given up. The Raiders whould have but showed last week they've got some rock'n'roll left on them smacking the shit out of the side that should win the comp. The Warriors need to swallow some fucken man pills and bash the shit out of somebody for the first time in a long time.
Storm v Sea Eagles
Storm by 4
Please oh please let the Storm win this. I have no further comment.
Bulldogs v Roosters
Bulldogs by 24
The biggest mismatch of the round. So the Roosters to win it then. Fucking NRL!!!
Labels: nrl, NRL 2009, nrl tipping
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
NRL Round 23
6 from 8 last week, the Yamis juggernaut rolls on. I'm on 105.5 from 160 or thereabouts and ahead of all these saps, although I don't entirely trust Sportsfreaks tallying so might just have to check that at some point...
Rabbitohs v Titans
Rabbitohs by 4
Tough to call. Titans had a walk in the park last week but I think in Sydney the Rabbitohs will realise its last chance saloon with their remaining home game against the Dragons.
Cowboys v Bulldogs
Bulldogs by 4
The Bulldogs just don't look anything like the team that started the year and are extremely vulnerable. The Cowboys arguably have more to play for with a playoff spot on the line but they have a horrible 2 and 9 record v the Dogs in Townsville.
Roosters v Sea Eagles
Sea Eagles by 12
The Sea Eagles just have to get their shit back on track or they will either miss the playoffs or be rocking on up to Kogarah in Week 1. The Roosters have grown something resembling a backbone but they are playing with enthusiasm not class and it's class that starts winning all the games from this point on.
Raiders v Dragons
Dragons by 6
Believe it or not the Dragons might not win this too easily. They have a few suspension concerns and injuries and it'll probably be minus 53 in Canberra on Saturday night as well. They can afford the loss but Bennett won't allow it.
Eels v Warriors
Eels by 24
The Eels are on fire at the moment and will blow this shithouse opposition off the park.
Sharks v Tigers
Tigers by 10
Stuart basically called his side fucking hopeless in last weeks press conference and that is indeed what they are. Tigers roll on.
Broncos v Panthers
Panthers by 6
The Broncos will have some confidence back but they only beat the Sharks. They still look very vulnerable down the edges, and up the middle, and the areas in between. The Panthers will find those pesky holes and put points on.
Knights v Storm
Storm by 8
The Knights have fallen to bits. They've got nothing left. Where did all the enthusiasm and energy go? Who knows? Who cares? Not me. Storm to seal a top 4 spot with this win.
Like what I did there with the colours?
Rabbitohs v Titans
Rabbitohs by 4
Tough to call. Titans had a walk in the park last week but I think in Sydney the Rabbitohs will realise its last chance saloon with their remaining home game against the Dragons.
Cowboys v Bulldogs
Bulldogs by 4
The Bulldogs just don't look anything like the team that started the year and are extremely vulnerable. The Cowboys arguably have more to play for with a playoff spot on the line but they have a horrible 2 and 9 record v the Dogs in Townsville.
Roosters v Sea Eagles
Sea Eagles by 12
The Sea Eagles just have to get their shit back on track or they will either miss the playoffs or be rocking on up to Kogarah in Week 1. The Roosters have grown something resembling a backbone but they are playing with enthusiasm not class and it's class that starts winning all the games from this point on.
Raiders v Dragons
Dragons by 6
Believe it or not the Dragons might not win this too easily. They have a few suspension concerns and injuries and it'll probably be minus 53 in Canberra on Saturday night as well. They can afford the loss but Bennett won't allow it.
Eels v Warriors
Eels by 24
The Eels are on fire at the moment and will blow this shithouse opposition off the park.
Sharks v Tigers
Tigers by 10
Stuart basically called his side fucking hopeless in last weeks press conference and that is indeed what they are. Tigers roll on.
Broncos v Panthers
Panthers by 6
The Broncos will have some confidence back but they only beat the Sharks. They still look very vulnerable down the edges, and up the middle, and the areas in between. The Panthers will find those pesky holes and put points on.
Knights v Storm
Storm by 8
The Knights have fallen to bits. They've got nothing left. Where did all the enthusiasm and energy go? Who knows? Who cares? Not me. Storm to seal a top 4 spot with this win.
Like what I did there with the colours?
Labels: nrl, nrl tipping, nrl tipping 09
Thursday, August 06, 2009
NRL week 21
Panthers v Dragons
Dragons by 10
The Dragons are too clinical at the moment and the Panthers conceded 32 points v the Warriors in 50 minutes. Nothing else needs to be said. Accept the Panthers will now probably win.
Storm v Cowboys
Storm by 10
The Storm very rarely lose back to back and they rarely lose at home. The Cowboys on the other hand are all over the shop.
Sea Eagles v Rabbitohs
Sea Eagles by 6
This should be a relatively tight game but the birds are a slightly better side in slightly better form so will sneak over the line unfortunately.
Bulldogs v Raiders
Bulldogs by 6
The Bulldogs are really starting to look iffy but don't be fooled by that 56-0 win by the Raiders last week. They were playing one of the worst defending sides in the NRL in decades and the Raiders pull efforts like that out now and then. But not two weeks running.
Warriors v Titans
Warriors by 12
Fuck it, you only live once.
Roosters v Tigers
Tigers by 8
Imagine the Tigers resurgence ending at the hands of the Roosters!!! And now forget it.
Eels v Knights
Eels by 8
The Eels are on a mean roll (where the hell do these things come from) while the Knights look like they have played all their football in the wrong half of the year. Good night for the knights?
Broncos v Sharks
Broncos by 2
I don't know how they'll do it but they are playing a side that also often struggles to score more than zero points. And after being utterly humiliated and at arguably the lowest point in club history there is nowhere to go but up.
Dragons by 10
The Dragons are too clinical at the moment and the Panthers conceded 32 points v the Warriors in 50 minutes. Nothing else needs to be said. Accept the Panthers will now probably win.
Storm v Cowboys
Storm by 10
The Storm very rarely lose back to back and they rarely lose at home. The Cowboys on the other hand are all over the shop.
Sea Eagles v Rabbitohs
Sea Eagles by 6
This should be a relatively tight game but the birds are a slightly better side in slightly better form so will sneak over the line unfortunately.
Bulldogs v Raiders
Bulldogs by 6
The Bulldogs are really starting to look iffy but don't be fooled by that 56-0 win by the Raiders last week. They were playing one of the worst defending sides in the NRL in decades and the Raiders pull efforts like that out now and then. But not two weeks running.
Warriors v Titans
Warriors by 12
Fuck it, you only live once.
Roosters v Tigers
Tigers by 8
Imagine the Tigers resurgence ending at the hands of the Roosters!!! And now forget it.
Eels v Knights
Eels by 8
The Eels are on a mean roll (where the hell do these things come from) while the Knights look like they have played all their football in the wrong half of the year. Good night for the knights?
Broncos v Sharks
Broncos by 2
I don't know how they'll do it but they are playing a side that also often struggles to score more than zero points. And after being utterly humiliated and at arguably the lowest point in club history there is nowhere to go but up.
