NewsBite

NRL SuperCoach live: Winners and losers from Vegas double header

The NRL’s historic double header in Las Vegas is in the books, and there were some big winners and losers in SuperCoach. Watch the video, and relive the action inside.

Brent Read, David Riccio and Dean Ritchie
20 min read
March 3, 2024 - 5:09PM
News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom
Winners and Losers in Las Vegas

Roosters captain and former SuperCoach lock James Tedesco showed why he should still be among the top fullbacks in the game to set up what could be the matchwinner against an undermanned Broncos in a controversial 20-10 win in Las Vegas.

Earlier, the most popular cheapie in SuperCoach cashed in as Manly made history with victory against the Rabbitohs.

Relive the action below.

FULL TIME: MAGIC MANU STARS IN ROOSTERS WIN

A piece of Joey Manu brilliance then one of the best try assists you’ll see laid the groundwork for the Roosters’ 20-10 win against the Broncos in Las Vegas.

Manu’s flick out the back is a piece of magic that will undoubtedly grace future advertising campaigns, but was only part of his busy night at centre.

Exciting fullback Reece Walsh was the Broncos’ highest scorer with 72 points.

Joseph Manu scores for the Roosters. Picture: Getty Images
Joseph Manu scores for the Roosters. Picture: Getty Images

TOP 10 PERFORMERS

Joey Manu (SYD, CTW, $652,400): 97 pts

James Tedesco (SYD, FLB, $707,000): 75pts

Victor Radley (SYD, 2RF $527,700): 72pts

Reece Walsh (BRO, FLB, $813,000): 72pts

Junior Pauga (SYD, CTW, $505,400): 60pts

Tyrell May (SYD, FRF, $430,200): 60 pts

Payne Haas (BRO, FRF, $750,400): 60pts

Jordan Riki (BRO, 2RF, $498,100): 58pts

Corey Jensen (BRO, FRF, $413,700): 56pts

Sam Walker (SYD, HFB, $610,000): 55pts

Reece Walsh led the Broncos’ scorers in SuperCoach. Pictrue: Getty Images via AFP
Reece Walsh led the Broncos’ scorers in SuperCoach. Pictrue: Getty Images via AFP

5.17PM: TRY! RADLEY ALL-BUT SEALS ROOSTERS TRIUMPH

Roosters captain and former SuperCoach lock James Tedesco showed why he should still be among the top fullbacks in the game with a slick move to set up what could be the matchwinner.

Tedesco sliced through the line, selling Broncos playmaker Ezra Mam a dummer, then found Victor Radley to send the Roosters lock over with just seven minutes to go.

Sam Walker’s successful conversion attempt made it 20-10.

5.10PM: ALLEGED RACIAL SLUR USED IN VEGAS

An alleged racial slur will overshadow the aftermath of the NRL’s spectacular season opening round in Las Vegas.

The incident was reported in the 70th minute of the Broncos’ clash with the Roosters.

New Roosters signing Leniu, who was part of the Panthers team which beat Brisbane in last year’s grand final, was involved in several heated incidents with Broncos players.

But it reached a flashpoint in the 70th minute when the incident was put on report.

“Ezra’s made a formal complaint that is racial in nature, okay,” said referee Adam Gee. "Against Spencer.

“I haven’t heard it. The incident goes on report.”

Spencer Leniu of the Roosters exchanges heated words with Brisbane’s Kotoni Staggs. Picture: Getty Images via AFP
Spencer Leniu of the Roosters exchanges heated words with Brisbane’s Kotoni Staggs. Picture: Getty Images via AFP

5.05PM: MAY’S LOOKING GOOD

There was plenty of talk about Terrell May’s status as a solid mid-range pick-up, but he’s looking the goods so far.

He’s played 40-odd minutes despite coming off the bench, and with 15 minutes left in the game is the fourth-highest scoring Roosters player with 46 points.

The best part? It’s all come from work rate.

