Friday, 7:35 pm, Allianz Stadium

A blockbuster start to Friday night football sees the Roosters and Sonny Bill Williams up against the side he walked out on five years ago, the Canterbury Bulldogs. Whilst the media is happy to make a lot of this situation, the reality is only Ben Barba remains from the 2008 Canterbury squad, and he only played one match that year. Still, the fans will be baying for blood. On the field the Roosters have been better than Canterbury, although have benefitted from an easier draw. Their fade out against Canberra is worrying. The Bulldogs though looked insipid last week and their attack is just not firing. With Keating injured Hodgkinson is expected to start at halfback, and may prove to make a difference. Roosters deserve favouritism on what has been seen so far this year. Roosters by 10

Brisbane Broncos vs. North Qld Cowboys

Friday, 7:30 pm, Suncorp Stadium

Both of these rivals grabbed much needed wins last week. The Broncos overcame the Titans in a quality win whilst the Cowboys shut out the Panthers for just their second victory of the season. The Broncos attack is starting to look a little better, with Corey Norman’s move to fullback paying dividends. Thaiday returning to the side is also a positive going into this match. The Cowboys will need to again be strong playing away from home. They have a better front row than Brisbane and will need to use this to their advantage if they are to win this match. With Bowen and Tate showing improvement last week Thurston has a bit of support to work with, and I think off the back of their strong forward pack they are able to win this match. Cowboys by 6

Newcastle Knights vs. Penrith Panthers

Saturday, 5:30 pm, Hunter Stadium

Newcastle will be disappointed with their performance against the Dragons. They had opportunities to win but costly errors, particularly from Darius Boyd, and a lack of finishing polish saw them unable to get over the top of the Dragons. A good time then to be coming up against Penrith in front of a strong home crowd. Whilst they should be able to beat Penrith regardless the Knights will be hoping for stronger performances from their bench players, who didn’t add the desired impact last week.

Penrith have struggled in recent weeks, with an attack just not firing. Unfortunately they are just carrying a few average first graders, such as Plum, Newton and Ciraldo, who try hard but lack the ability of a lot of the players they come up against. If Newcastle get going it could be another long week for Penrith fans. Newcastle by 14

Canberra Raiders vs. NZ Warriors

Saturday, 7:30 pm, Canberra Stadium

Canberra were absolutely terrible in the first half last week, with a completion rate under 50%, before looking like premiership material in an excellent second half performance. The day that side shows up for 80 minutes will be the day they put 70 on someone, but it never looks likely. Terry Campese returns to the side on the bench, although it’s expected Sam Williams will be dropped to NSW Cup and Campese will start. Whether the Campese/McCrone halves combo is the right one remains to be seen.

The Warriors have been much improved across the last two weeks. Nathan Friend has been excellent since his return from injury and has given direction to what was an attacking rabble. They’re in a deep hole if they don’t start converting this improved form into victories soon and thus will be desperate for a win, as will their opposition. Should be a good match with home advantage tipping it towards a Raiders victory. Canberra by 10

South Sydney Rabbitohs vs. Melbourne Storm

Saturday, 7:30 pm, ANZ Stadium

By far the hardest match to pick this weekend. For one, can you trust a South Sydney side to step on in a big match yet, or are they still too inexperienced in this position. How fit is Billy Slater. How strong will the Rabbitohs pack be against such a disciplined outfit. There are certainly some quality clashes brewing, with international combatants Cameron Smith and Issac Luke  squaring off, young Reynolds against the ultimate professional in Cronk and of course Inglis vs. Slater, fitness pending. Melbourne’s advantage is that they are less prone to flat periods than Souths, who tend to struggle in the twenty minutes following halftime. Souths have such a strong forward pack and a really good spine as well, but are a bit weak across centre and wing, something that Melbourne is sure to exploit. Very difficult to tip, but just because Slater is only half fit and it’s at home I’ll put the mocker on South Sydney, and regret it come 9:30 Saturday nigh. Souths by 4.

Manly Sea Eagles vs. Cronulla Sharks

Sunday, 2 pm, Brookvale Oval

In the hype of Melbourne and Souths the Sea Eagles are flying under the radar a bit, although their demolition job of a rudderless Bulldogs might blow their cover. They are a strong team, with the form of Watmough particularly impressive. Foran and Cherry-Evans are running the show on the back of this and they are proving too strong for most opposition.

Cronulla have faltered in recent weeks, with the loss to injury of Todd Carney stifling their attack. With Carney unlikely to be back this weekend they need to find a way to score points, and it will really come down to players running off Graham and Lewis at the edges. These two will have to be immense if they are to compete with the Eagles. They’ll be competitive as ever but I can’t see them knocking over Manly at home. Manly by 12.

Wests Tigers vs. St George Illawarra Dragons

Sunday, 3 pm, Sydney Cricket Ground

A Heritage Round blockbuster, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the 1963 Grand Final, where one of the most iconic Australian sporting images was snapped. The Tigers ended up losing comfortably on Monday but they showed a much improved performance on the previous week. Their forward pack really aimed up against Melbourne, lead by Aaron Woods. He’s an extremely good young prop and is playing better and better each week. Marshall will be out injured which should see Anasta move to 5/8 and Miller return at halfback. Much of the game comes down to Farah continuing his strong form to start the year.

The Dragons improvement in recent weeks will give them some confidence coming into this match, although the loss of Beale is significant, partly because it disrupts their stability out wide with Nightingale moving into fullback. If Trent Merrin can continue his strong showing they’ll be hard to beat, however I thought on the back of their performance against Melbourne the Tigers are a very good chance of winning this game. Tigers by 4

Gold Coast Titans vs. Parramatta Eels

Monday, 7 pm, Skilled Park.

After a really strong showing to start the year the loss to the Broncos has seen a bit of an unravelling this week, partly due injury factors. Their effective dummy half pairing of Srama and Falloon are both out injured, Sezar is injured and Kelly is under an injury cloud whilst Dave Taylor has been dropped for disciplinary reasons. It sees a return to first grade for Beau Henry, once very highly rated coming out of under 20’s. Fortunately they’re against Parramatta, who despite a strong performance last week still lack talent – indeed the Titans forward pack looks far too strong. It’s unlikely Parramatta can get that level of performance out of themselves every week, given the sort of roster they have, and I cant see them beating the Gold Coast away from home. Titans by 10

Team Line Ups. Injuries. Late Mail

Friday, 7:35 pm, ANZ Stadium

Barba is back. He had a solid return last week against the Rabbitohs, scoring a try. He looked a little rusty but will be better for the hit out. The return of Pritchard has also helped the forward pack. Of concern would be that, despite a strong start, they dropped off in intensity. They won’t want to do that against Manly, another side that will punish lapses of this sort.

The Sea Eagles are in very good form, with Lyon in particular on fire in attack and the forward pack at its aggressive best. Additions to the pack, such as Justin Horo and Tom Symonds, have really given them a boost. As strong as they’ve been, however, I’m leaning towards a Canterbury victory, They’ve played strongly the last two weeks for no result and will be all the more desperate for a win, given they only have one of them so far. Canterbury by 4.

Gold Coast Titans vs. Brisbane Broncos

Friday, 7:35 pm (8:35 pm AEDST), Skilled Park

Fair to say the Titans have been a bit of a surprise packet. Whilst the forwards looked strong going into the season there was a big question mark over the backline, however the pick up of Albert Kelly is looking like a masterstroke at this stage. He and Sezar have combined very nicely to steer the Titans to three victories on the trot.

Brisbane suffered another loss last Friday, although not before giving Melbourne an almighty scare. Corey Norman seemed to hit a bit of form and they looked dangerous anytime they went left. With Hodges back at right centre they look a bit more dangerous across the park, although losing Sam Thaiday will hurt. Watch out for Scott Prince, sure to be fired up against the club that no longer wanted him last year. Can’t deny the Gold Coasts form however. Titans by 10

Parramatta Eels vs. Cronulla Sharks

Saturday, 5:30 pm, Parramatta Stadium

Awful. Insipid. Disgraceful. Just three of the adjectives that could be used to describe Parramatta’s performance against the Roosters. They were shocking, dropping balls, looking directionless in attack and lacking effort. In the second half they only completed 4/12 sets. The way they are playing at the moment they only have about four or five players who would get first grade matches in other clubs. On a short turn around it doesn’t look good for them this match, although they couldn’t possibly play much worse.

