Waratahs vs Reds over 40.5 points

An attacking explosion could well be on the cards for this week when Israel Folau and the Waratahs taking on Quade Cooper and the Reds.

Each side got their campaign off in entertaining fashion last week. The Waratahs beat up on the hapless Force running in 6 tries including 3 to their superstar fullback. The Reds meanwhile, up against much tougher competition in the form of the Brumbies, ran in 3 tries to 1 despite being on the short end when it came to territory (37%) and possession (42%) with Cooper pulling the strings.

But these two sides weren’t without their faults, as is to be expected at this early stage of proceedings. The Waratahs still gave up 21 points, including 2 tries, to a Force team that isn’t exactly renowned for their attacking flare and discipline proved to be a big issue with 15 penalties and a yellow card, the Reds will be far more inclined to punish the Waratahs for their indiscretions. The Reds meanwhile were far from the teacher’s pet themselves giving away 14 penalties and a yellow card of their own. There is plenty of points from genuine attacking Rugby in both sides, but the points are even more likely to flow if they carry on with similar antics this week.

Both teams were solid when it came to the set piece and the breakdown for such an early outing, which is what both of these backlines will desire to provide a strong platform to launch from. The Reds showed plenty of steel metal in defence against a Brumbies side that has a lot to offer on attack also, but the Waratahs, already all guns blazing, will find a way to put at least a couple on the board. Battles between these teams have at times been staunch defensive showdowns, such as their last encounter a 14-12 Reds win in Sydney, but this week I expect the points to fly. Both sides loaded with attacking weapons and each likely to commit a few indiscretions should see this one eclipse the current offered total of 40.5 points.

Super Rugby Week 3 Betting preview

Blues v Crusaders (Crusaders –5 - $1.91 Bet365)

The history books show a Crusaders loss but the result was far from an accurate representation of the match with a 78th minute intercept try forging a flattering 8 point Chiefs win. The Crusaders  dominated possession, territory, the breakdown, set piece, but the one stat they came up short was a dreadful 1 from 8 penalties made, 21 points gone begging for the Crusaders. A Benji Marshall lead second half resurgence from the Blues wasn’t enough to overcome a 24-0 halftime deficit. Rookie Simon Hickey enters the mix at number 10 and it will be a big ask to have him guide this Blues team against a Crusaders outfit that brings back 2013 International Player of the Year Kieran Read. 

Rebels v Cheetahs (Cheetahs -1.5 - $1.91 sportingbet.com.au)

The Rebels are the lone team without a game this year, but have lost plenty of talented players from a team that struggled last year. Those players weren’t without their issues, so this ultimately may prove beneficial for a Rebels side in search of their first playoff appearance, but all signs indicate that their pursuit won’t end this season. The Cheetahs responded to their surprising week one loss with a strong win over the Bulls thanks to young fly-half Johan Goosen who is quickly re-establishing his presence after an injury riddled 2013. Despite being in Melbourne, this line seems very generous, the Cheetahs have the tools to be a playoff team, and they should be much too classy for the Rebels regardless of where they play.

Stormers v Hurricanes (Hurricanes +6.5 - $1.90 sportsbet.com.au)

Both of these teams started their campaigns in ordinary fashion, the Stormers losing by 24 to the Lions, and the Hurricanes going down by 18 to the Sharks. The Stormers who had plenty of ball and territory were unable to convert this into points, managing just one try and one penalty from two attempts. The Hurricanes were outclassed in every facet against a powerful and relentless Sharks side that provided very little opportunity for the Hurricanes to compete. The Stormers should be very strong in Cape Town, but will afford the Hurricanes much more opportunity to compete than the Sharks did. The Hurricanes have some special backs who can get across the line and keep things close unless the Stormers elevate their attack.

Chiefs v Highlanders (Chiefs -7.5 - $1.87 ladbrokes.com.au)

The Highlanders came out firing against the Blues, surging to a 24-0 en route to victory, while the Chiefs escaped with a far less convincing 8 point win. The Chiefs struggled mightily with possession and territory, but they did muster some courageous defensive stands late in the match where it looked like the Crusaders were finally going to take the game away from them. That defence will likely prove a much more formidable foe than a Blues side that rolled over for the Highlanders so meekly to begin their clash. The Highlanders won’t have their raucous local crowd to stir them on, but the Chiefs will no doubt have been given plenty of areas to improve on for their first outing in front of the Hamilton faithful this year. 

Waratahs v Reds (Waratahs -5.5 - $1.88 ladbrokes.com.au)

The stars of the Australian conference after round one, the Reds delivered an impressive upset against the Brumbies while the Waratahs stomped on the Force as many expected. The Reds attack showed glimpses of their prowess, but the Waratahs backline quickly showed that they have plenty of firepower as well. There are two main factors in supporting the Waratahs here, the clash taking place in Sydney, and Israel Folau. The former League superstar got his campaign underway in electric form crossing over for three tries, he’s a legitimate threat to break play open every time he touches the ball either making a break for himself, or his strong offloading creating openings for others. Folau powers continue to grow and he’s going to continue to be a handful for even the best opponents.