The front-rower is owned by just 4.6 per cent of SuperCoach players, and valued at $430,200, it wouldn’t surprise to see that spike if he continues that scoring in Round 2.

5PM: TRY! WALSH HITS BACK FOR BRONCOS

The “rock star of the NRL” has put the Broncos back within reach of the Roosters on the hour.

Walsh was on the end of a slick shift to the left side, with the fullback streaking into space and finishing off the move with a super swan dive.

It bumped his SuperCoach output up to 70 points, and with the Roosters sending the restarted dead on the full, keep an eye on exciting fullback to strike again.

4.52PM: MANU MAGIC

Joey Manu, that is ABSURD.

Manu has sent Junior Pauga over untouched with a brilliance which will surely be part of any hype video for next year’s visit to Las Vegas.

The towering Roosters centre had two Broncos on him, back to his winger, but unleashed an absolutely outstanding flick pass to find Pauga, who strolled over untouched.

Not only was it a magical piece of play, but, with Sam Walker’s conversion, opened a 10-point lead with 27 minutes to play.

The try assist has Manu far and away the leading scorer in SuperCoach with 88 points to his name - and with so long left, he’s surely odds-on to crack triple figures.

4.45PM: TUPOU TRY DENIED

Reece Walsh avoided a trip to the sin bin after a shoulder charge to stop Daniel Tupou from scoring.

Tupou was on his way to the tryline until a flying Walsh careened into Roosters winger shoulder-first, giving up a clear penalty.

There was a nervous few moments for the near 16 per cent of SuperCoaches with Walsh in their side with potential for his being sent for a sit-down - and the -8pts that come with it.

But Walsh stayed out there, and an error two plays later put the footy back in Broncos’ hands.

VEGAS FEVER HITS SUPERCOACH WITH JAM-PACKED LIVE EVENT

By Tom Sangster

It was the closest thing to being in Vegas.

Rugby league fans who couldn’t make the long and expensive trip for the NRL’s historic season opener crammed into the sports bar at the Star for News Corp’s VIP event - Viva Non-Vegas.

Over 500 NRL SuperCoach players were on hand to soak up the “wild” atmosphere of the historic games and hear from Broncos great Corey Parker, as well as a panel of SuperCoach experts and past winners.

NRL fans cheer on at the SuperCoach Viva Non-Vegas Party at the Star Casino in Sydney to mark the NRL season kicking off with two historic games in Las Vegas. Photo: Tom Parrish
NRL fans cheer on at the SuperCoach Viva Non-Vegas Party at the Star Casino in Sydney to mark the NRL season kicking off with two historic games in Las Vegas. Photo: Tom Parrish

Parker is known as “God” in SuperCoach land for his incredible on-field exploits and revealed he once tried to use SuperCoach stats to bump up his contract price at the Broncos.

“I was off contract and I always represented myself for negotiations, I never had a manager during my career,” Parker said.

“I walked into Broncos HQ with my SuperCoach stats from the last year and said, ‘this is what people reckon I’m worth.’”.

“I was quickly told, ‘that’s why it’s called fantasy sports.’”

NRL star Corey Parker at the SuperCoach Viva Non-Vegas Party at the Star Casino. Photo: Tom Parrish
NRL star Corey Parker at the SuperCoach Viva Non-Vegas Party at the Star Casino. Photo: Tom Parrish

The VIP event was sold out with many fans forced to watch from surrounding bars and not official seats.

There was even be a registered Elvis celebrant on hand so guests could renew their vows to their footy team.

“This is wild, I came all the way from Penrith and wouldn’t have missed it,” said SuperCoach fan Brandon Savage.

“But I wasn’t expecting this sort of crowd and atmosphere.”

Elvis performs at the SuperCoach Viva Non-Vegas Party at the Star Casino in Sydney to mark the NRL season kicking off with two historic games in Las Vegas. Photo: Tom Parrish
Elvis performs at the SuperCoach Viva Non-Vegas Party at the Star Casino in Sydney to mark the NRL season kicking off with two historic games in Las Vegas. Photo: Tom Parrish

SuperCoach is Australia’s biggest fantasy sports game which is fun, free and easy to play with weekly prizes.