Cronulla had their worst performance of the season against rivals St George Illawarra and, worryingly, looked rudderless once Carney went off injured. Fortunately for them it’s a minor injury but they’ll be without him against Parramatta. Townsend, coming up from a strong NSW Cup side, should do the job against Parramatta in a match where the likes of Graham, Lewis, Gallen and Fifita will be too strong for Parramatta’s pack. Cronulla by 12

North Qld Cowboys vs. Penrith Panthers

Saturday, 6:30 pm (7:30 AEDST), 1300 Smiles Stadium

The Cowboys have been very disappointing so far this season. After a strong opening round win they’ve lost three on the trot, with the last two losses in particular being poor performances. They were unfortunate in a way to cop the Warriors best performance of their season to date, but they bombed some golden opportunities. What will be concerning is Matt Bowen and Brent Tate’s form. They’re both at the age where a decline can set in rapidly, and both will want to show improvement soon.

Penrith played well last weekend but looked impotent close to the line. They’ve reacted to this by dropping half back Luke Walsh to reserve grade and bringing up the highly rated Blake Austin in his place. This is a player whose future is probably at 5/8 or lock but he could make a real difference to the side. I think going up to Townsville, however, they wont be strong enough, and the Cowboys should return to some form in this match. Cowboys by 10.

New Zealand Warriors vs. South Sydney Rabbitohs

Sunday, 4 pm (2 pm AEDST), Mt Smart Stadium

Finally, a win! After dropping their last eight matches last season and their first three this year the Warriors registered a victory for the first time under coach Matt Elliot. The return of Nathan Friend at hooker made an enormous difference to the performance of the Warriors in attack, with the side having a direction they had lacked in his absence. What was also encouraging was the return to form for Kevin Locke at fullback and an improvement in the kicking game of Johnson. They still looked poor in attack near the line, however, and will need to work on this to keep winning games.

South Sydney are very good this season. They are just strong across the park, although obviously Inglis and Sam Burgess stand out, along with Issac Luke. This has not been a happy hunting ground for the Rabbitohs, however the form they are in and the quality of the side they have I can’t see them making the same sort of errors the Cowboys did. Rabbitohs by 14.

St George Illawarra Dragons vs. Newcastle Knights

Sunday, 3 pm, Win Jubilee Oval

Well the Dragons finally managed a win. It was a much improved performance from a side that has struggled big time, although they were helped by Cronulla’s poor game. Trent Merrin was outstanding against the Sharks, as he has been all season. Fein and Soward also had better performances. The challenge now for the Dragons is maintaining that performance level.

Newcastle have been pretty strong this season and look much better for another off season under Wayne Bennet. I particularly like that Tyrone Roberts has been left at half back, and I think Kurt Gidley is very dangerous out of dummy half. Of concern at present is that injuries have affected their centres, leaving them with McKinnon and Quinn out there, not the most dangerous couple of wide players. I think they’ll be too strong for the Dragons, although this should be a good test to see just where Newcastle is at. Newcastle by 8

Canberra Raiders vs. Sydney Roosters

Sunday, 6:30 pm, Canberra Stadium

The Raiders are slowly playing some better football, with a decent although ultimately fruitless showing against Newcastle. Whilst they had some ground for complaints over officiating, with the referees stood down this week following some poor decisions, the match was a fair reflection of their current performance levels. They’re generally stronger in the capital, however, and should put up a performance that is at the very least competitive.

As bad as Parramatta were last Monday, the Roosters were very, very good. Pearce played a controlled game, Maloney’s running game was good and the forward pack was immense. Sonny Bill Williams continued a strong return to the game, defending well and with an attacking game getting better and better – his cut out pass to put the winger in was Fittleresque. This will be a tough match for them but I think they have the quality to get past this Canberra side. Roosters by 12

Melbourne Storm vs. Wests Tigers

Monday, 7 pm, AAMI Park

Not much more you can say about Melbourne, they are as good as ever. The control Smith and Cronk have over the game is just outstanding, and with a forward pack that works so well together they are very, very hard to beat. Particularly impressive against Brisbane was young Tohu Harris. Billy Slater is also, as ever, in sublime form, and the performances of Slater, Smith and Cronk make the whole backline dangerous. The only concern would be their right hand defence that has leaked some points in recent matches.

The Tigers have dropped young Jacob Miller and put Braith Anasta at halfback, which frankly seems stupid. What wouldn’t surprise is a reshuffle prior to kick off, with Moltzen moving from fullback to halfback, Tedesco moving back to fullback and someone coming onto the wing, with Anasta moving back to the back row. Farah has been excellent the first four rounds, as has Woods, however the rest of the side needs a lift, particularly Benji Marshall. I can’t see them getting close to Melbourne here, although the Smith vs. Farah duel should be a good preview for Origin. Melbourne by 20.

All team lineups here. All injury news here. And check here for any late mail

Thursday, 8:05 pm, AAMI Park

Melbourne is already looking capable of winning back to back premierships. They ended up comfortable winners over a strong Cowboys side and will be right up for this grand final replay. Even before other factors are taken into consideration I wouldn’t expect the Bulldogs to be able to match Melbourne here. Of interest is former Newcastle and Kiwi international centre Junior Sa’u making his debut for Melbourne.

Canterbury can at least take solace in the strength of their defensive effort against the Eels, and they’ll need to be strong again in this department. Their performance with the ball in the second half though was diabolical, and despite rumours of Barba’s return to the side I cant see them getting close to Melbourne – their forward pack is simply not as strong as last season as they continue to miss Kasiano and Graham. Melbourne by 12

Wests Tigers vs. Parramatta Eels

Friday, 8:05 pm, Leichhardt Oval

The Tigers, whilst scrappy, showed much improvement on their round one performance in their victory over the Panthers. They showed signs of an attack coming together, particularly with Jacob Miller finding his feet in first grade. His development will need to continue if this club is to have any impact this season. Most important was the much improved performance of Aaron Woods. The impressive front rower will need to be at his best with Keith Galloway out for an extended period with a torn pectoral muscle.

Parramatta showed their limitations against the Bulldogs. They had endless time near the Bulldogs tryline in the second half but couldn’t break through for points. They’re enthusiastic but, especially when Hayne isn’t at his best, lack the class to break the game open. Sandow’s kicking game will be extremely important if they are to win on Friday night, however I think the Tigers should get up in a close encounter. Tigers by 10

Gold Coast Titans vs. Manly Sea Eagles

Saturday, 4:30 pm (5:30 AEDST), Skilled Park

The Titans had an impressive win against the Raiders, even accounting for the terrible game of Canberra. Albert Kelly looks to have been an excellent pick up, whilst Sezar and Srama are both playing very well. They aren’t coming up against a Raiders rabble this weekend, however.

Manly have started the season on fire, besting the Broncos and then holding Newcastle scoreless in round two. Not much has changed over the past few season, they are still strong through the middle with dangerous play on the fringes through the ball playing abilities of Foran and halfback play of Chery-Evans. The way they’ve played thus far they will be too strong for the Titans. Manly by 14

Sydney Roosters vs. Brisbane Broncos

Saturday, 7:30 pm, Allianz Stadium

Round two was an improvement for the Roosters, grabbing a handy away win in New Zealand. Such a win early in the season is a good confidence booster. Their attack still needs work, however, and they’ll be concerned they nearly let the Warriors back in the game. The developing combination between Sonny Bill and Jennings on the left hand side of attack looks very promising, however.

Brisbane have not been particularly impressive in the opening rounds. They were beaten by Manly and were fortunate to be up against an impotent St George Illawarra side last Friday. Whilst they have some dangerous players in the side Hodges under and injury cloud leaves their backline looking fairly poor and the loss of McGuire up front sees a weakened forward pack. I think the Roosters will be too strong here. Roosters by 8

Cronulla Sharks vs. New Zealand Warriors

Sunday, 2 pm, Sharks Stadium

Cronulla are, as ever, playing tough football. Whilst their attack does not yet appear to be firing they are strong enough in defence to make any match a tough encounter for the opposition. Luke Lewis may miss with an ankle injury, which is of concern. Defence is only part of the game, however, and they’ll be hoping they have a few more points in them this week, having only managed 24 this season.

The Warriors may be the team an attack can click against, having been poor defensively for the past year and lost their last ten matches. They showed a much improved performance against the Roosters, getting within two point of a victory, and will be keen to build on this. They need their pack to aim up in attack and defence if they are to have a chance. The Warriors will be eagerly awaiting round five when the likes of Packer, Friend and Tuimavave are available, but until then they need to find a way to win games. I don’t think they quite have it in them to get over this strong Cronulla side. Cronulla by 2

Penrith Panthers vs. South Sydney Rabbitohs

Sunday, 3 pm, Centrebet Stadium

Penrith’s performance against the Tigers was average, one of a club still finding its way, and they’ve been dealt a further blow following the loss of 5/8 Lachlan Coote for the season due to a pectoral tear. This sees a return to first grade for Tom Humble, although star youngster Blake Austin cannot be far away from a first grade berth. They’ll again be playing off the back of an impressive starting pack, and will need to continue to get good performances out of their backline.

