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
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
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
Thursday, May 21, 2009
NRL - taste buds weekend
Last weekend may have been the heritage weekend (the Warriors took it a bit far by playing like some of their sides from the late 90s).
But this week is "Taste Buds Weekend" because there are so many interesting matchups.
Here's how I see them...
Eels v Rabbitohs
Eels by 4
I'm not sure with this one. The Eels tried hard last week and have an OK side on paper (especially Hayne who was outstanding), but just don't seem to have much confidence. The Rabbitohs on the other hand don't have such a flash side on paper but are playing with tonnes of confidence. Home ground?
Tigers v Broncos
Broncos by 8
The Broncos hopefully saw a tape of the Storms game last week and will have seen the benchmark performance of the season for a side with title aspirations. At this time of the year they are always hit and miss but I'll go out on a limb and pick them.
Sharks v Dragons
Dragons by 10
The Dildo Sharks are on a massive losing streak. They are on drugs, booze, having sex orgies, handing out sex toys, and are beating up girlfriends and employees. This is a club that needs to be its own reality TV show. Forget playing footie to make bucks, they could hit the big screen.
Panthers v Roosters
Panthers by 10
I just love picking anybody v the Roosters. Especially a Roosters side this hopeless. I'm just about ready to start feeling sorry for them. Maybe next century. Oh no, hang on, that's only 91 years away now. Perhaps the one after.
Bulldogs v Storm
Storm by 6
This is arguably the clash of the year to date. The Bulldogs were robbed like you wouldn't believe last week while the Storm were so hot you'd spontaneously combust if you shook one of their hands after the game. They must have so much confidence right now that the Bulldogs will have their work cut out for them trying to dampen it down all night.
Raiders v Warriors
Raiders by 10
Even Ivan Cleary must be putting money on the Raiders in this game. They are so far off the pace in terms of recruitment, selection and form that its a wonder they'll even have the ability to find their way to the ground. Guts might get them over the line if the Raiders play like shit but probably not after the shellacking they got last time out.
Titans v Sea Eagles
Titans by 2
This should be another cracker. The Titans aren't going to be anybody's bitch (not for a while anyway) and the Sea Eagles have finally remembered last year. The Titans might scrape home in a very tight one.
Cowboys v Knights
Cowboys by 4
This shapes as another interesting clash. Both teams coming off big wins away. I think the Knights have the better side but Thurston will be the one to swing this game. If he's on form they'll get home, if not then the Knights could easily romp away with it.
But this week is "Taste Buds Weekend" because there are so many interesting matchups.
Here's how I see them...
Eels v Rabbitohs
Eels by 4
I'm not sure with this one. The Eels tried hard last week and have an OK side on paper (especially Hayne who was outstanding), but just don't seem to have much confidence. The Rabbitohs on the other hand don't have such a flash side on paper but are playing with tonnes of confidence. Home ground?
Tigers v Broncos
Broncos by 8
The Broncos hopefully saw a tape of the Storms game last week and will have seen the benchmark performance of the season for a side with title aspirations. At this time of the year they are always hit and miss but I'll go out on a limb and pick them.
Sharks v Dragons
Dragons by 10
The Dildo Sharks are on a massive losing streak. They are on drugs, booze, having sex orgies, handing out sex toys, and are beating up girlfriends and employees. This is a club that needs to be its own reality TV show. Forget playing footie to make bucks, they could hit the big screen.
Panthers v Roosters
Panthers by 10
I just love picking anybody v the Roosters. Especially a Roosters side this hopeless. I'm just about ready to start feeling sorry for them. Maybe next century. Oh no, hang on, that's only 91 years away now. Perhaps the one after.
Bulldogs v Storm
Storm by 6
This is arguably the clash of the year to date. The Bulldogs were robbed like you wouldn't believe last week while the Storm were so hot you'd spontaneously combust if you shook one of their hands after the game. They must have so much confidence right now that the Bulldogs will have their work cut out for them trying to dampen it down all night.
Raiders v Warriors
Raiders by 10
Even Ivan Cleary must be putting money on the Raiders in this game. They are so far off the pace in terms of recruitment, selection and form that its a wonder they'll even have the ability to find their way to the ground. Guts might get them over the line if the Raiders play like shit but probably not after the shellacking they got last time out.
Titans v Sea Eagles
Titans by 2
This should be another cracker. The Titans aren't going to be anybody's bitch (not for a while anyway) and the Sea Eagles have finally remembered last year. The Titans might scrape home in a very tight one.
