Eels rout rouses lethargic Broncos
IT WAS not quite the blowout the Broncos had to have.
But Matt Gillett says last round’s thrashing from Parramatta has been a timely reality check ahead of Brisbane’s crunch NRL clash with North Queensland on Thursday night.
Wayne Bennett cracked the whip at training yesterday, calling in ex- Broncos hardman Peter Ryan to stiffen up their leaky defence in response to last round’s 52- 34 home loss to the Eels.
The former Broncos and Brumbies defensive guru took over Monday’s brutal session after Brisbane conceded 50 points at Suncorp Stadium for only the second time in their history.
But a much more damning stat was no doubt motivating Bennett yesterday – no team has conceded 50 points in a game and gone on to win the premiership that year.
Backrower Gillett said the result embarrassed Brisbane but believed lessons learned from the rout, and Ryan, would ensure it did not happen again.
“I am not sure if it was the blowout we had to have but it was a good reality check for us before the finals,” he said.
“If you are a bit weak in your preparation that is what can happen to you.
“I am glad it has happened now. We just have to move forward.”
Gillett hoped Ryan’s visit had added some starch to the Broncos’ defence ahead of their crucial showdown in Townsville on Thursday night.
Brisbane hope to seal a top- four finish and home final with a win while the Cowboys are desperate for a victory to keep their finals hopes flickering.