South Sydney got their second win from as many starts in a less impressive display than round one. The return to the side of Sam Burgess is a big plus for them as he was missed against Cronulla. Their squad looks too strong for the Panthers, although they could be better in the centres. Matt King is returning to football for North Sydney this week and he could well help their season if he is to return to the top grade. I think South Sydney are too good for Penrith at this stage. South Sydney by 20.

Canberra Raiders vs. St George Illawarra Dragons

Sunday, 6:30 pm, Canberra Stadium

Both of these sides were awful last week, one having nothing in attack and the other having nothing in defence either. It shapes as a battle of spoon contenders, judging by the first weeks play, and is a hard one to pick. Except that it is the Dragons in Canberra, where they have not won since the year 2000. You don’t go against some trends. Canberra by 2

Newcastle Knights vs. North Qld Cowboys

Monday, 7 pm, Hunter Stadium

Newcastle will be stinging after their loss to Manly, which they were held to no points. Of particular concern is the injuries currently affecting the club, with no Mason, Buderus, Waddell or the strike centre Gagai available. Timana Tahu returns to the side and will help offset Gagai’s injury to some extent. The loss of Mason though is worry for a side that lacks aggressive front rowers, and the backrowers such as Jeremy Smith and Beau Scott will have to step up in his absence.

North Queensland ended up getting beaten comfortably on the scoreboard by the Storm, however the match was closer than that. In the long run it is a result they probably need, a yardstick being set as to what level they have to reach if they are to win a premiership this season (as they are very capable of doing). The first step is to bounce back with a victory in this match. I think they’ll be too strong up front for the Knights and this will allow Thurston to steer them home. Cowboys by 10.

All teams here. All current injuries here.

Parramatta Eels vs. Canterbury Bulldogs

Thursday, 8:05 pm, ANZ Stadium

Parramatta has got off to a flyer under Ricky Stuart. Strong showings from an enthusiastic pack allowed Sandow and Hayne to run riot over the Warriors. There were still plenty of errors in their game however, and much of their strong performance could well have been due to the Warriors ineptness. We’ll find out more about Parramatta when they take on the more disciplined Bulldogs this Thursday.

Life without Barba wasn’t easy for Canterbury as their attack was not what it was, although this could also be due to missing Kasiano and Graham, key players from last season. With key players missing their halves become exposed as not all that strong. They are more likely, however, to capitalise on errors and are a much stronger defensive side that the Warriors last week, and at this stage of the season deserve favouritism. Canterbury by 8

St George Illawarra Dragons vs. Brisbane Broncos

Friday, 8:05 pm, Win Stadium

Both of these sides could be in for long seasons. The Dragons defence wasn’t too bad against Melbourne but they could’ve easily conceded more points against a red hot Storm side. Steve Price needs to sort out how to best use his forward pack, there are some good players in there but they didn’t play great on Sunday. They looked weak in attack, although that’ll be easier to judge when not playing the superbly organised Melbourne defence.

Brisbane started strongly but a slack period in which three tries were conceded in seven minutes cost them the match. They still did not have a lot of points in them, although you would think with a strong forward pack Wallace and Prince would be able to create something. I’m leaning towards the Dragons, purely on a good record against Brisbane at Win Stadium. Dragons by 4.

New Zealand Warriors vs. Sydney Roosters

Saturday, 7:30 pm local (5:30 AEDST), Eden Park

The Warriors performance was hugely concerning. Against an average Parramatta side they did not turn up at all. Defence was again poor, carrying on from last seasons woes. They have the talent in the squad to turn this around but they will need to do it shortly or another season will be wasted. Of particular concern is Shaun Johnson, highly talented but playing poorly and, it seems, injured. They should be fired up to face Sonny Bill and the Roosters though.

The Roosters shot themselves in the foot with their discipline. They need to stop giving away penalties in such large numbers or they will always be up against it. They otherwise showed some promising signs, although their right side defence has to be of some concern. They really need a return to form of Shaun Kenny-Dowell out there, as a senior player he needs to help rookie Roger Tuivasa-Sheck. Overall though they were better than the Warriors by some margin and should be able to grab their first win of the season here. Roosters by 12.

North Qld Cowboys vs. Melbourne Storm

Saturday, 6:30 pm local (7:30 AEDST), 1300smiles Stadium (Townsville)

Two of the most impressive performances from round one belonged to the Cowboys, in defeating the minor premiers, and the Storm, in looking as good as they always do. It makes for a potentially very good game this early in the season. Scott and Tamou up front are capable of dominating any group of forwards, even as disciplined a pack as Melbourne’s. On the other have Melbourne have Cameron Smith controlling the game better than any other player is capable of, allowing Cronk, Widdop and Slater to do what they do best. Home advantage and a slightly bigger turnaround shades this towards the Cowboys but it should be a beauty. Cowboys by 2.

Gold Coast Titans vs. Canberra Raiders

Sunday, 1 pm local (2 AEDST), Skilled Park

The Gold Coast had their moments on Monday night, but they didn’t look overly threatening in attack. Part of this was playing against one of the better defensive sides in the competition in Cronulla, not to mention a new halves pairing in Kelly and Sezar that showed some promising signs. They again have a pretty strong forward pack but look weak across 1-5. They’ll fancy their chances against a Raiders side that has had a tumultuous week.

Still, bad weeks often galvanise a rugby league side. Coming off a thumping at the hands of the Panthers and the (likely) sacking of their fullback Josh Dugan over a continued rubbish attitude the Raiders will be fired up and ready to prove critics wrong. I think they have a stronger side and, whilst I doubt the ability of the coaches to get the best out of them, I think they’re capable of beating the Gold Coast. Raiders by 12

Wests Tigers vs. Penrith Panthers

Sunday, 3 pm, Campbelltown Stadium

With question marks over their side and an off season of change the Wests Tigers couldn’t have got off to a worse start than the thrashing they received at the hands of Newcastle. It’s well and truly possible their heads weren’t in the game following a week in which their team mate Mosese Fotuaika was buried, and you have to give some leeway there. They will be hoping to be ready to go in front of a home crowd, however, with two looses far from the ideal start to a season.

Penrith were impressive last week. Wes Naiqama was excellent as the running of the wide players proved too much for the Raiders to deal with. The forwards were strong and other new buys including Sika Manu and the very impressive James Segeyaro provided the extra attacking ability Penrith required. Early days yet but a strong start to the season from a club building a good squad, and they look stronger than the Tigers at present. Penrith by 14.

Manly Sea Eagles vs. Newcastle Knights

Sunday, 6:30 pm, Brookvale Oval

Manly put in a very strong second half to grab the win at Suncorp Stadium last week. Their wide running abilities again provided the attack they needed, with tries to Matai and Williams. Of concern would be the fitness of Anthony Watmough who suffered a rib injury last week but is named to play. They’ll also be up against a stronger side in Newcastle.

The Knights were pretty impressive against the Tigers. The additions of Smith and Scott to the backrow look to be providing the required steel, and Boyd and Mullen were excellent. The return of Kurt Gidley has helped this side immensely also. The second offseason under Bennett seems to have resulted in a side playing the sort of football Bennett has been renowned for, simple but effective. I think they looked the stronger of the two sides and, despite the intimidating atmosphere of Brookvale, I think Newcastle are a huge chance of winning this match. Knights by 10

South Sydney Rabbitohs vs. Cronulla Sharks

Monday, 7 pm, ANZ Stadium

South Sydney was very impressive in round one. The forward pack was strong, the halves played well and Inglis was involved in everything. They could be in for a very good season. This week they are missing Sam Burgess, which is a pretty big loss for any side, but they are fortunate to have some decent depth in the forwards. They’ll continue to run hard through the middle before using the composure of Reynolds and skill of Inglis to get them over the line.

Cronulla had a stirring victory over the Gold Coast but I’m not sure how long they can play on emotions. Certainly they’ll be strong defensively but I don’t see them having the points in them to knock off the Rabbitohs. There best chance will be to take advantage if the Rabbitohs have their characteristic flat patch during the course of the match. It should be a tough game of football however. Rabbitohs by 8

2013 Gains: Mitchell Buckett (2014), Thomas Burgess (Bradford Bulls, 2013), Beau Champion (Gold Coast Titans, 2014), Bryson Goodwin (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, 2013), Jeff Lima (Wigan Warriors, 2014), Daniel Smith (Leeds Rhinos, 2013), Ben Te’o (Brisbane Broncos, 2015)

2013 Losses: Neccrom Areaiiti (Penrith Panthers), Scott Geddes (retired), Eddy Pettybourne (Wests Tigers), Dave Taylor (Gold Coast Titans)

 So is this the year that, after decades of mediocrity (and a good season last year) South Sydney returns to the very top of the tree? They are in with a real shot. Whilst they’ve lost the damaging Dave Taylor their forward pack is bolstered by the arrivals of Ben Te’o, Jeff Lima and Thomas Burgess, along with the expected elevation of the impressive George Burgess to first grade. Whilst Luke is likely missing for much of the regular season it is obviously Sam Burgess who is the key to their forward pack. He’s an outstanding forward, especially when used in the second row, with quality ball playing skills to match his aggressive defence and metre gaining ability. They have a forward depth to kill for this season, so whilst Sam Burgess being injured would have a major impact on their chances, they are otherwise well covered. The spine is strong with Inglis and Luke in particular quality players. They need Reynolds to keep improving from last season, and development of his running game would be handy (which should come as he is further along from his 2011 knee reconstruction). Sutton is not the most reliable player but did a good job at 5/8 last season. If Luke Keary fires in NSW Cup the side may see a reshuffle of Sutton to lock, Keary to 5/8.