The overall winner takes home a cash prize of $50,000.

Even with the first two games done and won, it’s not too late to enter.

The rest of round one continues next weekend and SuperCoaches can still pick strong teams even without the Vegas sides, which have now been locked out.

HALF TIME: ROOSTERS AHEAD IN BRUISING BATTLE

A Joey Manu intercept try, Sam Walker penalty has given the Roosters an 8-4 lead against an undermanned Broncos at halftime.

The Broncos lost Brendan Piakura after just four minutes, with his failure of a HIA leaving Brisbane down a man.

But they’ve hung tough in a battle of an opening 40 minutes with neither side stamping their authority on the contest.

A last-second field goal by Roosters half Luke Keary was struck off after a review due to the positioning of blockers.

TOP 5 PERFORMERS

Joey Manu (SYD, CTW, $652,400): 57 pts

Lindsay Collins (SYD, FRF,$544, 200)): 35pts

Deine Mariner (BRO, CTW, $569,700): 34pts

Reece Walsh (BRO, FLB, $813,000): 34pts

Payne Haas (BRO, FRF, $750,400): 34pts

4.16PM TRY! MARINER MAGIC!

Deine Mariner beat Corey Oates to the Broncos’ right wing due to his speed, and that was the key in the 20-year-old breaking through for Brisbane’s first try of the season.

Mariner pounced on a short Reece Walsh grubber, beating the Roosters defence to get over.

The effort doubled his SuperCoach output just minutes before halftime.

4.15PM: BRONCOS GOING BUST?

When they’re on, the Broncos are among the most exciting teams in the NRL to watch – and their stars rake in the SuperCoach points.

But they’re barely landing a shot against these Roosters.

Brisbane has 44 per cent of possession, and are completing at only 71 per cent – and the Roosters’ dominance has fed into SuperCoach with Broncos players accounting for the bottom eight scores at the 34th minute.

Payne Hass, Corey Jensen (both 30) and Jordan Riki (28) are the only Broncos in the top 10, with Roosters tryscorer Joey Manu leading all scorers with 55.

3.55PM: PIAKURA GONE FOR THE NIGHT

You hear that?

That’s the groan of 54,631 SuperCoaches who just heard the sideline update.

Fans thought it the moment he hit the deck, but Brendan Piakura’s night is over after failing a HIA.

The Broncos second-rower is among the most popular mid-rangers in the game, but his night ends with just one point to his name.

3.40PM: TRY! MANU SCORES AFTER PIAKURA HIA

Oh, Mam.

Joey Manu has opened the scoring the Roosters after plucking an Ezra Mam pass and racing away to cross for the club’s first try of the season.

It couldn’t have been any easier for the Roosters centre, as Mam found Manu in the perfect catching position.

Meanwhile, a staggering 41 per cent of SuperCoach players are holding their breath as they await the outcome of Brendan Piakura’s HIA after the Broncos forward was left on the Allegiant Stadium turf.

NRL CLUB SIGNS FIRST ATHLETE FROM COMBINE DRAFT

The Canberra Raiders are set to make history by becoming the first rugby league club to sign an American athlete from the NRL Combine.

In a landmark moment for the sport, Raiders chief executive Don Furner revealed Canberra are keen to sign Samoan sensation Liz Tafuna following the NRL’s talent Combine in Las Vegas on Sunday.

READ THE FULL STORY HERE

FULL-TIME: THE 10 BEST AS MANLY MAKES HISTORY

Manly have made history with victory in the first NRL game in the United States, as the Sea Eagles beat South Sydney 36-24.

Superstar Souths fullback Latrell Mitchell was the first man to crack triple figures but a missed conversion attempt in the final two minutes has left him on 99 SuperCoach points.

