Suncorp Stadium Archives

Brace for Impact: Metallica Set to Ignite Suncorp Stadium in 2025

Brisbane, mark your calendars. Metallica is bringing its colossal M72 World Tour to Suncorp Stadium this November, as part of their long-awaited return to Australian and New Zealand shores. Known for blistering sets, unmatched energy, and jaw-dropping production, this will be a night to remember for rock and metal fans alike.

Read: Global Tour Brings Lady Gaga’s MAYHEM Ball to Milton

A Tour Like No Other

The M72 World Tour is no ordinary run of shows. Since launching in Amsterdam in April 2023, the tour has already attracted over three million fans across Europe and North America, drawing rave reviews from every corner of the globe.

Critics have called it everything from “a stone-cold stunner of a show” (Detroit News) to “as tight and furious as Metallica has sounded in ages” (Los Angeles Times). The band’s innovative stage setup features a 360-degree experience, with the stage at one end and a sprawling Snake Pit stretching deep into the audience — putting fans at the heart of the thunder.

And this time, the Aussie leg is getting the full Metallica treatment: six stadium shows, exclusive Enhanced Experiences (including meet and greets, backstage tours, and VIP lounges), and the coveted “I Disappear Ticket,” granting superfans access to all Australian and New Zealand dates. Support comes from two powerhouse acts — Evanescence and Suicidal Tendencies.

Set List Sneak Peek

While Metallica keeps fans guessing with variations night to night, expect a career-spanning set packed with the following crowd favourites:

Seek & Destroy
Master of Puppets
Nothing Else Matters
Enter Sandman
For Whom the Bell Tolls
The Unforgiven
Sad But True
Fade to Black
One
Moth Into Flame
Lux Æterna (from their latest album “72 Seasons”)

Expect around 16–18 songs per night, often changing across shows to give fans a fresh experience every time.

Metallica: A Legacy Forged in Metal

Photo credit: CC0/Library of Congress Life/Wikimedia Commons

Formed in Los Angeles in 1981, Metallica is widely considered one of the most influential heavy metal bands of all time. With frontman James Hetfield, drummer Lars Ulrich, guitarist Kirk Hammett, and bassist Robert Trujillo, the band has sold over 125 million albums worldwide.

Their seminal 1991 self-titled release (commonly known as The Black Album) brought hits like “Enter Sandman” and “The Unforgiven” to mainstream radio and remains one of the best-selling albums of all time. They’ve taken home nine Grammy Awards, multiple MTV and American Music Awards, and were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2009.

When Were They Last Here?

Metallica last toured Australia in 2019 as part of their WorldWired Tour, though the Oceania leg was cut short due to James Hetfield’s re-entering rehab. Prior to that, they performed across the country in 2013 and 2010, consistently selling out arenas and stadiums with ease. Brisbane’s metal faithful have waited over six years for their return — and the M72 Tour promises to reward that patience in epic fashion.

Notable Anecdotes and Moments

Photo credit: metallica.com/ Brett Murray

James Hetfield has previously described Australia as one of his favourite places to tour, citing the “diehard energy” of Aussie crowds. During their 2010 Brisbane show, they famously let a fan play drums during “Seek & Destroy” — a moment still talked about among the local fanbase.

Metallica’s All Within My Hands charity initiative, which continues through this tour, has raised over $15 million USD since 2017, supporting everything from technical education to disaster relief and food insecurity efforts. A portion of every ticket sold in Brisbane will benefit local charities.

Read: Beyoncé Cowboy Carter Tour: Will Milton See Queen Bey Live in 2025?

Tickets and Info

Tickets go on general sale Monday, 4 November at 12 PM AEST, with multiple pre-sales kicking off earlier. Suncorp Stadium members and local residents will have a head start from 2 PM Friday, 1 November.

For all ticket packages, pre-sale links, and enhanced experience details, visit livenation.com.au.

Whether you’re a diehard member of the Metallica Family or just want to experience one of the greatest live shows in rock history, 12 November 2025 at Suncorp Stadium is the date you don’t want to miss. With Evanescence and Suicidal Tendencies opening the night, and Metallica delivering two hours of pure heavy metal mastery, Brisbane is set to shake like never before.

