Five things we learned from the Broncos’ thrilling round 11 win over the Roosters

BRONCO Kotoni Staggs had a debut he will never want to forget, Jimmy the Jet fires when he is most needed, McCullough wins battle of the hookers. Five things we learned from Broncos v Roosters.

Broncos players celebrate Jamayne Isaako’s match-sealing try on Friday night.

1 – JAMES Roberts is not letting his NSW debut go without a fight. While opposition number Latrell Mitchell showed plenty of promise and thrilled the crowd at Suncorp Stadium, it was Roberts who had the last laugh. With seven minutes left on the clock, he lived up to his “Jimmy the Jet” nickname with a stunning try to equal the scores. He stood up when Brisbane needed it most.

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2 – IT was not an almighty clash between Andrew McCullough and Jake Friend, but the two certainly worked hard to press their claims for an Origin jersey. If there had to be a winner, it was the Brisbane hooker. McCullough toiled away in the middle, making 48 tackles and taking four runs. In comparison, Friend only took the ball up once and made 39 tackles but missed five.

Broncos players celebrate Jamayne Isaako’s match-sealing try on Friday night.

3 – BRISBANE may have a young side but they proved last night that youth is not always a negative thing. They showed plenty of energy and spirit in their win against a much more experienced Roosters team. While they will get back some of their star players soon in Josh McGuire and possibly Matt Gillett, the young players can hold their heads high.

4 - ROOKIE Bronco Kotoni Staggs had a debut he will never want to forget. Brought on in the 3rd minute for Tom Opacic (concussion), the 19-year-old from country NSW immediately showed why he is so highly-regarded at Brisbane, setting up winger Corey Oates for a try after just four minutes on the field. Then before halftime he crossed for his own four-pointer. Superb debut.

5 – ANOTHER impressive young gun was Tevita Pangai Jr. One of Brisbane’s best this season, he stood up in the place of Alex Glenn with a dominant performance. He ran for 174m, set up the try to Staggs, made 25 tackles and seven tackle busts. He deserves to retain a place in the starting side once the older forwards come back.

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Originally published as Five things we learned from the Broncos’ thrilling round 11 win over the Roosters