Labels: nrl, nrl tipping, nrl tipping 09, nrl tipping 2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
NRL week 20
6 from 8 last week. About time I had a decent one.
Dragons v Storm
Dragons by 6
The Dragons are just clinical at the moment. They pissed around against the Warriors and still dicked them. Statement game for them and it should be tight but the Storm aren't the same side on the road.
Raiders v Broncos
Raiders by 10
Both sides are playing horrible football at the moment. The Broncos can't defend to save their lives and even the awful Raiders should find a few holes out wide to run some points up.
Knights v Roosters
Knights by 16
The Roosters are absolute ratshit, losing to the Warriors and getting towelled up by the Rabbitohs says more than you need to know. It'll be chicken soup down the coal mines.
Panthers v Warriors
Panthers by 8
The Warriors are without Price which is probably not a bad thing as other forwards seem to go better when he's not there. The Panthers have playoffs to play for though so should win going away. Speaking of going away, I wish Cleary would. He's almost as bad as the AB coaches.
Sharks v Eels
Eels by 4
A resurgent Eels side who must now be an outside chance of slipping into the 8. I don't know where this form has come from, they are pulling an old sneaky one the Warriors were famous for. But this is crucial. Drop this match and they are done and dusted.
Rabbitohs v Bulldogs
Bulldogs by 2
Shucks, who would have thunk it a few weeks ago but this could actually go either way. Taylor has taken the shackles off the Rabbitohs attack and the Bulldogs have started tripping in the home straight. All the momentum is with the bunnies but the players are with the Bulldogs and they'll scrape home.
Tigers v Sea Eagles
Sea Eagles by 10
The Sea Eagles are still vulnerable but are in good form. The Tigers meanwhile have won a couple of games ina row by decent margins. However three in a row is a bridge too far for this lot.
Dragons v Storm
Dragons by 6
The Dragons are just clinical at the moment. They pissed around against the Warriors and still dicked them. Statement game for them and it should be tight but the Storm aren't the same side on the road.
Raiders v Broncos
Raiders by 10
Both sides are playing horrible football at the moment. The Broncos can't defend to save their lives and even the awful Raiders should find a few holes out wide to run some points up.
Knights v Roosters
Knights by 16
The Roosters are absolute ratshit, losing to the Warriors and getting towelled up by the Rabbitohs says more than you need to know. It'll be chicken soup down the coal mines.
Panthers v Warriors
Panthers by 8
The Warriors are without Price which is probably not a bad thing as other forwards seem to go better when he's not there. The Panthers have playoffs to play for though so should win going away. Speaking of going away, I wish Cleary would. He's almost as bad as the AB coaches.
Sharks v Eels
Eels by 4
A resurgent Eels side who must now be an outside chance of slipping into the 8. I don't know where this form has come from, they are pulling an old sneaky one the Warriors were famous for. But this is crucial. Drop this match and they are done and dusted.
Rabbitohs v Bulldogs
Bulldogs by 2
Shucks, who would have thunk it a few weeks ago but this could actually go either way. Taylor has taken the shackles off the Rabbitohs attack and the Bulldogs have started tripping in the home straight. All the momentum is with the bunnies but the players are with the Bulldogs and they'll scrape home.
Tigers v Sea Eagles
Sea Eagles by 10
The Sea Eagles are still vulnerable but are in good form. The Tigers meanwhile have won a couple of games ina row by decent margins. However three in a row is a bridge too far for this lot.
Labels: nrl, nrl tipping, nrl tipping 09
Friday, July 24, 2009
NRL July 24-27 2009
Can't remember the week so I'll just chuck the date up there.
Sea Eagles v Knights
Sea Eagles by 10
A solid Friday Nighter here and the Eagles aren't back to their best but this is one they should take care of. Not sure what the Knights response will be to finding out their coach is buggaring off.
Titans v Broncos
Titans by 20
The Broncos are conceding 40 points every week (aside from the Warriors game for some reason) and with injuries on top of a capitulating defense the Titans will have to play like mugs to not win easily.
Bulldogs v Eels
Bulldogs by 8
The Eels were pumped up last week but expect them to just get pumped this week. A bit of a clash from the 80s and perhaps a different result with the Bulldogs having too many guns for the fish.
Cowboys v Panthers
Cowboys by 10
The Cowboys had a down week last week so must be due to have a good week this time right? Home turf, Thurston, playoff hopes teetering, they'll get there.
Storm v Sharks
Storm by 10
The Storm will have players back from injury and seem to bounce back from defeat well, though the inconsistency must be a major worry for their angry man coach. All the same they can play a nice basic game but put points on when they need to and their defence is solid each week so that's no points for the Sharks then.
Raiders v Tigers
Tigers by 2
Normally you'd pick the Raiders to win a game like this at home but the Tigers must surely string together a couple of decent games at some point the Raiders have lost ground on recent season. They are ripe to be completely tipped out of the playoff race.
Warriors v Dragons
Dragons by 12
If the weather is crap and the Warriors build on last weeks effort on attack then they are in with a sniff but the Dragons are actually playing really good fucking football that is several levels above the Warriors. Can we lower them to our standards? I think not.
Rabbitohs v Roosters
Rabbitohs by 12
The Rabbitohs are throwing points round like its christmas and the Roosters defence should ensure they get plenty more gifts this week. Or is that easter eggs?
Sea Eagles v Knights
Sea Eagles by 10
A solid Friday Nighter here and the Eagles aren't back to their best but this is one they should take care of. Not sure what the Knights response will be to finding out their coach is buggaring off.
Titans v Broncos
Titans by 20
The Broncos are conceding 40 points every week (aside from the Warriors game for some reason) and with injuries on top of a capitulating defense the Titans will have to play like mugs to not win easily.
Bulldogs v Eels
Bulldogs by 8
The Eels were pumped up last week but expect them to just get pumped this week. A bit of a clash from the 80s and perhaps a different result with the Bulldogs having too many guns for the fish.
Cowboys v Panthers
Cowboys by 10
The Cowboys had a down week last week so must be due to have a good week this time right? Home turf, Thurston, playoff hopes teetering, they'll get there.
Storm v Sharks
Storm by 10
The Storm will have players back from injury and seem to bounce back from defeat well, though the inconsistency must be a major worry for their angry man coach. All the same they can play a nice basic game but put points on when they need to and their defence is solid each week so that's no points for the Sharks then.
Raiders v Tigers
Tigers by 2
Normally you'd pick the Raiders to win a game like this at home but the Tigers must surely string together a couple of decent games at some point the Raiders have lost ground on recent season. They are ripe to be completely tipped out of the playoff race.
Warriors v Dragons
Dragons by 12
If the weather is crap and the Warriors build on last weeks effort on attack then they are in with a sniff but the Dragons are actually playing really good fucking football that is several levels above the Warriors. Can we lower them to our standards? I think not.
Rabbitohs v Roosters
Rabbitohs by 12
The Rabbitohs are throwing points round like its christmas and the Roosters defence should ensure they get plenty more gifts this week. Or is that easter eggs?
