Tag: Suncorp Stadium

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

Maroons vs Blues: Queensland Chase Victory in Origin Decider at Suncorp

As the 2024 State of Origin series reaches its climax, Queensland prepares to defend their home turf in a decisive Game 3 at Suncorp Stadium. With the series tied at 1-1, the Maroons aim to capitalise on their impressive record in deciders and secure their third consecutive series victory. Maroons vs Blues kick off 8:05 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: Remembering the Maroons First Lang Park Origin Decider Win in 1983

Home ground advantage

Queensland enters the decider with history on their side. The Maroons have won nine of the last ten Origin deciders, including the last six played in Queensland. Their last defeat in a home decider came in 2005, underlining the formidable challenge that awaits the Blues.

Coach Billy Slater has made strategic adjustments to strengthen the squad. Veteran Dane Gagai and dynamic fullback Kalyn Ponga return to the Origin arena, while Selwyn Cobbo slots into the centres. Kurt Capewell moves into the starting side, replacing Jaydn Su’a. Despite recent injury concerns, both Harry Grant and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow trained, boosting the team’s preparations.

Maroons vs Blues

While New South Wales has shown dominance in certain areas, Queensland maintains crucial advantages. The Maroons lead in line breaks (12 to 9) and average nearly one metre more per run than their opponents.

State of Origin team comparison
Photo Credit: The Analyst

Queensland’s ability to finish games strongly could likewise prove decisive. In recent Origin matches, the Maroons have consistently outscored the Blues in the second half, including three or more tries in four of the last five games, two of which are in the previous games of this series.

As the Maroons’ eighteenth man, a sell-out crowd at Suncorp Stadium is expected to create a rowdy atmosphere. With a combined attendance of over 167,000 for the first two games, this series is on track to be one of the most-watched in Origin history.

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As the series hangs in the balance, the Maroons ability to perform under pressure in deciders will be crucial in their quest for another series victory. With home advantage, historical success, and key players in form, Queensland stands ready to write another glorious chapter in their State of Origin legacy.

Published 13-July-2024

Broncos vs Dragons: Brisbane Aim to Snap Five-Game Skid

The Brisbane Broncos aim to snap their five-game losing streak as they face the St. George Illawarra Dragons this Saturday, July 13 with captain Kotoni Staggs leading a reshaped lineup. Broncos vs Dragons kick off 7:35 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: Remembering the Maroons First Lang Park Origin Decider Win in 1983

Recent performance shows promise

The Broncos demonstrated renewed defensive intensity in their recent 14-6 loss to the reigning premiers, Penrith Panthers. Despite falling short, Brisbane’s improved performance showed signs of a potential turnaround.

Reece Walsh delivered his best game of the year with a try and a goal in the first-half, while Payne Haas and Pat Carrigan provided tireless efforts in the middle.

Broncos vs Dragons

The Broncos welcome back several key players for the Round 19 clash. Kotoni Staggs returns to the starting side and will captain the team, providing much-needed experience and leadership. Jordan Riki also makes his comeback, strengthening the forward pack.

These returns come at a critical time, as the Broncos will be without four State of Origin representatives: Pat Carrigan, Payne Haas, Selwyn Cobbo, and Reece Walsh.

Recent history favours the visitors, with the Dragons winning six of their last eight encounters against the Broncos. The Broncos’ recent home form has been likewise concerning, with only one win in their last five home games.

However, Kotoni Staggs’ return could provide a spark, given his impressive record of five tries in his last four matches against the Dragons. For the Dragons, the absence of Origin representative Ben Hunt is also a significant hurdle, as they’ve managed only one win in their last 11 games without their star halfback.

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This match carries substantial weight for both teams. The Broncos, having dropped from fifth to eleventh on the ladder since Round 11, are desperate to regain their early-season form. A win could reignite their finals ambitions and boost confidence ahead of the final seven games of the season.

Published 09-July-2024

Broncos vs Panthers: Tough Test in Grand Final Rematch Against Reigning Premiers

The Brisbane Broncos are gearing up for a crucial clash against the Penrith Panthers in a grand final rematch this Friday, July 5. As the 10th-placed Broncos struggle with a string of losses and injury woes, they face a formidable challenge against the reigning premiers. Broncos vs Panthers kick off  8:00 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: Remembering the Maroons First Lang Park Origin Decider Win in 1983

Recent loss adds to Broncos’ woes

The Broncos enter this match on the back of a 32-16 defeat to the Warriors at Go Media Stadium despite a valiant effort from an undermanned Brisbane side.

The team, already missing five regular starters due to Origin, injuries, and suspensions, suffered another setback when Jack Gosiewski left the field with a broken arm in the opening minutes.

Broncos vs Panthers

Brisbane receives a timely boost with the return of State of Origin stars Reece Walsh, Payne Haas, and Patrick Carrigan.