Mitchell finished with 99 points, with a try and two try assists, along with eight tackle breaks and a line break boosting the numbers.

Reuben Garrick’s perfect outing with the boot had him placed as Manly’s best.

Latrell Mitchell was the highest scoring player in SuperCoach with 99. Picture: Getty Images
Latrell Mitchell was the highest scoring player in SuperCoach with 99. Picture: Getty Images

TOP 10 PERFORMERS

Latrell Mitchell (STH, FLB, $789,400): 99pts

Reuben Garrick (MAN, CTW/FLB, $722,500): 91pts

Haumole Olakau’atu (MAN, 2RF, $699,800): 90pts

Richie Kennar (STH, CTW, $453,000): 88pts

Ben Trbojevic (MAN, CTW/2RF, $277,400): 73pts

Tom Trbojevic (MAN, FLB, $833,500): 73pts

Daly Cherry-Evans (MAN, HFB, $782,900): 65pts

Luke Brooks (MAN, HFB/5/8, $560,300): 61pts

Damien Cook (STH, HOK, $663,200): 57pts

Lachlan Croker (MAN, HOK, $532,700): 56pts

Manly fullback Tom Trbojevic tries to beat a Damien Cook tackle. Picture: Getty Images
Manly fullback Tom Trbojevic tries to beat a Damien Cook tackle. Picture: Getty Images

3.23PM: TRY! KENNAR DOUBLE!

The first man to score a try in an NRL game in the United States has made it a double with a late consolation try for the Bunnies.

Richie Kennar appeared to have been tackled short of the line but the video referee ruled the tackle wasn’t completed when he reached out to score.

It means the veteran outside back scored the first and last try in an opening round epic which featured 11 tries.

3.20PM: TRY! BROOKS FIRES AT THE FINISH!

Luke Brooks has put the icing on the cake of an epic opener by the Sea Eagles, scoring the clincher in his first game for Manly.

Brooks brushed past a weak tackling attempt to score with four minutes left in the game to cap a solid outing in his first game since leaving Wests Tigers.

Reuben Garrick converted the try to maintain his perfect record with the boot and reach 90 SuperCoach points.

3.05PM: TRY! GARRICK GETS OVER

Reuben Garrick is among the more expensive CTW/FLB dual position players in the game but he’s showing why with an immense showing at Las Vegas.

A try in the second half, plus his perfect five-from-five from the boot, has him in line for a massive score, and it’s not over yet with 15 minutes still to play.

LATE MAIL: POPULAR BRONCOS CHEAPIE AXED

Popular SuperCoach cheapie Xavier Willison has been cut from Kevvie Walters’ Broncos side, with Martin Taupau elevated to the starting lineup.

Willison was a popular pick after his performance in the All Stars game, but he’s out of the 18 altogether – and should be punted from your side.

Taupau starts, with Corey Jensen reverts to the bench.

For the Roosters, Junior Pauga will wear the No. 18 and start on the wing as part of the reshuffle forced by Billy Smith’s injury.

Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii will line up at centre.

2.56PM: TRY! BURBO SALUTES!

The most-owned man in SuperCoach has rewarded more than 60 per cent of players with a try as Ben Trbojevic grabs himself a slice of rugby league history in Las Vegas.

Trbojevic ($277,400) is generally regarded as the cheapie of the season, and a second-half try will take his haul past 50.

2.52PM: TRY! CROKER CRASHES OVER

Lachlan Croker ($532,700) has put Manly back in striking distance after diving over from short range.

Manly had barely touched the footy in attacking position this second half but only took a few tackles for Croker to strike and lift his SuperCoach output to 55pts.

Reuben Garrick’s conversion moved him to 50 SuperCoach points, with Manly trailing 20-18 after 50 minutes.

2.50PM: TRY! JOHNSTON STRIKES!

Souths’ lethal left edge has struck as Alex Johnston grabbed the 188th try of his career.

It was Latrell Mitchell in the thick of it again, his quick pass to the winger proving crucial for Johnston to cross.

