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Wally Lewis’ Long-Lost Jersey Returns for One More Maroons Moment

For 45 years, rugby league legend Wally Lewis believed his iconic maroon jersey from the first-ever State of Origin match was lost to time. But in a twist worthy of Origin folklore, the treasured item resurfaced, just in time to inspire Queensland.

Read: Broncos Aim to Rebuild Trust as Warriors Return to Suncorp

When the Maroons took on New South Wales in Sydney to claim the 2025 Origin series, the jersey, once worn by “The King” himself, was the final image the current Queensland squad saw before taking the field. It was a powerful reminder of legacy, pride, and the enduring spirit of Origin.

The rediscovery came during a painstaking search through a storage unit, where Wally and his wife Lynda had spent hours sorting through bags and boxes, nearly giving up hope. Then, tucked inside a cardboard box labelled ‘rent-a-clothes’, they found it: the original jersey, safely sealed in a zip-locked bag. The moment moved them deeply, with the couple overcome by emotion.

Photo credit: Wally Lewis Official/Instagram

Rather than risk losing it again, the couple decided to carry the jersey with them by hand, keeping it close every step of the journey to Sydney.

Straight from storage and still bearing the wear of history, the jersey featured in a guard of honour during the Wednesday night match. Lewis stood alongside 16 other players from that first Origin clash in 1980, a powerful tribute to the game’s roots.

Lewis, who has long been considering donating his personal memorabilia collection, saw that moment as part of a larger gesture—sharing his story and the state’s sporting heritage with the fans. Suncorp Stadium had already expressed interest in displaying some of the pieces.

Adding to the emotion of the night, Lewis watched one of his favourite current players, Cameron Munster, take the field while carrying the recent loss of his father. Lewis has previously said Munster’s talent ranks among the best he’s seen, and Wednesday had proved to be a defining moment in the playmaker’s career.

Read: Sunday Sunshine at Suncorp: Broncos to Sunburn Sharks?

From a dusty storage unit to the heart of a stadium filled with passion, Wally Lewis’ lost jersey has found its way back into Queensland’s story, right where it belongs.

Updated 14-July-2025

Broncos Aim to Rebuild Trust as Warriors Return to Suncorp

Brisbane fans are restless, and with good reason. A string of listless defeats through May and June has dragged the Broncos from early-season contenders to mid-table uncertainty.

Last weekend’s 34–28 escape act against Cronulla halted the skid—but one stirring comeback won’t erase eight weeks of frustration. Saturday afternoon’s visit from the fourth‑placed One New Zealand Warriors feels less like a celebration and more like a referendum on where this squad—and head coach Michael Maguire—really stands.

Kick-off is 3:00 pm AEST on Saturday, 28 June at Suncorp Stadium.

Team news at a glance

The Broncos have named the same 17-player squad that edged the Sharks last round. Key personnel include Reece Walsh at fullback; the backline of Josiah Karapani, Kotoni Staggs, Gehamat Shibasaki, and Jesse Arthars; with the halves pairing Ezra Mam and captain Adam Reynolds. The forward pack features Corey Jensen, Cory Paix, and powerhouse Payne Haas flanked by Brendan Piakura and Jordan Riki, while Patrick Carrigan anchors the edge. The bench consists of Billy Walters, Kobe Hetherington, Xavier Willison, and Jack Gosiewski, with reserves Tyson Smoothy and Selwyn Cobbo listed in the 18.

The Warriors have made three changes for this clash. Ed Kosi returns on the wing, Rocco Berry slots into centre, and Kurt Capewell joins in the back row. Unfortunately for Auckland fans, Dallin Watene‑Zelezniak is sidelined with an ankle issue, and Moala Graham‑Taufa also misses out. The spine includes Charnze Nicoll‑Klokstad, Roger Tuivasa‑Sheck, Adam Pompey, Harris‑Tavita, Luke Metcalf, and James Fisher‑Harris, with Wayde Egan at hooker. Marata Niukore partners Fisher‑Harris in the middle before Capewell and Jacob Laban settle the edges. The bench features Te Maire Martin, Jackson Ford, Demitric Vaimauga, and Leka Halasima, who also serves as 18th man alongside Tanah Boyd.

No late withdrawals were reported in Friday’s 24‑hour cut-off, giving both sides a clean bill of health heading into the weekend.

Form guide & context

The Broncos had managed just one win in six matches prior to their dramatic comeback over Cronulla and conceded an average of 26 points across that bleak stretch. Their ladder position reflects the slump: firmly outside the top eight.

In contrast, the Warriors sit fourth with 24 competition points. Despite recent losses to Penrith and Melbourne, Andrew Webster’s men have claimed five wins from six matches on Australian soil this season, including Magic Round performances at Suncorp.

For those who missed last weekend’s rollercoaster, the official NRL highlight reel captures Walsh’s spark and defensive heroics in the dying stages.