Force v Brumbies (Brumbies -6.5 - $1.91 Centrebet)

The Force put in a typical gritty performance, but simply could not match the talent of the Waratahs with Folau leading an overwhelming attacking charge. They were solid at the set piece and the breakdown and put in plenty of effort, but did not have the skill to compete. Heading to Perth will provide a boost, but similar problems are on the horizon this week when the Wallaby laden Brumbies stroll into town. The Brumbies made just 82% of their tackles against a Reds side that exposed some holes in the Brumbies defence, but the Force lack the attacking weapons that the Reds have to follow suit. Plenty is expected of the Brumbies this year, and with the Reds and Waratahs making promising starts, the Brumbies will need to bounce back against one of the perceived easy beats of the Australian conference.

Bulls v Lions (Lions +6.5 - $1.90 sportsbet.com) 

The early surprise package of the year, predicted cellar dwellers the Lions backed up their first week upset of the Cheetahs by dishing out a 24 point thumping of the firm favourite Stormers thanks to 29 points from the boot of Marnitz Boshoff. The Lions were outdone when it came to territory and possession, but strong defence restricted the Stormers to just one try and Boshoff did the rest. The Bulls slumped to their second defeat in as many contests in a hard fought contest with the Cheetahs, but another wonder boot in the form of Johan Goosen outshone his Bulls counterpart to secure a 6 point victory. Heading to Loftus will be an immense task for the Lions, but the boot of Boshoff should be able to keep them close.

World Club Challenge Tip

Finally the World Club Challenge comes to Australia, and the hosting Roosters look set to make things very difficult for the Wigan Warriors.

With an extended season that included a run to the finals, along with World Cup appearances for several players, many of the Roosters stars have seen little action in the preseason build up, so the Chooks may come in a little underdone. However, they are armed with all but two of the players that took the field for their championship victory, so familiarity will be far from a problem for this side who put on one of the best defensive seasons in history as well as scoring 52 points more than any other side in 2013.

Wigan are coming to terms with the departure of megastar Sam Tomkins who has taken his talents to Auckland, attempting to fill his shoes is former NRL star Matt Bowen who has quickly fallen out of favour with fans after  Wigan got their season underway in poor form going down 24-8 to Huddersfield. A warm up match against a very understrength New Zealand Warriors side proved little challenge for the tourists, but the defending NRL champions are another beast entirely.

Much will depend on the mind-set of the Warriors. Having started so poorly and then traveling halfway around the world, do they feel they can compete with the NRL’s best in Australia? Do they believe in themselves with Tomkins gone? The task of playing this Roosters outfit in Sydney is daunting for any side.

The bookies are giving Wigan little respect here with a line of 16.5 for the Chooks first hit out of the year and while they are capable of covering that, it’s a little too big for me to want to take on for the first game of the year. Instead the appeal lies with the point total. The English sides love the physical, straight forward approach, and the Roosters have shown that for all their attacking exploits, they’re very fond of a good physical arm wrestle themselves. With little footy under their belts on the year, I’m expecting the Chooks to try to take the ascendency up front here and grind out a tough defensive win in a low scoring game coming in under the 44.5 total.

Super Rugby Week 2 tips

Crusaders vs Chiefs,

Chiefs +4

An early season All Black trial with the back to back defending champions travelling to Christchurch taking on the most successful side in Super Rugby history. Both forward packs are littered with All Blacks, but the Chiefs should have the superiority in the front row and in the critical 10 jumper with All Black Aaron Cruden going up against young Tyler Bleyendaal. Both backlines have plenty of firepower, and the Chiefs welcome All Black great Mils Muliaina. These heavyweights will go blow for blow, it’s always difficult to travel to Christchurch but for the first hit out of the season the Chiefs should be up for it.

Bulls Cheetahs

Cheetahs +1

Both teams are licking their wounds after week one, the Cheetahs upset by the lowly Lions, the Bulls thumped by the Sharks. The Cheetahs have the benefit of a second home game and will be eager to show their fans that last years’ playoff appearance was not a fluke. The books have this one as a toss up, and as someone who is a big believer in the Cheetahs and Johan Goosen, I’ll back them to overcome the first round hiccup and get things back on track this week.

Highlanders vs Blues

Blues -1

The Blues have All Blacks Tony Woodcock, Keven Mealamu , and Ma’a Nonu on the shelf, but should still prove too classy for a lacklustre Highlanders side. The Highlanders have lost a multitude of players and done little to replace them, they remain a two man army of Ben Smith and Aaron Smith. The Blues possess some of the best young jewels in New Zealand Rugby with Charles Piutau, Steven Luatua and Francis Saili, while also welcoming back the brutalising Jerome Kaino. Despite the trip down south, the Blues should be too talented for this Highlanders side.

Brumbies Reds

Reds+4.5

On the other side of the ditch, two powers of Australian Rugby collide when the Reds head to Canberra. Reds coach Richard Graham is looking to revive a struggling, one dimensional Reds gameplan from 2013 into the beautiful attacking spectacle they were in their 2011 championship season. The enigmatic pairing of Quade Cooper and Will Genia began to rediscover themselves as the 2013 international season went on and seem poised to stamp their authority once again. A Wallaby studded Brumbies side will be no pushover, especially at home, but I’m backing the Reds to have enough flare to keep this relatively tight.

Sharks Hurricanes

Sharks -12.5

The Jake White era got underway in fine fashion for the Sharks with Pat Lambie leading them to a convincing 15 point victory. It’s never easy for teams to travel to South Africa, and while it is easier to do so at the start of the year when the players are fresh, a first up game in the republic against a side who has already had one hit out this year is far from ideal. Infamous for their unpredictability, the Hurricanes are always capable of pulling an upset with an assortment of world class exciting backs. The Sharks possess one of the most punishing forward packs in Super Rugby who should give the Sharks the ascendency, being at home and having a game under their belt will go a long way.