Mitchell’s sideline conversion put Souths out to an eight-point lead, the biggest of the game, while the fullback is up to 95 points in SuperCoach.

2.45PM: TRY! LATRELL CASHES IN

Latrell Mitchell will rocket to the top of the scorers after a spectacular short-range solo effort to put Souths back in front.

Mitchell beat one defender then carried two would-be tacklers across the line to score in the 43rd minute, but missed the conversion to leave a few SuperCoach points on the field.

The $799,400 fullback is up to 77 points, and the 9.5 per cent of players who have him in their squad will undoubtedly be cheering at this point.

2.40PM: TRIO WAIT IN THE WINGS

Three men are yet to get a taste of NRL action in Las Vegas as Souths get an early chance at points.

Almost 5 per cent of SuperCoaches are still waiting to see Manly’s Karl Lawton take the field for the first time, with the $239,900 2RF/HKR still cooling his heels.

Manly teammate Corey Waddell and Souths’ Jacob Host are also yet to feature, but are both owned by fewer than 0.5 per cent of players.

HALF TIME: BIG WINNERS SO FAR

The 8.1 per cent of SuperCoaches who took the punt on Haumole Olakau’atu have had their faith repaid with the hulking Manly second-rower the top performer in the first half.

The big bopper has just about reached his predicted score with 68 points, the most part made up of his try (17), line break (10) and 21 tackles.

Olakau’atu’s production is almost 20 points better than the next best, with Rabbitohs debutant Jacob Gagai on 49 so far.

Top 5 performers

Haumale Olakau’atu (MAN, 2RF, $699,800): 68pts

Jacob Gagai (STH, CTW/FLB, $204,300): 49pts

Damien Cook (STH, HKR, $663,200): 45pts

Richie Kennar (STH, CTW, $453,000): 42pts

Reuben Garrick (MAN, CTW/FLB, $722,500) 41pts

Haumole Olakau'atu celebrates his try. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
Haumole Olakau'atu celebrates his try. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

2.20PM: TRY! SECOND TIME LUCKY FOR SAAB

Jason Saab has grabbed his Las Vegas try.

He was among the men spreading the rugby league gospel on US TV through the week and he turned on the afterburners to provide an early highlight, with only a desperate ankle tap stopping his progress.

With just minutes before halftime, he read a Latrell Mitchell cut-out pass cleanly, took it easily then jogged the 60m to score a try under the sticks.

His barely need much of the power it took for his best 100m sprint time of 10.67, which flashed up on the screen after his four-pointer, and Reuben Garrick’s conversion has Manly in front.

2.15PM: TRY! SECOND TIME LUCKY FOR SAAB

Jason Saab has grabbed his Las Vegas try.

He was among the men spreading the rugby league gospel on US TV through the week and he turned on the afterburners to provide an early highlight, with only a desperate ankle tap stopping his progress.

With just minutes before halftime, he read a Latrell Mitchell cut-out pass cleanly, took it easily then jogged the 60m to score a try under the sticks.

His barely need much of the power it took for his best 100m sprint time of 10.67, which flashed up on the screen after his four-pointer, and Reuben Garrick’s conversion has Manly in front.

2.12PM: TRY! GAGAI SCORES ON DEBUT!

The Bunnies are back in front, and their 28-year-old debutant Jacob Gagai is the man on the spot.

Alex Johnston set it up brilliantly on the left side, getting within metres of the try line, and from the play it was a simple game plan by the Bunnies: swing it right.

Latrell Mitchell delivered the crucial cut-out pass to Gagai, who showed plenty of athleticism to beat the attempted tackle of Jaxson Paulo and cross out wide.

Gagai, the $204,300 dual position cheapie (CTW/FLB), is owned by 32.2 per cent of SuperCoaches and has, so far, delivered with 46 points on the back of that try.

2.10PM: MANLY ARE ON THE MARCH

The Bunnies dominated possession across the first 15 minutes of the 2024 season but Manly is now are very much on top.