Labels: nrl, nrl tipping, nrl tipping 09
Thursday, July 16, 2009
NRL week 18
Broncos v Rabbitohs
Broncos by 8
Might be hard for the Broncos after THAT match as half their side is in out or in doubt but I reckon this will kick off a rocking round of football with everybody pumped up and ready to belt the crap out of everybody else. Broncos to give Queenslanders something to smile about.
Bulldogs v Titans
Bulldogs by 4
This should be a cracker but the Bulldogs have too many bullets and the Titans are flattering to decieve with their possie on the ladder.
Panthers v Raiders
Panthers by 6
This is a bloody lottery. It's Jekyll vs Hyde... or is that Hyde vs Jekyll? Tune in and find out.
Sharks v Sea Eagles
Sea Eagles by 4
The Sea Eagles got well and truly touched up last week but they weren't as bad as the score suggests (unfortunately). On Sharks home turf this should be a good stoush but the birdies will fall over the line.
Roosters v Warriors
Draw
Something might galvanise the Warriors soon into playing some football. The attitude is generally there but there's no x-factor with that dud Jones in the halves but maybe seeing your captain get laid out during the week will make them do something good for once. But I'm going with form and pick a 0-0 result.
Tigers v Cowboys
Tigers by 6
Thurston will probably have an absolute stormer but the Tigers may just have sorted their shit out. Or not.
Eels v Storm
Storm by 2
Hindmarsh's 250th game won't quite be enough to get the Eels home here. The Storm will have a few battered and bruised but they will have had 5 days rest so should take care of business.
Broncos by 8
Might be hard for the Broncos after THAT match as half their side is in out or in doubt but I reckon this will kick off a rocking round of football with everybody pumped up and ready to belt the crap out of everybody else. Broncos to give Queenslanders something to smile about.
Bulldogs v Titans
Bulldogs by 4
This should be a cracker but the Bulldogs have too many bullets and the Titans are flattering to decieve with their possie on the ladder.
Panthers v Raiders
Panthers by 6
This is a bloody lottery. It's Jekyll vs Hyde... or is that Hyde vs Jekyll? Tune in and find out.
Sharks v Sea Eagles
Sea Eagles by 4
The Sea Eagles got well and truly touched up last week but they weren't as bad as the score suggests (unfortunately). On Sharks home turf this should be a good stoush but the birdies will fall over the line.
Roosters v Warriors
Draw
Something might galvanise the Warriors soon into playing some football. The attitude is generally there but there's no x-factor with that dud Jones in the halves but maybe seeing your captain get laid out during the week will make them do something good for once. But I'm going with form and pick a 0-0 result.
Tigers v Cowboys
Tigers by 6
Thurston will probably have an absolute stormer but the Tigers may just have sorted their shit out. Or not.
Eels v Storm
Storm by 2
Hindmarsh's 250th game won't quite be enough to get the Eels home here. The Storm will have a few battered and bruised but they will have had 5 days rest so should take care of business.
Labels: nrl, NRL 2009, nrl tipping, nrl tipping 09
Thursday, July 02, 2009
NRL showtime
After a shithouse week last week I'm hoping to bounce back and reassert my ascendency or some wanky thing like that.
Broncos v Warriors
Broncos by 16
Warriors to play the Broncos back into form. Cleary one step closer to early termination of contract. Can anybody quite believe they've let Fien go early when they have Hohaia (a fullback) and Jones (a has-been) in the halves?
Dragons v Roosters
Dragons by 6
The Roosters will put up a better than expected showing but may be missing a couple of dickheads from their side. The Dragons are looking better and better as the year goes on but still look like a bunch of dorks and will face plant in the semis.
Rabbitohs v Tigers
Rabbitohs by 2
Battle of two woefully out of form sides. I guess one of them can't lose but the question is who? The Rabbitohs showed a little bit of something last week and will need to build on it.
Storm v Knights
Storm by 10
The Storm had an off game (they've crept in this year) and the Knights have been in bad knick and only beat the Bunnies last week so I have to go with the home side bouncing back.
Sharks v Cowboys
Sharks by 6
Could go either way but the Sharks have turned over a new leaf ... although there was that loss to the awesome Roosters last week (eyes bulge).
Raiders v Titans
Raiders by 10
The Raiders are so unpredictable. If they turn up they can beat anybody (at home), but when they don't anybody can knock them over. Too moody for me, but what can you do? I hope they take their happy pills Friday night. And in the NRL they probably will, plus a whole lot of other ones too..... and some booze..... and then meet some ladies..... and then realise those ladies are the Titans.
Panthers v Eels
Panthers by 4
This could go either way. Two very average sides that are temperamental. The Eels are a little more plain though and maybe the Panthers will spark a bit and have some smoked eel for sunday dinner.
Sea Eagles v Bulldogs
Bulldogs by 4
A big Monday night match!! Who knew?!!! The Bulldogs are a better team and playing better footie but the Sea Eagles could definately prove that they are back and a chance to defend their title.
Broncos v Warriors
Broncos by 16
Warriors to play the Broncos back into form. Cleary one step closer to early termination of contract. Can anybody quite believe they've let Fien go early when they have Hohaia (a fullback) and Jones (a has-been) in the halves?
Dragons v Roosters
Dragons by 6
The Roosters will put up a better than expected showing but may be missing a couple of dickheads from their side. The Dragons are looking better and better as the year goes on but still look like a bunch of dorks and will face plant in the semis.
Rabbitohs v Tigers
Rabbitohs by 2
Battle of two woefully out of form sides. I guess one of them can't lose but the question is who? The Rabbitohs showed a little bit of something last week and will need to build on it.
Storm v Knights
Storm by 10
The Storm had an off game (they've crept in this year) and the Knights have been in bad knick and only beat the Bunnies last week so I have to go with the home side bouncing back.
Sharks v Cowboys
Sharks by 6
Could go either way but the Sharks have turned over a new leaf ... although there was that loss to the awesome Roosters last week (eyes bulge).
Raiders v Titans
Raiders by 10
The Raiders are so unpredictable. If they turn up they can beat anybody (at home), but when they don't anybody can knock them over. Too moody for me, but what can you do? I hope they take their happy pills Friday night. And in the NRL they probably will, plus a whole lot of other ones too..... and some booze..... and then meet some ladies..... and then realise those ladies are the Titans.
Panthers v Eels
Panthers by 4
This could go either way. Two very average sides that are temperamental. The Eels are a little more plain though and maybe the Panthers will spark a bit and have some smoked eel for sunday dinner.
Sea Eagles v Bulldogs
Bulldogs by 4
A big Monday night match!! Who knew?!!! The Bulldogs are a better team and playing better footie but the Sea Eagles could definately prove that they are back and a chance to defend their title.
Labels: nrl, nrl tipping, nrl tipping 09
Thursday, June 11, 2009
NRL Week 14 or Thereabouts
Warriors v Knights
Warriors by 6
Apparently I have free tickets to this game, though I'm still waiting to find out where the hell I get them from so I'll go for the Warriors (since it's them that are giving them to me).
Broncos v Bulldogs
Broncos by 4
I hear there's more chance of pigs flying than this game taking place at the present moment.
