A weekend of wins to Canberra, the Tigers and the Roosters sent The Adjudicator in search of answers. How could a round so late in the season go so wrong?
After avoiding Titans fan Scott’s assumption that I’d be sent to an institution after the Cowboys surged past the Titans, I began to think my mind was one step to the left with round 21 to be known as the Weekend of the Upset.
I have, however, managed to re-focus in time to take you through round 22.
Manly v South Sydney, Saturday 5.30pm (EST), Brookvale Oval
The Adjudicator says: "The Adjudicator casts his mind back a year, when a 40-32 defeat of Manly at the hands of those pesky Bunnies saw the Sea Eagles lose hope of the minor premiership. What does it mean in 2009? Well, if the Sea Eagles are again more interested in scoffing fish and chips thrown at them on Manly Beach in the first half, they’ll find it tougher to claw back into contention against the Rabbitohs than against the Tigers. On the other hand, my worst dreams involve a fired-up Anthony Watmough. With him involved, the Bunnies will have to jump all over the park to stop him."
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LATEST COMMENTS FROM FANS
Manly fan Tobey Doctor of Bondi Beach says: "Ohh Craig theres just no way Manly will concede 2 losses in a row at this stage despite Souths havin a good go of it. Des is a good solid coach ( though he'd punch anyone for saying that with his radar phobia ) and he'll have Manly stampeding Souths from the very start. Now lets address todays folly - "but if Brett Stewart makes a comeback it'll be tough" ha! if Bretty boy did come back this week -which if you actually listened to Hasler/read the papers you'd know he aint - but if he did "tough" is one of the biggest understatements of the year, He scored 5 tries in 2 bloody games after not playin the first 4 rounds, practically led the highest try scorers ladder on 2 games! (wanna check the stats on that adjude cos i'm probably way off with my Sea Eagles bias ?) Tough, ha ha ! you get my class clown award of the week for that one sunshine. I'll go out on a limb safe in the knowledge that my little branch of the big tree that is Manly is safe cos i know that Souths will lose this one by 18+ it will be sheer dominance of a better side beating a lesser team thats had some good games....that will stop this weekend."
Manly fan Michael of Bondi says: "The loss to the tigers on Monday was hard to take. We need to push on from here, we shouldn’t just be aiming for top 8 because the way we have been this season we really need to be top 4 to have any chance of defending our title. The team needs its big players to step up, not just Anthony Watmough as it has been in the last few weeks. The forwards need to be going through more work so we can get better field position for our kicks in general play, and keeping pressure on teams at their own end of the field. This let us down badly on Monday night. Also Jamie Lyon needs to be moved back to the centres where he more affective, and this will hopefully improve the wolfmans game aswell which seems to have gone abit downhill since origin 2."
Rabbitohs fan Craig of Little Bay says: "There comes a time every year when an up-and-coming side travels to an imposing venue to do battle with a good side striving desperately to hang on to former glories. Whichever of Tigers, Eels and Souths can make the 8 will contest the grand final with St George (unless the Saints can lose the semi, which I wouldn't put past them). After the pointless second half last week, souths are looking mathematical, but they should give manly a good stuffing in this one to maintain the interest. Looking at personnell, if Pettyborne can score, souths will win, but if Brett Stewart makes a comeback (whether from jail, injury or suspension), it'll be tough. Souths by 14, manly to join brisbane, newcastle, canterbury and st george as teams that I'm willing to death-ride. Titans, Cowboys and Panthers never had a chance anyway. Melbourne are the dark horse."
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Melbourne Storm v North Queensland Cowboys, Friday 7.35pm (EST), Olympic Park
The Adjudicator says: "News has filtered from south of the border that Billy Slater is taking a holiday in order to "freshen up" for Friday’s clash. In the Adjudicator’s book of sayings, a win is as good as a holiday. I can only assume the Storm are feeling the pinch from their last-up loss to the Dragons. They did show us they can open with 40 minutes of top footy against one of the form sides of the comp. But hang on a minute, so did the Cowboys and they managed to kick on for a win. Put them together and we should expect to see some desperate footy in the final 40, but there’s something about the home-ground advantage and Melbourne."