Cowboys v Knights
Cowboys by 4
This shapes as another interesting clash. Both teams coming off big wins away. I think the Knights have the better side but Thurston will be the one to swing this game. If he's on form they'll get home, if not then the Knights could easily romp away with it.
Labels: nrl, nrl tipping 09
Friday, April 17, 2009
NRL week 6
Bit more organised this week though not with too many hours to spare.
Panthers v Broncos
Broncos by 4
Am looking forward to watching this one. The Broncos are on the road for the second week in a row but are in good knick and the Panthers look like they aren't going to roll over for anyone. Broncos in a tight tussle.
Titans v Raiders
Titans by 6
The Titans mean business. Well until they lose a few to injury anyway. The Raiders meanwhile are winning on the road, this will be a bit more open than their Sharks match though and harder to pick because of that. I think I'll just favour the Titans at home to edge them.
Dragons v Knights
Dragons by 8
Now this match in the last couple of years wouldn't have inspired much interest but this year shapes as a good one. The Knights will rock up ready to take the white boot show ponies on but the Dragons have started the year well and won't want to balls this up.
Rabbitohs v Sea Eagles
Sea Eagles by 8
I would like nothing more than to see the Bunnies beat the birds but with Wesser out they will just lose enough to see them go down to a side that might now have started to get its tail (feathers?) up.
Warriors v Roosters
Warriors by 8
If the Warriors lose this they are staring down the barrel with away matches to Melbourne and St George in the next two weeks. Welcoming back Vatuvei and Price will help but the Roosters will want some playoff revenge so this could go to the wire. Have to favour the Warriors to have the ability to just dig deep enough.
Sharks v Cowboys
Sharks by 4
This match is in Adelaide so no home ground advantage as I'm sure people from South Australia hate both Queenslanders and New South Welshmen. Surely the Sharks will be desperate enough to grind it out over a side that just still hasn't seemed to improve from last season.
Eels v Bulldogs
Bulldogs by 4
One of those 80s clashes that sticks out for those following the game for a while. The Eels are pretty mediocre all over the park and the Bulldogs while not great have bought well and are in decent form. They'll get over the line against a valiant Eels outfit.
Tigers v Storm
Tigers by 10
I don't know why I am tipping the Tigers here but they are hit and miss and they missed last week. Farah and Marshall blamed themselves for the loss last week and I'm sure they've done that before this year so will probably not want to be singling themselves out all the time so maybe they'll spark something.
Panthers v Broncos
Broncos by 4
Am looking forward to watching this one. The Broncos are on the road for the second week in a row but are in good knick and the Panthers look like they aren't going to roll over for anyone. Broncos in a tight tussle.
Titans v Raiders
Titans by 6
The Titans mean business. Well until they lose a few to injury anyway. The Raiders meanwhile are winning on the road, this will be a bit more open than their Sharks match though and harder to pick because of that. I think I'll just favour the Titans at home to edge them.
Dragons v Knights
Dragons by 8
Now this match in the last couple of years wouldn't have inspired much interest but this year shapes as a good one. The Knights will rock up ready to take the white boot show ponies on but the Dragons have started the year well and won't want to balls this up.
Rabbitohs v Sea Eagles
Sea Eagles by 8
I would like nothing more than to see the Bunnies beat the birds but with Wesser out they will just lose enough to see them go down to a side that might now have started to get its tail (feathers?) up.
Warriors v Roosters
Warriors by 8
If the Warriors lose this they are staring down the barrel with away matches to Melbourne and St George in the next two weeks. Welcoming back Vatuvei and Price will help but the Roosters will want some playoff revenge so this could go to the wire. Have to favour the Warriors to have the ability to just dig deep enough.
Sharks v Cowboys
Sharks by 4
This match is in Adelaide so no home ground advantage as I'm sure people from South Australia hate both Queenslanders and New South Welshmen. Surely the Sharks will be desperate enough to grind it out over a side that just still hasn't seemed to improve from last season.
Eels v Bulldogs
Bulldogs by 4
One of those 80s clashes that sticks out for those following the game for a while. The Eels are pretty mediocre all over the park and the Bulldogs while not great have bought well and are in decent form. They'll get over the line against a valiant Eels outfit.
Tigers v Storm
Tigers by 10
I don't know why I am tipping the Tigers here but they are hit and miss and they missed last week. Farah and Marshall blamed themselves for the loss last week and I'm sure they've done that before this year so will probably not want to be singling themselves out all the time so maybe they'll spark something.