Panthers v Sea Eagles
Panthers by 4
Oh god I hope so. The Sea Eagles are starting to get their game on and what a pity that is. Be good if the Panthers can keep them struggling to enter the 8 for another week or two.
Rabbitohs v Storm
Storm by 18
The Rabbitohs really have lost the plot. Without enthusiasm and confidence they've got nothing and right now they don't have much enthusiasm or confidence so I'll leave it for you to work out.
Roosters v Titans
Titans by 8
Something strange is telling me to tip the Roosters but the Titans are playing with too much energy at the moment and the Roosters are being coached by somebody who appears to be not a very good coach.
Dragons v Cowboys
Dragons by 2
This should be one of the better matches this round. The over rated Dragons v the unpredictable Cowboys. If Thurstons on it's game on. If not the Dragons will stumble over the line.
Raiders v Sharks
Raiders by 14
The Sharks flattered to deceive in the past couple of weeks. The Eels threw it away late and the Warriors threw it away early and yet the Sharks still needed a shitty handling display by an ordinary team to win last week. Raiders will put them to the sword.
Eels v Tigers
Eels by 8
The Eels have a new found confidence and are at home. That said the Tigers are surely due (I said that last week didn't I?) for a win. But I think they are hitting a pretty crap team at a bad time while they themselves are purely having a bad time.
Warriors by 6
Apparently I have free tickets to this game, though I'm still waiting to find out where the hell I get them from so I'll go for the Warriors (since it's them that are giving them to me).
Broncos v Bulldogs
Broncos by 4
I hear there's more chance of pigs flying than this game taking place at the present moment.
Panthers v Sea Eagles
Panthers by 4
Oh god I hope so. The Sea Eagles are starting to get their game on and what a pity that is. Be good if the Panthers can keep them struggling to enter the 8 for another week or two.
Rabbitohs v Storm
Storm by 18
The Rabbitohs really have lost the plot. Without enthusiasm and confidence they've got nothing and right now they don't have much enthusiasm or confidence so I'll leave it for you to work out.
Roosters v Titans
Titans by 8
Something strange is telling me to tip the Roosters but the Titans are playing with too much energy at the moment and the Roosters are being coached by somebody who appears to be not a very good coach.
Dragons v Cowboys
Dragons by 2
This should be one of the better matches this round. The over rated Dragons v the unpredictable Cowboys. If Thurstons on it's game on. If not the Dragons will stumble over the line.
Raiders v Sharks
Raiders by 14
The Sharks flattered to deceive in the past couple of weeks. The Eels threw it away late and the Warriors threw it away early and yet the Sharks still needed a shitty handling display by an ordinary team to win last week. Raiders will put them to the sword.
Eels v Tigers
Eels by 8
The Eels have a new found confidence and are at home. That said the Tigers are surely due (I said that last week didn't I?) for a win. But I think they are hitting a pretty crap team at a bad time while they themselves are purely having a bad time.
Labels: nrl, NRL 2009, nrl swine flu, nrl tipping, nrl tipping 2009, swine flu
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
NRL Week umm.... 13?
Tigers v Panthers
Tigers by 6
Could be a tight one because the Tigers really should have got much closer to the Warriors and Sheens is getting pretty grumpy watching them lose 4 straight. I'm going to pick slightly against form in this one because they'll have to turn things around soon.
Storm v Broncos
Storm by 8
A funny clash to have straight after Origin. It'll be the Queensland team playing itself. I guess that evens things out a bit. Might be a bit tough on the Brisbane boys though who will fly back to Brisbane I presume and then back down to Melbourne a day later. Surely not? Home team to be more organised for the win though.
Sea Eagles v Roosters
Sea Eagles by 22
Gee, this one looks hard to pick.
Cowboys v RabbitohsCowboys by 10
The Rabbitohs are starting to play a bit loose and should suffer for it up in Townsville. Provided Thurston comes out of Origin injury free he has shown he can back up and play great footie. The Rabbitohs ship should start to take on a bit more water this weekend.
Sharks v Warriors
Warriors by 2
This should be a very ordinary game. I have a feeling the Sharks may cut loose a bit (however they will still be the most boring side in the comp), but they are up against a warriors team with a sleep inducing attack themselves who much prefer to grind teams down. It'll come down to who wants it more (or less).
Knights v Eels
Knights by 8
The Knights are a bit of an irresistable force at the moment. They don't quite have the team to bank on week in and week out but Smith has them playing so well as a team that they should knock over his old joint with Hagan at the helm.
Titans v Dragons
Titans by 4
Hmmmmm, dependable Titans v in form Dragons. Somebody's night will end in tears. Hopefully the white booted show ponies.
Tigers by 6
Could be a tight one because the Tigers really should have got much closer to the Warriors and Sheens is getting pretty grumpy watching them lose 4 straight. I'm going to pick slightly against form in this one because they'll have to turn things around soon.
Storm v Broncos
Storm by 8
A funny clash to have straight after Origin. It'll be the Queensland team playing itself. I guess that evens things out a bit. Might be a bit tough on the Brisbane boys though who will fly back to Brisbane I presume and then back down to Melbourne a day later. Surely not? Home team to be more organised for the win though.
Sea Eagles v Roosters
Sea Eagles by 22
Gee, this one looks hard to pick.
Cowboys v RabbitohsCowboys by 10
The Rabbitohs are starting to play a bit loose and should suffer for it up in Townsville. Provided Thurston comes out of Origin injury free he has shown he can back up and play great footie. The Rabbitohs ship should start to take on a bit more water this weekend.
Sharks v Warriors
Warriors by 2
This should be a very ordinary game. I have a feeling the Sharks may cut loose a bit (however they will still be the most boring side in the comp), but they are up against a warriors team with a sleep inducing attack themselves who much prefer to grind teams down. It'll come down to who wants it more (or less).
Knights v Eels
Knights by 8
The Knights are a bit of an irresistable force at the moment. They don't quite have the team to bank on week in and week out but Smith has them playing so well as a team that they should knock over his old joint with Hagan at the helm.
Titans v Dragons
Titans by 4
Hmmmmm, dependable Titans v in form Dragons. Somebody's night will end in tears. Hopefully the white booted show ponies.
Labels: nrl, nrl tipping, nrl tipping 09
Saturday, May 02, 2009
NRL Week 9 picks
Bit late posting here but I've been away and put them in the mix at sportsfreak with no commentary so will repeat that here.
Eels by 1 over the Cowboys
Storm by 4 over the Sea Eagles
Titans by 6 over the Rabbitohs
Sharks by 2 over the Roosters
Broncos by 8 over the Knights
Raiders by 4 over the Panthers
Dragons by 4 over the Warriors
Bulldogs by 10 over the Tigers
Got the first two right. Including those picks I have now improved to 67% for the season. Better than any of these muppets.
Please excuse me. My daughter wants me to jump up and down on the spare bed. I think I better buy her a trampoline.
Eels by 1 over the Cowboys
Storm by 4 over the Sea Eagles
Titans by 6 over the Rabbitohs
Sharks by 2 over the Roosters
Broncos by 8 over the Knights
Raiders by 4 over the Panthers
Dragons by 4 over the Warriors
Bulldogs by 10 over the Tigers
Got the first two right. Including those picks I have now improved to 67% for the season. Better than any of these muppets.