However, the team’s forward pack remains depleted due to injuries and suspensions. Props Ben Te Kura and Fletcher Baker are sidelined with foot and knee injuries respectively, while second-rowers Jordan Riki, Jaiyden Hunt, and Jack Gosiewski are also unavailable.

Coach Kevin Walters faces a selection dilemma with only seven middle and edge forwards available from the top-30 squad. The Broncos will field all available forwards, including Corey Jensen, Kobe Hetherington, Brendan Piakura, Xavier Willison, and Martin Taupau.

The Panthers, also coming off a disappointing loss to the Cowboys, welcome back their own Origin contingent. Dylan Edwards, Brian To’o, Jarome Luai, and Liam Martin return to the lineup, strengthening the team for this important fixture.

Recent history favours the Panthers, who have won seven of their last eight encounters with the Broncos. Brisbane’s last victory against Penrith at Suncorp Stadium dates back to 2019, adding another layer of challenge for the home team.

Kevin Walters remains optimistic

Despite the recent setbacks, coach Kevin Walters maintains a positive outlook on the Broncos’ finals prospects. “If you have a good look at the table, there are a few teams like us behind the leaders and all in the race,” Walters states. 

“I expect us to get ourselves together sooner rather than later with some really strong performances leading into the finals.”

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The match against Penrith marks the beginning of a crucial period for the Broncos. With upcoming games against St George Illawarra and Newcastle, Brisbane need to secure six wins from their last nine games to keep their finals hopes alive.

Published 02-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 Titans at Suncorp – Sunday 2pm Kick Off

Indigenous Round brings a great opportunity for the Broncos to maintain their winning run, having brought home the bacon in their last two games. The bookies now make them the second favourites behind the Panthers to win the Telstra Premiership this year, despite the loss of Adam Reynolds until round 22, after Jock Madden’s winning field goal.

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Payne Haas will start, after his strange injury against the Sea Eagles which turned out to be caused by a knee in the back of his calf triggering a big toe nerve injury.

Reece Walsh and Billy Walters return, Kotoni Staggs is ruled out with a fractured first rib that he picked up against the Sea Eagles last week.

Will David Fifita’s extraordinary back-flip on his move to the Roosters impact his form?

The game against the Titans will be a great opportunity for the younger Broncos to step up and fill the spots during the Origin series which starts on June 5.

The Titans have struggled to put a full game together all season, hence their 2 wins and 8 losses record has them in wooden spoon territory, but Joe Stimson and Kieran Foran return into the starting line up.

The Broncos currently sit 5th, the Titans are 16th

Sad news this week that Broncos assistant coach, John Cartwright, will be leaving for pastures new at the end of the season. Cartwright joined the Broncos when Kevvie Walters took the head coach job for the 2021 season, his new role will be Head Coach at Hull FC in the 2025 Super League.

The Indigenous round jersey that the Broncos will take onto the field was designed by well-known North Stradbroke Island artist Delvene Cockatoo-Collins.

Read: Milton Marvel: Suncorp Stadium Roof Push Amid Magic Round Downpour Threat

Broncos vs Sea Eagles: NRL Magic Round Set to Electrify Suncorp Stadium

The 2024 NRL Magic Round roars into action Friday, May 17, with a double-header featuring pivotal clashes that could shape the season for both sides involved. Raiders vs Bulldogs kicks off 6:00 p.m., followed by Broncos vs Sea Eagles two hours later at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: Milton Marvel: Suncorp Stadium Roof Push Amid Magic Round Downpour Threat

Raiders vs Bulldogs

The Bulldogs go into the contest full of confidence after beating the Titans, Roosters, Knights and Wests Tigers this year. Under the guidance of Stephen Crichton, the Canterbury outfit has shown remarkable improvement. But their resolve will be put to the test against Ricky Stuart’s no-nonsense Raiders.

Coming off a hard-fought win over Manly and a well-timed bye, Canberra will be refreshed and ready to continue their Magic Round dominance. In recent years, the Raiders have twice beaten the Bulldogs (2021 and 2023) and the Sharks (2022) in this event.

Broncos vs Sea Eagles

Heading into the main event, the Broncos are riding high after a 30-14 thumping of the Eels on Friday night. They are eager to build on this momentum in their return to Brisbane, where they have claimed three out of four contests against Manly during Magic Round, including a resounding triumph last year.

Coach Kevin Walters is hopeful of welcoming back Jock Madden from a pectoral injury that has kept him out since round eight, further strengthening the Broncos’ lineup.

The Sea Eagles, reeling from the loss of star fullback Tom Trbojevic, return to Suncorp Stadium for the second consecutive week.

Read: Game Day Just Got Tastier: The Muster Grill Debuts at Suncorp Stadium

With the NRL Magic Round at Suncorp Stadium, fans are in for a festival of football like no other. Sixteen teams descend upon Queensland’s home of rugby league for an action-packed weekend of pivotal match-ups.