The area I still question Souths is across the wingers/centre. They have some reasonable players, including two very handy finishers in Merritt and Everingham, but between an aging Matt King, Dylan Farrell and Beau Champion I don’t see centres who will put fear into the opposition defence – although all are capable of doing their job running off the spine.

Very good side, this could be there year. I think they’ll be top four and are one of the favourites for the competition.

St. George Illawarra Dragons

2013 Gains: Gerard Beale (Brisbane Broncos, 2015), Damien Cook (2013), Josh Drinkwater (Manly Sea Eagles, 2014), Tyson Frizell (Cronulla Sharks, 2014), Bronson Harrison (Canberra Raiders, 2014), Michael Henderson (Gold Coast Titans, 2013), Junior Vaivai (Penrith Panthers, 2013), Shannon Wakeman (2013)

2013 Losses: Jack Buchanan (Wests Tigers), David Gower (Manly Sea Eagles), Ben Hornby (retired), Denan Kemp (Brisbane Broncos), Jeremy Latimore (Penrith Panthers), Jake Marketo (Redcliffe), Josh Miller (retired), Ben Musolino (Manly Sea Eagles), Beau Scott (Newcastle Knights), Dean Young (retired)

A side well and truly in the rebuilding stage, although it remains to be seen whether they have hit rock bottom just yet. The loss of Hornby and Young, whilst probably poor from a leadership perspective, are far from fatal on field. Both were fine clubmen but both probably played a season too long. They need players to step into their roles (along with departed beau Scott) and this doesn’t appear immediately obvious. The loss of Kyle Stanley, likely starting halfback, for the season is a blow, Many of their recruits have had largely mediocre careers, including Harrison and Henderson. Up front they are fairly reliant on Weyman returning to pre-injury form, whilst Dan Hunt doesn’t have too much impact on the defensive line.

Beale and Frizell, however, should turn out to be good buys, and the Dragons certainly have quality at fullback and on the wings. It’s infield where the problems start, with an aging Matt Cooper and Chase Stanley unlikely to be too damaging. Soward needs to take the line on more and it remains to be seen if Fein, also in his twilight, is the answer at halfback. They will no doubt be monitoring Josh Drinkwater’s early season form in NSW Cup as he will likely be called on at some point. They do at least have a good dummy half rotation in Mitch Rein and Cameron King.

I see this forward pack as too reliant on Weyman and Merrin, lacking a real quality backrow beyond Creagh and Frizell, and weak in the halves. Not a year they’ll make the finals, and a bad run with injuries could see them in real strife. This years really about planning for the future.

Sydney Roosters

2013 Gains: Michael Jennings (Penrith Panthers, 2016), James Maloney (New Zealand Warriors, 2015), Sam Moa (Hull FC, 2014), Luke O’Donnell (Huddersfield Giants, 2013), Michael Oldfield (Manly Sea Eagles, 2014), Nafe Seluini (Mid Season: Penrith Panthers, 2013), Sonny Bill Williams (2013)

2013 Losses: Braith Anasta (Wests Tigers), Justin Carney (Castleford Tigers), Anthony Cherrington (Penrith Panthers), Glenn Dumbrell (Group 9), Mark Kheirallah (France), Joseph Leilua (Newcastle Knights), Jack Littlejohn (rugby union), Mose Masoe (Penrith Panthers), Anthony Mitchell (North Queensland Cowboys), Sam Perrett (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs), Curtis Rona (North Queensland Cowboys), Peni Tagive (retired), Brad Takairangi (Gold Coast Titans)

The Roosters have certainly made some sweeping changes. Gone is the captain, the coach and a host of players. Last season they were the youngest squad in the game, with just Minichiello, Anasta and Perrett over 25. They’ve kept the core of the young talent together whilst adding some quality. Michael Jennings gives them a boost out wide, James Maloney is likely and improvement on the Braith Anasta of last season and there’s that young rookie Sonny Bill Williams that everyone is talking about.

The best signing that the Roosters may have made is new coach Trent Robinson. He’s done an excellent job in the Super League with the Catalans Dragons. Given that they’ve barely won a penalty count since Brad Fittler was appointed coach the first thing he should be doing is creating a disciplined football side. They have some very good footballers who are all capable of some brainless moments and they need to cut this out to be competitive.

The Roosters do have a very good squad though. Many of their young forwards are coming into their peak years, their backline across 2-5 is very dangerous. My query over them would be the spine. Friend is a reasonable player in the first 20 minutes but after that lacks much guile to capitalise out of dummy half. I think Nafe Seluini could be the game breaker for them, judging on his performances out of dummy half for Newtown last year.

Their spine in general would be the worry. Minichiello isn’t the player he was, Maloney is defensively frail and Pearce hasn’t shown himself to be more than a good average halfback. He generally starts and finishes the season in good form and you cant fault his effort, not sure he quite has the talent (although he’s the perfect half to have alongside a good attacking 5/8).

Oh, and Sonny Bill. I’m not a fan of him and can’t stand his crew, but he’s a very, very good footballer, and he’s a winner. His addition to the side, provided he stays fit, can only boost them.

Not sure of a premiership and it may take a few weeks to come together but I suspect the Roosters will be very, very competitive this year. Finals bound, could go further.

Wests Tigers

2013 Gains: Braith Anasta (Sydney Roosters, 2014), Rory Brien (Parramatta Eels, 2013), Jack Buchanan (St George Illawarra Dragons, 2015), James Gavet (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, 2013), Masada Iosefa (Mid Season: Canberra Raiders, 2013), Eddy Pettybourne (South Sydney Rabbitohs, 2015), Bodene Thompson (Gold Coast Titans, 2014)

2013 Losses: Dane Chisholm (Manly Sea Eagles), Gareth Ellis (Hull FC), Chris Heighington (Cronulla Sharks), Tom Humble (Penrith Panthers), Junior Moors (Melbourne Storm), Pat Politoni (Cronulla Sharks), Beau Ryan (Cronulla Sharks)

You have to take your chances when you have a premiership window, and the Tigers haven’t. A new coach might sort some of their problems out, starting with keeping Marshall at 5/8.

There were issues last season with injury, no doubt. There was also a general poor attitude and a lack of coherent football evident. It’s a shame because at their best they play some great football.

I don’t think the losses in the playing roster are too severe. Heighington was past it, Ellis was great for the Tigers but spent much of last year injured and Beau Ryan, whilst he had a good season, is just a winger. They’ve made some handy additions with Eddy Pettybourne and, if he kicks on, Jack Buchanan. I’m not sure about the buy of Anasta, he seems to be on a downward spiral, although perhaps a new club may spark a late-career revival.

They just don’t look like they’ve made enough improvements on last season, especially in the forward pack. Again, a shift in attitude brought on by a new coach could make a big different, and if Jacob Miller at halfback can provide the link between Farah and Marshall they’ll be dangerous. On paper though I wouldn’t expect finals football this season, although they are not out of the reckoning.

Final Ladder

So given these previews I had to come up with some final ladder. Obviously injuries, suspensions and State of Origin will effect how the season pans out. The top four are sides I think are almost certain to make the eight and the bottom four are the ones im almost certain will miss out. The ones in between could all, conceivably, make the top eight, although the higher they are placed here indicates how confident I am of them making the final eight.

Melbourne

South Sydney

Sydney Roosters

North Queensland

Newcastle Knights

Canberra Raiders

Cronulla Sharks *

Canterbury Bulldogs

Brisbane Broncos

New Zealand Warriors

Manly Sea Eagles

Wests Tigers

Penrith Panthers

St George Illawarra Dragons

Gold Coast Titans

Parramatta Eels.

*Ladder determined prior to ASADA investigations, could be lower.

