Saints swap Pom push for Kiwi one
Broncos turn back time for defence
THE Broncos have found themselves a defensive weapon ahead of Thursday’s blockbuster clash with the Cowboys, with former player Peter Ryan helping the side find their aggression.
Coach Wayne Bennett revealed his masterstroke in the club’s defensive overhaul yesterday after Ryan made a return to Red Hill.
The former Queensland enforcer, who played for 10 seasons at Brisbane before switching to union in 2000, was seen giving advice to a number of players and ran a few drills after the club’s shocking loss to Parramatta last Thursday.
The introduction of Ryan – who was once described by Craig Bellamy as one of the most “devastating defenders to have played the game”–– is set to give Brisbane a new edge.
Forward Joe Ofahengaue, who missed the loss to the Eels because of suspension, said while he was only four years old when Ryan left the Broncos, the aggression he played with was something the Broncos needed.
“He played back in the old school days when everything was tougher and more ruthless than it is now,” Ofahengaue said. BRONCOS prop Adam Blair could be joining Ben Hunt at the Dragons next year, with St George Illawarra set to pull the plug on their bid to sign Canterbury’s England Test prop James Graham.
The Bulldogs need to offload highly-paid Graham so the NRL will register the contracts of star recruits Aaron Woods and Kieran Foran, poached from rivals for next season.
With Newcastle and the Warriors also trying to sign Broncos firebrand Blair, the Dragons don’t want to waste any more time finding out if Graham will become available.
It is understood Blair can get a four-year deal if he signs with the Warriors but only three years at either the Dragons or Knights.
There is speculation Blair’s first choice would be to remain playing NRL in Australia if he can secure the right deal.
Blair’s wife Jess is close to a couple of the partners of Dragons’ players, and that could work in their favour if the Dragons can match the Knights’ offer.
Blair has been in good form for the Broncos all season but had an off night last week against the Eels.