Labels: nrl, NRL 2009, nrl tipping 09
Thursday, April 02, 2009
NRL Week 4 picks
Broncos v Dragons
Broncos by 10
In the form the horsies are in this is a no brainer. But then, stranger things have happened and Wayne bennett is coming home.
Roosters v Eels
Roosters by 6
Both teams are going to be making up the numbers this year. At least we'll no that there's no Roosters playing hungover though.
Panthers v Tigers
Panthers by8
Going with the home ground factor here. The Panthers were ordinary last week and I enjoy watching the Tigers play but it's just going to be another one of those topsy turvy displays, good one week, average the next.
Storm v Titans
Storm by 12
Too many guns v a team that will struggle to muscle up.
Warriors v Rabbitohs
Rabbitohs by 6
I know, I know, I was going to pick the Warriors to win at home all year, but hell, not with their reserve grade team. Plus I figure if I pick against them they may do a Baby Blacks for me.
Bulldogs v Sharks
Bulldogs by 8
They must be extremely fucked off at Bulldog HQ (a common feeling at the club for several years no doubt) and that should catalyse something. Anything.
Knights v Sea Eagles
Sea Eagles by 10
Surely they must be ready to explode rather than implode. I'm sure we have all enjoyed it while it lasted but Hasler will go ballistic if they drop this.
Raiders v Cowboys
Raiders by 13
The Cowboys crapped out again last week in one of those stand up and be counted matches and here they are on the road. Sides typically don't do so well after coming up against one of the top sides because it's taken a fair bit out of them so I expect a road trip to Canberra to be a bit of a slap in the face and the Cowboys to get sodomised by the Pirates.
Broncos by 10
In the form the horsies are in this is a no brainer. But then, stranger things have happened and Wayne bennett is coming home.
Roosters v Eels
Roosters by 6
Both teams are going to be making up the numbers this year. At least we'll no that there's no Roosters playing hungover though.
Panthers v Tigers
Panthers by8
Going with the home ground factor here. The Panthers were ordinary last week and I enjoy watching the Tigers play but it's just going to be another one of those topsy turvy displays, good one week, average the next.
Storm v Titans
Storm by 12
Too many guns v a team that will struggle to muscle up.
Warriors v Rabbitohs
Rabbitohs by 6
I know, I know, I was going to pick the Warriors to win at home all year, but hell, not with their reserve grade team. Plus I figure if I pick against them they may do a Baby Blacks for me.
Bulldogs v Sharks
Bulldogs by 8
They must be extremely fucked off at Bulldog HQ (a common feeling at the club for several years no doubt) and that should catalyse something. Anything.
Knights v Sea Eagles
Sea Eagles by 10
Surely they must be ready to explode rather than implode. I'm sure we have all enjoyed it while it lasted but Hasler will go ballistic if they drop this.
Raiders v Cowboys
Raiders by 13
The Cowboys crapped out again last week in one of those stand up and be counted matches and here they are on the road. Sides typically don't do so well after coming up against one of the top sides because it's taken a fair bit out of them so I expect a road trip to Canberra to be a bit of a slap in the face and the Cowboys to get sodomised by the Pirates.
Labels: nrl, nrl tipping 09
Thursday, March 26, 2009
NRL Week 3 Picks
What a shocker last weekend. Still maybe I can go like the NZ cricket team and have a good one next time out.
Tigers v Roosters
Tigers by 10
Who the flupp knows? Both teams deciding they'll play one week and not bother tackling in the other. I like the Tigers more though.
Titans v Bulldogs
Titans by 4
The Bulldogs will have had the wind taken out of their sails and didn't entirely impress me last weekend. I was expecting to see them beat the Panthers with room to spare not throw 14 players out there and get a last minute try and conversion to snatch a fake win. Titans will grind them out at home.
Warriors v Broncos
Warriors by 8
This should be a little ripper. I am going to pick the Warriors at home all year though I know they will drop the odd match. This is a possible candidate but with a massive crowd and a good dose of confidence they would have to be favoured to carry it on and be the only team on 6 points after 3 rounds.
Raiders v Eels
Raiders by 10
Never underestimate the power of a shit performance motivating a team for next week. Once got spanked 110-5 in a game of rugby only to get a win the next weekend. Ah the memories of watching the backs of Otahuhu players running under the sticks for 80 minutes. they only beat us by 40-0 next time. We cleverly took 9 penalty shots at goal from all over the park to use up the clock.
