FINALS GAME BREAKERS: WE RANK THE TOP 15 TRL PLAYERS
The Chronicle ranks region’s biggest stars leading into blockbuster showdowns
WITH the Toowoomba Rugby League finals here, it’s time for the big players to stand up and be counted when it matters most.
Goondiwindi, Wattles, Valleys, Highfields and Warwick remain in the hunt for TRL Premiership glory, with only one set to stand tall.
With all the chips on the line, The Chronicle ranks from 15-1 the TRL’s gamebreakers.
For the full list of TRL superstars head to thechronicle.com.au/sport
15. NICK BAINBRIDGE (HIGHFIELDS)
We’ve seen Bainbridge play across the park during his time in the TRL, but it’s fair to say he looks right at home in the hooking role.
He has shown he is capable of standing up in the big games with an exemplary showing in the Madsen-Rasmussen Trophy final.
“Nick is an underrated player that can influence a game at crucial times,” TRL Media’s Andrew O’Brien said.
“I’d have him in my team of the year.”
14. DWAYNE DUNCAN (VALLEYS)
A strike centre that has been an elite performer for a number of years, Dwayne Duncan is key to Valleys hopes of striking it big this year.
Duncan has the size and strength to worry any opposition marker on his day.
“Dwayne has an excellent kicking game, especially his high ball,” O’Brien said.
13. MATHEW MARSHALL (WARWICK)
The experienced head that the Cowboys have needed as they’ve battled injury concerns in 2021.
Marshall has proven on numerous occasions that he can take over a game when required, and has worked well in unison with Mitch Wilson.
“An experienced, solid player that has carried the Warwick Cowboys admirably throughout the season,” O’Brien said.
12. BRENDON MCBRYDE (WATTLES)
Wattles have added a few key pieces throughout the year, and the former Broncos U20s player has been among their best.
A big body that has given the Warriors punch off the bench, McBryde is set for a huge finals campaign.
11. TRAVIS WADDELL (GOONDIWINDI)
The former NRL player has added another element to this side both on and off the field.
We’ve witnessed the class that saw him enjoy a fruitful first grade career, and with a hand injury behind him, the lock-forward is poised for a big finals campaign.
“He’s an 80-minute player with a high workrate,” O’Brien said.
“He’s arguably the coach of the year and a real leader of men.”
10. MITCH WILSON (WARWICK)
After taking a few games to find his groove, Wilson has settled right into things for the Cowboys.
The halfback has had an exemplary finish to the season over the last fortnight, showing a willingness to attack the line and ask questions of the defence.
“He came from Redcliffe and was surprised of the level of Toowoomba Rugby League,” O’Brien said.
“His game management is superb.”