Please excuse me. My daughter wants me to jump up and down on the spare bed. I think I better buy her a trampoline.
Labels: nrl, NRL 2009, nrl tipping
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
NRL Week 7 picks
Broncos v Eels
Broncos by 14
The Eels have had a fairly happy time of it up in Brisbane over the years but this side isn't playing well enough to threaten an upset here. The Broncos should be in control throughout.
Rabbitohs v Sharks
Rabbitohs by 8
Promises to be a bit of a borefest with the Bunnies off the boil and the Sharks dead in the water. Panic alarms will be hit out that way if this keeps up much lonnger. What a shame because Stuart is such a likeable bloke.
Cowboys v Sea Eagles
Cowboys by 4
The loss of the nutjob is a hammer blow to the Sea Eagles who had fed off his return to start playing footie again. They will still bring that into this game though so the game is on a knife edge and could come down to a few tight calls and the home team often seems to get a handup with those.
Roosters v Dragons
Dragons by 4
This will be interesting. The Roosters showed up to Mt Smart and played 40 minutes of football just like last year. They are going to develop a rep as a streaky team that goes well in patches and rubbish the rest of the time like the Bulldogs in recent years. Dragons to bounce back and pip them.
Storm v Warriors
Storm by 6
The Warriors will hold them for a lot of the game but get caught out by a piece or two of brilliance and some defence that clocks off.
Raiders v Bulldogs
Raiders by 8
This is hard to call. A team that usually plays well at home but this year is going OK away (Raiders) v a team that is going well but prone to folding when things don't go their way. Depends who is fastest out of the blocks and gets momentum and I think the Raiders might just spark.
Tigers v Knights
Tigers by 8
I have no confidence in this result whatsoever. The Knights knocked over the Dragons away last week and this Tigers side has gone WLWLLW with their key players seem to have trouble sparking two weeks in a row. Will be decided in the first half when one team shows it wants it more and the other concedes.
Panthers v Titans
Panthers by 6
The Panthers were horrible on defence last week and are playing a team that leads the comp but only has the 10th best attack averaging 18.7 points a game. This will be won with 3 or 4 tries by either team. The Titans have the best defence in the comp conceding just 12.3 points per match so the Panthers need to crack that tryline.
Broncos by 14
The Eels have had a fairly happy time of it up in Brisbane over the years but this side isn't playing well enough to threaten an upset here. The Broncos should be in control throughout.
Rabbitohs v Sharks
Rabbitohs by 8
Promises to be a bit of a borefest with the Bunnies off the boil and the Sharks dead in the water. Panic alarms will be hit out that way if this keeps up much lonnger. What a shame because Stuart is such a likeable bloke.
Cowboys v Sea Eagles
Cowboys by 4
The loss of the nutjob is a hammer blow to the Sea Eagles who had fed off his return to start playing footie again. They will still bring that into this game though so the game is on a knife edge and could come down to a few tight calls and the home team often seems to get a handup with those.
Roosters v Dragons
Dragons by 4
This will be interesting. The Roosters showed up to Mt Smart and played 40 minutes of football just like last year. They are going to develop a rep as a streaky team that goes well in patches and rubbish the rest of the time like the Bulldogs in recent years. Dragons to bounce back and pip them.
Storm v Warriors
Storm by 6
The Warriors will hold them for a lot of the game but get caught out by a piece or two of brilliance and some defence that clocks off.
Raiders v Bulldogs
Raiders by 8
This is hard to call. A team that usually plays well at home but this year is going OK away (Raiders) v a team that is going well but prone to folding when things don't go their way. Depends who is fastest out of the blocks and gets momentum and I think the Raiders might just spark.
Tigers v Knights
Tigers by 8
I have no confidence in this result whatsoever. The Knights knocked over the Dragons away last week and this Tigers side has gone WLWLLW with their key players seem to have trouble sparking two weeks in a row. Will be decided in the first half when one team shows it wants it more and the other concedes.
Panthers v Titans
Panthers by 6
The Panthers were horrible on defence last week and are playing a team that leads the comp but only has the 10th best attack averaging 18.7 points a game. This will be won with 3 or 4 tries by either team. The Titans have the best defence in the comp conceding just 12.3 points per match so the Panthers need to crack that tryline.
Labels: nrl, NRL 2009, nrl tipping
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Last Weeks NRL picks - week 5
Was a tad busy and didn't have time to post them here but they were up at sportsfreak if you don't believe me. I've added comments to see how accurate I was.
Roosters vs Broncos
Broncos by 2
If this game was played last week you'd be all over the Broncos but after a handy win to the Roosters and the Broncos crashing at home it's a bit more in the balance. I think the Roosters may surprise but I'm just tilting the other way.
(Broncos by 4) In the end the Broncos did it fairly comfortably save for the last ten minutes when they went to sleep to make it fairly close on the scoreboard.
Eels vs Dragons
Dragons by 8
The Dragons are on a roll and the Eels are going to be a bottom four side this year. It is make or break time for them to prove otherwise, but I don't think it will happen in this one.
(Dragons by 14) Yep, about right though the Dragons walked over them more than thought.
Sharks vs Raiders
Sharks by 6
It really is great to see a side that plays negative, defence oriented football losing early on. It doesn't win you premierships (usually because you get blown out of the water before getting a title shot). But they are surely going to get over the line here... somehow.
(Raiders by 10) Jeez, the Sharks really have lost their confidence. I suppose it must be demoralising to have one game plan and know in advance that it ain't going to win the title or even get very close so they are probably wondering why they are even showing up to play footie.
Storm vs Panthers
Storm by 12
The Storm rolled at home by the Titans?! I saw it but couldn't believe it. They played their usual up the guts style but for some reason they weren't getting the results and the Titans clicked with their attacking raids. The Panthers were hot to trot and have back to back wins but surely both teams can't keep repeating....”
(Storm by 2) The Storm just aren't the side they have been in past seasons but they got a tight one done and the Panthers are probably starting to convince a few people that they won't be sucking on the wooden spoon.
Cowboys vs Titans
Cowboys by 10
This shapes as an interesting clash. Titans are healthy and proving they can win difficult road games. The Cowboys on the other hand are a side that can put you to bed when in the mood. The Titans might be a bit complacent after last week and have the night off.
(Titans by 4) As long as the Titans stay injury free they look alright and this is an impressive result.
Knights vs Warriors
Knights by 14
The Knights should run amok. The Warriors will welcome somebody, anybody back from injury but it won't be enough to knock over these guys at home.
(Knights by 2) Looked like I would be bang on here at one point but to give this Warriors side credit they are understrength and in years gone by they would have given up and lost by 40, but they rolled the sleeves up and gave themselves a shot.
Sea Eagles vs Tigers
Sea Eagles by 8
It ends here, now.
(Sea Eagles by 13) It ended alright. Stewart scoring 3 would have made everybody feel a bit uncomfortable, including many Sea Eagles fans who probably still think the guys a dickhead.