Souths led 6-0 after a Richie Kennar try in the sixth minute, converted by Latrell Mitchell, with the veteran centre writing his name into record books as the first man to score an NRL try in the United States.

But Manly have asked plenty of questions.

Ben and Tom Trbojevic both went close, while Jason Saab, Jaxson Paulo and Reuben Garrick have had flashes of brilliance.

Manly eventually levelled Haumole Olakau’atu crashed over in the 22nd minute, and they went close again just minutes later via new five-eighth Luke Brooks.

2PM: TRY! SEA EAGLES HIT BACK!

Haumole Olakau’atu has scored the first try of Manly’s season, and the 8.1 per cent of SuperCoach owners are rejoicing for their faith in the big man.

The towering second-rower broke the line, beat some would-be defenders – and carried a few more on his back – as he hit back for the Sea Eagles in the 24th minute.

It was an effort worth about 30 points, and has him placed as the highest scorer in the NRL opener s far.

1.55PM FOX US VIEWERS MISS OPENING 15 MINUTES

American viewers hanging out to watch the historic season-opening NRL game have missed the first 15 minutes of the Souths-Manly clash at Las Vegas.

A college basketball game ran overtime, bumping the NRL game off Fox Sports 1 to a minor channel for more than 20 minutes.

While they were eventually welcomed to the action by caller Dan Ginnane, they missed the historic first NRL try on US soil - scored by veteran Rabbitohs centre Richie Kennar.

1.40PM: KENNAR STRIKES FIRST BLOOD

Richie Kennar has written his name into the history books as he becomes the first man to score a try in the NRL on American soil.

Given the stars on the field – Latrell Mitchell, Alex Johnston, Cody Walker for the Bunnies, Tom Trbojevic, Reuben Garrick, Daly Cherry-Evans for Manly – Kennar might just be the most unlikely of first try-scorers.

His efforts across the first eight minutes of the game have brought in 34 points for the 0.4 per cent of SuperCoaches who took a punt on themed-ranger.

1.35PM: ARROW INJURY CONCERN

The NRL season isn’t even 60 seconds old and already there’s an injury concern.

Midway through the first set Jai Arrow was down in backplay with an apparent ankle injury.

The dual position forward ($466,000), who lifted in popularity during the week, has played on but there will be plenty of eyes on his health.

A set later, Manly threatened the Rabbitohs’ line with Ben Trbojevic – who is owned by 61.8 per cent of SuperCoach players – going within metres of crossing for the first try of the 2024 season.

Meanwhile, Manly hooker Lachlan Croker is under observation and could be removed from the play for a HIA. We’ll keep an eye on it.

1.30PM: VEGAS - CAN YOU BELIEVE IT?

The most audacious event in the history of the game.

That’s how Fox League caller Dan Ginnane worded it on Fox League, and it’s hard to disagree.

How many doubters were there when the idea of taking the NRL to Las Vegas was first floated?

How many still don’t quite believe?

ARLC chairman Peter V’landys spoke on Fox League about how this was the start of a years-long commitment to the game in the United States, and it’s wild to think we’re finally here.

As the minutes countdown to kick-off in the first of our two games this afternoon, let’s just take a second to see rugby league goalposts, players, footballers, officials and fans at Allegiant Stadium - which hosted the SuperBowl just a few weeks ago - and appreciate what is truly a phenomenal day in the history of the NRL.

1PM: FORWARDS SET TO DOMINATE

If you don’t have a few forwards from today’s double header in your SuperCoach side, it might be worth having a gander.

At least, that’s what we glean from Souths fullback Latrell Mitchell ($799,400), who gave his thoughts on how he things the game will be played on Fox League.

“I think it’s going to be a defensive game, but also field position with our kicking,” Mitchell said.

“It will be up the middle to start; the forwards are going to banging for 40 minutes I reckon, then the rewards will come.”