Key battles to watch

Reece Walsh vs. Charnze Nicoll‑Klokstad – Walsh’s dynamic support play and kicking will challenge CNK’s dependable defence and metres on return.
Payne Haas & Patrick Carrigan vs. James Fisher‑Harris & Marata Niukore – Brisbane’s engine-room tired quickly during the slump; losing this contest early would intensify the pressure.
Adam Reynolds vs. Luke Metcalf – Reynolds’ precision kicking and control will be pitted against Metcalf’s fresh legs and instinctive broken game.

ROUND 17 PREVIEW

Tactical snapshot

Maguire has slowed the Broncos’ tempo, emphasising direct carries from Jensen and Haas before shifting play wide to Walsh and Mam. Conversely, the Warriors will target edge defenders with Harris‑Tavita orchestrating multiple shifts and Capewell offering line-breaking threats. Both teams rank poorly in six‑again penalties, so discipline and structured sets will be key. Whoever sustains composure under pressure and avoids repeat ruck infringements should dominate field position.

What’s at stake for Brisbane

A win would pull the Broncos within striking distance of the top eight—and give coach Maguire a much-needed buffer in the eyes of a sceptical fan base. A lacklustre display, however, would confirm fears that last weekend’s comeback was more adrenaline rush than a genuine turning point. From Red Hill to Newmarket, the question is clear: can this team be trusted again? Saturday promises an answer.

How to follow

Kick‑off: 3:00 pm AEST, Saturday 28 June
Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
Broadcast: Nine, Fox League, Kayo

Final word

The Broncos arrive burdened with pressure but buoyed by a flash of late-game fight. The Warriors come structured and composed—proven winners in Queensland territory. If Brisbane’s forwards can match the energy of Fisher‑Harris and Niukore over 80 minutes, Walsh and Mam may convert that grunt into points. But should the Warriors set the tone early, Suncorp could be less witness to redemption than resignation. This is more than a game—it’s the Broncos’ identity on trial.

Published 27-06-2025

300 Reasons to Fight: Reynolds Hits Milestone as Broncos Slip Again

Photo Credit: NRL

Adam Reynolds’ 300th game should have been a celebration. Instead, it marked a season in freefall, as the Broncos endured their sixth loss in seven games.

Adam Reynolds was supposed to be the story. A veteran halfback with over a decade of elite play behind him, joining the rarefied air of the NRL’s 300-game club — a feat built on resilience, discipline, and the ability to deliver under pressure.

But as the Broncos trudged off Brookvale Oval following a 34–6 defeat to the Sea Eagles, there was no joy in the milestone. No redemption story. Just another performance that left more questions than answers, and a sobering reminder of how quickly things have unraveled.

Reynolds did his part. In his milestone match, he delivered 418 kicking metres and two forced dropouts, doing what he could to apply pressure. He made a season-high 39 tackles — nearly double his average — and kicked his 41st goal of the season. But it was nowhere near enough.

Manly ran riot. Six tries to one. A defensive collapse. Haumole Olakau’atu carved the Broncos open on the right edge, and debutant Clayton Faulalo scored twice to rub salt into the wounds. Brisbane missed 35 tackles. The effort was there in flashes — but cohesion, confidence, and composure were not.

This was supposed to be a celebration. The Broncos even issued commemorative scarves to fans and tributes poured in from across the league. But what should have been a moment of honour for their captain has instead become a microcosm of the team’s current crisis: bright individual moments overshadowed by collective underperformance.

Reynolds’ season, statistically, is holding up. Across 12 games in 2024, he’s posted 3 tries, 11 try assists, 40 goals at an 81.6% conversion rate, and remains one of the smartest tactical kickers in the game. But the pressure of carrying a faltering side is beginning to show.

He’s not alone in shouldering the load. Injuries have ravaged the squad. Reece Walsh remains out, forcing Jesse Arthars to shift to fullback. Billy Walters, normally a spark off the bench, was out with a wrist injury. But the issues run deeper than personnel. There’s something frayed in the fabric — a sense that belief is starting to slip.

Still, Reynolds fronted up after the game, as he always does. Composed, measured, but clearly frustrated. The message was clear: the group remains united, the coaching staff supported. But it’s hard to shake the sense that this team, which came so close to glory last season, is now stuck in a freefall it can’t yet arrest.

With a 5–7 record and a points differential now slipping into the red, the Broncos sit outside the top eight. The weeks ahead will be defining — not just for their season, but for the culture they claim to be building.

It’s not how Reynolds would have written this chapter. A player who gave everything to South Sydney, only to be cut loose and start over in Brisbane — where he quickly became the compass of a rebuilding side. He brought belief. Stability. Hope. And he still brings it, game after game.

But football is cruel like that. Milestones don’t guarantee moments. Loyalty doesn’t shield you from the scoreboard. And sometimes, even a player as steady as Reynolds is forced to carry more than he should.

The Broncos have time to fix this. But they need to start showing it on the field — for themselves, for their season, and for the captain who deserves better than this.

Published 3-June-2025

Broncos Without Walsh Need to End the Bulldogs Run

The visit of the currently unbeaten Canterbury Bulldogs to Suncorp on Thursday night has become a “must win” for the Broncos who are looking to regain momentum after back-to-back losses.