Published 16-April-2025

Reds Without Wilson and Daugunu Hoping to Overcome Brumbies

A tough loss at the Chiefs last weekend interrupted a three-win streak and dislodged Les Kiss’s men from the top of the Super Rugby Pacific ladder, but the Reds will take a lot of positives from the battle across the Tasman. The team’s Talisman, Harry Wilson, however, will be on the sidelines for six weeks after sustaining an arm fracture in the game.

The game in Hamilton has been mentioned by many as a potential preview of the final in a few months, the home advantage nudged the Chiefs over the line. The desperately close slide in unawarded try by Harry McLaughlin-Phillips after a fantastic weaving run by the former Brisbane Boys College student, was a big turning point that, on another day, could have given the Reds the momentum they needed to forge ahead.

Harry Wilson’s grubber for Tom Lynagh’s try was a touch of class from the Wallabies skipper, after the game revolved around huge defence from both sides with multiple arm wrestles on each goal line on a wet track. Eventually the Chiefs got on top in the final quarter, the penalties conceded count for the game 12-7 to the Reds was an area that Les Kiss will want to tighten up for the Brumbies clash.

The Reds will be missing Wilson and Filipo Daugunu, who sustained a minor leg injury in the Brumbies clash.

Joe Brial will replace Wilson in the back row and Tim Ryan comes in for Daugunu on the wing.

Les Kiss says that the centres pairing of Hunter Paisami and Dre Pakeho are developing a very strong partnership.

The game will have two centurions as Brisbane-born Brumbies winger Andy Muirhead (after his deft half volley grubber against the Highlanders to score a try) and Tate McDermott will play their 100th game in Super Rugby. Matt Faessler and Zane Nonggorr will hit their 50th Super Rugby milestone.

Whilst the Brumbies are on top in the recent head to head, winning seven out of the last 12 games between the two sides, Les Kiss will feel the Reds (even without Wilson and Daugunu), can beat a Brumbies side who have won twice away from home this season, at the Blues and the Drua (currently sit in the last two spots of the ladder). An unconvincing win against the struggling Highlanders at home last week makes them underdogs.

The game kicks off at Suncorp at 7:35 p.m. on Friday night.

Global Tour Brings Lady Gaga’s MAYHEM Ball to Milton

Photo Credit: Suncorp Stadium

Lady Gaga will perform at Suncorp Stadium in Milton as part of her global MAYHEM Ball tour, marking her first live Australian appearance in over a decade.

A Decade Away: Gaga’s First Aussie Shows Since 2014

Lady Gaga is returning to Australia for the first time in 11 years with three stadium performances, including a show in Milton at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium. Her last visit in 2014 featured arena shows only, with the ARTPOP Ball tour. The 2025 visit includes stadiums for the first time in her Australian touring history.

Her new album, “Mayhem,” which the tour supports, debuted at number one on the ARIA Albums Chart and the US Billboard 200. It also marked her biggest streaming debut, recording 240 million streams globally in its first week.

The Mayhem Ball Milton — *Photo Credit: Lady Gaga/Instagram*

Beyond the Stage: Lady Gaga’s Global Profile

Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, known professionally as Lady Gaga, has established a multi-dimensional career spanning music, film, business, and activism. With estimated global record sales of 170 million, she remains one of the world’s best-selling artists.

Gaga is also recognised for her philanthropic efforts, having contributed to relief campaigns following major global crises including the 2010 Haiti earthquake, the 2011 Tōhoku tsunami, and Hurricane Sandy. Her televised 2020 fundraiser, “One World: Together at Home,” raised $127 million for COVID-19 response efforts.

Through the Born This Way Foundation, launched in 2012, Gaga has led initiatives supporting youth mental health, emotional intelligence, and kindness campaigns.

Mayhem tour — *Photo Credit: Lady Gaga/Instagram*

A long-time advocate for LGBTQ rights, Gaga has actively supported anti-bullying legislation, spoken out against discriminatory policies, and amplified LGBTQ representation globally. She has been recognised by several organisations for her advocacy, including receiving the LennonOno Grant for Peace and the Yolanda Denise King High Ground Award.

