Tag: NRL

Brisbane Broncos Welcome Back Ben Te Kura for Must-Win Derby Against the Dolphins

With their playoff hopes hanging by a thread, the Brisbane Broncos gear up for a pivotal clash against Dolphins this Saturday, 31 August, bolstered by the timely return of young prop Ben Te Kura.

Read: Broncos vs. Dolphins: The Battle for Brisbane with Finals on the Line

“Big Ben” Te Kura returns from surgery

Promising 20-year-old front-rower Ben Te Kura has been named in Brisbane’s 17-man squad for the upcoming Battle for Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium. After spending six weeks recovering from foot surgery, Te Kura’s return comes at a crucial juncture for the Broncos.

The towering prop made waves in his NRL debut against the Melbourne Storm in Round 5, showcasing his potential with an impressive 115-metre run, three tackle breaks, and a try. His inclusion in the squad comes at the expense of Kobe Hetherington, who is sidelined due to concussion protocols.

Playoff push

The Broncos currently sit in ninth place on the ladder with 26 points and a +2 point differential—a slim margin that could be the deciding factor in their race for the eighth playoff spot.

With only two games left, the Broncos’ playoff hopes hinge on winning both remaining matches and outpacing the St. George Illawarra Dragons, who currently hold the final spot. 

Broncos fans will be hoping the Dragons lose at least one game, while Brisbane secures two, as their positive point differential could give them the edge in the tie-breaker.

Following the Dolphins clash, the Broncos face the minor premiers Melbourne Storm, who are poised to rest key players in their final game of the home-and-away season.

While Te Kura’s return provides a boost, the Broncos are still monitoring the status of Origin prop Payne Haas. Named on an extended bench, Haas is recovering from a foot injury, and his availability could significantly influence the Broncos’ chances in these final matches.

Read: Class Acts at the Suncorp Stadium in Milton Over the Years

As the NRL season reaches its dramatic finale, the Broncos’ fate lies in their own hands—and in the Dragons’. The return of Ben Te Kura adds much-needed strength, but only their performance on the field will determine if they secure a coveted playoff spot. Broncos fans, prepare for a thrilling end to the season.

Published 29-August-2024

Broncos vs. Dolphins: The Battle for Brisbane with Finals on the Line

The Brisbane Broncos face a do-or-die clash against the Dolphins this Saturday, 31 August as both teams vie for a crucial spot in the NRL finals—this fourth instalment of the Brisbane derby could determine which team’s season will continue. Dolphins vs Broncos kick off 5:30 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: Class Acts at the Suncorp Stadium in Milton Over the Years

Current standings and top eight race

With the NRL season approaching its climax, every point counts in the race for a top-eight finish. The Broncos and Dolphins, locked on 26 points each, find themselves in a fierce battle not just against each other, but also against the Knights and Raiders, for the last available playoff spot. 

Currently, the Broncos hold a slight edge, sitting in ninth place due to a superior point differential.

With only two rounds remaining, Saturday’s derby could effectively end the losing team’s season. As both teams fight for survival, every match in this late-season push becomes crucial.

Following this Battle for Brisbane, the Broncos will shift their focus to the Melbourne Storm, who clinched the minor premiership with a win over the Dolphins last week. Storm coach Craig Bellamy has suggested that he might rest some key players in the final two games to keep them fresh for the finals series—a potential boon for the Broncos.

Broncos vs Dolphins

The Broncos enter the match with momentum on their side. They’ve steadied their campaign in recent weeks, most notably securing a commanding 30-24 victory over the Eels last Friday. This win has kept their playoff aspirations intact and boosted team morale.

In contrast, the Dolphins are grappling with a concerning form slump, having managed just three wins in their last 12 outings and conceding 150 points in their past four. This downturn has coincided with the absence of key player Jeremy Marshall-King, who has missed the past seven matches due to a foot injury. There’s hope he may return for this critical fixture, providing the Dolphins with a much-needed boost.

All eyes will be on Broncos stars Reece Walsh and Payne Haas as they look to return from injury. Centre Kotoni Staggs is in excellent form, having scored six tries in his past six games. Meanwhile, the ever-consistent lock Patrick Carrigan is expected to deliver another impactful performance.

The rivalry between these Brisbane teams has been intense, with the Broncos dominating their encounters. Since the Dolphins’ return to the NRL, the Broncos have won all three matchups. In their last meeting, Brisbane overcame a slow start to secure a 28-14 victory, marked by a decisive second-half surge that saw them score four tries in just 14 minutes.

