Missing 13 regulars and facing a Bulldogs side with momentum, the Brisbane Broncos didn’t just respond—they took control early and never let go, powering to a commanding 32–12 win at Suncorp Stadium, dominating Round 8 of the 2026 Telstra Premiership.
The Pre-Anzac Day battle was setup beautifully with the poignant Anzac pre match ceremony.
From the outset, Brisbane were clear in approach. Composed, direct, and defensively tight, they absorbed early pressure as Canterbury probed the edges—twice shaping for an overlap on the right but failing to pull the trigger.
That hesitation proved costly.
In the 16th minute, Ezra Mam turned pressure into points. A low grubber skidded through the line, Marcelo Montoya misjudged it, and Gehamat Shibasaki pounced. Reynolds converted. 6–0.
Moments later, Brisbane struck again—this time with precision. Mam squared up the line and delivered a clean ball to Josiah Karapani, who cruised through untouched. Two visits, two tries. 10–0.
Territory without reward
The Bulldogs weren’t without chances. They spent extended sets inside Brisbane’s 20, but the final play kept breaking down—passes held, options missed, timing just off. Brisbane’s line speed did the rest, closing space before it could open.
Then came the swing.
At the 28th minute, Harry Hayes was sent to the bin for a trip, and the Broncos immediately capitalised. Reynolds pointed to the posts and stretched the lead to 12–0. It wasn’t just the points—it was the shift. The Bulldogs’ energy dipped, Brisbane’s lifted.
The pressure rolled on.
Deine Mariner produced one of the finishes of the night in the corner—tight space, full control—before turning provider minutes later. Bursting down the right edge, he drew the defence and found Cory Paix backing up inside. 20–0.
By halftime, the gap felt wider than the scoreboard. Brisbane had missed just five tackles despite the reshuffle, and Canterbury—despite their territory—had nothing to show for it.
Mam lights it up
Any hope of a Bulldogs reset after the break lasted barely five minutes.
A broken play turned into brilliance. The ball was batted loose, Mam reacted quickest, scooped it up and launched himself toward the corner—somehow grounding it while staying in play. It was instinct, balance, and confidence in one movement. Reynolds converted. 26–0.
At that point, it was no longer about who would win—but how the game would finish.
A flicker, but no shift
To their credit, the Bulldogs kept turning up.
Matt Burton finally broke through after a midfield surge, and later Lachlan Galvin sliced through off a well-timed lead run to narrow the margin. For a brief stretch, momentum tilted—but never fully turned.
Brisbane absorbed it again.
Even with disruption—Preston Riki sent to the bin and Brendan Piakura forced off—their defensive shape held. Reynolds slowed the game when needed, kicked long, and reset field position. The urgency from Canterbury never quite translated into sustained pressure.
Depth delivers
The final say belonged to Brisbane’s pack.
With Payne Haas absent, Xavier Willison stepped up across the night—and finished it late. Charging onto the ball near the line, he powered through to seal it. It was direct, physical, and symbolic of the performance.
Reynolds added the extras. 32–12.
This wasn’t about possession or territory. It was about execution—and Brisbane nailed the moments that mattered.
The Bulldogs had their chances and left them out there.
The Broncos didn’t.
Short-handed, under pressure, and still in control from start to finish—this wasn’t just a win.
It was a reminder. Count them out at your own risk.
For long stretches, this felt like a Dolphins game. They had the ball. They had the metres. They had the momentum.
In front of 45,882 people, the biggest NRL crowd of the year, the Brisbane Broncos absorbed pressure, capitalised on key moments, and punished every Dolphins lapse to walk away 26–12 winners.
The Broncos won the Battle of Brisbane. Not because they had more of the game — but because they made more of it.
They finished with 53 per cent possession, 211 runs to Brisbane’s 186, and a dominant offload count of 26 to five. They broke more tackles, generated more second-phase play, and had three players run for more metres than any Bronco — Jake Averillo (238m), Kulikefu Finefeuiaki (222m) and Jamayne Isaako (196m).
That profile usually wins you games. On Friday night, it didn’t.
The Dolphins didn’t lack effort. They lacked conversion.
Thirteen errors killed momentum, often at the exact point pressure was building. Two first-half tries were wiped out — one for obstruction, one for a forward pass — turning early dominance into frustration.
This is where the game slipped.