The 20-18 loss to the Warriors last Saturday in Auckland, was the result of leaking three tries in 13 minutes of the second-half.

Paddy Carrigan with 53 tackles and Payne Haas running 219 metres were the highlights for the Broncos but the 69% completion rate against the Warriors 84% wasn’t going to get it done.

Madge Maguire’s men will be without Reece Walsh, who has a knee injury. Selwyn Cobbo will move to fullback and Deine Marriner will play on the wing. Brendan Piakura will be on the bench after his two match suspension for a high tackle charge.

The Bulldogs are aiming for their first “7 match winning streak” since 2014, and will field the same starting 13 as last week’s win against the Rabbitohs. Harry Hayes will replace Jack Todd on the bench, Todd out with a fractured arm.

After shutting out the Knights (20-0) and the Rabbitohs (32-0) in the last two games, the Bulldogs defence is building a big reputation, partly down to their strong line speed, they concede on average only 9 points per game. Their left-edge attack is their offensive edge. Second half stamina is also proving an area of dominance, having held several teams scoreless in the second stanza this year. After seven years straight of missing the playoffs, the Bulldogs broke that run last year and in 2025 have taken their performance to a new level under Cameron Ciraldo, in his third season.

The Broncos will really need the Suncorp crowd to lift them over the line, the game kicks off at 7.50 p.m.

Published 23-April-2025

Broncos vs Cowboys: Madge’s Men Seek Redemption in Home Opener After Mixed Start

The Brisbane Broncos open their home season this Friday, 21 March, against the North Queensland Cowboys, carrying the weight of two performances that have left fans questioning the team’s true identity. Madge’s side enter the encounter with a point to prove after their promising start was derailed in the nation’s capital. Broncos vs Cowboys kick off 7:00 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

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Electrifying Start Raises Expectations

Michael Maguire’s Red Hill revolution began with a bang in round one, as Brisbane dismantled the Sydney Roosters 50-14 in a statement performance at Allianz Stadium. The Broncos’ new-look outfit fired on all cylinders, overcoming an early deficit to run in nine tries against one of the competition’s traditional powerhouses.

The revamped Brisbane midfield showcased a perfect blend of power and precision, with Payne Haas proving unstoppable. Despite observing Ramadan, the front-rower tore through the Roosters’ defence, amassing 145 metres and 11 tackle busts while providing a clever assist for Cory Paix’s try. Alongside Haas, Pat Carrigan excelled in his switch from lock to prop, chalking up 202 metres and setting up Jack Gosiewski with a deft short ball.

The veteran halves combination of Ben Hunt and Adam Reynolds controlled the game with composure and guile. Hunt, in his first appearance back in Broncos colours, orchestrated Brisbane’s opening try and crossed for one himself, while Reynolds’ precision kicking game tormented the Roosters’ outside backs.

Perhaps most impressive was the performance of Cory Paix, who ended a 553-day NRL exile with a standout showing in the number nine jersey. The hooker’s enterprising play around the ruck provided Brisbane with the zip they needed, while Selwyn Cobbo’s hat-trick out wide put an exclamation mark on a commanding display.

Reality Check in Canberra Exposes Vulnerabilities

The euphoria of round one quickly evaporated as the Broncos came crashing back to earth with a 32-22 defeat against Canberra Raiders.

Brisbane’s imposing forward pack found themselves outmuscled by the Raiders’ duo of Corey Horsburgh and Josh Papali’i. The pair set the tone early with ferocious charges and stinging defence, limiting the influence of Haas and Carrigan. The Broncos’ enforcers were beaten to the punch by a hungrier Raiders outfit, with Brisbane’s completion rate plummeting to just 65% compared to their clinical execution against the Roosters.

The halves pairing of Reynolds and Hunt struggled to stamp their authority on the game, with Reynolds failing to register a single run in the first half. While Hunt created two tries with pinpoint cut-out passes to Jesse Arthars, he was badly exposed defensively when Canberra’s Matty Nicholson bumped him off en route to the try line.

Most concerning for Broncos fans was the neutralisation of fullback Reece Walsh. The electric number one, who had terrorised Canberra in previous encounters, was restricted to just 51 metres from five runs as the Raiders kicked to open spaces and denied him quality possession. Walsh’s defensive frailties were also exposed, with four missed tackles compounded by four handling errors in a night to forget.

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Broncos vs Cowboys

The Friday night clash against the Cowboys now takes on heightened significance as the Broncos look to establish consistency under their new coach. For Brisbane to prevail in front of their home faithful, they’ll need to recapture the midfield dominance that laid the platform for their round one success.

Haas and Carrigan must win the crucial battle of the engine room, while Reynolds and Hunt will be eager to demonstrate their combination can flourish even when facing defensive pressure and limited time with the ball.

As they prepare to run out at Suncorp Stadium for the first time in 2025, the Broncos stand at a crossroads in their early-season journey. Will supporters witness the ruthless machine that demolished the Roosters, or the vulnerable outfit that was outmuscled in Canberra?

Published 17-March-2025

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.

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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.

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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