Lions vs Stormers

Stormers -9.0

A swift reality check is gusting into Johannesburg as the Stormers take on the Lions. A last minute drop goal resulted in a shock victory in the Lions Super Rugby return which will have been a huge boost of confidence, but captain Jean de Villiers will no doubt be determined to ensure his side avoids similar embarrassment. It’s going to take more than one last gasp effort to jump on the Lions bandwagon, and I expect things to return to normal this week with a superior Stormers side taking care of business.

Waratahs vs Force

Waratahs -12.0

With the return of Kurtley Beale and introduction of Nick Phipps bolstering a side already lead by superstar Israel Folau, the Waratahs backline is one of the most talented in the competition, if the pieces can fit together. The Force will put up an admirable fight, but they don’t have the forwards to combat the Waratahs, and they certainly don’t have the backs capable of participating in a shootout with them either. The combination of Folau and Beale could turn this very ugly very quickly.

The good oil for the Auckland Nines

 The NRL Nines is shaping up to be a fantastic spectacle and whether you'll be attending or spending the weekend on the couch with your chip and dip, the game is always that extra bit exciting when you've got some money on the line. Here's a couple of tips that I see as really good value for the sensible minded punter, as well as some high risk, high reward options for those looking to make a real splash this weekend.

Green Group Winner – Broncos $2.00 @ Centrebet

The Green group, featuring the Broncos, Eels, Roosters and Bulldogs looks to be a one horse race, but the Broncos are still being offered at good value. The Bulldogs and the Roosters are clearly not taking the competition very seriously with numerous big names missing from their 9s sides, Des Hasler hasn’t even made the trip to Auckland. The Eels were set to unleash new recruit Will Hopoate, but now he’s out with a groin injury and superstar Jarryd Hayne is nowhere to be seen. The Eels have most of their other players on board, but without Hopoate and Hayne that isn’t really saying much. It’s all hands on deck for the Broncos however, with representative players like Thaiday, Parker, Glenn and Hoffman all named, along with 2012 Dally M Player of the year Ben Barba.

Red Group – Panthers $1.95 @ Centrebet

The Red group, featuring the Panthers, Dragons, Rabbitohs and Storm is another pool with a couple of heavyweights who have opted to keep their big names at home with the likes of Cameron Smith, Cooper Cronk, Billy Slater, Greg Inglis, Adam Reynolds, Isaac Luke and the Burgess brothers all nowhere to be seen. The Dragons side shows their intentions to give the competition a real crack with rep stars like Josh Dugan, Josh Morris and Trent Merrin all featuring, but they’ll be hard pressed to match the wealth of quick young players the Panthers are bringing to the table with the Naiqama’s, Josh Mansour and keep an eye out for George Jennings , brother of Michael “Jetboot” Jennings and Tyrone Peachey, nephew of Cronulla great David Peachey. For all the flak he caught last year, don’t be surprised to see Jamie Soward fit in very well in this format.

Tournament Winner Group – Blue $2.35 @ Centrebet

The “pool of death” in this tournament, the Blue group, consisting of the Titans, Knights, Sharks and Tigers make up 3 of the current top 5 favourites, and even their least respected team, the Tigers, sit as the 11^th favourite with the bookies, but a real smokey for many punters.  2.35 represents great value to hitch yourself to the wagon of all four of these teams, who have all named very strong outfits and are clearly coming to play. Remembering that two teams from each pool move on to the playoff stages, you’ll be equipped with two of these heavy favourites in that next round, which should place you in very good stead indeed.

Tournament Top Try Scorer – Ben Barba $11.00 @ Centrebet

Most remember Ben Barba’s 2013 for the off-field drama, the injuries, and ultimately his departure from the Bulldogs. What many forget was the beautiful display Barba put on to start the year, scoring three tries in the NRL All Star game, smiling all the way. Barba is a true showman who has shown numerous times his ability to elevate his game for the big occasions and the 9s festival should be just the ticket for the man known as the X-Factor to put on an incredible show. At his best, he’s impossible to wrap up for 13 man defences, so if he’s on his game, 9 defenders don’t have a chance. The Broncos will likely have few problems escaping the pool stages, ensuring you get the opportunity for tries further into the tournament also.

Tournament Winner – Titans $8.00 @ Centrebet

I’m very high on the Titans for this upcoming NRL season, and I’m even higher on them in this form of the game. In David Mead and Kevin Gordon, the Titans have possibly the fastest pair of players in the NRL, and players like Brad Tighe and Will Zillman are no slouches either. Big Dave Taylor often takes three blokes to bring down on his own and has the skill of a five-eighth, he’s going to be an incredible handful for a team of 9 to contain and Greg Bird is one of the most dynamic forwards on the scene who can fill any role. Albert Kelly showed to the world in 2013 that he’s put his past issues behind him and is ready to capitalise on his incredible skill set, and those skills along with his great pace should transfer to the 9s perfectly. Speed is going to count for a lot in this tournament and the Titans have it in spades, along with great forwards who should be able to acclimatise well to the 9s environment, and a half capable of completely dominating the tournament, the Titans on paper really have it all.