The Dolphins were generating pressure but not cashing it in. The Broncos, by contrast, needed fewer chances — and took them.
That’s the entire difference.
Moments That Broke It Open
The shift came immediately after halftime.
First set. Drop from Francis Molo.
Within a minute, the Broncos had struck.
A broken defensive line, a sharp offload, and Reece Walsh was through — a moment of individual brilliance that cut through 40 minutes of Dolphins control. Walsh finished with 182 metres and 11 tackle breaks, repeatedly turning half-chances into genuine threats.
The Dolphins had been building.
The Broncos finished.
Then came the moment that ended it.
Down 16–12 and still in the contest, the Dolphins were defending a high bomb inside their own end. Jamayne Isaako and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow both hesitated.
No call. No catch.
They let it bounce.
At this level, that’s fatal. The Broncos pounced, scored, and the game was effectively over.
High Risk, High Cost
The Dolphins’ attacking identity is clear.
They move the ball. They offload. They play fast and look to break games open through second-phase play.
It worked — to a point.
Those 26 offloads created pressure, but they also fed the error count. At times it felt less like controlled expansion and more like urgency spilling into chaos.
Selwyn Cobbo’s night captured that perfectly.
He ran hard for 181 metres and was heavily involved, but three key errors — including a dropped bomb near his own line and a forced offload under pressure — turned momentum back toward Brisbane at critical moments.
The intent was there.
The execution wasn’t.
Broncos Played the Right Game
The Broncos didn’t need to win the stat sheet.
They won the parts that matter.
Their middle held firm defensively, with Cory Paix and Patrick Carrigan combining for 52 tackles each, repeatedly absorbing pressure and resetting the line.
They were cleaner with the ball. More composed in key moments. More decisive when opportunities appeared.
That’s why the scoreboard reads 26–12.
Not dominance.
Control when it counted.
Reality Bites
This is the frustrating reality for the Dolphins.
They showed enough to suggest they can trouble anyone — their yardage, their offload game, their ability to generate pressure.
But right now, they are asking questions without finishing the answer.
The gap isn’t effort.
It’s timing. It’s composure. It’s execution in the moments that matter most.
Because in games like this, you don’t get rewarded for how much football you play.
Only for what you do with it.
Published 27-March-2026
PRE-MATCH REPORT
Battle of Brisbane: Broncos Tested as Dolphins Circle
Brisbane lead this rivalry 5–1.But it’s the one loss that matters.
The Dolphins’ 40–6 win late in 2024 didn’t just break the pattern. It showed how quickly the Broncos can be exposed when they lose control through the middle. That’s the reference point now heading into Friday night.
Kick-off is set for Friday, 27 March at 7:00PM AEST at Suncorp Stadium, with live coverage on Fox League and streaming available via Kayo Sports. The match is also listed for free-to-air broadcast on Channel 9 and 9Now.
The 5–1 Record — and the One Result That Changed the Tone
On paper, this rivalry has been one-sided.
Across those five wins, Brisbane controlled the key areas — ruck speed, field position and defensive discipline. They dictated tempo, limited second-phase play and closed games out when it mattered.
That’s the standard they’ve set in this match-up.
The question now is whether they can reproduce it under different conditions — without Haas, with changes through the middle, and against a Dolphins side that has already shown it can disrupt that control.
Team Changes (Key Ins and Outs)
This time, the changes matter. Brisbane have been forced into key adjustments ahead of the derby — none bigger than the loss of Payne Haas.
His absence reshapes the Broncos’ middle rotation, with Xavier Willison stepping into the starting front row and Brendan Piakura shifting into the back row. Adam Reynolds returns and brings control back into the spine, while Ben Hunt’s role adjusts to provide added flexibility around the ruck.
For the Dolphins, the focus is on reinforcing the middle without disrupting what’s already working.
Kenny Bromwich returns to the bench to add experience to the rotation, while Mark Nicholls is promoted into the starting side. Otherwise, the squad remains largely unchanged — giving them continuity heading into a high-pressure contest.
3 Things to Watch
1. Can Brisbane Win the Middle Without Haas?This is the game inside the game. Without Payne Haas, Brisbane lose their safest source of momentum. With Bromwich back and Nicholls starting, the Dolphins have reinforced their middle — and if they generate quick play-the-balls early, it puts immediate pressure on Brisbane’s defensive system.