Read: Suncorp Stadium in Milton Marks 30th Naming Anniversary

As the tension builds towards Saturday’s clash, Broncos and Dolphins faithful know that this derby will define their season. With finals aspirations and local pride on the line, this showdown is set to be one of the most pivotal moments of the 2024 home-and-away competition.

Published 26-August-2024

Broncos Play-off Hopes Still Alive But Match With Eels A Must-Win

The Brisbane Broncos will face the Parramatta Eels in a must-win match for their finals aspirations. Currently four points outside the finals spots with three matches to go, the Broncos are eager to build on last week’s success as they push for a place in the playoffs. Broncos vs Eels kick off 8:00 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

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Broncos hopeful resurgence

Brisbane enters this fixture with confidence following two significant victories. Their comeback win against the Cowboys last week and a strong performance against the Eels earlier in the season have the Broncos faithful expecting another win.

In the away match against the Cowboys, the Broncos overcame a significant deficit and a hostile environment to claim a decisive victory. Initially struggling, Brisbane found themselves trailing 18-6 early in the game.

However, the leadership of skipper Adam Reynolds, alongside standout performances from Corey Jensen, Pat Carrigan, and Kotoni Staggs, saw the team rally to secure a 42-18 victory.

“There’s always faith from all the coaching staff and players that we could somewhat turn it around,” Broncos coach Kevin Walters said after the Cowboys clash. 

Broncos vs Eels

In their previous encounter with the Eels on May 10, the Broncos demonstrated their ability to adapt to challenging conditions. Despite harsh weather and early setbacks, including an injury to hooker Billy Walters, Brisbane secured a 30-14 victory away at CommBank Stadium.

Deine Mariner scored two tries, including an impressive 80-metre run off an intercept. Ezra Mam added a try with a brilliant chip and chase in the wet conditions, while Selwyn Cobbo executed a skillful try, grounding a cross-field kick from Reece Walsh.

The Broncos defence, aided strongly by the ever-consistent Staggs, held strong against repeated Eels attacks, particularly in the second half.

Following this match, the Broncos face the Dolphins in what is undoubtedly a season-defining Battle of Brisbane. A victory here could significantly boost their momentum heading into their final game against the Melbourne Storm—a team that has all but secured the minor premiership.

Read: Suncorp Stadium in Milton Marks 30th Naming Anniversary

As the Broncos prepare to take on the 16th-placed Eels, they’ll be looking to capitalise on their recent form and continue their push for a spot in the playoffs. Four points out and three matches to go, every match is a must-win for Brisbane to qualify in the final eight.

Published 19-August-2024

Dolphins vs Titans: Phins Look to Cement Top Eight Spot Against Gold Coast

The Dolphins aim to keep their finals dream alive as they prepare to face the Gold Coast Titans at Suncorp Stadium this Sunday, July 28. Coming off a narrow golden point loss to the reigning premiers, Wayne Bennett’s men look to solidify their position in the top eight against a struggling Titans outfit. Dolphins vs Titans kick off 4:05 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: Broncos vs Bulldogs: Brisbane’s Finals Fate in Balance as Bulldogs Come to Town

Close loss against the reigning premiers

The Dolphins enter the match full of confidence despite a heartbreaking 28-26 loss to the Penrith Panthers, showcasing their ability to compete with the league’s best. In a thrilling encounter, the Dolphins took an early lead with Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow scoring a first-half double. This, along with Isaiya Katoa’s effort, gave the Dolphins an 18-12 lead at halftime.

The second half saw the Dolphins extend their lead to 26-14, with Jack Bostock scoring and Jamayne Isaako adding a penalty goal. However, the Panthers mounted a comeback, capitalising on Josh Kerr’s sin-binning in the 74th minute to level the score and force a golden point.

Despite the eventual 28-26 loss, sealed by Nathan Cleary’s 42-metre drop goal, the Dolphins’ performance against the premiers has raised their stock considerably. Their ability to push the Panthers to the limit in enemy territory bodes well for their finals aspirations.

Dolphins vs Titans

The Titans, on the other hand, find themselves in a precarious position, sitting six points outside the top eight after a defeat by Manly. Despite this setback, the Gold Coast side had won three consecutive matches prior, including a commanding 66-6 victory over the Warriors.

The Dolphins hold a perfect record against the Titans, winning all three of their previous encounters. Their most recent matchup saw the Dolphins overcome a slow start to claim a 30-14 victory, with Jack Bostock scoring his first career try double.