All player movements courtesy of Zero Tackle

2013 Gains: David Fa’alogo (Huddersfield Giants, 2014), Mitchell Frei (Brisbane Broncos, 2014), Dane Gagai (Mid Season: Brisbane Broncos, 2014), Joseph Leilua (Sydney Roosters, 2013), Toka Likiliki (New Zealand Warriors, 2014), Anthony Quinn (Melbourne Storm, 2013), Beau Scott (St George Illawarra Dragons, 2016), Jeremy Smith (Cronulla Sharks, 2015)

 2013 Losses: Sam Anderson (Penrith Panthers), Ethan Cook (Penrith Panthers), Joel Edwards (Canberra Raiders), Richie Fa’aoso (Manly Sea Eagles), Daine Laurie (Wyong), Kurt Mann (Melbourne Storm), Wes Naiqama (Penrith Panthers), Kyle O’Donnell (Penrith Panthers), Api Pewhairangi (Parramatta Eels), Junior Sa’u (Melbourne Storm), Zeb Taia (Catalan Dragons), Evarn Tuimavave (Hull Kingston Rovers)

 Another extremely active side in the transfer market, Bennett will be going into this season with a side that is much closer to the team he wants. They struggled last season, in part due to key injuries (including Kurt Gidley), in part because the forward pack was just a bit soft. The addition of Jeremy Smith goes a long way towards solving this problem, along with former Dragons backrow partner Beau Scott and David Fa’alogo, with former Roosters centre BJ Leilua likely to end up in the backrow also. Smith is the key though, he’s an outstanding backrower and a real forward leader, something Newcastle has lacked since Ben Kennedy was at the club.

Gagai was an excellent midseason buy last year, as was Willie Mason, and if these two continue on that path Newcastle have the makings of a good side.

There are still some concerns for the club. They will want Snowden to have a better season as their depth up front is still not up there with the best, and the spine needs work. If the pack plays as Bennett can get a forward pack playing this should not be too big an issue, especially if Boyd returns to his Dragons form. There has to be some concern over the hooking role, however, with Buderus 35 years old and entering his 17^th season of rugby league. It will be interesting to see if Kurt Gidley ends up sharing this role, rather than playing purely as a halfback.

Based on improved performances at the back end of last season, a great coach and some very good buys I think Newcastle should be in the top eight this year, probably not threatening the title a highly competitive team none the less.

North Queensland Cowboys

2013 Gains: Clint Greenshields (Catalan Dragons, 2013), Rory Kostjasyn (Melbourne Storm, 2014), Anthony Mitchell (Mid Season: Sydney Roosters, 2013), Scott Moore (Huddersfield Giants, 2014), Curtis Rona (Sydney Roosters, 2014)

 2013 Losses: Dane Hogan (Easts Tigers), Mosese Pangai (Penrith Panthers), Cory Paterson (Hull Kingston Rovers), Aaron Payne (retired), James Segeyaro (Penrith Panthers)

If the Cowboys are going to win the competition this is the season to do it. It comes down to that. They have, arguably, the best two props in the game, a high quality back row, the best half in the game in Thurston, a quality three quarter line and a dangerous fullback in Bowen. Their purchases have largely been depth based, including Clint Greenshields who will provide good cover at fullback. The problem position for the club appears to be at hooker, especially after having lost Segeyaro to the Panthers. Scott Moore has been given first crack at the role, and with Robert Lui again available there is good depth across the halves.

There are two hurdles this club needs to overcome. The first is the coach. He’s been highly rated for years but his first grade record at NRL level is poor. Can he turn it around? Secondly, their record in Sydney is horrible. You will not win a premiership if you can’t win games in Sydney.

I think they are top four bound should they play at their best and from there they are a real chance at winning the competition. Any side with Thurston, Scott and Tamou in it will be dangerous at that time of year.

Parramatta Eels

2013 Gains: Ken Edwards (2013), Daniel Harrison (Manly Sea Eagles, 2014), Luke Kelly (Mid Season: Melbourne Storm, 2013), Darcy Lussick (Manly Sea Eagles, 2015), Lorenzo Ma’Afu (2014), Api Pewhairangi (Newcastle Knights, 2013), Brayden Wiliame (Melbourne Storm, 2013)

2013 Losses: Marmin Barba (Gold Coast Titans), Rory Brien (Wests Tigers), Luke Burt (retired), Nathan Hindmarsh (retired), Jamil Hopoate (Manly Sea Eagles), Justin Horo (Manly Sea Eagles), Casey McGuire (retired), Justin Poore (Wakefield Wildcats), Jason Seage (Manly Sea Eagles), Esi Tonga (Manly Sea Eagles)

Has Parramatta improved on last season? Well not really. Lussick’s addition adds a bit of grunt up front whilst Luke Kelly looked promising in the halves last season. They still have a really bad three quarter line, a half back who is hot and cold, poor options at hooker and a back row that lacks impact. Jarryd Hayne being fit the whole season will make them a better side but they are just weak across the board.

The excitement at the club surrounds the arrival of Ricky Stuart. I’m far from convinced of him as a coach. In eight and a half seasons as a first grade coach he’s made the finals four times, including a premiership and two other grand final appearances, with a 55% winning record. In his first three years, however, he was helped by having one of the all time great players in Brad Fittler captaining his team. Since those first three seasons he’s won just 53/122 games. He’ll get them more competitive within games and I think their defence will be more damaging than it has been, but I do not see him as a saviour who will turn Parramatta’s fortunes around long term.

I think it will be another long season for Parramatta fans who are at least a year off being remotely competitive

Penrith Panthers

2013 Gains: Sam Anderson (Newcastle Knights, 2013), Neccrom Areaiiti (South Sydney Rabbitohs, 2013), Lewis Brown (New Zealand Warriors, 2015), Anthony Cherrington (Sydney Roosters, 2014), Ethan Cook (Newcastle Knights, 2014), Tom Humble (Wests Tigers, 2014), Isaac John (Wakefield Wildcats, 2013), Maurice Kennedy (2013), Jeremy Latimore (St George Illawarra Dragons, 2014), Sika Manu (Melbourne Storm, 2015), Mose Masoe (Sydney Roosters, 2014), Kane Morgan (2013), Wes Naiqama (Newcastle Knights, 2014), Kyle O’Donnell (Newcastle Knights, 2014), Mosese Pangai (North Queensland Cowboys, 2014), James Roberts (2014), James Segeyaro (North Queensland Cowboys, 2015), Dean Whare (Manly Sea Eagles, 2014)

 2013 Losses: Mitch Achurch (Leeds Rhinos), Chris Armit (retired), Travis Burns (Hull Kingston Rovers), Sandor Earl (Canberra Raiders), Sarafu Fatiaki (Redcliffe), Michael Gordon (Cronulla Sharks), Michael Jennings (Sydney Roosters), Luke Lewis (Cronulla Sharks), Nafe Seluini (Sydney Roosters), Harry Siejka (New Zealand Warriors), Etu Uaisele (Wyong), Junior Vaivai (St George Illawarra Dragons)

Well, they’ve bought a lot of players. There are three notable losses for Penrith in Luke Lewis, Michael Gordon and Michael Jennings, as Cleary and Gould aim to stamp their mark on this club. On the surface losing three of the best players at the club after finishing the season in 15^th place looks pretty bad. What is clear though is that this is a club that is building for long term, regular success, rather than short term gain. The departures make more sense in this context, with Lewis and Gordon both turning thirty this year and Jennings, from all reports, not a great role model around the club. The most confusing departure is thus Harry Siejka, an extremely highly rated halfback coming out of the youth system.

Signings wise Penrith have stocked up on a mixture of potential, especially in the backs and halves, and hardened first graders. Young footballers such as Dean Whare at fullback/centre, James Segeyaro out of dummy half and, when fit, James Roberts (who is a potential star) at fullback can add class to a side that has lacked it for some time. The signing of Isaac John, who looked to be a player in the making before injuring his knee at Penrith a couple of seasons ago, adds options in the halves, along with the highly rated Blake Austin, to back up Luke Walsh and Lachlan Coote. Then players such as Lewis Brown and Sika Manu add some quality in the backrow.

They’re still lacking quality off the bench, and their halves/centres aren’t up to scratch at this point. They are slowly gathering the makings of a good side together, and a year of first grade should see a steady improvement across the park. I don’t think they have finals football in them but I think they’ll be more competitive than last season, and as the gameplan starts to come together could cause a lot of problems to sides in the back half of the season. One to watch in 2014.

All player movements courtesy of Zero Tackle

2013 Gains: Marmin Barba (Parramatta Eels, 2014), Mark Ioane (Canberra Raiders, 2013), Albert Kelly (2014), Matthew Russell (Wigan Warriors, 2014), Brad Takairangi (Sydney Roosters, 2015), Dave Taylor (South Sydney Rabbitohs, 2016)

2013 Losses: Beau Champion (South Sydney Rabbitohs), Phil Graham (retired), Michael Henderson (St George Illawarra Dragons), Brenton Lawrence (Manly Sea Eagles), Kayne Lawton (Manly Sea Eagles), Dominique Peyroux (New Zealand Warriors), Scott Prince (Brisbane Broncos), Bodene Thompson (Wests Tigers), Joe Vickery (Leeds Rhinos)

I don’t know what to make of the Titans recruitment. They seemed to have strengthened areas where they were already quite strong (the backrow, chiefly) and weakened in areas they were already weak. I don’t think losing Prince is a big loss going forward, although he had his first strong season for some time last year. Much depends on how Sezer, Srama and Falloon go after strong debut seasons. With Greg Bird, Nate Myles, Dave Taylor, Luke Douglas and Luke Bailey in the forwards they have a pack capable of dominating and providing space for the backline, provided the work of the dummy halves are up to scratch and the halves can capitalize. Who will partner Sezar remains to be seen, with the likes of Albert Kelly and Beau Henry providing options.