Cowboys v Storm
Cowboys by 4
The jockeys will ride onwards after last weeks effort hurdling the Storm which is more like a strong wind and persistent rain when compared to previous years. Confidence is a great thing, especially when used whilst strutting round your own dressage arena. OK, I will avoid stupid puns from now on. Maybe.
Rabbitohs v Knights
Rabbitohs by 6
The Rabbitohs will be staring down the barrel if they lose this. Starting the season with 3 home games v 3 ordinary teams and coming away with 2 points will see them asking for a poison drop down their own warren. The Knights grabbed a win and so won't be quite as hungry and that will prove the difference. Damn, more puns.
Dragons v Sharks
Dragons by 4
The Sharks played like shit last weekend and the Dragons are just shitheads. Expect a fairly tight match with 40 points scored all up.
Sea Eagles v Panthers
Sea Eagles by 14
There's no way the Sea Eagles will ditch three games running, especially at home. They were pretty decent v the Warriors and should have held on if not for SOME STACEY JONES MAGIC (especially for LB) and are up against a Panthers lineup that probably just won't have the guns nor the confidence to get the job done.
Tigers v Roosters
Tigers by 10
Who the flupp knows? Both teams deciding they'll play one week and not bother tackling in the other. I like the Tigers more though.
Titans v Bulldogs
Titans by 4
The Bulldogs will have had the wind taken out of their sails and didn't entirely impress me last weekend. I was expecting to see them beat the Panthers with room to spare not throw 14 players out there and get a last minute try and conversion to snatch a fake win. Titans will grind them out at home.
Warriors v Broncos
Warriors by 8
This should be a little ripper. I am going to pick the Warriors at home all year though I know they will drop the odd match. This is a possible candidate but with a massive crowd and a good dose of confidence they would have to be favoured to carry it on and be the only team on 6 points after 3 rounds.
Raiders v Eels
Raiders by 10
Never underestimate the power of a shit performance motivating a team for next week. Once got spanked 110-5 in a game of rugby only to get a win the next weekend. Ah the memories of watching the backs of Otahuhu players running under the sticks for 80 minutes. they only beat us by 40-0 next time. We cleverly took 9 penalty shots at goal from all over the park to use up the clock.
Cowboys v Storm
Cowboys by 4
The jockeys will ride onwards after last weeks effort hurdling the Storm which is more like a strong wind and persistent rain when compared to previous years. Confidence is a great thing, especially when used whilst strutting round your own dressage arena. OK, I will avoid stupid puns from now on. Maybe.
Rabbitohs v Knights
Rabbitohs by 6
The Rabbitohs will be staring down the barrel if they lose this. Starting the season with 3 home games v 3 ordinary teams and coming away with 2 points will see them asking for a poison drop down their own warren. The Knights grabbed a win and so won't be quite as hungry and that will prove the difference. Damn, more puns.
Dragons v Sharks
Dragons by 4
The Sharks played like shit last weekend and the Dragons are just shitheads. Expect a fairly tight match with 40 points scored all up.
Sea Eagles v Panthers
Sea Eagles by 14
There's no way the Sea Eagles will ditch three games running, especially at home. They were pretty decent v the Warriors and should have held on if not for SOME STACEY JONES MAGIC (especially for LB) and are up against a Panthers lineup that probably just won't have the guns nor the confidence to get the job done.
Labels: nrl, NRL 2009, nrl tipping 09
Thursday, March 19, 2009
NRL Week 2 picks
After last weeks solid 6 from 8 I'm ready to show my class in week 2. This will have to be known as the Grant Fox Dedication round as I didn't see any of the games last week. I listened to the Tigers and Raiders on the radio and saw bits of the Warriors game but was that blind drunk from the beer festival that I couldn't quite appreciate what I was seeing.
anyway, aim to see a couple of this weeks games like, fo real.
Broncos v Storm
Storm by 4
Big game, even matchup, I'm edging towards the Storm because of the coaching being an unfair matchup but it's a bit of a coin toss. Will be one of those tight ones that comes down to a kick or two and a drop goal.
Rabbitohs v Eels
Rabbitohs by 8
Hmmmmmmm, sometimes teams play like crap after having a team roll over and die for them the week before and the Rabbitohs could fall victim to that. Especially against a solid Eels side who won't want to be 0-2. But I'll go out on a limb and give the bunnies a pat like my two year old did in the Kumeu Show last weekend.
Dragons v Titans
Dragons by 10
The Titans surged home at home and I think that's what will favour the Dragons this week. Even sorts of teams but the crowd will get the Dragons over the line.