Currently sitting seventh on the ladder with a 9-8 record, the Dolphins have lost three of their last four matches. However, their competitive showing against Penrith suggests they’re hitting form at the right time.

The Titans, despite their recent struggles, boast a strong record at Suncorp Stadium, having won three of their past four games at the venue.

The matchup pits two experienced coaches against each other, with Wayne Bennett holding a 21-11 head-to-head advantage over Des Hasler. Bennett’s recent record is particularly impressive, having won his last six games against Hasler-coached teams.

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As the regular season enters its final stages, this clash holds significant implications for both teams. The Dolphins will be eager to maintain their position in the top eight and build momentum towards a potential finals berth a year after their inaugural season.

Published 22-July-2024

Broncos vs Bulldogs: Brisbane’s Finals Fate in Balance as Bulldogs Come to Town

Brisbane Broncos gear up for a pivotal match against the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs this Saturday, July 27, as they aim to keep their finals hopes alive. Coming off a morale-boosting win against the Newcastle Knights, the Broncos seek to capitalise on their renewed momentum and climb the ladder. Broncos vs Bulldogs kick off 3:00 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

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Impressive victory against Knights

Last weekend, Brisbane’s commanding 30-14 victory over the Newcastle Knights at McDonald Jones Stadium signalled their potential for a late-season surge as captain Adam Reynolds made an impactful return from injury alongside star fullback Reece Walsh.

The Broncos’ forward pack dominated, with prop Corey Jensen delivering a robust performance in the middle, supported by strong showings from Origin stars Payne Haas and Pat Carrigan. Centre Deine Mariner had a standout game, running for 171 metres and scoring two tries, placing him as joint top try-scorer in the NRL.

Broncos vs Bulldogs

The Broncos, currently sitting at 11th place with an 8-10 record, ended a six-game losing streak with their victory over the Knights. This win has reignited their campaign for a top-eight finish, placing them just three spots away from a finals berth.

The Bulldogs, on the other hand, occupy the sixth spot with a 9-8 record. Despite their higher position, Canterbury finds themselves in a precarious situation, at risk of falling out of playoff contention.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this matchup is the Bulldogs’ stark home-away record. Canterbury remains the only team in the league undefeated at home. However, their away record of 1-8 presents a potential advantage for the Broncos, who will be hosting this crucial encounter.

For the Broncos, this game represents a critical opportunity to strengthen their position in the race for the finals. With a challenging schedule ahead, including three away games and a season finale against the league-leading Melbourne Storm, Brisbane views this match as a must-win to stay in contention.

The Broncos’ last encounter with the Bulldogs on July 15 last year resulted in a convincing 44-24 victory at Belmore Oval. In that match, captain Adam Reynolds spearheaded an undermanned Brisbane outfit to a dominant win. With Reynolds making an impactful return from injury last game, fans anticipate another stellar performance against the Bulldogs.

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The Broncos will charge onto Suncorp Stadium’s hallowed ground with their finals aspirations hanging in the balance. With the memory of their last victory over Canterbury and the significant advantage of home ground, Brisbane enters this clash with cautious optimism. However, they face a Bulldogs side equally desperate to cement their position in the top eight, setting the stage for an intense encounter.

Published 22-July-2024

Broncos vs Sharks: Brisbane Gunning for Vital Win Against Second-Placed Sharks

In a pivotal match for their finals hopes, the Brisbane Broncos host the second-placed Cronulla Sharks on Saturday night, June 8. Electric five-eighth Ezra Mam will play his 50th NRL game as part of a near full-strength Broncos squad for this heavyweight encounter. Broncos vs Sharks kickoff 7:35 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

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Brisbane slip up against Titans

The Broncos come into this clash looking to bounce back from a narrow 34-36 loss to the Titans last round. Despite leading 24-12 in the 37th minute, Brisbane were unable to hold off the Titans’ fightback in front of a sellout 42,221 crowd at Suncorp. Mam, Walsh and Haas were among the standouts for the home side.

Origins return to boost Broncos

After being named for State of Origin duties, Reece Walsh, Pat Carrigan, Selwyn Cobbo and Payne Haas are all expected to back up for Brisbane provided they get cleared on Thursday afternoon. Their availability would provide a major boost to the home side.

Centre Kotoni Staggs also returns from a rib injury to bolster Brisbane’s line-up. His inclusion sees Josiah Karapani drop back to the reserves.