The problem is their backline is very weak, with a poor fullback in Zillman and average centres and wingers. This is a side that could surprise but I don’t think they’ve adequately addressed concern areas, and hence will languish in the bottom half of the eight.

Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles

2013 Gains: Michael Chee Kam (Canberra Raiders, 2015), Dane Chisholm (Wests Tigers, 2013), Richie Fa’aoso (Melbourne Storm, 2014), David Gower (St George Illawarra Dragons, 2013), James Hasson (Cronulla Sharks, 2013), Jamil Hopoate (Parramatta Eels, 2013), Justin Horo (Parramatta Eels, 2013), Brenton Lawrence (Gold Coast Titans, 2015), Kayne Lawton (Gold Coast Titans, 2013), Ben Musolino (St George Illawarra Dragons, 2013), Ligi Sao (New Zealand Warriors, 2015), Jason Seage (Parramatta Eels, 2013), Esi Tonga (Parramatta Eels, 2013)

2013 Losses: Josh Drinkwater (St George Illawarra Dragons), Liam Foran (Salford City Reds), Daniel Harrison (Parramatta Eels), Darcy Lussick (Parramatta Eels), Vic Mauro (Salford City Reds), Michael Oldfield (Sydney Roosters), Junior Palau (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs), Dean Whare (Penrith Panthers), Tony Williams (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs)

Manly’s key this year may be Geoff Toovey. Whilst he debuted as coach last season he came in at pretty late notice and was essentially handling Des Haslers side. This year the side will give a much greater indication of his own coaching ability.

On the player front Manly have shed some quality (Tony Williams, when he wants to be) and a lot of solid first graders in Oldfield, Whare, Harrison, Lussick and Mauro. Their recruitment has largely been quantity and potential, necessary when you see how poorly their under 20’s and NSW Cup sides have performed in recent years. Players such as Fa’aoso and Horo will offer handy depth whilst Chee Kam is very highly rated based on his performances in the under 20’s. Dominating 20’s and stepping up to first grade are, however, two very different beasts.

What has been evident for sometime is that Manly have a core group of high quality footballers, being Brett and Glen Stewart, Anthony Watmough, Jamie Lyon, Foran, Cherry-Evans and Steve Matai, backed up by the front row of King, Ballin and Kite. Even missing one of those seven key players severely effected Manly’s play. The problems Manly are facing is that the starting front row is on the decline and the back up on the bench is a less known quantity. The back rowers in Watmough and Stewart showed real signs of wear and tear last year. Lyon had one of his best seasons last year but is 31 and can’t maintain that quality forever (although his reliance on football smarts over athleticism should see him continue to play good football). Matai has chronic injuries and Brett Stewart has been plagued by hamstring and knee injuries in recent seasons. In short, despite the quality, age is catching up to the key players and this showed on the field last season, where quite often the side would fade in the second half. This appears a side on the decline and this may well be a season where the transition between the current and next generation of players begins. In their favour is the quality of Foran and Evans as halves.

Bottom half of the eight is possible but could well miss the finals.

Melbourne Storm

2013 Gains: Brett Finch (Wigan Warriors, 2013), Tim Glasby (2014), Kurt Mann (Newcastle Knights, 2015), Junior Moors (Wests Tigers, 2013), Junior Sa’u (Newcastle Knights, 2013), Lagi Setu (2013)

2013 Losses: Richie Fa’aoso (Manly Sea Eagles), Michael Greenfield (retired), Luke Kelly (Parramatta Eels), Rory Kostjasyn (North Queensland Cowboys), Jaiman Lowe (retired), Todd Lowrie (New Zealand Warriors), Sika Manu (Penrith Panthers), Shea Moylan (Wynnum), Dane Nielsen (New Zealand Warriors), Anthony Quinn (Newcastle Knights), Brayden Wiliame (Parramatta Eels)

Each year I expect the mass losses the Storm suffer each off season to catch up to them. So it remains to be seen if this is the season this happens. I don’t think you can say they’ve improved on last season, but I don’t think they’ve gone significantly backwards to be out of contention either. Moors, Setu and Sa’u seem like the perfect Bellamy recruits, players for whatever reason have slipped off the radar a bit but who he can get playing the game plan that allows Melbourne to dominate sides. They’re definitely lighter depth wise, with the loss of Kostjasyn, Lowrie, Lowe, Many, Nielsen and Quinn, players who featured heavily last season. Finch however adds good cover in the halves and the return of Matt Duffie from injury will be a boost to the outside backs.

Ultimately it rests on Smith, Slater and Cronk to continue playing how they play. As long as they keep firing Melbourne will be strong throughout the season and a real chance of winning back to back premierships. A long term injury to any of those three, particularly Smith, will see their chances nosedive. This is still a strong squad and they’ll be around the top four.

New Zealand Warriors

2013 Gains: Thomas Leuluai (Wigan Warriors, 2015), Todd Lowrie (Melbourne Storm, 2014), Dane Nielsen (Melbourne Storm, 2015), Dominique Peyroux (Gold Coast Titans, 2015), Harry Siejka (Penrith Panthers, 2014)

2013 Losses: Lewis Brown (Penrith Panthers), Krisnan Inu (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs), Toka Likiliki (Newcastle Knights), Micheal Luck (retired), James Maloney (Sydney Roosters), Ligi Sao (Manly Sea Eagles), Omar Slaimankhel (Japanese Rugby), Ukuma Ta’ai (Huddersfield Giants)

I am unbelievably good at tipping the wrong thing the Warriors. All but maybe one season since 2008 they have done the complete opposite of what I expect. So take this with a grain of salt.

I think the Warriors have bought well, adding depth in key positions (Nielsen and Peyroux in the centres, Seijka  and Leuluai in the halves) whilst shedding players in areas they could afford to lose. Much like last season I think they have the core of a very good side. Their prop rotation of Matulino, Packer, Lillyman and Rapira is amongst the best in the game, and this season all four are fit to start the year. They have a plethora of quality backrowers in Mannering, Mateo, Taylor and, probably, Henry, whilst I think Lowrie is a good replacement for Michael Luck – A hardworking defender who will hold the defence together, which they badly missed last season. Between Hurrell, Ropati and Nielsen they have good cover in the centres, which they lacked last year. And despite early injuries to Johnson and Friend they have some good cover with the likes of Godinet and the highly rated Carlos Tuimavave. Not to mention Harry Siejka, who is one of the best rated halves to come out of the under 20’s competition. Penrith letting him go was a big surprise.

So on paper and extremely good squad who could easily be top eight and, in a good year, top four. League does come down to attitude though and their attitude last season was atrocious. I’m also far from convinced by Matt Elliot as a coach, a guy who has never won a finals game. These things hold me back from predicting great performances from this side. Potentially

All player movement courtesy of Zero Tackle

Brisbane Broncos

2013 Gains: Joe Bond (2013), Liam Georgetown (2013), Jake Granville (2013), Scott Prince (Gold Coast Titans, 2014), David Stagg (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, 2014)

2013 Losses: Gerard Beale (St George Illawarra Dragons), Petero Civoniceva (retired), Mitchell Frei (Newcastle Knights), Dane Gagai (Newcastle Knights), Ben Te’o (South Sydney Rabbitohs)

 After a strong start to the season the Broncos faded badly after the Origin period, scraping into the finals before being bundled out by North Queensland. They’ve lost Civoniceva to retirement as well as Beale to the Dragons and Te’o to the Rabbitohs since then. They’ve signed veteran halfback Scott Prince as well as former player David Stagg to add some experience. The loss of Petro really allows Josh McGuire to secure his starting position, a step up he is more than ready for. Te’o’s position can be covered by the likes of Glenn and Thaiday also. The big problems last year were through the spine, notably the halves. They will need a return to form from Hoffman and will be hoping they get a bit of the old Scott Prince to bring out the best in Norman, Wallace or Hunt, whichever gets the job alongside him. There is some talent in the squad and you can never discount this club, but they do not look like the strong Broncos sides of old, particularly weak across the wing/three quarter line. At best lower rungs of the 8 this season.