Bulldogs vs Rabbitohs
Bulldogs by 2
The Rabbits have a very solid attacking unit and their defense was incredibly organised and committed last week. The Bulldogs on the otherhand will throw up any old sort of effort so this is one of those 50/50 calls and I think they'll scrape home by a late try.
(Bulldogs by 2) Snap!!!
6 from 8. That's solid as fuck in this comp. I'll take it and move through to 60% for the season.
Roosters vs Broncos
Broncos by 2
If this game was played last week you'd be all over the Broncos but after a handy win to the Roosters and the Broncos crashing at home it's a bit more in the balance. I think the Roosters may surprise but I'm just tilting the other way.
(Broncos by 4) In the end the Broncos did it fairly comfortably save for the last ten minutes when they went to sleep to make it fairly close on the scoreboard.
Eels vs Dragons
Dragons by 8
The Dragons are on a roll and the Eels are going to be a bottom four side this year. It is make or break time for them to prove otherwise, but I don't think it will happen in this one.
(Dragons by 14) Yep, about right though the Dragons walked over them more than thought.
Sharks vs Raiders
Sharks by 6
It really is great to see a side that plays negative, defence oriented football losing early on. It doesn't win you premierships (usually because you get blown out of the water before getting a title shot). But they are surely going to get over the line here... somehow.
(Raiders by 10) Jeez, the Sharks really have lost their confidence. I suppose it must be demoralising to have one game plan and know in advance that it ain't going to win the title or even get very close so they are probably wondering why they are even showing up to play footie.
Storm vs Panthers
Storm by 12
The Storm rolled at home by the Titans?! I saw it but couldn't believe it. They played their usual up the guts style but for some reason they weren't getting the results and the Titans clicked with their attacking raids. The Panthers were hot to trot and have back to back wins but surely both teams can't keep repeating....”
(Storm by 2) The Storm just aren't the side they have been in past seasons but they got a tight one done and the Panthers are probably starting to convince a few people that they won't be sucking on the wooden spoon.
Cowboys vs Titans
Cowboys by 10
This shapes as an interesting clash. Titans are healthy and proving they can win difficult road games. The Cowboys on the other hand are a side that can put you to bed when in the mood. The Titans might be a bit complacent after last week and have the night off.
(Titans by 4) As long as the Titans stay injury free they look alright and this is an impressive result.
Knights vs Warriors
Knights by 14
The Knights should run amok. The Warriors will welcome somebody, anybody back from injury but it won't be enough to knock over these guys at home.
(Knights by 2) Looked like I would be bang on here at one point but to give this Warriors side credit they are understrength and in years gone by they would have given up and lost by 40, but they rolled the sleeves up and gave themselves a shot.
Sea Eagles vs Tigers
Sea Eagles by 8
It ends here, now.
(Sea Eagles by 13) It ended alright. Stewart scoring 3 would have made everybody feel a bit uncomfortable, including many Sea Eagles fans who probably still think the guys a dickhead.
Bulldogs vs Rabbitohs
Bulldogs by 2
The Rabbits have a very solid attacking unit and their defense was incredibly organised and committed last week. The Bulldogs on the otherhand will throw up any old sort of effort so this is one of those 50/50 calls and I think they'll scrape home by a late try.
(Bulldogs by 2) Snap!!!
6 from 8. That's solid as fuck in this comp. I'll take it and move through to 60% for the season.
Labels: NRL 2009, nrl tipping
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Go the mighty Warriors
Much cheering here from the team at BIR. I got to five or six home games this year, including the awesome win over the Storm in the, err, storm ... A rational tipster might say it's a "bridge too far" for you against Manly tonight. Mind you, the same tipster might have been picking Cronulla over Melbourne. (Come to think of it, I was informally picking Cronulla too).
But, moving right along, it would be great to have a grand final free from the malevolent influence of Sydney teams, so I'm picking the Warriors. This is totally a heart-over-head decision, but fuck it. If they play really well, they'll win.
But, moving right along, it would be great to have a grand final free from the malevolent influence of Sydney teams, so I'm picking the Warriors. This is totally a heart-over-head decision, but fuck it. If they play really well, they'll win.
Labels: nrl playoffs, nrl tipping, warriors
Thursday, July 31, 2008
My league tips
A decent week with 6 out of 8. Mind you, everybody got there or thereabouts.
I'll just update my inconsistency stats for the hell of it and since it's easy to do now. If you missed the explanation the first time they are the number of times a team has alternated from a win to a loss or a loss to a win in consecutive weeks. So most inconsistent are at the top.
Eels 10
Broncos 9
Panthers 9
Titans 9
Raiders 9
Warriors 9
Storm 9
Sharks 9
Tigers 9
Bulldogs 8
Knights 8
Roosters 8
Dragons 7
Sea Eagles 6
Rabbitohs 4
Cowboys 2
So what that basically shows is that the only consistent teams are the ones that lose all the time (Rabbitohs and Cowboys). Everybody else, even the top sides like the Sharks and Storm are as inconsistent as the Warriors, they have just had the odd time where they have won 5 or so in a row compared to the Warriors losing of a few in a row. There haven't been the big winning streaks from many teams except Manly with 7, Dragons with 7, Storm with 5, Sharks with 5, Rabbitohs with 5, and several teams with 4.
I'm going with the home team in 6 of the 8 games but they are the higher ranked teams. For some reason around this time of the year you get lots of upsets (desperate teams I suppose) but then in the last month the upsets dry up a bit. I hope so because I need all the correct picks I can get.
Sea Eagles v Panthers
Sea Eagles by 10
Sea Eagles to get the train back on the rails. Was it a wakeup call last week that they will answer or did they start to realise they just aren't that shit hot afterall?
Storm v Titans
Storm by 28
The Titans confidence will be rock bottom and the Storm will be a bit pissed. Crockett suffering his FIRST EVER loss in a Storm jersey apparently. It should be no contest whatsoever.
Sharks v Dragons
Sharks by 8
There's probably some weird stat that I don't know about like the Sharks not having beaten the Dragons at Shark Park in 6 years or some shit, but they should be too tough for a Dragons team that has been a bit off colour recently, probably to do with the pink shirts they wore.
Cowboys v Roosters
Roosters by 18
At some stage the Cowboys will surely win a game, but probably not this one unless the Roosters take the week off after winning one they weren't supposed to.
Rabbitohs v Warriors
Warriors by 6
The Warriors will be out for some revenge after last time where they refused to tackle and the Rabbits ran them ragged up the guts, outwide, fucken anywhere they liked. The Rabbits could trouble them again if they play an expansive game and handle the ball well but the Warriors must surely have the confidence to come out with the two points.
Tigers v Bulldogs
Tigers by 8
Meow beats woof in this one. The Dogs don't have anybody left in their club do they?
Broncos v Raiders
Broncos by 10
The Raiders will feel like league is easy after last week but should find a team that wants to tackle in this one. Broncos have been very up and down this year and will need to go with the former if they don't want to slide out of the playoffs with a big chasing pack.
Knights v Eels
Knights by 2
I hope so because I really don't like the Eels much. And with the coaches its a bit like the league version of Deans v Henry.