Meanwhile, the Sharks have opted to rest star Blues halfback Nicho Hynes this weekend. Daniel Atkinson and Braydon Trindall will combine in the halves, while Cameron McInnes is set to back up from his Origin debut.

Ezra Mam’s 50th

For Mam, the match marks a significant milestone as the 21-year-old Broncos academy graduate chalks up his 50th top grade appearance for the club.

Mam re-committed to earlier this year by penning a five-year contract extension through 2029.

Broncos vs Sharks

Although the Sharks (9-3) are three spots ahead of the fifth-placed Broncos (7-5), Brisbane has won nine of their last 11 clashes against the Cronulla outfit and five of seven at Suncorp this season. In addition, Cronulla’s defence has given up 106 points over their last three games, a weakness that Brisbane should be eager to exploit.

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A win for the Broncos will be crucial in tightening their grip on a top eight berth.

Published 05-June-2024

Broncos vs Roosters: Brisbane Boosted by Cobbo and Mam Returns for Vegas Rematch

The Brisbane Broncos receive a significant boost for Friday night’s blockbuster clash against the Sydney Roosters, with Ezra Mam and Selwyn Cobbo returning from injury to slot into the starting line-up. Broncos vs Roosters kicks off 8:00 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

The club’s six-game winning streak at home will be on the line as they seek redemption against the side that defeated them in the historic Vegas opener.

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Brisbane reinforcements

Cobbo’s comeback from a shoulder issue sees him reclaim the centre position, pushing Jesse Arthars back to the wing and omitting Corey Oates from the 17-man squad. Meanwhile, Mam’s recovery from a finger injury allows him to slot back into the pivotal number six jersey, replacing Jock Madden.

Winning rhythm

The Broncos enter the contest brimming with confidence after their 34-10 thumping of the Wests Tigers last weekend. Captain Adam Reynolds displayed a masterclass in playmaking, while the forward pack led by Pat Carrigan, Payne Haas, and Kobe Hetherington laid the platform.

Despite the Tigers’ sin-binning and sustained pressure, Brisbane’s resolve was unwavering. Their efforts were rewarded with two tries on both sides of the break, including Reece Walsh’s long-range effort after a pinpoint Reynolds kick.

Broncos vs Roosters, Vegas rematch

The Broncos have made Suncorp Stadium a formidable fortress, winning their last six games at the venue. However, they faced a stern test against the Roosters in the season’s curtain-raiser in Las Vegas, going down 20-10 in a clash mired with controversy.

While emotions could run high given the racial abuse incident in the previous game, Reynolds insists the Broncos have moved past it. “It’s another game for us,” he said. “We have moved past it and addressed it as a club. I’m sure [the Roosters] have too. It is another opportunity to play our brand of football and get better.”

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As the home fans rally behind their side, the stage is set for an enthralling encounter, with the Broncos eager to maintain their winning ways and avenge their opening loss to the Roosters.

Round 8 replay

Published 30-April-2024

Broncos vs Raiders: Unchanged for Canberra Grind, Stars to Return Next Week

The Brisbane Broncos will field an unchanged lineup for Saturday’s Round 7 clash against the Canberra Raiders. Jock Madden, Fletcher Baker, Corey Oates, and Jaiyden Hunt retain their starting spots after stellar performances in last week’s win over Redcliffe. Broncos vs Raiders kickoff 5:35 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

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Broncos take the Battle

The Broncos had to dig deep against their Queensland rivals, overcoming a sloppy first half to prevail 28-14 over the Dolphins in front of a packed Suncorp. The Broncos were simply too strong, led by monumental efforts from Pat Carrigan (46 tackles, 207 metres) and Selwyn Cobbo.

Brace for a Broncos vs Raiders grindfest

Prop Corey Jensen says the Broncos are prepared for a physical battle against the Raiders (4-2, third in the league). “They’re a side that plays the long game, they don’t mind getting into a grind.” Jensen stated.

“They love getting down and dirty with teams and that’s something we’re going to have to be ready for.”

Jensen also praised the impact of Broncos (3-3, 10th) young forwards Xavier Willison and Ben Te Kura off the bench. “He’s [Willison] an awesome prospect, same with Benny Te Kura. The sky’s the limit for both those guys with their willingness to learn and get better.”

ANZAC round up next

Ahead of next week’s ANZAC round, coach Kevin Walters confirms a quartet of stars will return from injury for the Round 8 match against Wests Tigers.