Gaga’s influence is also evident in fashion, digital media, and higher education, with multiple institutions offering academic courses analysing her impact on culture, gender, and identity. Her legacy includes being the only female artist with four singles selling over 10 million copies each, and having six of her studio albums debut at number one in the US.

Milton Goes Monster: What to Know About the Show

Gaga’s Milton performance is scheduled at Suncorp Stadium on Tuesday, 9 December 2025, from 7:30 p.m. The venue will operate under its standard event policies, including mandatory tickets for all attendees and supervision requirements for children under 12.

Standing areas are available, though not recommended for patrons under 15 due to sightline and crowd density issues. The ticket limit per customer is four for presales and eight for general release, which opens Thursday, 17 April.

BUY TICKET

SET LIST

From Vegas to Milton: The MAYHEM Ball Tour Expands

The MAYHEM Ball officially begins on 16 July 2025 in Paradise, Nevada. Nine promotional performances in international cities will precede the full tour launch. A total of 48 shows will run through to 12 December, concluding in Sydney.

Announced on 26 March 2025, the tour rapidly expanded from an initial 32 shows due to strong demand. Billboard projects the tour could gross between $100 million and $125 million.

Though originally favouring arena venues to maintain production control, Gaga added the Australian stadium shows following the success of “Mayhem” and fan demand.

The Final Note

Milton’s Suncorp Stadium show will be one of three major Australian events marking Lady Gaga’s return to local stages. As her only Queensland appearance, the Milton show is expected to draw fans from across the region. With the broader tour receiving strong commercial backing, the Australian leg highlights the artist’s enduring reach.

Published 10-Apr-2025

Broncos Look to Maintain Momentum at Suncorp Against Wests

The Broncos will run out at Suncorp on Saturday night, feeling they are looking like championship contenders under Madge Maguire but also knowing that there’s plenty of scope for improvement.

The 12-20 win last week against the Dolphins in front of a soggy 44,278 fans, was the result of one try for each team in the second half — Gehemat Shibasaki grabbing his second after opening the scoring in the 11th minute, Jake Averillo going over with five minutes to go for the Dolphins.

Kotoni Staggs made a big impression on his first game back, running 122 metres from 15 possessions and scoring a crucial try. Haas and Carrigan ran 142m and 114m respectively. But Shibasaki’s 158m from 17 possessions was a massive shift. Payne Haas led the tackle count with 41, Jensen 38, Paix had 36 and Carrigan had 35.

The Broncos carry a very strong record against the Wests Tigers, 23 wins with 9 losses and 1 draw over the 33 matches played, and currently sit third with a 3 wins, 1 loss record. The Wests Tigers have shown better form this season than recent years and carry a 2-2 record, including a very narrow loss last week to the Warriors, 24-26. In that game Terrell May’s try with 20 minutes left was ruled out by the bunker for dropping the ball over the line, that would have put them two scores ahead with 20 minutes left.

Wests will miss Jarome Luai who got a one match suspension from a Grade 2 careless high tackle charge against the Warriors last week. Adam Doeihi comes back after a groin injury.

Last week Terrell May ran 152 metres and delivered three offloads as well as making 48 tackles for Wests.

It’s a game the Broncos will expect to win, but Benji Marshall will feel his side have a sniff.

Reds Dig Deep to Overcome Force and Top the Table — A Statement Win in Brisbane

The Queensland Reds gave their fans something to cheer about on March 29, grinding out a thrilling 28-24 victory over the Western Force at Suncorp Stadium in a performance that was equal parts grit, flair and composure under pressure.

It wasn’t always pretty. In fact, at times, it was downright scrappy. But in a match full of twists, momentum shifts and standout individual efforts, the Reds showed the sort of resilience that hasn’t always been their hallmark in recent years. The reward? Top spot on the Super Rugby Pacific ladder for the first time since 2012 — a milestone that carries real weight for this resurgent side.

A See-Sawing First Half

The Reds burst out of the blocks with a try to Filipo Daugunu inside the opening five minutes, capitalising on a smart lineout play and catching the Force flat-footed. But the visitors answered in spectacular fashion through front-rower Tom Robertson, who galloped nearly half the field like a runaway back-rower to level the scores and silence the Brisbane faithful.