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Penrith v St George Illawarra, Friday 7.35pm (EST), CUA Stadium
The Adjudicator says: "I love watching Panthers fullback Jarrod Sammut duck and weave his way around the field. The little livewire definitely has a knack, but come this weekend there will be another pocket rocket with the initials JS who I love watching even more. He causes me to gasp with surprise every week and the "Soward kick step" is good enough to make the cast of So You Think You Can Dance jealous. With W. Bennett listed as the choreographer, I’m expecting more of the same Dragons dance this weekend. Penrith won’t be able to make up a 26-point margin like they did against the Warriors."
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LATEST COMMENTS FROM FANS
Panthers fan Patrick of Auckland says: "I agree with Smat "last week showed that nothing is for certain". Penrith may have Lewis back and even if Lewis isn't fit we have a very god line up, thats been very underrated this year. They have showed up every week and put in a very good effort. If we can put our wingers (Elford, Gordon) on the outside out "Dell", we will be able to score points. Jeremy Smith doesn't have much match fitness, Cooper only a little. Panther by 5."
Panthers fan Smat says: "Last week proved nothing is a certainty and the Dragons aren't invincible either. They're the benchmark of 2009, but can they keep up the intensity every single week? They've got to have an off night at some stage! The Panthers learnt a lesson in that 1st 40 against the Warriors that nobody is a pushover in the NRL, but look what they did, came back and scored 26 points in a matter of minutes! Big home crowd, 1000th game, Lewis back, Micheal Jennings....a Panthers upset is definately on the cards!"
Dragons fan Rocco of Sydney says: "Last time we played Penrith we gave them a schooling on how to play football... I think it’s time for another lesson. Dragons by 20."
Dragons fan Will Sowden of Hornsby says: "The Dragons are simply unstoppable at the moment, they have scored the second highest amount of points, conceded the least points, the have the best points difference which is over 200 and they have won their last 6 matches. I reckon they’re the only team really in consistent form at the moment. The dragons should be able to put on over 30 points on the Panthers also keeping in mind they haven’t lost a game by more than 12 points this season and they’ve only lost four games. Dragons continue their winning ways with Soward bagging more points. Dragons by 30+"
Dragons fan Jarrad from NQ says: "There is no victory sweeter than that over the Storm - a victory that will keep the Dragons flying to minor-premiers. However Mr. Adjudicator, as '99 taught me nothing is certain in life and the NRL - I can, however assure five things; Morris scores the first try, JS gets at least 3 try-assists, Sailor will be hungry to equal or better the efforts of Morris, Penrith can't manage another 26 points in a half(let alone a game of football) and finally Dragons will win convincingly by 22 and to continue on the path of retribution for '99."
Panthers fan James Hughes of Mudgee says: "I know this is a big call, but I honestly believe the mighty Black Magic can win on their 1000th game. Looking in closely with Luke Lewis a possible starter this just may lift the team enough. You may think that Panthers couldn’t beat the warriors the truth was Penrith’s head was in the next game, Michael Gordon even said so. This is an important game for Penrith and I think they will want a win not only on their 1000th game but to make the upset of the round and possibly season. Shane Elford should be able to defend the big dell, Michael Jennings is going to run rings around the dragons and Gordon is going to show Soward why he is the better goal kicker, not to mention our big Frank Puletua try scoring machine. Penrith to win in a close one by seven."
Dragons fan Paul of Glenbrook says: "I reckon Matt of Westleigh has been sampling too much of the local product if he thinks he can compare the 14th placed Warrior's mediocre defence against that of the competition frontrunners who shelved any doubts last week that they are the real deal. Sammut isn't on the same planet as Soward at the moment and Penrith are in massive danger of missing the eight. Dragons by plenty."
Dragons fan matt of Tweed Heads says: "Penrith are in the unenviable position of being the first team since early in the season to face an almost full strength dragons side. With Jeremy Smith and Matty Cooper back and only Mickey Paea and Jason Nightingale missing, it will be a painful night for the Panthers (and their fans) - Dragons by 20."
Panthers fan Matt of Westleigh says: "Penrith scored 26 points in 25 minutes against the Warriors last week – Look out Dragons! There is only room for one small prince in NSW - and that man is Jarrad Sammut – Not Soward. With Lewis back this week the boys will be fired up, and Sammut and Co. will make Soward wanting a stiff drink from Panthers over the road. Jennings looks more dangerous each week and he will get the best of the old-man combination of Cooper and Dell out wide. The young Panthers to shock the Drag-queens by 8 and finally get some respect from the media!"