Published 14-May-2024

Milton Marvel: Suncorp Stadium Roof Push Amid Magic Round Downpour Threat

Photo Credit: Instagram/ Suncorp Stadium

As Suncorp Stadium braces for a potentially rain-soaked Magic Round, Queensland Rugby League chairman Bruce Hatcher has reignited calls for a roof to be installed on the iconic Brisbane venue.

Read: Reds vs Rebels: Queensland Aim to Continue Winning Ways Against Melbourne

Photo Credit: Instagram/ SuncorpStadium

With the stadium shortlisted as a potential host for the 2032 Olympic opening and closing ceremonies, Hatcher believes a roof would safeguard future events from the city’s unpredictable weather.

Hatcher, a pivotal figure in Suncorp’s last major upgrade, emphasised the need for Brisbane to have a world-class, all-weather venue to attract international events and competitions. He highlighted that a roof would not only shield major sporting events from the elements but also create opportunities for concerts, boxing matches, and various other activities throughout the year.

The stadium’s turf will face a stern test this week, hosting the women’s State of Origin match on Thursday before the eight-game NRL Magic Round extravaganza. With rain predicted across multiple days, concerns have been raised about the playing surface’s ability to withstand the deluge.

Photo Credit: Instagram/ SuncorpStadium

While Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium remains the sole major Australian football stadium with a roof, plans for Tasmania’s new AFL team include a retractable roof.

Hatcher views the potential Olympic renovation as an ideal chance for Brisbane to elevate Suncorp Stadium to new heights. He envisions an expanded capacity of approximately 65,000, making it a fitting stage for global events.

Photo Credit: Instagram/ SuncorpStadium

The decision on the Olympic opening ceremony venue will follow the October state election, with both major parties hesitant to make a definitive call beforehand due to the divisive nature of the issue. Suncorp Stadium has emerged as the frontrunner after both parties ruled out major redevelopments at the Gabba or a new stadium at Victoria Park.

Photo Credit: Instagram/ Suncorp Stadium

Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett has also voiced his support for Suncorp Stadium, emphasising the benefits a renovation would bring to various sports and sectors beyond athletics. He sees this as a golden opportunity to enhance Brisbane’s sporting infrastructure and create a multi-purpose venue for soccer, rugby union, concerts, and other events.

Read: Game Day Just Got Tastier: The Muster Grill Debuts at Suncorp Stadium

Published Date 13-May-2024

Game Day Just Got Tastier: The Muster Grill Debuts at Suncorp Stadium

Football fans at Suncorp Stadium now have a savoury reason to cheer louder and linger longer, with the opening of The Muster Grill, the latest addition to the stadium’s culinary lineup.

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Located on Level 3, opposite Aisle 324, The Muster Grill represents a notable addition to the culinary landscape of Suncorp Stadium. Operated in collaboration with O’Brien Group Australia and Meat & Livestock Australia, this themed dining establishment offers patrons a distinctively Australian gastronomic experience.

Central to the Muster Grill’s ethos is its emphasis on showcasing the finest 100 percent Australian beef selections. In alignment with the stadium’s commitment to culinary diversity, the Muster Grill complements existing concessions, such as the Vegan outlet at Aisle 305, ensuring a comprehensive array of dining options for attendees.

Photo credit: suncorpstadium.com.au

The menu at the Muster Grill features three primary offerings, each highlighting the robust flavours of Australian beef:

  1. Aussie Works Burger: Featuring a succulent 100 percent Australian Beef Pattie complemented by sliced beetroot, crisp cos lettuce, ripe tomato, melted cheese, and hickory smoked BBQ sauce, the Aussie Works Burger is a testament to traditional Australian fare with a contemporary twist.
  2. Beef Tejano Loaded Fries: An amalgamation of TexMex-inspired flavours, the Beef Tejano Loaded Fries present slow-cooked pulled brisket atop a bed of hot chips, accompanied by smoked BBQ sauce, black bean salsa, sour cream, diced tomato, and melted tasty cheese, delivering a harmonious blend of savoury and spicy elements.
  3. Beef Brisket Hoagie: Crafted with tender slow-roasted Beef Brisket, smothered in smokey BBQ sauce, and nestled within chipotle coleslaw, all ensconced within a freshly baked hoagie roll, the Beef Brisket Hoagie offers a satisfying culinary experience reminiscent of classic comfort food.

Complementing these main offerings, the Muster Grill provides a selection of refreshments and snacks, including gluten-free pies, soft drinks, water, chips, lollies, and crisps, catering to a diverse range of preferences.

Photo credit: Nick Haines/Google Maps 

A notable feature of the Muster Grill is its dedication to quality and authenticity. The 12-hour slow-cooking process employed for the Australian Beef Brisket underscores the commitment to delivering superior flavour and tenderness, reflecting the culinary team’s unwavering standards of excellence.

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Whether attending a sporting event or seeking to savour the essence of Australian cuisine, patrons are invited to experience the culinary delights of the Muster Grill. With its discerning menu, attentive service, and distinctly Australian ambiance, it promises to be a destination of choice for discerning diners at Suncorp Stadium.

Published 6-May-2024