Panthers v Bulldogs
Bulldogs by 12
The panthers could turn up and turn on a (small) show but the Bulldogs look to have hit the ground running this year and I expect their momentum to last for a few weeks at least.
Cowboys v Tigers
Cowboys by 14
The Cowboys are going to rock out with their cocks out this weekend. A shit year last year and a narrow loss last week. They will be focussed and edgy and the Tigers will be on the end of it.
Raiders v Roosters
Raiders by 16
Raiders are often dynamite in the nations capital and the Roosters look turgid. Oh how sad. Bitch slap them green machine. And make it hurt.
Sea Eagles v Warriors
Sea Eagles by 4
One team kind of proved a point last week, while the other needs to prove one this weekend. Sea Eagles to just have that mental edge to get them over the line. If the Warriors can win its the type of win that will get Warriors fans salivating and trying to hide their hard-on.... or not, as the case may be.
Sharks v Knights
Sharks by 8
Unfortunately for the Knights they are starting with a couple of road games. If they'd played the Titans and Sharks in Newcastle I'd have happily tipped them and they'd be off to the sort of start that would launch them on the road to the playoffs. They'll win plenty at home and upset a few on the road but not for a while yet.
anyway, aim to see a couple of this weeks games like, fo real.
Broncos v Storm
Storm by 4
Big game, even matchup, I'm edging towards the Storm because of the coaching being an unfair matchup but it's a bit of a coin toss. Will be one of those tight ones that comes down to a kick or two and a drop goal.
Rabbitohs v Eels
Rabbitohs by 8
Hmmmmmmm, sometimes teams play like crap after having a team roll over and die for them the week before and the Rabbitohs could fall victim to that. Especially against a solid Eels side who won't want to be 0-2. But I'll go out on a limb and give the bunnies a pat like my two year old did in the Kumeu Show last weekend.
Dragons v Titans
Dragons by 10
The Titans surged home at home and I think that's what will favour the Dragons this week. Even sorts of teams but the crowd will get the Dragons over the line.
Panthers v Bulldogs
Bulldogs by 12
The panthers could turn up and turn on a (small) show but the Bulldogs look to have hit the ground running this year and I expect their momentum to last for a few weeks at least.
Cowboys v Tigers
Cowboys by 14
The Cowboys are going to rock out with their cocks out this weekend. A shit year last year and a narrow loss last week. They will be focussed and edgy and the Tigers will be on the end of it.
Raiders v Roosters
Raiders by 16
Raiders are often dynamite in the nations capital and the Roosters look turgid. Oh how sad. Bitch slap them green machine. And make it hurt.
Sea Eagles v Warriors
Sea Eagles by 4
One team kind of proved a point last week, while the other needs to prove one this weekend. Sea Eagles to just have that mental edge to get them over the line. If the Warriors can win its the type of win that will get Warriors fans salivating and trying to hide their hard-on.... or not, as the case may be.
Sharks v Knights
Sharks by 8
Unfortunately for the Knights they are starting with a couple of road games. If they'd played the Titans and Sharks in Newcastle I'd have happily tipped them and they'd be off to the sort of start that would launch them on the road to the playoffs. They'll win plenty at home and upset a few on the road but not for a while yet.
Labels: NRL 2009, nrl tipping 09
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Yamis 2009 Round One NRL Tipping Mayhem Begins
Here it is ladies and gentlemen. I will be joined by my colleagues bennyasena (who is going to get a bit more elaborate on yo ass) and dc_red in wrecking shit in 09.
But to see me against my deadliest rivals click here and then meet in the forum to bitch slap like bitches. Slapping.
I'm going to kick the ball off here and now.
Arguably Round One is the hardest round to pick of the season on the surface of it. You have to go on previous form (from 5-6 months ago) and account for any major player movements in or out of the respective sides. But no fucken excuses aye!
Broncos v Cowboys
Broncos by 2
The Cowboys will have a lot to prove after a hideous 2008. But then again so do the Broncos after saying goodbye to dad, Wayne Bennett. The Broncos have acquired Israel Folau and will also feature names like Weinstein, Glenn, Yeh, Kenny, Gorrell and Te'o so there's a bit of a fresh flavour to the side. The Cowboys look stronger on paper (though they looked pretty good there last year too) with some good signings and it should make the game a cracker with the Cowboys having the talent to blow the Broncos apart if they get going. But home advantage with a new coach sees me favour them by a nose.