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Bulldogs v Canberra, Saturday 7.30pm (EST), ANZ Stadium
The Adjudicator says: "You know what they say about men with big hands…they have good ball skills. This is all I’ve been hearing since Bryson Goodwin scored that freakish try against Souths. The big hands will again be out against Canberra, and he will be grasping a celebratory drink by the time the 80 minutes is up. The Raiders, however, did manage to find out where that Terry bloke went last week after he churned out his best game of the season. Even if he does arrive at ANZ on Saturday, I've already sent a plaque to the green folk to commemorate last week’s win as their 2009 highlight."
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LATEST COMMENTS FROM FANS
Bulldogs fan Ian says: "Well the planned terrorist attack on Holdsworth was thwarted by raids in Melbourne so he has been named on an extended bench in case Stagg is still groggy. If he plays Dogs will be restricted to a 14 point win. If he doesn't it will be Dogs by 24. That shows the great influence he has on the fortunes of the Bulldogs!"
Raiders fan Tim of Penrith says: "Judy, oh Judy, I was actually going to tell you the Raiders would win by 50+ last week even though I say that to my mates every week. The Pups are on the outer, and the Raiders are going to end their season the same way they did last year now they've found their attack. If McCrone teams up well with the "Campese Factor" again the doggies will go back to their kennels with their tails between their legs just like last year! Raiders by 16."
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Warriors v Gold Coast Titans, Sunday 12pm (EST), Mt Smart Stadium
The Adjudicator says: "That Warriors mob just love to pull out a top game every now and then, just to keep us on their toes. But even the Warriors themselves were shocked with how well they were going last week and almost managed finish within our expectations. I’ve had a look at their past matches and noticed the Titans are making only their second trip across the ditch. I hope they learnt their lesson that time, as it’s never beautiful one day and perfect the next in Auckland. If it wasn't for the last-up loss to the Cowboys, I'd expect the Titans to rock up with an air of complacency about them. Instead, they’ll be looking to make amends."
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Warriors fan George of Auckland says: "The Warriors have given us something to cheer about this week, however, us Warriors fans are absolutely puzzled and outraged by "Clueless Cleary's" selections. Ian Henderson, one of our best in the last couple of weeks, is dropped for Lewis Brown, our best backrower, who has never played hooker in first-grade. All of the 42 fans at Mt Smart will be absolutely stunned if the Warriors pull off a miracle: the chance of us winning is about the same of Greg Inglis playing for the Kiwis. Titans to send the team back to the NSW Cup by 50+.
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Sydney Roosters v Wests Tigers, Sunday 2pm (EST), Sydney Football Stadium
The Adjudicator says: "I'm suffering from a case of deja vu that involves the Tigers, and I’m not sure whether it is actually the year 2005. I’m riding on the wave of their late-season resurgence and will be surfing my boogie board from my annual trip to Surfers Paradise with Mrs Adjudicator right into the SFS this weekend. Last week, I was surprised to see Brian Smith already in the Roosters coaching box, but by the time the full-time siren sounded it all made sense: how else could have they notched up a win over the Knights? The Tigers are on a roll and who am I to try to stop them?"
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LATEST COMMENTS FROM FANS
Roosters fan Josh of Sydney says: "If the Roosters can play like they did last week against the Knights there will be no stopping the Chooks from another big upset. The Tigers were horrible on Monday in the last 10 minutes, and with Minichello back we should win this. If the Roosters play like last week then Roosters by 12."
Tigers fan Mark of Wellington, NZ says: "Yep...Tigers are on a roll but the Tigers in recent times have fallen in these sorts of matches they are expected to win. I’m actually more nervous about this game than the one against the Silvertails last week. Roosters are finding some late form and shouldn’t be under estimated. They are not only playing to avoid the spoon but playing for first grade spots (and contracts) for when Smith arrives to Bondi next year. As for the Tigers, they are indeed on fire. They did enough against Manly in the first half to say they can compete against the Top 4 sides...when they have the right attitude. Two weeks in a row, the Tigers have fallen off the pace in the 2nd half after seemingly thinking the game is won. If they find yet another gear against the Roosters and play close to 80 mins, they shouldn’t have any problems with this. Tigers by 16.
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Parramatta v Newcastle Knights, Sunday 3pm (EST), Parramatta Stadium
The Adjudicator says: "I spoke about a thing called 'Parramattitude' last week, now let me expand. Parramattitude=Jarryd Hayne. Not that anyone in the bunkers at Parramatta Stadium is letting on that others know about the secret. Brian Smith will surely be in on it, too, and he will be directing all of his side to focus on the one man. The trouble is 13 players are still not enough to stop Hayne. By the end of the match, the Parra boys will be standing side-by-side with the cheerleaders singing: “Hayne, Hayne, he’s our man, if he can’t do it, no one can."