Mitchell’s Souths teammates Jai Arrow ($466,000, 11.9% ownership) could come into consideration given his heavy workrate – and dual position status in SuperCoach – while the likes of Cameron Murray ($639, 300) and Sean Keppie ($395,400) could be worth a look.

From Manly, Ben Trbojevic (2RF | CTW, $277, 440) is the obvious tip given his potential to earn owners plenty of cash, while former Tiger Luke Brooks (HFB | 5/8, $560,300) could thrive in his new surrounds as he lines up for the first time as a Sea Eagle.

Fans are filtering into Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas ahead of the NRL’s season-opening double header. Picture: Getty Images
Fans are filtering into Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas ahead of the NRL’s season-opening double header. Picture: Getty Images

12:30PM: LATE MAIL THRILLS 60 PER CENT OF SUPERCOACHES

Anthony Seibold has become the most popular man in SuperCoach land with the release of his first official team list for 2024.

Both Seibold and counterpart Jason Demetriou have named unchanged 17s for the historic season opener in Las Vegas, which is massive news for SuperCoachs.

Ben Trbojevic (2RF | CTW, $277, 440) is very much considered the cheapie of the season and Seibold has granted 80,000 owners their wish of naming him to start.

Trbojevic is owned by 61.2 per cent of all SuperCoach players, and surely there’s a few of the remaining 40-odd per cent having a quick squiz at working him into their side.

Manly’s Ben Trbojevic is generally regarded as the cheapie of the season. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)
Manly’s Ben Trbojevic is generally regarded as the cheapie of the season. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)

Somehow, Tom Trbojevic’s ownership stands at only 21.5 per cent despite his fairly accessible price ($833,500), but there’s a bit more love for Turbo than his Round 1 sparring partner Latrell Mitchell who has attracted interest from only 9.1 per cent of players at a cheaper price ($799,400).

Jacob Gagai, the 28-year-old debutant, is named on the wing, and his cheap $204,300 pricetag – which already attracted more than 30 per cent of owners – will tempt plenty as we count down to kick-off.

12.25PM: THAT VIVA NON VEGAS SPIRIT!

The Star is a fair way from Allegiant Stadium but it’s the place to be for for 500 SuperCoach fans.

They’re crammed in for Viva Non Vegas, ready to watch and dissect the best (and worst) from the historic NRL season-opening double header with SuperCoach experts Tm Sangster and crew.

And they’re tapping into the Las Vegas spirit, with a couple of couples renewing their vows – complete with an Elvis impersonator – as we await the official team lists to drop.

While we wait, check out Sangster’s final SuperCoach team (at least, until late mail drops) here.

11AM: JACKMAN TO MISS MANLY SEASON-OPENER

Hollywood superstar Hugh Jackman will miss Manly’s season-opener against South Sydney at Allegiant Stadium after being forced to return to New York due to “unforeseen circumstances”.

Jackman had flown to Las Vegas to attend the game - he spent time on Friday night local time with Sea Eagles corporate supporters - but his trip was cut short due to an emergency.

Manly officials were informed of the developments late on Friday night (local time) - he was due to be presented with a jersey by Manly officials and players that night.

Jackman’s good mate Gus Worland said the Hollywood A-lister was shattered that he would miss the game.

“He was gutted to leave,” Worland said.

“He made the effort to come here but it due to unforeseen circumstances he had to go back.

“He was really disappointed. He was looking forward to wearing his Manly jersey to the game.”

That jersey is now in the possession of ardent Roosters fan Worland, who has been charged with ensuring it eventually ends up with Jackman.

9.30AM: PICK A KILLER SUPERCOACH SQUAD IN FIVE MINS

Want to play NRL SuperCoach but don’t have time to spend hours on research?

Well, Tom Sangster has just the guide for you! There’s only a couple of hours left before the first NRL match of the season - but with Sangster’s assistance, you can put together a superstar-laden SuperCoach squad in just a couple of minutes.

Find out how here.