2. Who Dictates the Tempo — and Handles the Stakes?Adam Reynolds will try to control territory and slow the game down. The Dolphins will look to speed it up and play through the ruck. With both sides under real ladder pressure, this isn’t just about style — it’s about who executes better in key moments.
3. The Edges: Averillo vs StaggsThis could be where the game turns. Averillo’s speed and support play shapes against Staggs’ power and tackle-breaking ability in one of the key match-ups on the field — and in a tight contest, one moment here could be enough.
The Haas Void vs the Reynolds Return
This is where the game tilts.
Payne Haas being ruled out removes Brisbane’s most reliable source of momentum. His value isn’t just metres. Ot’s repeat effort, ruck speed, and the ability to stabilise sets when things start to drift.
Without him, the structure holds, but the margin for error tightens. For Brisbane, it’s a test not just of depth, but of how much pressure this system can absorb at once.
Xavier Willison moves into the starting front row, with Brendan Piakura shifting into the back row. It’s a capable adjustment, but it changes the physical balance of Brisbane’s middle rotation.
The Dolphins, meanwhile, have leaned into experience through their rotation, with Kenny Bromwich returning to the bench and Mark Nicholls promoted into the starting side — adding stability through the middle.
The counter for Brisbane is Adam Reynolds.
His return brings control back into the spine. Last-tackle options sharpen, field position becomes more deliberate, and defensive organisation improves across the line.
It also changes Ben Hunt’s role.
Instead of carrying the side as the primary organiser, Hunt becomes a roaming threat — either through dummy-half or off the bench. That flexibility gives Brisbane a second layer of control when the game starts to open up.
The Defensive Question: Life After Te’o
The bigger concern for Brisbane sits in their system.
Ben Te’o’s exit matters because of what he built. The Broncos’ defence over the past year hasn’t just been effective — it’s been resilient under pressure. Their ability to scramble, reset and hold firm in key moments was a defining feature of their premiership run.
That doesn’t disappear overnight. But it does get tested.
Last week showed they can still execute it. Doing it again in a derby, without the coach who embedded those habits, is a different challenge.
If the Dolphins can generate quick rucks and force repeat defensive sets, this becomes less about structure and more about trust — and whether that system still holds without its architect.
The Ex-Bronco Factor: Familiarity Cuts Both Ways
There’s no hiding the emotional layer in this one.
Seven Dolphins players have come through Brisbane’s system — Isaako, Cobbo, Farnworth, Nikorima, Flegler, Molo and Plath. That brings familiarity with systems, combinations and tendencies.
But more than that, it brings intent.
Flegler’s likely inclusion adds weight to that. If cleared, it’s his first crack at a derby after missing previous chances through injury. Molo’s return adds another experienced body to that rotation.
Then there’s Kodi Nikorima.
This is the most settled version of his game. He’s playing direct, picking moments, and controlling tempo without overplaying his hand. Against a side he knows well, that becomes even more valuable.
He doesn’t need to dominate the game — just steer it into the right spaces.
Early Exchanges Will Matter
This shapes as a contest through the middle first, edges second.
If Brisbane can hold ruck speed and limit second-phase play, Reynolds’ kicking game and Hunt’s flexibility should give them control.
If the Dolphins win that middle battle — through quick play-the-balls, line speed and pressure — the game shifts quickly. That’s when their outside backs become dangerous, and when Brisbane’s defensive cohesion gets tested.
The early exchanges matter. This is not a game that will wait to settle.
The edges could also prove decisive.
Jake Averillo’s speed and support play shapes as a direct contrast to Kotoni Staggs’ power and tackle-breaking ability — and in a tight contest, one moment in that channel could swing the result.
Grudge Match?
Is this a grudge match? Here’s what’s actually at stake.
For Brisbane, this is about stability.
Backing up last week’s win, absorbing the loss of Haas, and showing the defensive system still holds under pressure.
For the Dolphins, it’s about staying in the fight.
With the ladder tightening and the race for finals positions already congested, every result carries weight. A win here doesn’t just even the season ledger — it keeps them firmly in the mix and applies pressure above them.
They’ve already shown they can beat Brisbane. Now they need to show they can do it when it matters.
Friday night won’t just decide the result.
It will say a lot about where both teams are heading.
Published 25-March-2026
Disclaimer: Logos are the property of their respective clubs and are used for news reporting, commentary and informational purposes only. No affiliation or endorsement is implied.