Canberra Raiders

2013 Gains: Sandor Earl (Mid Season: Penrith Panthers, 2014), Joel Edwards (Newcastle Knights, 2015), Jake Foster (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, 2014), Anthony Milford (2014)

2013 Losses: Michael Chee Kam (Manly Sea Eagles), Bronson Harrison (St George Illawarra Dragons), Mark Ioane (Gold Coast Titans), Masada Iosefa (Wests Tigers), Drury Low (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs)

After what was looking like a dire season the Raiders finished extremely strongly to make the second week of the finals, where they were bundled out by Souths. As ever this is a squad capable beating anyone. They have a strong pack with the likes of Tilse, Shillington, Fensom, Papalli and Picker and a production line of young outside backs coming through, with the likes of Wighton and Lee to back up Fergusson, Croker, Robinson and Earl.

That doesn’t mean there aren’t problem areas for this club. The most promising aspect of last season was the emergence of Sam Williams, but how they fit him, Campese and McCrone into the side remains to be seen. It’s possible that McCrone could fill the problem position of hooker. The other big issue is a complete lack of consistency in their performance, capable of being brilliant or awful, depending on the day. If I knew they’d be switched on all game, every game, I’d say they are top four capable. As it is I think they should make the top 8, but could easily stuff it all up.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs

2013 Gains: Krisnan Inu (Mid Season: New Zealand Warriors, 2015), Drury Low (Canberra Raiders, 2013), Sam Perrett (Mid Season: Sydney Roosters, 2015), Tony Williams (Manly Sea Eagles, 2016)

2013 Losses: Jake Foster (Canberra Raiders), James Gavet (Wests Tigers), Bryson Goodwin (South Sydney Rabbitohs), Luke MacDougall (retired), Corey Payne (retired), Tupou Sopoaga (Cronulla Sharks), David Stagg (Brisbane Broncos), Jonathan Wright (Cronulla Sharks)

 So before I started writing this I was a bit sceptical on the Bulldogs chances of repeating their 2012 performances. Now Ben Barba has been stood down indefinitely. No one is sure exactly when he’ll be back but this certainly affects the Bulldogs chances. Added to the absence in the early season of James Graham, significant to the methods they employ (short passing game from the prop forwards at the defensive line) in attack, the Bulldogs start the season on the back foot.

In their favour is the coaching ability of Des Hasler, who has shown himself over nine seasons to be a highly effective football coach. He is one of those rare breed that gets in the heads of his players and gets them playing to and above their talent levels.

New signing Tony Williams will need to live up to his salary in the early part of the season if he is to compensate for the loss of depth in the back row, due to both departures and injuries. Likewise the halves, the chief concern for this club, need to maintain or improve on last seasons levels. This is where I see the bulldogs running into trouble. Clubs will be tuned into their game plan after last season, which requires improvement from their halves who may be more relied on. I thought Reynolds had a very good season but I don’t see him has having much improvement in him, whilst Hodgkinson (whilst fit) and Keating were both average players in a team performing well.

I don’t think they’ve improved on last season, and in particular with Barba and Graham out I think they may struggle. If Barba’s off field issues can be resolved (and hopefully for his sake they are) I can see them making a surge into the top four, as it is I think they’ll be around the bottom half of the eight, potentially missing out altogether.

Cronulla Sharks

2013 Gains: Michael Gordon (Penrith Panthers, 2015), Chris Heighington (Wests Tigers, 2015), Luke Lewis (Penrith Panthers, 2016), Pat Politoni (Wests Tigers, 2013), Alipate Ratini (2014), Tim Robinson (2013), Beau Ryan (Wests Tigers, 2015), Tupou Sopoaga (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, 2013), Jonathan Wright (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, 2014)

2013 Losses: Colin Best (retired), Josh Cordoba (retired), Tyson Frizell (St George Illawarra Dragons), James Hasson (Manly Sea Eagles), Jeremy Smith (Newcastle Knights), John Williams (retired)

Cronulla have been amongst the most active sides in the player market over the last 12 months, particularly sourcing from the Tigers and Penrith. Heading the new recruits is Luke Lewis, backed up by Michael Gordon, Chris Heighington, Beau Ryan, Jonathan Wright and some handy depth. Going back to the original question, does this improve the side?

In the case of Cronulla, I’m not convinced. I think the loss of Jeremy Smith is a massive one. He is amongst the best backrowers in the game. He, as much as Gallen, was vital to the performances of Cronulla last season. I also think they could have bolstered their front row stocks, rather than the focus on big name back rowers. As it is, with Ross aging and Gibbs out for 12 weeks with an achilles injury (and who knows how strongly he’ll come back from that) I think they short up front, although no doubt Gallen will spend some time up there. Ryan and Gordon are handy additions, although they are still a good centre short of a backline that will worry the better sides.

The other big concern is that Carney is coming off a serious injury, unlikely to be fit for round one. If he isn’t fit they lack creativity. Not to mention that, with an interrupted pre season, he can fall into bad habits (see Roosters 2011).

Cronulla has a squad good enough to make the eight and potentially top four, should things fall into place. They have excellent back row depth and quality in the likes of Gallen, Lewis, Tupou and Fifita. I still have concern over depth in other positions, especially the halves and the centres.

Al player movements courtesy of Zero Tackle

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs vs. Melbourne Storm

Sunday, 5:15 pm AEST, ANZ Stadium

Live Channel 9.

So here we are, the big dance, Festival of the Boot part II as Roy and HG might call it. 26 regular season rounds, a state of origin series, a gruelling pre-season, countless headlines and three weeks of finals football and it all comes down to 80 minutes this Sunday. The top two sides from the season have made it through to the grand final for what should be a cracking contest to farewell the year.

Canterbury Bulldogs ($2.10)

Lineup: Ben Barba, Sam Perrett, Josh Morris, Krisnan Inu, Jonathan Wright, Josh Reynolds, Kris Keating, Aiden Tolman, Michael Ennis (c), Sam Kasiano, Frank Pritchard, Josh Jackson, Greg Eastwood. Interchange: James Graham, Dale Finucane, Corey Payne, David Stagg, Dene Halatau (one to be omitted).

It’s been a landmark season for the Bulldogs, regardless of what transpires on Sunday. From missing the finals and having a coach fired mid season last year to minor premiers and two dominant finals victories is a pretty good turn around. Off the field members are growing, crowds are increasing and they are, seemingly, becoming a real powerhouse. It will feel a bit empty for the club though if they can’t do the job on Sunday and they will be fired up for a big clash.

Why the Bulldogs will win: The game plan they have had all year has been too much for many clubs to handle. They’ve compensated for a lack of dominant halves with a short passing game of the forwards, in particular Kasiano and Graham. This creates space by drawing multiple defenders and allows them to play an expansive game, bringing in Josh Morris and mid-season signings Krisnan Inu and Sam Perrett. Obviously Ben Barba can then chime into the backline a wreak havoc as only he can. The Bulldogs are thus as dangerous from a long way out as they are close to the line.

Why they won’t win: Melbourne would’ve seen what happened in the stretch of time in which Souths were on top on Saturday night. When the Bulldogs forwards weren’t allowed to play as they have done the onus fell back on the halves. Keating was anonymous and Reynolds decisions making, including bombing a try and poor kicking options, was shown up. If Melbourne win the forward battle these two players aren’t the type that will drag them back into the contest.

Melbourne Storm ($1.75)

Lineup: Billy Slater, Sisa Waqa, Dane Nielsen, Will Chambers, Justin O’Neill, Gareth Widdop, Cooper Cronk, Jessie Bromwich, Cameron Smith (c), Bryan Norrie, Sika Manu, Ryan Hoffman, Todd Lowire. Interchange: Ryan Hinchcliffe, Kevin Proctor, Jaiman Lowe, Richie Fa’aoso, Rory Kostjayson, Mahe Fonua, Siosaia Vave, Anthony Quinn (four to be omitted).

Redemption. Probably the most overused term in this finals run for Melbourne, but you can bet it will be bandied about if they get over the line come Sunday. Coming off the back of the salary cap scandal that saw them (rightly) stripped off two premierships and three minor premierships their continual ability to win sees the likes of Bellamy, Slater, Smith and Cronk in line for a shot at their first legitimate premiership.

Why the Storm will win: Obviously the big three are a handy lot to build a side around. Cameron Smith gets his forwards going forward, regardless of who is playing. Off the back of that Cronk and Slater are able to weave their way through opposition defences. The fast ball movement that will bring Slater into play is incredibly difficult to defend against. Cameron Smith’s running game, however, is incredibly important, as he has the ability to catch the big Canterbury forwards napping from dummy half – something exploited by Issac Luke last week. Melbourne is also one of the strongest teams inside the oppositions twenty metres, with a deadly short kicking game regularly resulting in points or repeat sets.

Why they won’t win: They lack game breaking forwards. Players such as Hoffman and Proctor are dangerous but lack the impact running wide that the likes of Eastwood and Pritchard have for the Bulldogs. Their more dangerous wide player, Chambers and Waqa, are carrying knocks into this match, which could throw their structure off should the not last the game.