2014 Super Rugby preview

Chiefs

2013 finish –  1^st

Predicted 2014 finish – 1^st

Despite winning the title the last two years, the best is likely still to come from this Chiefs team. Their young core of Aaron Cruden, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Sam Cane , Ben Afeaki, Ben Tamifuna figure to be integral parts of the All Blacks for a long time to come. They have lost some talented, experienced names in players like Richard Kahui,Lelia  Masaga, Craig Clarke, but have recruited very well to address these departures, bringing in players like Tom Marshall, Robbie Fruean, Jamie Mackintosh along with former All Black Mils Muliana.

Reds

2013 finish – 5^th

Predicted 2014 finish – 2^nd

After the combination of Quade Cooper and Will Genia rediscovered their magic throughout the Wallabies 2013 campaign, I’m high on the Reds returning to the level of play that saw them capture their first Super Rugby title in 2011. That year, Cooper and Genia unleashed a beautiful display of attacking Rugby that the rest of the competition could not compete with.  The Reds say goodbye to Digby Ioane, but welcome Lachlan Turner from the Waratahs as a replacement.

Bulls

2013 finish – 2^nd

Predicated 2014 finish -3^rd

The Bulls have had a lot of player turnover for this year, but welcome back one of the all-time greats of world Rugby in Victor Matfield. Matfield personified the tough, brutal game the South Africans like to play and despite being 36 I have no doubt that Matfield will make a huge impact especially at the lineout. Fortress Loftus remains one of the toughest places for an opposing team to play in world Rugby.

Brumbies

2013 finish – 3^rd

Predicted 2014 finish – 4^th

The Brumbies lose Wallaby great George Smith, but should see the return of possibly the worlds best number 7 David Pocock after a knee reconstruction in 2013. Jake White has returned to South Africa, replaced by another great Wallaby, and Brumbies great Stephen Larkham. Several young Brumbies elevated their games in 2013 resulting in Wallabies selection for the likes of Nic White, Matt Toomua, Christian Lealiifano, Jesse Mogg. Expect this group to once again strive to monopolize the Wallabies jerseys.

Cheetahs

2013 finish – 6^th

Predicted 2014 finish -  5^th

2013 marked the first time the Cheetahs ever made the playoffs in Super Rugby competition, achieving this without mercurial young fly-half Johan Goosen. 21 year old Goosen, who has already made his Springboks debut back in 2012, showed many flashes of being one of the next great stars in world Rugby, but had his 2013 decimated by a knee injury. If Goosen can rediscover his pre-injury form, he should have no trouble leading the Cheetahs to another playoff appearance, along with winning back his Springbok jersey.

Crusaders

2013 finish – 4^th

Predicated 2014 finish – 6^th

The greatest franchise in the history of Super Rugby once again figures to be amongst the best teams once we hit the business end of the season. The Chiefs may have eclipsed them as the current New Zealand powerhouse, but make no mistake this team is still full of All Blacks all over the field. Their forward pack would stand up to any international side, and despite the losses of Robbie Fruean and Tom Marshall, their backline still packs plenty of punch. Former All Black Colin Slade joins the team to help with their depth at fly-half and the acquisition of Fijian flyer Nemani Nadolo could prove a genius stroke.

Waratahs

2013 finish -  9^th

Predicated 2014 finish – 7^th

The Waratahs are another team who have seen plenty of player turnover for this season, including key names like Berrick Barnes and Lachlan Turner but they welcome home the enigmatic former Waratah Kurtley Beale, as well as Wallaby Nick Phipps.  Israel Folau enters 2014 with a fantastic first year of Union under his belt, the scary thing with Folau is that he likely hasn’t hit the peak of his powers at only 24 years of age and having played just one season of Union, I expect the young phenom to obliterate everything in his path in 2014.

Sharks

2013 finish – 8^th

Predicted 2014 finish – 8^th

IRB Hall of Fame coach Jake White returns back to South Africa to take the reins with the Sharks. They retain the brutal pairing of Jannie du Plessis and Bismarck du Plessis, alongside Willem Alberts and “The Beast” Tendai Mtawawarira alongside exciting backs in the likes of Patrick Lambie, JP Pietersen, Odwa Ndungane.  With the monster boot of Francois Steyn the Sharks can punish infringements from areas of the park that other kickers simply can’t reach. The Sharks should once again be in the thick of things and could force their way into the playoffs again if White can work his magic.

Hurricanes

2013 finish – 11^th

Predicted 2014 finish – 9^th

Throughout their history, the Hurricanes have had some of the most lethal backlines in the competition and 2014 looks to be no different. Beauden Barrett has emerged as a real contender to Aaron Cruden as the future number 10 for the All Blacks, they’ll be boosted by what will hopefully be a full season of star wing Cory Jane on the opposite side of the destructive Julian Savea, and players like TJ Perenara and Andre Taylor are great young talents who could easily find themselves in the All Blacks mix in 2014. Keep an eye on 20 year old flanker Ardie Savea who, although he didn’t play, was taken on the 2013 All Blacks European tour, expectations are huge for this guy.

Stormers

2013 finish – 7^th

Predicted 2014 finish – 10^th

The Stormers lose former IRB player of the year and one of the great attacking players of modern times in Bryan Habana who heads to Toulon, along with talented young fly-half Elton Jantjies but may see the long awaited return of former Springbok star Schalk Burger after a gruelling two years sidelined with knee injuries and bacterial meningitis. Jean de Villiers remains one of the games elite talents and Newlands is never high on the list of grounds teams wish to visit.