From there, it was end-to-end action. Young flyer Heremaia Murray crossed next for the Reds, only for Carlo Tizzano — rapidly becoming one of the competition’s most consistent performers — to dot down twice for the Force and push his season tally to a record-breaking 10 tries for a flanker.

Dre Pakeho also found the line for Queensland in an impressive outing, standing in for the injured Hunter Paisami, and Tom Lynagh’s flawless goal-kicking saw the sides locked 21-all at halftime.

The Second-Half Slog

The fireworks slowed in the second stanza as both sides tightened up defensively. A penalty goal from Force playmaker Ben Donaldson nudged the visitors ahead 24-21 with just over 20 minutes to play.

Things looked shaky for the Reds when they lost John Bryant to the bin in the 67th minute, reducing them to 14 men. But rather than wilt, they found another gear — and their general, Tate McDermott, was the man to step up.

Returning from the bench, McDermott sniped off a rolling maul in the 72nd minute to cross for what proved to be the match-winner. Lynagh’s conversion iced the game, and the Reds closed out the final minutes with poise and discipline.

What It Means

This was more than just a win. It was a statement.

Without several of their regular leaders — Harry Wilson and Fraser McReight were rested, and Liam Wright remains sidelined with a shoulder injury — the Reds still managed to steady the ship. Ryan Smith, handed the captain’s armband for the first time, was a calming presence in the pack and stood tall when the side needed direction.

The win also showcased the Reds’ depth. Pakeho impressed with both ball in hand and in defence, while Lynagh’s radar boot was vital in such a tight contest. It’s becoming increasingly clear that this isn’t a team relying on a handful of stars — it’s a squad with options, hunger, and belief.

Still Work to Do

Of course, not everything went to plan. The lineout was a glaring issue, with at least 10 opportunities either lost or misfiring. Against stronger sides, those mistakes will hurt. Coach Les Kiss will be keen to address that before they face stiffer tests in the coming rounds.

But when it mattered, the Reds found a way to win — and that’s something they’ve struggled with in seasons past. There’s a steel to this group now, and that bodes well as they head into the back half of the season.

For the Fans

For long-suffering Reds supporters, this season is beginning to feel like a return to the glory days. The team has a spark again — a blend of youth and experience, a game plan that suits their strengths, and players who are standing up in big moments.

Sitting on top of the table isn’t just symbolic — it’s a reminder that the Reds can be contenders again.

And with McDermott back in form, Lynagh kicking with confidence, and a forward pack that doesn’t mind getting dirty, there’s every reason for Queensland fans to believe this side is only just getting started.

Reds Hoping to Extend Unbeaten Home Record Against the Force Since 2016

The Queensland Reds go into their home clash against the Western Force, with a 5-1 win/loss record, currently 3rd in the Super Rugby Pacific 2025 ladder and having not lost against the Force at Suncorp since 2016.

Last week’s win at the Highlanders 23-29 was a crucial momentum builder that will give them huge confidence to take on the Force, who have won three and lost three this season, with a visit to ladder leaders, the Chiefs, looming on the horizon for the Reds next week.

A 20-12 down (tries by Asiata and Thomas) at the 56-minute mark against the Highlanders. A Filipo Daugunu try and then another from a build-up of pressure, by Lachie Anderson, got them ahead before a very cheeky finish by Daugunu, finding a tiny gap underneath the goal-line ruck, to put the ball down and put his side two scores ahead. The Reds only conceding a penalty goal into overtime despite the Highlanders having 73% of the possession in the last 10 minutes.

Superior kicking from hand was a major contribution to the Reds victory. The Highlanders won the attack battle, running 496 metres to 301 by the Reds,
from 127 carries to 111 in favour of the Highlanders. Tom Lynagh and co kicked 733 metres from hand, the Highlanders only 406 metres. Lynagh is building pressure on Noah Lolesio for the Wallabies number 10 jersey. The Reds lost the breakdown battle and the lineout count (three lineouts lost against none lost by the Highlanders). So, overall the stats don’t paint the picture of a winning game.