In Milton, the NRL season starts before the first whistle.
On Friday night, March 6, the lights will rise over Suncorp Stadium as the Brisbane Broncos launch their premiership defence against the Penrith Panthers — and once again, the spiritual home of rugby league in Queensland will sit at the centre of the NRL world.
The Broncos arrive as defending 2025 premiers, having broken their title drought last season with a grand final win over the Melbourne Storm. Now, the challenge is sustaining that success under head coach Michael Maguire, who enters his second season in charge after delivering silverware in his first year at the helm.
Captain Adam Reynolds continues to steer the side with experience and composure, while dynamic fullback Reece Walsh returns after a Clive Churchill Medal performance in the 2025 Grand Final.
In the halves, Reynolds combines with Ezra Mam to give Brisbane speed and unpredictability on the edges, while the forward platform built around Patrick Carrigan remains central to the club’s defensive identity.
There are changes around the edges. Selwyn Cobbo has moved to the Dolphins for 2026, Kobe Hetherington has joined Manly, and veteran Martin Taupau retired at season’s end. New additions including Grant Anderson, Tom Duffy and Aublix Tawha add depth as Brisbane reshapes its rotation.
Hooker Billy Walters is recovering from an ACL injury and is expected to miss the early rounds, while Brendan Piakura is listed as targeting a Round 3 return.
Round 1: Under Lights at Lang Park
The 2026 campaign opens with a preliminary final rematch that already carries narrative weight.
Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy said in a club statement last year the club could not have scripted a better start.
“There’s no better way to start 2026 than under lights at Suncorp Stadium, in front of our members and fans,” Donaghy said.
“No one could forget that energy and atmosphere at home against Penrith in the prelim – it was one of those defining Broncos’ moments.
“To open the new season against Penrith, at home, that’s the kind of stage we want and will set the tone for 2026.”
Penrith also enter the season among the premiership contenders, with halfback Nathan Cleary cleared to play in the season opener following a successful judiciary challenge earlier this month.
For Milton, it means a Friday night crowd, a national television audience, and the first major sporting event of the NRL calendar played on home soil.
Three of Four at Home
Brisbane’s early draw ensures Suncorp Stadium will feature heavily in the opening month:
Round 1 – Friday, March 6: Panthers (Suncorp Stadium) Round 2 – Thursday, March 12: Eels (Suncorp Stadium) Round 3 – Friday, March 20: Storm (AAMI Park) Round 4 – Friday, March 27: Dolphins (Suncorp Stadium)
Three home games in the first four rounds provide the Broncos with a chance to establish momentum in front of strong attendances — and for the Milton precinct to settle back into its familiar game-day pulse.
Projected Round 1 Outlook
Official team lists are confirmed in the week of each match, but based on trial form and 2025 combinations, a projected Round 1 line-up could resemble last year’s premiership backbone.
Walsh at fullback, Reynolds and Mam in the halves, Carrigan anchoring the middle, and a forward rotation including Payne Haas, Corey Jensen and Jordan Riki would represent continuity rather than overhaul. Interchange roles may feature emerging forwards such as Xavier Willison and Ben Talty alongside new recruit Aublix Tawha.
The emphasis is stability — not reinvention.
A Big Year for Suncorp
Beyond Round 1, Suncorp Stadium will again host some of the sport’s biggest fixtures in 2026. For Milton, that means a sustained calendar of major events stretching well beyond the premiership season.
Magic Round returns from May 15–17. State of Origin Game III is scheduled for July 8 at Suncorp, with Women’s State of Origin Game II to be played in Brisbane on May 14. The Broncos NRLW side opens its home campaign at Suncorp on July 4 as part of a double-header. Later in the year, Brisbane will host the Men’s and Women’s Rugby League World Cup Finals on November 15.
For residents and business owners around Castlemaine Street and Caxton Street, the Broncos’ title defence isn’t a distant storyline — it plays out at the end of the road, amidst a weekly rhythm that defines Brisbane’s winter sporting calendar.
The Broncos are favourites — and deservedly so after 2025.
But in rugby league, favourites are hunted.
On March 6, under lights at Suncorp, Milton will once again become the epicentre of Queensland rugby league as the chase for back-to-back titles begins.
Brisbane Broncos coach Michael Maguire has been linked to the England national rugby league head coaching job, with reports from Australia and the United Kingdom suggesting he has shown tentative interest if the position becomes available.
