NRL 2023: Dean Ritchie answers the burning questions ahead of two huge semi-final clashes
Six teams are still in the hunt for the NRL premiership — but why isn’t one contender getting the credit they deserve? DEAN RITCHIE dives into the big NRL finals questions.
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FRIDAY, 7.50PM, AAMI PARK, MELBOURNE
FRIDAY, 7.50PM, AAMI PARK, MELBOURNE
BURNING QUESTION 1: CAN MELBOURNE RECOVER FROM SUCH A MERCILESS BEATING?
Melbourne’s offence was totally ineffectual, a rugby league rarity. Jahrome Hughes, Cam Munster and Harry Grant, three-quarters of Melbourne’s spine, were powerless to stop Brisbane’s 26-0 qualifying final win. The Storm looked lost and frustrated by Brisbane’s speed and niggle. Melbourne hasn’t confronted such a horrid finals drubbing since a 40-0 loss to Manly in the 2008 grand final. This is new territory for a proud club. Will they bounce back or carry that loss heavily on their dropped shoulders? Centre Justin Olam will need to be considered for a return to the top grade.
BURNING QUESTION 2: HOW MUCH DID THE CRONULLA WIN TAKE OUT OF THE CHOOKS?
It was one of the most courageous wins in the Roosters’ 115-year history. Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii (concussion), Billy Smith (HIA), Joey Manu (hamstring) and James Tedesco (sin bin) left the Roosters scrambling and vulnerable. But the Roosters somehow found another level of resolve to topple Cronulla late. It was a triumph for guts but can the Roosters lift physically once again after seven straight wins? The pressure and physical exertion must be a slow burn. The club is already down on depth with Sitili Tupouniua, Connor Watson, Daniel Tupou and Jared Waerea-Hargreaves unavailable.
TEAM NEWS:
In a double setback, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii and Joey Manu have already been ruled out of the Storm game. Suaalii failed an HIA and won’t be eligible for the NRL’s 11-day stand-down exemption rule. Corey Allan, Drew Hutchison and Jaxson Paulo are possible replacements. Melbourne’s Ryan Papenhuyzen had six screws and a plate inserted into his fractured leg and won’t play again until next season. Storm’s Xavier Coates (high ankle sprain) is an outside chance of playing.
VERDICT: MELBOURNE BY 6
Semi-final: Warriors v Knights
SATURDAY, 4.05PM (EST), GO MEDIA STADIUM, AUCKLAND
BURNING QUESTION 1: WELCOME TO FINALS FOOTY
The Warriors entered Saturday’s finals game against Penrith full of hope and optimism but were blown away by a meticulous, relentless and hungry Panthers. September is when the best meet the best. The Warriors were left gasping under the pressure and simply couldn’t cope. They tried yet wilted. The Warriors knew what was coming against Penrith but it was a quick and sharp reminder about what it takes to win finals games. Can they go to that next level inside a week? Shaun Johnson’s return will give the Warriors some x-factor and experience. They will be better for the run.
BURNING QUESTION 2: CAN NEWCASTLE WIN THE NRL GRAND FINAL?
It may seem a left-field question but why not? When is the NRL public going to give Newcastle the credit they deserve? Ten wins in succession – the Knights must feel bullet proof at the moment. Momentum is the key driving force in September and the Knights don’t fear anyone. Kalyn Ponga is in career best form and continues taking his team on the ride of their lives. A 90 minute epic win over Canberra will be physically sapping but Newcastle is a side loving their footy and playing with pure freedom. Can they win another three games? I’m not going to say they can’t.
TEAM NEWS:
Knights halfback Jackson Hastings re-injured his ankle on Sunday and didn’t return for the second half, He is expected to have scans on Monday and is in doubt for the big game. Johnson missed the Panthers game through a calf injury but should be fit for the sudden-death Auckland final. “I’m confident he will be right,” said Warriors coach Andrew Webster. Dylan Walker substituted admirably but the Warriors desperately need Johnson.
VERDICT: WARRIORS BY 6
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