Brisbane grind out win to keep finals hopes alive
THE Broncos have sent a strong warning to the rest of the competition after they fought their way to a 12- 10 victory over the Sharks to keep their finals hopes alive.
In yet another chapter for Brisbane’s rollercoaster ride of a season, the Broncos managed to notch up a much- needed win in the race to September, with the nailbiting showdown at Suncorp Stadium.
It was a Jordan Kahu penalty goal in the 48th minute that sealed the deal for Brisbane, who now move into sixth spot on the NRL ladder. But, in yet an- other week dominated by Wayne Bennett’s coaching future, it was their pure desperation and fight that really saw them walk away as the victors over the equally hungry Sharks.
Bennett last week refused to get too excited by Brisbane’s 50- 18 victory over Penrith. And last night it was clear why. It was a gritty showdown, certainly not always pretty and definitely not an easy victory.
Both teams let a number of opportunities go begging through ill- discipline while the defence across the park was scrappy as they tried to cover for their respective mistakes.
But despite their errors, it was the kind of close game that is expected of two top four contenders. The last 20 minutes were thrilling as both sides searched for more points. Brisbane’s struggles were highlighted just after the midway point of the second half when they were handed back- to- back sets on Cronulla’s tryline.
They fought hard but could not make the most of their momentum, with centre James Roberts knocking on when Brisbane looked ready to strike.
The Sharks endured a similar period just minutes out from fulltime.
It was a seesawing clash and it summed up what was a scrappy display from both sides, with 25 errors made across the park – 14 of which were Brisbane’s alone.