Tigers the team to defy historic obstacle

The Richmond Tigers are well on the way to dispelling this theory as we are not seeing any premiership hangover from them.

RECORD NUMBER: The Richmond Tigers eclipsed 100,000 members last week, the first time in AFL history. Picture: JULIAN SMITH

IT IS hard enough to win an AFL flag, but to win it two years in a row is near impossible.

The Richmond Tigers are well on the way to dispelling this theory as we are not seeing any premiership hangover from them.

The Tigers are flying on the field, sitting in top position and premiership favourites.

The great form has spilled off the field, with the Tigers signing up an AFL record of more than 100,000 members.

The only chink in their armour is when they fly interstate their form doesn't match the awesome record they show when they walk onto the MCG, a ground where they have won a record 18 consecutive games with an average winning margin of 40 points.

NRL's best

LAST week I gave my report card on the bottom eight on the NRL ladder.

This week, it is a look at the top eight.

1. Storm: The most professional team in the competition and know how to win the big games. A fresh Cameron Smith is a huge bonus.

2. Souths: Have been the biggest improvers in the competition this year. Their forwards are going great, enabling the backs to score tries at will.

3. Roosters: Started the season in good fashion but the past few weeks have been in awesome form. They are my tip for the title.

4. Dragons: Have enjoyed a great season, sitting at the top for a majority of the season. A few wobbles in previous weeks but have a strong side who will go deep into September.

5. Panthers: This season has been mixed for them with injuries hurting them at times. When fully fit they have a forward pack to match any side. James Maloney is their key.

6. Sharks: Have played some great football over the past few months and with a strong forward pack will be dangerous.

7. Broncos: Have had a reasonable season so far and are starting to hit their straps at the right end of the season.

8. Warriors: Have had a topsy turvy season. When they are on they are a big chance but seem to put in too many poor games.

Quick thoughts

HERO of the week: I applaud the NRL for the induction of the three pre-war heroes into league's most prestigious club. Dally Messenger, Frank Burge and Dave Brown are now Immortals.

Villain of the week: John Hopoate needs to stop playing rugby league after his disgraceful performance recently. It is time the relevant league made that decision for him.

Did you know? Fitzroy is the only team to win the wooden spoon and premiership in the same year. It happened in 1916.

Bomber's best: I hope you got on Paret as he saluted with ease at $3.90 last weekend.

The run continues this week with the Eels winning a rare game, linked into the Panthers accounting for the Raiders.