Blues

2013 finish – 10^th

Predicted 2014 finish – 11^th

Whatever the results, the Blues are going to generate a lot of interest on both sides of the Tasman with the introduction of former League superstar Benji Marshall. At his peak, Marshall was one of the most entertaining and skilful players either code has ever seen, but his last year at the Tigers left a lot to be desired and Marshall’s inconsistent play even saw him dropped to the bench. The big question is whether this was an indication of the decline in Benji’s talents, or a reflection of the stress Benji was under in relation to his contract dilemmas and eventual decision to leave his beloved club. The Blues have lost talisman Rene Ranger but bring back All Blacks Tony Woodcock and Ma’a Nonu along with All Blacks World Cup hero Jerome Kaino. A backline of names like Saili, Nonu, Halai, Pitau has the potential to be the most explosive in the competition, but they need direction, can Benji be the one to provide that?

Force

2013 finish – 13^th

Predicted 2014 finish - 12^th

Since their entry to the competition in 2006, success has been hard to find for the Force and 2014 looks to be no different. A lot of player turnover will give fans some fresh faces to tune in for, but it will be a long year for stars like Nick Cummins and Ben McCalman to will this team near the playoffs. The Force had by far the most anaemic attack in Super Rugby last year scoring just a meagre 267 points, but they were a respectable defensive outfit with their 366 points allowed just 2 more than the champion Chiefs. Expect more of the same from the Force this year, a team big on heart and determination but lacking the skills to compete beyond that.

Rebels

2013 finish – 12^th

Predicted 2014 finish – 13^th

Going toe to toe to avoid with the force to avoid the wooden spoon in the Australian conference are the Rebels who have lost a lot of, at times troubled, talent in Nick Phipps, James O’Connor, Cooper Vuna and Kurtley Beale with their best new recruit being former Highlander Tamati Ellison. The 12^th place finish in 2013 represented the best year in the Rebels short history, but their attempts to assemble what looked to be quite a talent roster have not panned out. With the exodus of talent, the Rebels may save themselves a few headaches, but there’s a clear step backwards in skill also.

Highlanders

2013 finish – 14^th

Predicted 2014 finish – 14^th

A star studded list of departures from the 2013 squad show a cast of failed experiments for the Highlanders. Tony Woodcock, Andrew Hore, Ma’a Nonu some of the most experienced All Blacks in history all depart after disappointing stints, along with Colin Slade, Hosea Gear, Jamie Macktinosh, Tamati Ellison, Kade Poki, Buxton Popoali’I, on paper this was a very talented side but it was not to be.  Little was done to replace these departures, though Patrick Osborne is an exciting young talent that has slipped under many peoples radars. Aaron and Ben Smith give the Highlanders two great young All Blacks, but they won’t have nearly enough support to be competitive this year.

Lions

2013 finish – Absent

Predicted 2014 finish – 15^th

Replacing the last place Kings, the Lions return to Super Rugby but look prone to being cannibalized by the South African conference. After being loaned to the Stormers, Elton Jantjies returns to the side to provide a small glimmer of light. Jantjies, a 23 year old fly-half, has won numerous awards throughout age group representation in South Africa, with two caps for the Springboks Jantjies is thought by many to be a future international star but will really have his work cut out for him coming back from a much better equipped Stormers outfit. The South African conference is incredibly competitive and they’ll likely feast on Lion throughout the year.

Full 2014 NRL Preview

Rabbitohs

2013 finish – 2^nd

Predicted 2014 finish – 1^st

The Rabbitohs endured a successful but frustrating 2013. They finished regular season play losing to the Roosters in a game that decided the minor premiership, bounced back to beat the Storm in the first week of the finals earning a week off, then were tipped over in the preliminary finals by the Sea Eagles. On paper the Bunnies are arguably the best team in the competition. Their strength and skill in the forwards is unmatched and they have a dream spine that is bested by perhaps only the Storm. Bunnies fans haven’t enjoyed a premiership since 1971, they’ve had their team taken away, endured multiple wooden spoons, they now have a team that is built to win, it’s premiership or bust for the Bunnies in 2014.

The dream headline – Mystery fifth Burgess brother unveiled.

The nightmare headline – Greg Inglis succumbs to knee injury.

Additions – Joel Reddy, Joe Picker, Chris Grevsmuhl, Kirisome Auva’a, Lote Tuqiri.

Losses – Nathan Peats, Roy Asotasi, Matt King, Michael Crocker, Andrew Everingham, Justin Hunt, Dylan Farrell, Josh Starling, Christian Hazard, Jeff Lima, Mitchell Buckett, Tyrone Phillips, Daniel Smith, Fetuli Talanoa

Sea Eagles

2013 finish – 4^th

Predicted 2014 finish – 2^nd

Despite going down in the grand final, Manly showed an incredible amount of grit and determination throughout a gruelling 2013 finals campaign. The second best defense and fourth best attack in the NRL in 2013, the Sea Eagles have retained the majority of their core for another attempt in 2014. They’re battle hardened and know the demands what a premiership requires with many of their stars being on board during the Sea Eagles 2011 premiership success. The young halves pairing of Cherry-Evans (24) and Foran (23) are continuing to blossom into the most complete halves combination in the NRL and they’re surrounded by veteran stars all over the field.

