Broncos v Rabbitohs: Five things we learned

THE Broncos bounced back to winning ways by dispatching of the Rabbitohs — and here’s what we learned from the 30-10 triumph.

THE Broncos bounced back to winning ways by dispatching of the Rabbitohs — and here’s what we learned from the 30-10 triumph.

1 — WAS Darius Boyd’s stint as skipper a sign of things to come? The Brisbane fullback led his side well, with usual captain Corey Parker sidelined due to a suspension.

He was one of the Broncos’ best, which was an exceptional effort given he played State of Origin on Wednesday. And with Parker on his way out of the club, it may also be a sign that Wayne Bennett is seriously considering the No. 1 for the captaincy role next season.

2 — THE Broncos came away with the win, but they are still far from their best. While they looked much better, particularly in defence, it was clear they are still feeling the effect of missing players and niggling injuries.

One obvious difference was the fitness of Andrew McCullough. Usually one of the team’s most reliable, the hooker was running out of gas by the 20 minute mark, with Darius Boyd often coming into dummy-half.

Given he has missed a fair amount of game time this year due to injuries, it’s hardly a surprise.

But once Brisbane is back to full force and full fitness, they will be a massive threat.

3 — ONE area where Brisbane saw a vast improvement was in their halves.

Halfback Ben Hunt seemed to be getting back to his old self and it showed most when he took on the line.

He first showed his prowess with a 13m dart in the second set of the match before scoring a try through a solo effort in the 14th minute. He finished with six runs for 55m.

4 — COREY Oates really could be a great forward for the Broncos one day.

With 15 minutes remaining in the first half, the Origin star made a 40m race towards the tryline with Cody Walker awaiting him 10 metres out.

But instead of trying anything fancy, Oates bulldozed straight into the Rabbitohs fullback and carried him right to the line. He was unlucky to not get the ball down. Very few wingers would take on an opposition player like that.

5 — SOUTH Sydney’s season is over.

Without halfback Adam Reynolds, the Rabbitohs struggled greatly and none of their tactics worked out for them.

Not even Sam Burgess continually running at Anthony Milford gave them an advantage. Only something magic will turn 2016 around for them.