Reports from Australian outlets say Maguire has interest in the England job if the RFL moves on from Shaun Wane. No formal talks have been reported. The speculation grew after England’s 3–0 Ashes loss to Australia and the RFL’s post-series review.
Wane stays in place during the review and debate continues about leadership before the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. Maguire’s track record includes a Broncos premiership this year, leading New Zealand from 2018 to 2023, and guiding the New South Wales Blues to a 2024 State of Origin win.
A Familiar Face To English Fans
Maguire previously coached Wigan Warriors and won Super League honours, which raised his profile in England. His name draws attention among supporters who recall his successful spell with the club. Love Rugby League reports that Maguire will travel to the United Kingdom for a coaching development course.
He will use the trip to gather information before the Broncos’ World Club Challenge against Hull KR. The timing of this visit has fed speculation about potential contact with RFL officials. Reports add that whether Maguire would pursue the role remains uncertain, as his commitments to the Broncos are understood to take priority.
Wane Stands Firm Amid Criticism
Shaun Wane has stated he intends to continue leading England and said after the final Ashes match that he believes he remains the right person for the job. Senior players, including captain George Williams, have voiced their support for him despite the series loss.
All Out Rugby League reported that former player Bryan Fletcher believes Maguire’s move to England is unlikely because of the difficulty of managing both a club and national side. Fletcher said he doubted Brisbane would allow a dual-role arrangement, calling it unrealistic given the demands of the NRL season.
A Wait-And-See Situation For Fans
At this stage, the situation remains one of speculation. While Maguire’s record makes him a logical name to appear in discussions, there has been no confirmation from the Broncos or the RFL of any approach. England’s review process continues, and Wane remains in post while officials assess the program’s direction.
Any formal consideration of Maguire would depend on the review’s outcome and his own long-term plans with Brisbane. Fans and commentators in both Australia and England are following the story closely to see whether Maguire will be formally linked to the England role in the coming months.
Backed by music promoters, sporting bodies, and the state government, a multi-million dollar plan to expand Suncorp Stadium and build an immersive new sports bar will reshape Milton into a major economic hub for live entertainment.
The push for this revitalisation has gained significant momentum, with the Queensland government confirming it will proceed with major upgrades to the iconic stadium. This decision follows widespread calls from community leaders and prominent figures in both the music and sporting industries.
The work is set to be completed before Brisbane hosts the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2032, ensuring the precinct is ready for the world stage. Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner supported the move, stating that an upgraded venue benefits not just sport but a whole range of events that bring the community together.
For years, Brisbane music fans have watched major international tours bypass the city. Music industry leaders have identified Suncorp Stadium’s current capacity and infrastructure as significant hurdles. Promoters from giants like Live Nation and Frontier Touring explained that bringing blockbuster stadium tours to Australia is an expensive and challenging exercise.
They argue that an expanded Suncorp Stadium would make Brisbane a more financially sustainable and attractive destination. According to Frontier Touring CEO Dion Brant, increasing the number of seats and adding a roof would be crucial. Such enhancements would not only help offset the high costs of international tours but also reduce weather-related risks and insurance expenses for promoters. These changes would play a decisive role in convincing the world’s biggest artists to include Brisbane on their tour schedules, ensuring the city is no longer overlooked.
The vision for the precinct extends beyond the stadium walls and into the heart of the community on Caxton Street. The National Rugby League is moving forward with plans to establish a cutting-edge sports bar at the site of the Beetson Hotel. ARL Commission chief Peter V’landys described the project as a future Mecca for sports fans, designed to be the best and biggest sports bar in the country.
NRL CEO Andrew Abdo added that the venue will provide a completely immersive experience, using modern LED and sound technology to make patrons feel like they are at the game. This development complements the passionate calls from rugby league legends for the stadium itself to be upgraded. Former champion Johnathan Thurston suggested an expansion to 70,000 seats would be needed to keep pace with Queensland’s growth and its ability to host world-class events. Broncos captain Adam Reynolds also used a major public platform to call for a bigger stadium, reflecting the high demand from local fans.
The planned upgrades are being framed as more than just a renovation; they represent a long-term investment in the community’s future. Former Queensland Premier Peter Beattie, who oversaw the stadium’s last major revamp, stated that an expansion to 65,000 seats with a roof would cement its status as Australia’s premier rectangular venue. He believes such a move would create a forward-thinking image for Brisbane and allow it to genuinely compete with Sydney and Melbourne for major national events.