The dream headline – Cherry-Evans form cements Queensland number 7 jersey

The nightmare headline – Cherry-Evans wants to be closer to home

Additions – Cheyse Blair, Josh Starling, Delroy Berryman, Jayden Hodges, Tyson Andrews, Dunamis Lui, Jack Littlejohn, Mark O’Dare, Manaia Rudolph.

Losses – Brent Kite, George Rose, David Gower, Joe Gaulvao, Jacob Gagan

Roosters

2013 finish – 1^st

Predicted 2014 finish – 3^rd

 The Sonny Bills enter 2014 retaining the core of their team that won the minor premiership and then the Grand Final in 2013. The best attacking and defensive team in 2013, the Roosters maintain one of the best halves pairings in the game, a young star studded backline and one of the strongest and most skilled forward packs. After a finals campaign followed up by a World Cup, they may start things a little slow, but by the end of the year they’ll be in the top at least. Prepare for the onslaught of SBW coverage before he heads back to Union.

The dream headline – Tuivasa-Sheck blossoms with move to custodian role.

The nightmare headline – Channel Nine takes you inside the head of SBW as he plays his last game at ANZ stadium, his last game at Mt Smart, his last game against the Broncos, his last game against the Tigers….

Additions – Remi Casty, Jackson Hastings, Jonathon Rueben, Sio Siua Taukeiaho, Heath L’Estrange, Curtis Naughton, Kem Seru

Losses – Josh Ailaomai, Martin Kennedy, Adam Henry, Henare Wells, Jack Bosden, John Asiata, Tinirau Arona, Michael Oldfield, Luke O’Donnell

Storm

2013 finish – 3^rd

Predicted 2014 finish – 4^th

Every year we hear about age creeping up on “the big three” and yet they continue to perform at all levels of the game. Until they show me otherwise, I’ll continue to back a team with Smith, Cronk and Slater to finish in the top four. They’ve lost a couple of key pieces, but Bellamy has shown time and time again that he can turn rocks into gold, as long as his three key pieces are on hand the Storm will be amongst the elite of the competition.  They may start a little slowly, but come the business end they’ll be right there. Ben Roberts has all the talent in the world but is incredibly frustrating to watch, if Bellamy can work his magic with him, watch out.

The dream headline – Smith signs new deal with the Storm

The nightmare headline – Smith agrees to deal with Broncos

Additions – George Rose, Travis Robinson, Cody Walker, Hymel Hunt, Felise Kaufusi, Cameron Munster, Dayne Weston, Ben Roberts, Joel Romelo

Losses – Gareth Widdop, Maurice Blair, Jason Ryles, Brett Finch, Junior Sa’u, Lagi Setu, Jurusine Auva’a, Matt McGahan

Titans

2013 finish – 9^th

Predicted 2014 finish – 5^th

The Titans missed the top eight by just 2 points, if not for a couple of key injuries things could have easily turned out differently. The Titans put together a new halves combination in 2013 that very swiftly became one of the better pairings in the NRL. Sezer and Kelly, each just 22 years of age, bring the full compliment. Sezer provides the structure, precision kicking to navigate a team around the park, Kelly provides a game-breaking spark that few in the NRL possess. They have some of the fastest backs in the competition in Mead and Gordon and are led by three of the premier Origin forwards of recent times in Bird, Myles and Harrison and while they’ve lost the enigmatic Jamal Idris, Maurice Blair could serve them very well.  The Titans are my surprise package for 2014.

The dream headline – Sezer and Kelly cement themselves amongst the NRLs best

The nightmare headline – Cartwright shown the door

Additions – Maurice Blair, Kalifa Faifai Loa, Siuatonga Likiliki, Paul Carter ,Christian Hazard, Bad Tigher

Losses – Luke O’Dwyer, Hymel Hunt, Marmin Barba, Jordan Rankin, Mark O’Dare, Matthew Russell, Jamal Idris

Warriors

2013 finish – 11^th

Predicted 2014 finish – 6^th

We’re all familiar with the typical clichés when it comes to the Warriors consistency and 2013 only reinforced them. While their 11^th place finish is somewhat deceptive, they were actually only 2 points away from tying for the 8^th spot however they were handed multiple big floggings during the year and let several games get away from them that they should have wrapped up. They lose one of their linchpins in Elijah Taylor, but bring to the NRL perhaps the biggest UK superstar in fullback Sam Tomkins. If Tomkins can come anywhere close to replicating his performances in the Super League, he’ll be amongst the elite of the competition. If Shaun Johnson can deliver consistently each week, he could get them to the top 8 on his own, Chad Townsend could be the ideal foil for him.

The dream headline – Tomkins lives up to the hype

The nightmare headline – Ben Matulino wants out

Additions – Sam Tomkins, Jayson Bukuya, Chad Townsend

Losses – Elijah Taylor, Steve Rapira, Russell Packer, Todd Lowrie, Sio Siua Taukeiaho, Pita Godinet

Cowboys

2013 finish – 8^th

Predicted 2014 finish -7^th

The Cowboys have lost three big names for 2014, fortunately none of those are Thurston and they have some great young kids on board. Club legend Matt Bowen departs leaving some giant boots to fill for new recruit Lachlan Coote, but Coote has some talent of his own and should raise a few eyebrows. Kyle Feldt came into top grade with a lot of hype and he delivered on it big time. Once again they bring arguably the best prop combinations in the competition to the table with Kangaroos Scott and Tamou while Tariq Sims and Jason Taumalolo are big, brutal young players who continue to evolve. After the way the Cowboys have been eliminated from the playoffs in the last two seasons, Thurston and the Cowboys are going to have a huge point to prove.