I'll just update my inconsistency stats for the hell of it and since it's easy to do now. If you missed the explanation the first time they are the number of times a team has alternated from a win to a loss or a loss to a win in consecutive weeks. So most inconsistent are at the top.
Eels 10
Broncos 9
Panthers 9
Titans 9
Raiders 9
Warriors 9
Storm 9
Sharks 9
Tigers 9
Bulldogs 8
Knights 8
Roosters 8
Dragons 7
Sea Eagles 6
Rabbitohs 4
Cowboys 2
So what that basically shows is that the only consistent teams are the ones that lose all the time (Rabbitohs and Cowboys). Everybody else, even the top sides like the Sharks and Storm are as inconsistent as the Warriors, they have just had the odd time where they have won 5 or so in a row compared to the Warriors losing of a few in a row. There haven't been the big winning streaks from many teams except Manly with 7, Dragons with 7, Storm with 5, Sharks with 5, Rabbitohs with 5, and several teams with 4.
I'm going with the home team in 6 of the 8 games but they are the higher ranked teams. For some reason around this time of the year you get lots of upsets (desperate teams I suppose) but then in the last month the upsets dry up a bit. I hope so because I need all the correct picks I can get.
Sea Eagles v Panthers
Sea Eagles by 10
Sea Eagles to get the train back on the rails. Was it a wakeup call last week that they will answer or did they start to realise they just aren't that shit hot afterall?
Storm v Titans
Storm by 28
The Titans confidence will be rock bottom and the Storm will be a bit pissed. Crockett suffering his FIRST EVER loss in a Storm jersey apparently. It should be no contest whatsoever.
Sharks v Dragons
Sharks by 8
There's probably some weird stat that I don't know about like the Sharks not having beaten the Dragons at Shark Park in 6 years or some shit, but they should be too tough for a Dragons team that has been a bit off colour recently, probably to do with the pink shirts they wore.
Cowboys v Roosters
Roosters by 18
At some stage the Cowboys will surely win a game, but probably not this one unless the Roosters take the week off after winning one they weren't supposed to.
Rabbitohs v Warriors
Warriors by 6
The Warriors will be out for some revenge after last time where they refused to tackle and the Rabbits ran them ragged up the guts, outwide, fucken anywhere they liked. The Rabbits could trouble them again if they play an expansive game and handle the ball well but the Warriors must surely have the confidence to come out with the two points.
Tigers v Bulldogs
Tigers by 8
Meow beats woof in this one. The Dogs don't have anybody left in their club do they?
Broncos v Raiders
Broncos by 10
The Raiders will feel like league is easy after last week but should find a team that wants to tackle in this one. Broncos have been very up and down this year and will need to go with the former if they don't want to slide out of the playoffs with a big chasing pack.
Knights v Eels
Knights by 2
I hope so because I really don't like the Eels much. And with the coaches its a bit like the league version of Deans v Henry.
Labels: nrl tipping
Friday, July 25, 2008
NRL Week infinity
I've been having a bit of a shocker but am not alone there. Going in the high 50% range which is a touch worse than last year. I'm hoping to break 60% but am fast running out of time. Not helped of course by teams following up good wins with awful losses and home teams losing to teams they should beat. There is nothing but a little inside knowledge, some gut instinct and plain old good luck to go on tipping in the NRL. The friday night games (matches of the round) are always the easiest to tip and regularly I and others are 2-0 going into the saturday games and then things tend to turn to shit with say 2 or 3 correct from 6 games being pretty common.
I've actually gone through the teams form records and compiled a list of the most consistent/inconsistent. It's worked out by the number of times they have followed a win with a loss or a loss with a win.
The winner is the Panthers who have alternated 10 times. The most consistent team is the Cowboys who have alternated only twice. Three losses followed by three wins followed by eleven losses. Impressively, consistently shit. Here's the full list.
Panthers 10
Broncos 9 (11 if you count the draw which I'm not)
Titans 9
Raiders 9
Warriors 9
Eels 9
Storm 8
Sharks 8
Tigers 8
Bulldogs 8
Roosters 7
Knights 7
Dragons 6
Sea Eagles 5
Rabbitohs 4
Cowboys 2
So I guess that means good teams to tip for or against are the Dragons, Sea Eagles, Rabbitohs and Cowboys. Bad teams to try to tip are the Panthers, Broncos, Titans, Raiders and Warriors. And the rest aren't much better.
Anyway, this weeks tips are below and follow the link to compare them to Sportsfreak and Leaguefreak.
Broncos v Sharks
Broncos by 8
Broncos won last week and got a right royal telling off from the coach about a shit effort. After all, they only beat the Cowboys. Sharks were a bit fortunate to grind out a win and shouldn't quite have enough to take this one out.
Eels v Cowboys
Eels by 16
The Eels could potentially screw this one up but the way the Cowboys are going you just can't tip them to win anything.
Raiders v Titans
Raiders by 14
Titans on the road, Raiders at home. How cliched is this?
Panthers v Tigers
Panthers by 8
Tigers ended the Bunnies streak last week so are ina touch of form but these two teams have followed wins with losses and losses with wins all year so the form book says fuck all. I'm having a guess and reckon the black pussies beat the ginger pussies.
Warriors v Storm
Storm by 12
This is the sort of game that the Warriors can definately win. They have risen for home games v top sides (provided they have a bit of form) many times before. The only problem is that the Storm are probably 2 or 3 levels above them most weeks. And you'd pick the Storm to win this maybe 7 or 8 times out of 10 so I'll go with the head.
Knights v Rabbitohs
Knights by 10
The Knights have been ridiculously inconsistent and the Rabbitohs have the ability to come home strong and lay points on at a rate of knots, but the loss last week might have just knocked a little bit of their stuffing out.
Roosters v Sea Eagles
Sea Eagles by 6
The Sea Eagles have been playing good footie but against some of the pretenders. This is a chance for them to really crank it up and make a few more people take notice. It still won't matter for shit later in the year though.
Dragons v Bulldogs
Dragons by 8
Well SBW didn't play and their WAS a full moon so that mean't I was fucked. With two Bulldogs suspended and after last weeks effort you'd say no chance for the Dogs. The Dragons though have hit a speed bump with consecutive losses so should lift for this one.
I've actually gone through the teams form records and compiled a list of the most consistent/inconsistent. It's worked out by the number of times they have followed a win with a loss or a loss with a win.
The winner is the Panthers who have alternated 10 times. The most consistent team is the Cowboys who have alternated only twice. Three losses followed by three wins followed by eleven losses. Impressively, consistently shit. Here's the full list.
Panthers 10
Broncos 9 (11 if you count the draw which I'm not)
Titans 9
Raiders 9
Warriors 9
Eels 9
Storm 8
Sharks 8
Tigers 8
Bulldogs 8
Roosters 7
Knights 7
Dragons 6
Sea Eagles 5
Rabbitohs 4
Cowboys 2
So I guess that means good teams to tip for or against are the Dragons, Sea Eagles, Rabbitohs and Cowboys. Bad teams to try to tip are the Panthers, Broncos, Titans, Raiders and Warriors. And the rest aren't much better.
Anyway, this weeks tips are below and follow the link to compare them to Sportsfreak and Leaguefreak.