Ultimately, the goal is to create a lasting legacy from the 2032 Games that benefits Queenslanders for decades. By improving capacity, accessibility, and overall quality, the project aims to ensure the Milton precinct remains the spiritual home of sport and a vibrant centre for culture and entertainment for generations to come.
It was 1992 when the Brisbane Broncos won their first Premiership, led by Alfie Langer who had taken over as skipper when Gene Miles retired. Going back-to-back in 1993 and winning the Super League in 1997. Following up again with a Premiership in 1998 and another at the turn of the millenium in 2000 and again in 2006.
That’s 18 seasons ago. Time flies. Let’s not forget Kevvie put together the majority of the current Broncos side including bringing Reece Walsh from the Warriors, and Walters led them to a Grand Final in 2023.
Then he passed the baton to Madge.
Madge, aka “enemy numero uno” having led the Blues in a massive comeback win against the Maroons, in the 2024 Origin Series. Plenty of locals could not forget that and surely Madge kept his head down for that very reason.
The decision to appoint Maguire was brilliant! A masterclass move by the Broncos Board.
So now after quite a rollercoaster season, where at times the Broncos looked dire yet have far more often looked unbeatable. It’s only in recent weeks though that we have fully understood the resilience and sheer determination of this group.
The Broncos beat the Storm in the final game of the regular season to make the 4, 30-14, at Suncorp and after the game, skipper Paddy Carrigan spoke about the deluge of goal-line defence they had practiced in training.
That’s where their backbone has been developed, the layers of determination, and now the belief that no matter how high the mountain, it can always be climbed.
The “Mission Impossible” of coming back from 14-0 against the 4 time Premiers, now seems a walk in the park compared to the hole the Broncos were in against the Minor Premiers, but in reality both comebacks were miracles of belief and determination.
How much was Paddy Carrigan missed last week (and Billy Walters), and how much fresher will he be as a result? At the same time Payne Haas desperately needs a week off, but give us one more big one, Payne!
King & Loiero vs Carrigan & Haas – Broncos win.
In that final regular season game at Suncorp, Jahrome Hughes was coming off an injury break, and it would be fair to assume he’s now back to full capacity.
The Grand Final of the NRL Telstra Premiership kicks off at 6.30pm Brisbane Time, this Sunday, October 5. BE VERY CAREFUL AS DAYLIGHT SAVING STARTS ON SUNDAY! The game will be broadcast live on Nine, Foxtel and Kayo.
14-0 down at half-time, the Broncos were massively behind the 8 ball against this crazy efficient Panthers outfit.The first half had been completed set after completed set from the Panthers, barely a squeak from the Broncos attack.
Then a beautiful grubber from Reynolds to enable the monster that is Kotoni Staggs to open the Broncos scoring seven minutes after half-time, converted with the worst kick of Reece Walsh’s season(a red flag for what was to come).
Increased pressure by the Broncos then became handbags between Cleary and Mam, with Liam Martin coming in with a swinging arm on Ezra — extraordinarily no sin bin!
52,491 inside Suncorp that Locky said was the best atmosphere of any game he has seen there. That’s a fairly big call from Mr Lockyer!
Then chaos ensued like a pin ball machine with a Cleary knock down and Xavier Willison steamed over with 10 minutes to go.
Walsh hit the post with the conversion, one he would kick 9 out of 10 on, to make it 14-10 with 10 minutes left.
One converted try boys!
Smoothy’s punt almost caused a Panthers disaster but they worked the ball out.
Then a knock down by the Panthers as Walsh would have been in, and from the scrum, Walsh on the wing throws a hail mary backwards whilst being tackled, and the ball ends up with Deine Mariner who powered through traffic to dive over when he had no right to.
Hysteria at Suncorp, Walshy tells Reyno to take the kick. Why? The bloke had barely got back into training, nevermind practised his touchline goal kicks, but the class of Adam Reynolds when the big moments come, was the point.
With 3 minutes 40 left. On the right touchline.
Reyno you beauuuuty!
16-14 to the Broncos
Terrible penalty call on Staggs let the Panthers in for one more set but the boys held out.
With that extraordinary comeback against the minor premiers two weeks ago in Canberra still fresh in everyone’s minds, a potentially even bigger test faces the Brisbane Broncos this Sunday at Suncorp Stadium in the Preliminary Final.
