Five things we learned: Desperate Broncos edge Sharks despite too many errors

BRISBANE’s desperation got them over the edge against Cronulla but after another blow to their forward pack, the Broncos can’t afford any more slip-ups.

Milford showed his best against Cronulla. (AAP Image/Dave Hunt)

1. BRISBANE will be happy to get the 12-10 win but need to fix their discipline as they continue their push for the top four. They made 14 errors in a scrappy game against the Sharks and, while their desperation in defence proved to be the winner, it’s not something they can continue to show as the finals edge closer.

CLOSE: Broncos do it the hard way to outlast Sharks

Alex Glenn’s injury is a serious blow at this stage of the season. (AAP Image/Dave Hunt)

2. BRISBANE’S forward pack has been dealt yet another blow after Alex Glenn broke his hand in the first half. The Broncos workhorse was taken to hospital at halftime for scans with the suspected break, in what is a huge blow for Brisbane’s forward depth. Matt Gillett (neck and calf), Jaydn Su’A (broken ankle) and Payne Haas (shoulder) are all sidelined, with Brisbane unable to afford anymore injuries to their pack.

3. WAYNE Bennett has benched Matt Lodge in preference of starting Joe Ofahengaue over the last two weeks in what has been a masterstroke from the Broncos coach. Lodge’s impact has been a huge difference for the Broncos. The games have been two of his best this season. He made 136m, the best of any Brisbane forward.

Milford showed his best against Cronulla. (AAP Image/Dave Hunt)

4. ANTHONY Milford had one of his best kicking games of the season. He took control of the game and forced a number of repeat sets midway through the second half thanks to his precision with the boot.

5. OFF-contract winger Corey Oates continues to be one of Brisbane’s best each week, with another standout performance. He scored his 10th try of the season after 14 minutes and backed up the forward pack in a physical game by running for 172m off 14 runs. The Broncos face a battle to keep Oates and it won’t get any easier if he maintains his red hot form.