While not ready this week, prop Payne Haas (knee), winger Deine Mariner (back), captain Adam Reynolds (hamstring), and second-rower Brendan Piakura (ankle) are all expected to play against the Tigers.

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The Broncos, gunning for a sixth-straight home win, will need to be at their physical best against Canberra’s grind game. They need to hold on to the home crowd’s support before reinforcements arrive for the ANZAC round.

Published 17-April-2024

Broncos vs Dolphins: Contract Wars Add Spice to the Battle of Brisbane

The Battle of Brisbane will have an extra layer of intrigue this week, as the Broncos and Dolphins clash with salary cap pressures adding extra spice to the cross-town rivalry. Broncos vs Dolphins kickoff 6:00 p.m. on Friday, April 12 at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: From Classroom to Cafeteria: Milton Kids Reinvent Snack Time

Broncos boosted by Walsh return, face tough contract decisions

The Broncos have received a major boost with the return of star fullback Reece Walsh from a facial fracture. He joins Jordan Riki (ankle) in making a timely comeback for the home side.

Their returns are a major boost for the team, especially since captain Adam Reynolds (hamstring) and Payne Haas are still sidelined.

The wealth of talent in the Brisbane side and a looming salary cap crunch could mean tough decisions lie ahead.

The Dolphins have several million dollars in cap space, giving them the financial firepower to target top Broncos players who may not fit under the tightening Brisbane budget. This could reignite contract wars between the two clubs, with names like Selwyn Cobbo and Kotoni Staggs potentially in the Dolphins’ sights.

Two former Broncos, Herbie Farnworth and Tom Flegler, have already joined the Dolphins for this year. However, a late injury setback has forced Flegler to withdraw from the match against his former side.

Staggs doubles down on “our house” claim

Kotoni Staggs
Photo Credit: Brisbane Broncos

Broncos centre Kotoni Staggs has already fired the first shot, doubling down on his emotional “this is our house” declaration after scoring the match-winning try against the Dolphins last season.

“It wasn’t really planned,” Staggs said. “Once I scored that try it just came to me. It was the first game we ever played against the Dolphins and I just wanted to let them know who owned Suncorp.”

Broncos vs Dolphins, the battle for Suncorp

The Dolphins share Suncorp Stadium as a home ground with the Broncos, but Staggs made it clear he sees the venue as belonging to the Brisbane club. This is sure to add further spice to Friday night’s encounter.

On the field, the Broncos (2-3) will be looking to bounce back from a narrow loss to the Storm. Meanwhile, the Dolphins (3-1) are flying high at the top of the ladder after three wins out of four.

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The Broncos have won both their matches at Suncorp this season. The Dolphins have won one and lost one away from home. This Battle of Brisbane will be the first test of who can assert their dominance over The Cauldron in 2024.

Published 11-April-2024

Broncos vs Cowboys: Brisbane Look to Spoil Undefeated Queensland Rivals

The Broncos are eager to shake off their early-season woes as they prepare to face the North Queensland Cowboys in the highly anticipated Queensland Derby on Friday, March 29. Broncos vs Cowboys kick off 5:00 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

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Struggles in grand finals rematch

Broncos vs Panthers
Photo Credit: Facebook/Brisbane Broncos

The Broncos are coming off a disappointing 34-12 loss to the Penrith Panthers. The team’s woes were compounded by the absence of Captain Adam Reynolds and forward leader Payne Haas. An early injury to fullback Reece Walsh, also forced him off the field after a head clash with Taylan May.

Their last game also served as a rematch of last year’s Grand Final. The Broncos experienced heartbreak as the Panthers pulled off an all-time comeback, overturning a 12-24 deficit to win 26-24 and secure their third straight premiership.

Broncos vs Cowboys, the Queensland derby

Brisbane Broncos Round 3 ladder
It is still early days, but at the moment a large gap separates the Queensland derby sides. Photo Credit: Brisbane Broncos

While the Broncos (1-2) are licking their wounds, the North Queensland Cowboys (3-0) have been in scintillating form. The Cowboys remain the only undefeated team in the league through three rounds.

The Broncos will aim to get their season back on track and claim bragging rights in the Queensland Derby.

For the Broncos to emerge victorious, they will need to tighten their defensive efforts and minimise missed tackles, which proved costly against the Panthers.

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The stage is set for an enthralling encounter between two fierce Queensland rivals, with the Broncos looking to bounce back and the Cowboys aiming to maintain their unblemished start to the season.

Published 25-March-2024