Ryan Smith will be handed the skipper’s armband. The Reds will go into the clash without Harry Wilson and Fraser McReight who are both rested. Liam Wright is injured and Tate McDermott will make his comeback from the bench. Kalani Thomas will start again at halfback. Les Kiss being very pleased with his performance against the Highlanders.

Alex Hodgman and Massimo de Lutiis will start against the Force, having come off the bench in the strong finish against the Highlanders.

The Force travel to Suncorp after a 52-15 dominant win against Fijian Drua. The Fijians, having proven to be very competitive against some of the best sides in the comp, including being the only team to beat the table toppers, the Chiefs. Repeating that performance would certainly prove a major challenge for Les Kiss and his Reds team.

Simon Cron, the Force Coach, said he was delighted Dylan Pietsch was back after injury.

Nick Champion de Crespigny also returns at Flanker and Marley Pearce gets the loosehead start.

“We were more connected against the Drua and we need to bring that again” he said.

Two former Reds players, Hamish Stewart and Mac Grealy, will start for the Force against their old club.

The game sets up as an arm wrestle, with the Reds hoping to maintain dominance at Suncorp over the Force.

Kick off at Suncorp on Saturday night, 29 March, is 6:35 p.m.

The Battle of Brisbane – Dolphins vs Broncos

The Broncos will start this home game, cunningly disguised as an away game, with great momentum. Suncorp will be packed and Kotoni Staggs will return to the starting lineup after his hip flexor injury, replacing Deine Mariner who has a night in the reserves. Payne Haas looked brutal against the Cowboys last week. The Cowboys defence didn’t seem to be too keen to get in his way for the crucial break that led to his late try.

Reece Walsh appears to have plenty of upside scope, a few errors last week coupled with flashes of brilliance. Adam Reynolds and Ben Hunt running the game efficiently when it mattered. It wasn’t a flashy Broncos win but they did enough to resign a struggling Cowboys outfit to a winless 0-3 record.

That’s where the Dolphins currently sit, winless 0-3. They will be desperate to inflict a wound to the title chasing Broncos. They put out the same starting lineup as lost to the Wests Tigers last week.

The Broncos should be motivated by the 40-6 hammering they suffered from The Hammer and co last season at Suncorp.

Dolphins coach Kristian Woolf will be looking for an “Originesque Start” to the game as the Dolphins have yet to break the 20-point mark this season, 14 points against the Rabbits and 12 against the Knights, followed by 18 against the Wests Tigers, is slim pickings in attack, against a Broncos team with so many attacking options.

Madge Maguire’s men have not fully hit their straps yet. The Cowboys game saw the visitors run more metres than the Broncos, and frankly the game was closer than it should have been.

Yet to have started with a 2-1 win/loss record puts them in a strong position with Wests Tigers at home next week and the Roosters at home the following week.

Broncos fans will be looking for a big first half in defence, and for their huge weaponry to build attacking dominance as the game goes on.

Suncorp’s Milton Hub Assists Cyclone-Affected Families

Photo Credit: Suncorp/Facebook

With over 20,000 insurance claims filed, Suncorp has launched a recovery hub at Milton’s Suncorp Stadium to support cyclone-hit communities.

Suncorp Brings Vital Help to Cyclone-Affected Families at Milton Hub

More than 20,000 insurance claims have been lodged after ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred tore through parts of Queensland, and many residents are now getting much-needed support at Suncorp’s recovery hub in Milton.

The hub is open from Monday 17 March to Thursday 20 March, 9am to 4pm, at Suncorp Stadium, 40 Castlemaine Street, Milton QLD 4064. It offers face-to-face assistance for people dealing with storm damage, loss, and emergency needs.

Community in Crisis

Cyclone Alfred brought widespread devastation to South-East Queensland and northern New South Wales, with hotspots such as Runaway Bay, Beenleigh, and Hervey Bay suffering the brunt. Suncorp and its brands have taken in excess of 20,700 claims, most of them houses and contents.

To assist in the recovery process, Suncorp has sent assessors, builders, and customer service teams to the worst-hit regions.

On the Ground at Milton

At the Milton site, locals can lodge claims, get emergency payments, and arrange temporary accommodation. The hub is especially helpful for those without internet or phone access, offering face-to-face service in a familiar setting.