Broncos v Sharks
Broncos by 8
Broncos won last week and got a right royal telling off from the coach about a shit effort. After all, they only beat the Cowboys. Sharks were a bit fortunate to grind out a win and shouldn't quite have enough to take this one out.
Eels v Cowboys
Eels by 16
The Eels could potentially screw this one up but the way the Cowboys are going you just can't tip them to win anything.
Raiders v Titans
Raiders by 14
Titans on the road, Raiders at home. How cliched is this?
Panthers v Tigers
Panthers by 8
Tigers ended the Bunnies streak last week so are ina touch of form but these two teams have followed wins with losses and losses with wins all year so the form book says fuck all. I'm having a guess and reckon the black pussies beat the ginger pussies.
Warriors v Storm
Storm by 12
This is the sort of game that the Warriors can definately win. They have risen for home games v top sides (provided they have a bit of form) many times before. The only problem is that the Storm are probably 2 or 3 levels above them most weeks. And you'd pick the Storm to win this maybe 7 or 8 times out of 10 so I'll go with the head.
Knights v Rabbitohs
Knights by 10
The Knights have been ridiculously inconsistent and the Rabbitohs have the ability to come home strong and lay points on at a rate of knots, but the loss last week might have just knocked a little bit of their stuffing out.
Roosters v Sea Eagles
Sea Eagles by 6
The Sea Eagles have been playing good footie but against some of the pretenders. This is a chance for them to really crank it up and make a few more people take notice. It still won't matter for shit later in the year though.
Dragons v Bulldogs
Dragons by 8
Well SBW didn't play and their WAS a full moon so that mean't I was fucked. With two Bulldogs suspended and after last weeks effort you'd say no chance for the Dogs. The Dragons though have hit a speed bump with consecutive losses so should lift for this one.
Labels: nrl tipping
Thursday, June 12, 2008
NRL Round 15? picks
Shucks, is Inglis impressive in full flight or what. Inspector gadget. Not sure about Origin 3 as it may depend on injuries and selections but you'd fancy Queensland a good chance of pulling it out of their arse in Sydney. NSW will be hugely pumped up though to redeem themselves and the game always starts 0-0. Nice cliches in there.
Roosters v Panthers
Roosters by 10
Roosters will bounce back from an embarrasing display. Losing two games badly in two weeks is usually a sign of a team that is actually not very good so don't expect it from the chooks.
Sharks v Warriors
Sharks by 10
With Tait and Price coming back and what will have probably been a lot of soul searching the Warriors are an outside shot in this game but I think Stuart will have his solid Sharks ready and waiting for whatever we can throw at them.
Raiders v Broncos
Broncos by 6
Fifteen years ago this would have got the mouth watering, but now maybe makes you feel like a small health snack. I have no idea really but if the Broncos can get a healthy team out there they should go OK.
Tigers v Eels
Tigers by 8
Marshall just starting to show signs of his old self so he must be due for a serious injury. Look for the Tigers to develop a bit of consistency for the first time this year.
Cowboys v Knights
Cowboys by 4
Knights won on the road last week v a crap team and they may well do it this week as well but the Cowboys are approaching last chance saloon so MUST win this one.
Roosters v Panthers
Roosters by 10
Roosters will bounce back from an embarrasing display. Losing two games badly in two weeks is usually a sign of a team that is actually not very good so don't expect it from the chooks.
Sharks v Warriors
Sharks by 10
With Tait and Price coming back and what will have probably been a lot of soul searching the Warriors are an outside shot in this game but I think Stuart will have his solid Sharks ready and waiting for whatever we can throw at them.
Raiders v Broncos
Broncos by 6
Fifteen years ago this would have got the mouth watering, but now maybe makes you feel like a small health snack. I have no idea really but if the Broncos can get a healthy team out there they should go OK.
Tigers v Eels
Tigers by 8
Marshall just starting to show signs of his old self so he must be due for a serious injury. Look for the Tigers to develop a bit of consistency for the first time this year.
Cowboys v Knights
Cowboys by 4
Knights won on the road last week v a crap team and they may well do it this week as well but the Cowboys are approaching last chance saloon so MUST win this one.
Labels: nrl tipping, state of origin
Friday, June 06, 2008
NRL Round 14?
Who knows, lost count.
I wasn't going to post these but thanks to sports freaks computer doing an impersonation of the Bunnies season he's not able to put them up on his site so...
Dragons v Broncos
Dragons by 4
Damn!
Warriors v Rabbitohs
Warriors by 14
Would ordinarily be a lot more but with a good chunk of our attacking players or key players injured there's no way this side will cut loose. Or are the Bunnies that bad? If the Warriors lose our Toyota Cup side will play in their place next week.
Bulldogs v Knights
Bulldogs by 8
Why or why? If SBW is back then they should get up. But the Knights must be gutted with that shit performance v the Warriors.
Tigers v Cowboys
Tigers by 10
Cowboys mud on the road with no defence.
Eels v Raiders
Eels by 14
Purely venue
Panthers v Sharks
Panthers by 8
Panthers form v Sharks road record makes this a shocker to pick. I've spun the roulette wheel and the Panthers came up.
Sea Eagles v Roosters
Sea Eagles by 4
Roosters missing four to Origin but the Sea Eagles just one.
Titans v Strom
Titans by 6
Storm missing ten players, otherwise you'd have to go with them. Hell, they could still be good enough.
And Sportsfreaks picks are...
Dragons, Warriors, Bulldogs, Tigers, Eels, Sharks, Sea Eagles, Titans. Basically he totally copied me but threw in the Sharks over the Titans to disguise it.
And I adopted the unusual ploy of picking all the home teams... as usual.
I wasn't going to post these but thanks to sports freaks computer doing an impersonation of the Bunnies season he's not able to put them up on his site so...
Dragons v Broncos
Dragons by 4
Damn!
Warriors v Rabbitohs
Warriors by 14
Would ordinarily be a lot more but with a good chunk of our attacking players or key players injured there's no way this side will cut loose. Or are the Bunnies that bad? If the Warriors lose our Toyota Cup side will play in their place next week.
Bulldogs v Knights
Bulldogs by 8
Why or why? If SBW is back then they should get up. But the Knights must be gutted with that shit performance v the Warriors.
Tigers v Cowboys
Tigers by 10
Cowboys mud on the road with no defence.
Eels v Raiders
Eels by 14
Purely venue
Panthers v Sharks
Panthers by 8
Panthers form v Sharks road record makes this a shocker to pick. I've spun the roulette wheel and the Panthers came up.
Sea Eagles v Roosters
Sea Eagles by 4
Roosters missing four to Origin but the Sea Eagles just one.
Titans v Strom
Titans by 6
Storm missing ten players, otherwise you'd have to go with them. Hell, they could still be good enough.
And Sportsfreaks picks are...
Dragons, Warriors, Bulldogs, Tigers, Eels, Sharks, Sea Eagles, Titans. Basically he totally copied me but threw in the Sharks over the Titans to disguise it.
And I adopted the unusual ploy of picking all the home teams... as usual.
Labels: nrl tipping