The dream headline – JT and the Cowboys spoil dream Sydney final

The nightmare headline – JT fined after conspiracy theories run wild

Additions – Lachlan Coote, Cameron King, Hezron Murgha, John Asiata

Losses  - Matt Bowen, Dallas Johnson, Ashley Graham, Jayden Hodges, Felise Kaufusi, Chris Grevsmuhl, Kalifa Faifai Loa, Clint Greenshields, Scott Moore, Wayne Ulugia

Bulldogs

2013 finish – 6^th

Predicted 2014 finish –8^th  

After the Ben Barba show that was a 2012 grand final run, the Bulldogs crashed back to reality in 2013. Off court issues saw Barba out of the team to begin the season while James Graham served a 10 week suspension. Injuries plagued many of their stars throughout the year, including Barba once he finally returned. When healthy, the Bulldogs have one of the most damaging forward pack in the NRL, and a savvy leader in the halves in Josh Reynolds who knows how to lift his team when needed, but they need to find a solution at fullback, and the likes of Morris, Inu and Lafai are going to need to be a consistent threat if they are going to put points on the board.

The dream headline – Hasler brings the T-Rex back from extinction

The nightmare headline – Fullback carousel yields poor results

Additions – Reni Maitua, Chase Stanley, Pat O’Hanlon, Kayne Brennan, Damien Cook, Tyrone Phillips,

Losses – Ben Barba, Dene Halatau, Steve Turner, Martin Taupau, Danny Galea, Kris Keating, Paul Carter, Leilani Latu, Jack Littlejohn, Joel Romelo

Panthers

2013 finish – 10^th

Predicted 2014 finish – 9^th

The Panthers are generating a lot of buzz for this year after they made some great strides in 2013 and some great recruits for 2014. After things looked bleak with superstars like Jennings and Lewis out of the squad, Gus Gould and co have done an excellent job of putting together a strong looking squad in a hurry. What prevents me from getting fully on board with the Panthers like so many are doing is the issue of the halves. Isaac John remains from last year while Luke Walsh departs, meanwhile they bring in Soward and Wallace. John is a young player with a lot of talent who is still finding his feet in first grade, Soward ended up in England last year and Wallace arrives from a team who are struggling in the halves themselves.  

The dream headline – Idris storms back into NSW side

The nightmare headline - Soward on the fast track to Super League.

Additions – Peter Wallace, Jamie Soward, Elijah Taylor, Brent Kite, Kevin Naiqama, Tyrone Peachey, Shaun Spence, Will Smith, Leilani Latu, Wellington Albert, Jamal Idris

Losses- Lachlan Coote, Luke Walsh, Mose Masoe, Clint Newton, Danny Galea, Travis Robinson, Blake Austin, Cameron Ciraldo, Toby Evans, Mosese Pangai, Dayne Weston, Kyle O’Donnell, Brad Tighe

Knights

2013 finish – 7^th

Predicted 2014 finish – 10^th  

The Knights made an interesting run to end the year and finished the season with one of the better defences in the competition. But an already old team grows another year older. The inspiration of Buderus is gone, speedster Kevin Naiqama is gone and while they age the Knights have done little to improve their side in terms of recruitment. They’ve already had a troubled start to the year with one of the few signings they did make Russell Packer now in jail and veteran Willie Mason being done for drunk driving. The Knights still have a lot of great players and a very underrated backline, but they only scraped into the playoffs last year and while I don’t see them making progress I do see other teams making the leap.

The dream headline – Kurt Gidley makes it through the year injury free.

The nightmare headline – Bennett to return to Broncos.

Additions – Clint Newton, Michael Dobson

Losses – Danny Buderus, Neville Costigan, Kevin Naiqama, Peter Mata’utia, Siuatonga Likiliki, Will Smith.

Tigers

2013 finish – 15^th

Predicted 2014 finish – 11^th

The end of the Benji era and the beginning of the age of Brooks should be an exciting time for Tigers fans. As one of the games most entertaining players leaves, a young man heralded as the next Andrew Johns steps into the frame. If Brooks lives up to the hype, and his single NRL effort so far gave every indication that he would, then he could lead a very quick resurgence for the Tigers. The Tigers struggled mightily in 2013, but their place on the ladder does not tell the whole story with the team facing an unreal injury toll that few teams if any would be able to overcome. When healthy, this team has some serious young talent, a backline full of young stars like Koroibete, Simona and Nofoaluma has the potential to be as deadly as any in the competition. If the Tigers can stay on the park, I expect them to make a lot of noise this year and be really fun to watch.

The dream headline – Brooks quick to justify Joey comparisons

The nightmare headline – Robbie Farah done for the year

Additions – Pat Richards, Dene Halatau, Cory Paterson, Martin Taupau, Blake Austin, Keith Lulia, Yileen Gordon.

Losses – Benji Marshall, Blake Ayshford, Lote Tuqiri, Joel Reddy, Eddy Pettybourne, Matt Groat, Jacob Miller, Brenden Santi, Shaun Spence, Mosese Pangai, Manaia Rudolph

Sharks

2013 finish – 5^th

Predicted 2014 finish – 12^th

The Sharks went through the 2013 with a massive cloud over their heads, the ASADA scandal a constant looming threat to derail their season. That threat remains and already the Sharks 2014 campaign has suffered multiple interruptions. The Sharks have made some useful acquisitions, but also seen some valued contributors leaving the Shire. They continue to have an amazing forward pack with the likes of Gallen, Fifita and Lewis and one of the games best halves in Todd Carney, but another year of controversy may prove too exhausting for this unit to handle with some of their better depth players no longer around to pick up the slack when stars go down or leave for Origin.