Suncorp leaders have also visited hard-hit areas to meet with customers and understand what’s needed most. They noted that thousands of claims came in daily during the worst of the weather, but teams responded quickly to manage the demand.

Long-Term Help Also on the Way

Beyond immediate support, Suncorp has committed $500,000 toward recovery efforts. This includes $200,000 to the Red Cross and $300,000 to the FRRR for long-term community rebuilding.

The Insurance Council of Australia is also calling for tradespeople to assist with repairs across 33 local government areas.

Published 21-March-2025

Queensland Rugby Star Fraser McReight Staying With the Reds Until 2028

Photo Credit: Reds.Rugby

Suncorp Stadium will remain the battleground for Fraser McReight’s rugby future, with the star flanker committing to Australian Rugby and the Queensland Reds until 2028. The 26-year-old, widely regarded as one of the best openside flankers in the game, turned down significant overseas offers to stay in Queensland, ensuring he remains a key figure in Australia’s rugby revival.

McReight’s re-signing was confirmed on Friday, 14 March, solidifying his place in the Wallabies’ long-term plans. His decision to stay comes ahead of a critical period for Australian rugby, including this year’s British and Irish Lions tour and the 2027 Rugby World Cup, which will be hosted on home soil.

Loyalty to Queensland and the Wallabies

Despite attracting interest from overseas clubs, McReight chose to continue his journey in Australia. He said his passion for representing Queensland and the Wallabies played a major role in his decision, along with the opportunity to contribute to a national rebuilding effort.

“There were other offers, but my heart has always been with the Reds and the Wallabies,” McReight stated. He sees the next few years as crucial for Australian rugby and wants to be part of the team’s resurgence.

The flanker’s decision aligns with the choices of several other top players, including Wallabies captain Harry Wilson, who have opted to remain in the domestic competition rather than chase lucrative contracts overseas. Queensland Reds coach Les Kiss emphasised McReight’s value, calling him one of the best No.7s in world rugby and a leader within the team.

A Career on the Rise

McReight’s impact on the game has been undeniable. In 2024, he was named Australian Super Rugby Pacific Player of the Year for the second consecutive season, earned the RUPA Medal for Excellence, and won the Pilecki Medal as Queensland’s best player.

The backrower made his professional debut for the Queensland Reds in 2019 and played his first Test for the Wallabies in 2020. Since then, he has amassed 77 Super Rugby caps and 25 Test caps, cementing his status as a core player in Australia’s international setup.

Queensland Rugby Union CEO David Hanham praised McReight’s commitment, noting that he has a strong connection with the team and the local community. “He wants to be here, playing with his mates and pushing Australian rugby forward,” Hanham said.

A Key Player for Australia’s Future

Rugby Australia’s high-performance director Peter Horne highlighted McReight’s role in shaping the Wallabies’ future. With a major international calendar ahead, including the highly anticipated British and Irish Lions tour this year and the 2027 Rugby World Cup, his presence in the squad is considered a major boost.

“Fraser has established himself as a regular in the Wallabies lineup and will play a key role as we prepare for some of the biggest rugby events in Australia’s history,” Horne said.

McReight’s leadership and on-field influence are expected to help guide a new era for the Wallabies, as the team looks to rebuild and compete at the highest level.

His re-signing also strengthens the Queensland Reds, who have secured key players such as Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Matt Faessler, and Jeremy Williams, ensuring the squad remains competitive in Super Rugby Pacific.

A Home-Grown Star Staying Put

McReight’s rugby journey started in Queensland, where he played for the Albany Creek Brumbies before progressing through the ranks at Brisbane Grammar School. He later captained the Junior Wallabies to an Oceania Under-20s title, setting the foundation for his professional career.

His decision to stay in Australian rugby, rather than accept lucrative overseas offers, underscores his deep connection to Queensland and his desire to see the Wallabies return to the top of world rugby. With Suncorp Stadium set to host key matches in the coming years, fans can expect to see McReight leading from the front, both for the Reds and the Wallabies.

Published 18-March-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.

Read: Milton Office Building Could Make Way for 30-Storey Residential Tower

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Read: Milton on Alert: Severe Weather and Flood Risks Loom as Cyclone Approaches

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