Just as against the Raiders, the Broncos are underdogs with the Bookies despite being at home. SEE VIDEO HERE.
The Bronco’s 14th man, the Suncorp faithful, will need to be at their most inspiring best to drag the boys home in this one. The Panthers have been on an absolute tear since starting the season with only two wins from their first eight games.
The Panthers have won 9 out of their last 10 games against the Broncos.
However, the notorious defensive weakness of the Panthers on the left edge, and the ability of Kotoni Staggs to exploit such opportunities, appears a big edge.
Gus Gould felt the Bulldogs should have exploited that more last week and there’s no doubt To’o, Sorensen, Talagi and McLean will be fully expectant of a Tsunami of offense coming their way.
On the other side of the coin, six first half tries at Accor Stadium against the Bulldogs was a demonstration of the Panthers attacking flair and the Broncos defense will need to be at it’s absolute best to mitigate Nathan Cleary and co.
That specific issue with Reynolds, Mam, Cobbo, Willison, Madden and Gosiewski back all at the same time — we can only trust that Madge has that sextet match hardened to be ready for this huge game. It’s highly likely that all six will improve for the outing if the Broncos make it to the Grand Final.
How fit is Payne Haas? Can Reece Walsh recycle the determination burning inside him when he came back on from the Sin Bin in Canberra? How much will the Broncos miss Paddy Carrigan and Billy Walters? Both have been in great form and will certainly be missed.
Huge conjecture about Adam Reynolds coming back(the Broncos have won all five games without him) and his apparent lack of sync with Reece Walsh, feels like a media beat up and we back Reyno all the way to help Walsh and his team-mates find holes in the Panthers defence.
Has Selwyn Cobbo’s stint at Wynnum Manly, got him ready for this one?
It’s 19 years since the Broncos last won a Premiership. If they can end the 2025 hopes of the Cleary family, they will be one game away.
The Brisbane Broncos return to Suncorp Stadium this Friday night with more than pride on the line — they’re fighting to keep their season alive. Officially sitting just outside the top eight, the Broncos need a win over the South Sydney Rabbitohs to stay in the finals race. Against a Wayne Bennett–coached Rabbitohs outfit that’s reshuffling its deck, this high-pressure Round 22 clash under the lights has all the ingredients of a turning point for Brisbane — and for fans across the suburbs, it’s a night not to miss.
Who’s In and Who’s Not
For the Broncos, head coach Michael Maguire has opted for stability with a hint of spark, bringing Selwyn Cobbo and Deine Mariner back onto the wings in a move that signals a return to pace and finishing power out wide. Jesse Arthars and Josiah Karapani make way and shift to the extended bench, while the rest of the backline remains consistent, with Reece Walsh at fullback and Adam Reynolds steering the side alongside Ezra Mam in the halves. Maguire has stuck with his preferred forward rotation, anchored by Payne Haas, Patrick Carrigan, and Jordan Riki, showing confidence in their ability to win the middle battle. Notably, there are no fresh injuries, and the squad appears settled — a sign Brisbane is banking on cohesion to deliver under pressure.
For South Sydney, Wayne Bennett has made more dramatic changes, reflective of a side still searching for answers. Bayleigh Bentley-Hape returns to the wing, Jamie Humphreys is recalled at halfback, and Jai Arrow shifts into the front row in an effort to stiffen the Rabbitohs’ middle defence. Ryan Gray takes over the hooking duties, while Jacob Host comes into the second row. Perhaps the boldest move is naming Thomas Fletcher to debut from the bench — a clear signal that Bennett is looking to blood new talent and shake things up after a disappointing stretch of form. These changes suggest a focus on energy and adaptability, with Bennett turning to youth and positional reshuffles to reignite momentum.
The Stakes: Why This Round 22 Clash Matters
For Brisbane, this match isn’t just another fixture — it’s a must-win in every sense. Their recent performances have shown potential but not consistency, and slipping further down the ladder could all but end their finals campaign. Backed by a loyal Suncorp crowd and a healthy squad, this is their opportunity to make a statement.
The Rabbitohs, meanwhile, come in bruised but dangerous. They’ve been sliding on the ladder and need to reset their identity. While the squad looks different this week, they still have threats across the park and the advantage of a coach who knows how to dig deep in pressure moments.