7AM: WILD WINDS ROCK VEGAS AHEAD OF KICK-OFF

By Dean Ritchie

Players have been forced indoors due before today’s massive double header as wild winds sweep Las Vegas.

Gusts up 95 km an hour are roaring down The Strip with players from all four teams preferring to remain in their hotel – Resorts World.

The winds are expected to remain in Vegas all weekend.

That has led to fears around plane delays on Sunday, when teams, fans, media and officials plan to leave Vegas for Sydney.

Any delays could affect up to 14,000 Australian fans here in Vegas.

Pilots are already aborting flights into Vegas.

People are physically being pushed sideways due to the wind with caps being blown off people’s heads.

The winds are being whipped up in the nearby Mojave Desert.

Allegiant Stadium has a roof so the both matches won’t be impacted.

6AM: FORMER SEA EAGLE WANTS TO GET INTO BLUE AT BUNNIES

By David Riccio

Rabbitohs front-row recruit Sean Keppie has more than just victory in Las Vegas on his mind.

The former Manly prop has made the ambitious claim that the round one blockbuster will also act as the starting point of his goal to earn a NSW State of Origin jersey.

“I want to start well for Souths and then hopefully get a Blues jersey this year or next year,” Keppie revealed.

“That’s definitely the goal.

“I watched my favourite players growing up playing Origin, I’ve been playing since I was four and seeing Origin on the TV, that’s where I want to be.

“As a footy player, that’s where you want to be.

“I 100 per cent believe I can get there.

Sean Keppie had some ups and downs during his time at Manly. Picture: Getty
Sean Keppie had some ups and downs during his time at Manly. Picture: Getty

“I think the boys around me in this team can help me the most.

“I also feel like I’m growing as a player. I’m coming into my good years of footy and I feel like I haven’t shown my best yet.

“I’m really excited to show it.”

Hailed as a point of difference to the Rabbitohs pack by coach Jason Demetriou, Keppie joins Jack Wighton as South Sydney’s only major recruits in 2024.

Stripping down from his 113kg playing weight at the Sea Eagles to be currently 109kg, Keppie has wasted no time making an impact on his new club, earning a starting front-row spot alongside Tevita Tatola for the clash with Manly.

Keppie still had another two years on his contract at Manly, but after 80 first grade games, he was granted a release to join the Bunnies.

Former Sea Eagle Sean Keppie now plays for the Rabbitohs.
Former Sea Eagle Sean Keppie now plays for the Rabbitohs.
SuperCoach is back for 2024

“I just wanted to do what was best for me,’’ Keppie said.

“I spoke to my manager and I never thought I’d be here. But I’m really grateful for the opportunity.

“I can’t wait to run out with the boys on Sunday.

“It was very straightforward with Souths. Jason (Demetriou) told me he wanted me and why he wanted me.

“That’s all I wanted to hear from someone.

“He got to the point, that’s what I like about him.

“Just that reassurance that I am here, I am ready to play.

“I feel like I lost confidence in my footy over the last couple of years. I don’t know what it was.”

Asked if he expected any special treatment from his former Manly teammates, Keppie smiled: “It’s funny, I would’ve been playing Souths if I was still there, but I’m playing Manly.

“I still talk to the boys all the time, we’ve had a few laughs, we’re all good.

“I’ve been texting Josh Aloiai and Haumole Olakau’atu, I can’t wait.”

More Coverage

Vegas Late Mail: Kevvie Walters drops major SuperCoach intel
Peter Badel and David Riccio
68 to 1: Ranking every Las Vegas player
Russell Jackson and Adam Mobbs

Originally published as NRL SuperCoach live: Winners and losers from Vegas double header

Add your comment to this story

To join the conversation, please Don't have an account? Register

Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout

More related stories

Original URL: https://www.couriermail.com.au/sport/nrl/nrl-2024-rabbitohs-and-sea-eagles-kickstart-las-vegas-hostilities/news-story/6557fe9ba0a5f09961565f11c398ed1b