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LATEST COMMENTS FROM FANS
Eels fan Gaz of Lane Cove says: "Yeah Hayne is pretty good and a match winner but you forget the other 12 players defending the line with vigour over the past couple of months. Grothe and Reddy have been exceptional and Fui just goes from strength the strength and of course what can you not say about Hindy's workload? Seems to get better with age. Yes Hayne is our go to Man but there are plenty of others out there thriving on his enthusiasm. Parra by plenty."
Eels fan Joe of Mildura says: "I've been an eels fan since i could walk, and as good as Hayne is he is just another rabbit, bout time you blokes start talking up players like hindmarsh, reddy and mortimer. Sure the focus of everyone is on Hayne after origin, but he has had some help along the way. If Fui doesnt have to many brain fades and leaves the tongan sidestep at home we'll win by 12"
Knights fan Jake of Newcastle says: "Here I am again, trying to think of some way to tell you how good the Knights are.. but I can't bring myself to lie. With Smith being spotted in Newcastle with Roosters officials and meeting our players at their homes it really makes me wonder if he will survive wednesday talks. I'm hoping we can bring Stone in early to finish out the year and hopefuly finish on a high note now that Smith has the angry mob with pitchforks chasing him out of town. With our players that are loyal I am hoping we can avoid a thrashing. Eels to win by 4 so that we don't go into a negative For and Against. Till next week Mr. Adjudicator."
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Brisbane Broncos v Cronulla, Monday 7pm (EST), Suncorp Stadium
The Adjudicator says: "Cast your minds back to the beginning of the season, and saying the Broncos would be premiership contenders was as normal as enjoying a Friday night ale watching the footy. Now it’s about as normal as taking the Mrs out for dinner during the footy season. But hang on a minute, last week The Adjudicator found the Broncos' dismal performance not worthy of his time, and he treated Mrs A to an early meal at the RSL (it’s two for one before 6.30). On the flip side, Cronulla couldn’t muster a single point with Trent Barrett out of the side, so the Broncos could get out of this alive. If this were a year ago, we’d be on for the match of the round. But it’s not."
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LATEST COMMENTS FROM FANS
Broncos Fan Bigjim of Gold Coast says: "Actually a Titan fan but have to say Broncos won’t lose this one. Michaels out of the team and pride needs to be restored. Nuff said."
Sharks fan Wobbegong of Cronulla says: "Ladies and Gents, Hold onto your seats. This is going to be a classic. I remember in past years, the Bronco & his rider used to ride around the sidelines, after Brisbane had scored. The horse has been given the week off again and was last seen on the Bris-Vegas strip, out with the boys. Despite rumours of Sam Backo coming of the bench for Brisbane. I think this game is going to come down to extra time field goals. Cronulla 1 Brisbane 0."
Broncos fan Crazy Dave of Brisbane says: "You got me Mr Adjudicator, I ain't that crazy. My friends call me that cause I’m one of the sanest people they know. On to Round 22. The Broncos will beat Cronulla and this win will be the first in a long line of wins that will see the Broncos make the finals. Note that three injured players are returning this weekend, and that a host of retired players have turned up at Red Hill to help the players and Coach Henjak get out of this slump (I wish they had turned up three weeks ago...)."
Broncos fan Brad of Brisbane says: "This is going to be the true test to see what the Bronco's can muster up...Against all adversity, BS Sydney Newspaper articles, bogus drug claims and on the back of a 0-56 drubbing by the raiders. We've got a few players back in the side this week,Michaels has been dropped to 'rediscover confidence' (how to tackle) and all of Brisbane is spitting chips. So as long as the boys stay off the stilnox and redbulls over the weekend, we should be able to gaff the sharks this Monday... and If we put in a good performance, get your money on the Broncos at 61-1 to win the final from 8th place!! Broncos by 18."
Broncos fan Rob of Rehab: "Cronulla is a small suburb on the beach that is hoping for a ‘shark attack’ to kick start their season - Chief Brodie would certainly see the irony in that. Stuart racks up 200 and Broncos rack up just enough so that I can once again go out of the house wearing maroon. Legends have spoken, Lockyer and Wallace to lead by example and Brisbane by +6.5."
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