Key Battles to Watch
Reece Walsh vs Jamie Humphreys – Walsh’s pace and ball-playing up against Humphreys’ composure as he returns to the starting halfback role.
Cobbo & Mariner vs Bentley-Hape & Johnston – Expect fireworks on the edges, with both teams relying on speed and sharp finishing.
Middle third control – The engine rooms collide with Haas, Carrigan and Willison aiming to dominate Arrow, Keppie and Host.
And then there’s Adam Reynolds, whose game management and kicking game could prove the difference in a contest likely to go down to the final 20.
Home Crowd Advantage
There’s no underestimating what a Friday night at Suncorp can do for Brisbane’s energy. Returning players like Cobbo and Mariner are built for these stages, and Gehamat Shibasaki, once a Rabbitoh himself, will be out to prove he belongs in the maroon and gold. Add in homegrown firebrands like Kobe Hetherington off the bench, and this has all the makings of a night when local support could truly tip the scales.
Kick-off is set for 8pm AEST, Friday 1 August 2025, at Suncorp Stadium. For the Broncos and their supporters, it’s now or never. A win keeps the finals dream alive — and proves they’re more than just potential on paper. With both teams under pressure and plenty of new faces on show, this one promises tension, talent, and a whole lot of heart.
Haas is back, Arthars returns, and the Broncos are chasing a sixth straight win to keep a top-four finish in sight. Friday night at Suncorp is set for fireworks as they take on the Eels!
The Broncos have named a strong squad for the July 25 8pm clash at Suncorp Stadium, with several key names returning to the line-up. Payne Haas returns to the front row after a rest, Jesse Arthars is back on the wing, and Corey Jensen joins the bench — giving Brisbane added firepower through the middle.
Xavier Willison retains his starting spot, and the backline remains largely unchanged, with Reece Walsh, Kotoni Staggs and Deine Mariner all in solid form. Coach Michael Maguire has opted for balance and consistency, with the returning players providing just the right boost as the finals approach.
Currently sitting fifth on the NRL ladder, the Broncos are well positioned to push for a top-four finish. But every point counts — and with a home crowd behind them, Friday’s game is one they can’t afford to let slip.
Eels Welcome Moses, But Finals Hopes Are Gone
While the Broncos have momentum, the Eels are simply fighting for pride. Rooted to the bottom of the table, Parramatta’s season has been one to forget — but the return of halfback Mitch Moses offers a glimmer of hope. He’ll partner Blaize Talagi in the halves, with Dylan Brown left out of this week’s squad.
Coach Jason Ryles is turning to youth and energy to reignite the Eels, bringing in fresh faces like Luca Moretti and Toni Mataele, and relying on senior forwards like Junior Paulo and J’maine Hopgood to hold the middle.
The backline isn’t short on danger, with Josh Addo-Carr and Will Penisini capable of turning the game with a single play. But cohesion has been lacking all year, and the Eels will need to bring their A-game to upset Brisbane on home turf.
Key Match-Ups to Watch
Middle battle: Payne Haas vs Junior Paulo — two powerhouse props who can shift momentum with a single carry. Expect fireworks in the first 20 minutes.
Halfback duel: Adam Reynolds will look to control the game with his kicking and composure, while Mitch Moses brings speed and flair. The contrast in styles could define the match tempo.
Back three shootout: Reece Walsh’s pace and instinct make him a constant threat. Parramatta will need to keep him contained if they want any chance of controlling the scoreboard.
What’s at Stake
For the Broncos, this is a must-win to maintain their push into the finals. With tougher opponents ahead, securing the two points at home is non-negotiable. Fans will be looking for a confident, dominant performance — especially with a full-strength forward pack back on the field.
For the Eels, it’s less about ladder position and more about showing resilience. With finals no longer in the picture, playing spoiler to a finals-bound side like Brisbane could be the fire-starter they need to finish the season with pride.
Broncos vs Eels – Game Day Info
Date: Friday, 25 July 2025
Time: 8:00pm AEST kick-off
Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
Public gates open: 6:30pm
Broadcast: Live on Channel 9 and Kayo
Final Word
The Broncos are coming in hot, with fresh legs and finals ambitions. The Eels are arriving wounded but unpredictable. Whether you’re in the stands at Suncorp or tuning in from the couch, this Friday night fixture promises action, energy, and a few fireworks.
Broncos fans — the stage is set. Now it’s time to settle in and enjoy the ride.