Prediction: This will be a tight contest. These two sides have clearly been the best two sides all season and its appropriate they meet this weekend. The more I think about it this week the more chance  give the Bulldogs of simply steamrolling Melbourne via their forwards. I will stick with my gut instinct though and pick Melbourne for the victory. They are just ruthless once on top and do not let the game phase them, and I feel the big game players, Smith Slater and Cronk, will come to the fore. Melbourne by 10 points.

Clive Churchill Medal – Cameron Smith

Toyota Cup Grand Final

Canberra Raiders vs. Wests Tigers
Kick Off – 2pm, Broadcast in NSW/Qld/ACT

3^rd plays 4^th in the Under 20’s grand final this weekend. Both sides have a small amount of NRL experience, with Koroibete on the wing and Miller at halfback for the Tigers and Edrick Lee in the centres for Canberra. The Tigers have been defensively strong this season (something rare in this competition) this season whilst the Raiders boast one of the best attacks in the competition. This should be a good match up which shows off a few potential top line first graders for the coming years. Canberra are traditionally strong in this comp and should win.

VB NSW Cup Grand Final

Newtown Jets vs. Balmain/Ryde-Eastwood Tigers

Kick off 12:05 pm, broadcast in NSW/Qld/ACT

Bizarrely we’ve seen the 7^th and 8^th placed sides from this seasons NSW Cup make it through to the grand final. It gives and indication of the closeness of the competition. This match sees two foundation clubs and inner-west rivals facing off in the Newtown Jets and the Balmain Tigers. Newtown came back from the dead against both the Cutters and the Bears in the first two weeks of the finals before demolishing Canterbury last weekend and boast plenty of NRL experience via Roosters players such as Dan Mortimer, Mose Masoe, Jack Bosden and the highly impressive Nafe Seluini, sure to create points from dummy half. Balmain on the other hand have been strong in each final having taken early leads and held on for victory. Tom Humble, Tim Simona, Junior Moors and Ray Cashmere are just some of the NRL players in this side, who will be keen to finish Balmain’s involvement at this level on a high note. Should be a cracker but can’t go past the Jets to win this one. Newtown by 8

It’s preliminary finals time. With a place in the grand final up for grabs no side will be holding back this weekend. At this point of the season the tiniest slip up could cost you a shot at the ultimate prize. This is where the big names, the likes of Barba, Inglis, Slater and Stewart, step up and take their sides to glory. With some mouth watering clashes on offer it should be another cracking weekend of semi-finals rugby league.

Melbourne Storm ($1.60) vs. Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles ($2.40)

Friday, 7:45 pm, AAMI Park

Live Ch. 9 (NSW, Qld), Gem (Other states, 6:15 Adelaide/Darwin, 5:45 Perth)

Key Battle - Daly Cherry-Evans (left) and Cooper Cronk's showdown will be vital

The two best sides of the last six years, salary cap issues notwithstanding, face up in yet another big game. They’ve had two grand final clashes, not to mention the ‘Battle of Brookvale’ late last season. It’s safe to say there is no love lost between Friday nights combatants. Beyond that it is a helluva match up of two sides full of skilful footballers.

If Manly are to win they have to use their advantage in the forward pack. It’s not that Melbourne has an especially weak forward pack, it’s just very even across the forwards. They all do a very good job but they do not have the game breakers that Manly have. With a back row of Anthony Watmough, the imposing Tony Williams and the skillfull Glenn Stewart Manly is possessed with extremely dangerous runners of the football. Each is able to draw multiple defenders and create space, Williams through power, Watmough through footwork and Stewart through ball playing ability, in order to put those players running off them into space. Through this backrow they bring Foran, Cherry-Evans and, running wider, Jamie Lyon into the game, and if these guys get into space Brett Stewart is just about the best support player in the game. To beat Melbourne they need a better showing than recent weeks from Glenn Stewart and they need Lyon to last the match – if his calf goes again their right hand side falls apart.

Melbourne’s strengths are clearly their spine and their consistency. They have standout players calling the shots, surrounded by players who know exactly what their job is and exactly how to do it. It sees the side defensively strong right across the park and, with Smith calling the shots from dummy half, getting a consistent roll forward through the middle of the field. It’s not to say there is no stand out talent outside the big three. Widdop does a good job at 5/8, Chambers has been quality this season and their wingers can finish. Hinchcliffe is also very good at the back of the scrum, able to slot into dummy half if need be and a strong defender. Against a side like Melbourne, who match up very well out wide, it will be the middle of the field where they can be most dangerous. Manly’s backrow, whilst dangerous in attack, are not the best defensive backrow in the competition. Melbourne are likely to break through the middle of the field, with inside balls to Slater to cause havoc, before linking up with the wide players in support. Melbourne are also deadly off set pieces and Cronk’s kicking game close to the line has few peers.

All in all it creates a good match up, particularly when you add in the fireworks that are sure to occur. Who is the better on the day will determine who wins this one you would think. Manly don’t seem to have carried their regular season form into the finals this year, with an average performance against the Dogs and an ok showing in their controversial win over the Cowboys. Melbourne were pretty hot to trot against Souths in week one and I think they’ll be too strong at home for this Manly side. Melbourne by 10

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs ($1.47) vs. South Sydney Rabbitohs ($2.75)

Saturday, 7:45 pm, ANZ Stadium

Live Ch. 9 (NSW, Qld), Gem (Other states, 6:15 Adelaide/Darwin, 5:45 Perth)

The Entertainers: The contest between Ben Barba (left) and Greg Inglis will light up this match

The hype meter keeps building for this preliminary final on Saturday. On one hand Canterbury, arguably the biggest of the Sydney clubs, minor premiers and pumped for a shot at their first grand final appearance since the 2004 premiership. On the other hand South Sydney, in their first preliminary final since 1971 and having won their first finals match since 1987 the weekend past, riding the crest of a wave of emotion into this game.

Canterbury have been very good this season, particularly round 11 onwards. Des Hasler turning this club around in such a short space of time was unexpected and he’s done a great job so far. It’s a relatively simple game plan that largely relies on their impressive prop forwards. Sam Kasiano and James Graham’s short passing game at the line has worked wonders for Canterbury this year, creating headaches for opposition defenders and bringing the Bulldogs backline into play. They’ve also used the likes of Frank Pritchard running wide to create space, off load and provide important decoy runs. Josh Reynolds has played above himself whilst Keating has filled an important cog. Mid season purchases of Sam Perrett and Krisnan Inu have greatly improved their outside back performance, although Josh Morris has been quiet of late. Of course Barba is dangerous from anywhere on the field and if he is at his best he will be unstoppable. They’ll be looking at hitting Souths out wide, where the Bulldogs have been successful and where Souths have had a weak point all season. Souths are also prone to flat patches, a trait that has been exploited by the Bulldogs all season. They are the masters of hanging in games and striking when they need to.

Souths fans can be optimistic, however, for a number of reasons. Sam Burgess is in imperious form for one, and moving him to a slightly wider role in the second row proved very effective last weekend. They have the sort of forwards pack, with players like the Burgess brothers, Asotasi, Pettybourne and Crocker, that can handle the big forwards of the Bulldogs. If they can get a roll on Issac Luke is dangerous as hell around the ruck, and can take advantage of the slower retreats of the big Bulldogs forwards. Dave Taylor has been quiet so far this finals series and is very dangerous if he fires. They also have an advantage in the halves, with Adam Reynolds astute kicking game very impressive and John Sutton having the best season of his career. Now this halves advantage will mean nothing if the Bulddogs pack rolls them as they have so many other sides this year, but if Souths forwards control the Bulldogs forward pack there are question marks over whether or not Keating and Josh Reynolds can drag the Dogs over the line, whereas Adam Reynolds and Sutton have shown quality this season. Not to mention they also have Greg Inglis at fullback, ready to chime into either side of the attack.

In short it is set up for a cracking game of football. Canterbury have been the best side all season and deserve favouritism going into this match, but as outlined above there are question marks over whether they have the same number of players capable of playing at a higher level than South Sydney do. The rugby league romantic in me tips South Sydney to make their first grand final in 41 years but the pragmatist in me thinks the bulldogs have the ruthless mentality and the quality coach to win this game. Should be a beauty. Canterbury by 14 points.

Unfortunately the Bears bowed out of the race last weekend, snatching defeat from the jaws of victory in true North Sydney fashion. Up 30-18 with not long remaining and lost 32-30 in golden point, albeit without being able to fire a shot in extra time. NSW Cup action this week sees Balmain up against Newcastle in a 1 o’clock kick off at Leichhardt Oval, followed by minor premiers Canterbury taking on Newtown (Roosters reserve grade) at 3 pm. Should be really good games of football if this finals series so far is anything to go by.