Storm v Dragons
Storm by 8
The Dragons have become slightly more likeable with Bennett as coach, so now I just despise them rather than loathe them. For a couple of weeks anyway. Storm should shag them though a part of me wants to see their wee 'dynasty' end so I can laugh at Leg Break now and then.
Bulldogs v Sea Eagles
Sea Eagles by 8
The Bulldogs have added a few good signings including Kimmorley and (psychopath) Ennis while the Sea Eagles are reasonably settled (on the field at least) in terms of playing lineups. The off-field stuff may just give the Bulldogs a look in psychologically but surely the same players who smashed the Storm and Warriors in 08 will show up again.
Warriors v Eels
Warriors by 14
No worries.
Sharks v Panthers
Sharks by 12
Similar looking lineups to last season. The Panthers were hot and cold all year while the Sharks were cold to watch but know how to win ugly. More of the same in 09 I bet zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.
Titans v Knights
Titans by 2
The Titans have used the off season to get over all their bloody injuries and will field a side similar to what got them going places in the first half of 08. The Knights are a team that has been on the rise with lots of no names but I think they could be a darkhorse for the playoffs. If not then there will be another big cull before they start again. It's now or never for this lineup.
Roosters v Rabbitohs
Roosters by 10
Much as I'd like the Rabbitohs to have a decent season because they have such a cute little team I can't see them doing much unless they play a helter skelter style of play ala the Tigers in 05. I doubt their coach will have the balls to go for it though and he will consign them to making up the numbers and avoiding the last couple of spots on the ladder.
Tigers v Raiders
Tigers by 6
An even looking lineup without a hell of a lot of superstars but lots of good quality footballers on show. Home ground advantage wins again here until I've seen them lay something down on the paddock.
and that's that.
But to see me against my deadliest rivals click here and then meet in the forum to bitch slap like bitches. Slapping.
I'm going to kick the ball off here and now.
Arguably Round One is the hardest round to pick of the season on the surface of it. You have to go on previous form (from 5-6 months ago) and account for any major player movements in or out of the respective sides. But no fucken excuses aye!
Broncos v Cowboys
Broncos by 2
The Cowboys will have a lot to prove after a hideous 2008. But then again so do the Broncos after saying goodbye to dad, Wayne Bennett. The Broncos have acquired Israel Folau and will also feature names like Weinstein, Glenn, Yeh, Kenny, Gorrell and Te'o so there's a bit of a fresh flavour to the side. The Cowboys look stronger on paper (though they looked pretty good there last year too) with some good signings and it should make the game a cracker with the Cowboys having the talent to blow the Broncos apart if they get going. But home advantage with a new coach sees me favour them by a nose.
Storm v Dragons
Storm by 8
The Dragons have become slightly more likeable with Bennett as coach, so now I just despise them rather than loathe them. For a couple of weeks anyway. Storm should shag them though a part of me wants to see their wee 'dynasty' end so I can laugh at Leg Break now and then.
Bulldogs v Sea Eagles
Sea Eagles by 8
The Bulldogs have added a few good signings including Kimmorley and (psychopath) Ennis while the Sea Eagles are reasonably settled (on the field at least) in terms of playing lineups. The off-field stuff may just give the Bulldogs a look in psychologically but surely the same players who smashed the Storm and Warriors in 08 will show up again.
Warriors v Eels
Warriors by 14
No worries.
Sharks v Panthers
Sharks by 12
Similar looking lineups to last season. The Panthers were hot and cold all year while the Sharks were cold to watch but know how to win ugly. More of the same in 09 I bet zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.
Titans v Knights
Titans by 2
The Titans have used the off season to get over all their bloody injuries and will field a side similar to what got them going places in the first half of 08. The Knights are a team that has been on the rise with lots of no names but I think they could be a darkhorse for the playoffs. If not then there will be another big cull before they start again. It's now or never for this lineup.
Roosters v Rabbitohs
Roosters by 10
Much as I'd like the Rabbitohs to have a decent season because they have such a cute little team I can't see them doing much unless they play a helter skelter style of play ala the Tigers in 05. I doubt their coach will have the balls to go for it though and he will consign them to making up the numbers and avoiding the last couple of spots on the ladder.
Tigers v Raiders
Tigers by 6
An even looking lineup without a hell of a lot of superstars but lots of good quality footballers on show. Home ground advantage wins again here until I've seen them lay something down on the paddock.
and that's that.
Labels: nrl, nrl tipping 09
