NRL 2020: Five things we learned from Cowboys v Broncos

Tevita Pangai Jr has had another head explosion that could sideline him for up to six weeks. Read about that and the other things we learned from the game here.

It was a stirring victory for the Broncos but it may come at a cost for one of their young guns. Here’s the five things we learned from the game.

CUT THE CRAP, TEVITA

Tevita Pangai Jr has to cut the crap out of his game. Returning from a five-game suspension last year, the Broncos forward was placed on report after just two minutes for a needless cheap shot on Justin O’Neill

He’s now facing another long ban after he was hit with a grade two dangerous contact charge by the MRC.

The Tongan international is looking at four weeks out with an early guily plea, or six if he fights the charge and loses.

Pangai Jr atoned with a second-try and some fearsome charges, but he needs to improve his discipline to realise his potential.

Brodie Croft looked good in his Broncos debut. Picture: Alix Sweeney

BRISBANE’S SPINAL FUSION

Brisbane’s newly-formed spine looks the goods. No Jack Bird, no worries. Replacing the injured Bird at fullback, Jamayne Isaako was magnificent, producing a number of sizzling runs including a 63rd minute try. Halfback recruit Brodie Croft marshalled Brisbane’s attack with confidence, allowing Anthony Milford to be the free-wheeling pivot that suits his instinctive style. Jake Turpin was superb at hooker and his early try was just reward for his industry and scything tackles around the ruck.

MAKE FIFITA A MILLIONAIRE

The Broncos should make David Fifita the first $1 million forward in their history. Fifita showed why he is the code’s hottest back-row property with a barnstorming 70-metre try that spoiled the Cowboys’ party. The 20-year-old is off-contract at season’s end and his value soared when he beat two Cowboys, then stepped past Valentine Holmes to score. Wow. Clubs will be lining up to sign him. The Broncos should pay Fifita whatever he wants.

Tevita Pangai Jr. of the Broncos is placed on report. Picture: Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images

HOLMES BUT NOT HOSED

Valentine Holmes showed promising signs in his return to the NRL. Holmes had some nervous moments early, spilling a bomb and making some errors, but showed his class with a slick try and set up another. It was his first NRL appearance in 539 days and he will only get better.

COWBOYS JUST AVERAGE

The Cowboys have too many average players to be an NRL premiership threat. While they have some stars in Jason Taumalolo, Michael Morgan and Valentine Holmes, there are too many run-of-the-mill players at North Queensland and not enough x-factor.