The dream headline – Investigation into the Sharks comes to an end

The nightmare headline – Gallen becomes ASADAs biggest scalp

Additions – Blake Ayshford, Matt Prior, Eric Grothe Jr, Daniel Holdsworth, Jacob Gagan, Tinirau Arona.

Losses – Jayson Bukuya, Jon Green, Tyrone Peachey, Ben Ross, Mark Taufua, Chad Townsend, Stewart Mills, Ben Pomeroy.

Broncos

2013 finish – 12^th

Predicted 2014 finish – 13th

2013 saw the Broncos finish with their lowest ever placing on the ladder finishing 12^th and missing the playoffs for just the second time. The Broncos have now gone 7 seasons without a premiership, the longest drought in club history. Mustering only 434 points last year, good for 12^th in the NRL, the Broncos will hope that star recruit Ben Barba’s days with the “Epic Bender Crew” are behind him and he can find the magic that made him a Dally M winner in 2012. The halves remain a huge question mark that will play a vital part in the Broncos chances in 2014.

The dream headline – Magic man Ben Barba is smiling once more.

The nightmare headline – Broncos attempt to lure back retired Prince.

Additions – Ben Barba, Martin Kennedy, Todd Lowrie, Daniel Divot, Stewart Mills, Marmin Barba, Jon Green

Losses – Scott Prince,  Peter Wallace, Corey Norman, Luke Capewell, Lama Tasi, Delroy Berryman, Kurt Baptiste, Scott Anderson, Dunamis Lui, Claeb Timu, Nick Slyney

Dragons

2013 finish – 14^th

Predicted 2014 finish – 14^th

A real changing of the guard for the Dragons with many long serving members retiring or venturing elsewhere, the Dragons have made some acquisitions as they begin their first full season of the Josh Dugan era. The Dragons will need to improve drastically on their anaemic attack that put up just 379 points on the year, an average of 15 points per game, only the Eels achieved less. If Gareth Widdop can show he is more than just a product of Bellamy and the Storm, it will go a long way towards helping the Dragons be competitive but it’s going to take a while for the Dragons to rekindle some combinations that can put points on the board.

The dream headline – Widdop stands tall out of Melbourne shadow.

The nightmare headline – Dugan and Ferguson start roofing company.

Additions – Gareth Widdop, Sam Williams, Joel Thompson, Mike Cooper, Dylan Farrell, Josh Ailaomai, Matt Groat, Peter Mata’utia, Michael Witt, Willie Mataka.

Losses – Michael Weyman, Matt Cooper, Nathan Fien, Chase Satnley, Cameron King, Matt Prior, Kayne Brennan, Jackson Hasitngs, Daniel Vidot, Damien Cook, Evander Cummins.

Eels

2013 finish – 16^th

Predicted 2014 finish – 15^th

The Eels have acquired some interesting recruits for 2013 and finally welcome young potential superstar Will Hopoate to the fold, but from a team that had only 5 wins last year big improvements are going to take a while. Hopoate left the NRL as a young Origin player taking the competition by storm, how long will it take him to reacclimatise after 2 years out of the game? Nathan Peats looked great at the Rabbitohs playing behind Issac Luke as part of a giant Bunnies outfit, how will he fair as a possible go to man at hooker on a struggling team? Corey Norman has showed a lot of talent at the Broncos, but was punted out of top grade last year and will be part of a big question mark in the halves. The Eels forward pack is lead well by Mannah and Moimoi but are lacking in skill, experience and depth.

The dream headline – Elder Willi Hopoate makes instant impact

The nightmare headline – Hayne seeks release on compassionate grounds

Additions – Will Hopoate, Lee Mossop, Nathan Peats, Corey Norman,  Justin Hunt, David Gower, Brenden Santi, Toby Evans, Evander Cummins, Liam Foran.

Losses – Reni Maitua, Chese Blair, Jake Mullaney, Pat O’Hanlon, Matt Keating, Taulima Tautai, Matt Ryan.

Raiders

2013 finish – 13^th

Predicted 2014 finish – 16^th

When the biggest news of the year is the drinking habits and release of your star fullback and sexual assault charges against your star centre, your season doesn’t usually go too swimmingly. Such was the case for the Raiders in 2013 who, once again, saw a world class talent risk throwing his career away at the club. Now the Raiders enter 2014 with their shining light of 2013 Anthony Milford getting his bags packed to head to the Broncos. The Raiders still have some strong contributors in the likes of Fensom, Papalii and Robinson, but the Raiders will be fighting an uphill battle all season long. They’ll fight hard, but the points won’t be there, instead the Raiders will need to find satisfaction in watching the progress of players like Cornish, Lee and Wighton.

The dream headline – Milford tells the Broncos to take a leap.

The nightmare headline – Shaun Fensom joins long list of drunken Raiders larrikins

Additions – Lagi Setu, Kyle O’Donnell, Kurt Baptiste

Losses – Blake Ferguson, Joel Thompson, Shaun Berrigan, Sam Williams, Joe Picker, Jonathon Reuben, Hayden Crockett, Dimitri Pelo, Michael Picker