Highlights and low points from the NRL
Here’s a snapshot of round 20 of the NRL season
Player of the Round
Reece Walsh. Showed just how dangerous he and Brisbane can be after tearing apart Newcastle. Scored a try and set up two others as he bounced back from his State of Origin disappointment.
Quote of the Round
“It feels like three years, but it’s been 60-odd days.” — Brisbane coach Kevin Walters after his team snapped their six-game losing streak in that same game.
Talking point
Should State of Origin bans carry over to club football? Both South Sydney and Manly were fuming that they lost Cameron Murray and Haumole Olakau’atu respectively following the Suncorp Stadium brawl. But the NRL are adamant their current approach is the right one.
Magic moment
Nathan Cleary’s golden-point field goal against the Dolphins. From 42 metres out, the Penrith halfback nailed the shot in his first game back from a long hamstring layoff.
Stat that matters
Melbourne have now won six straight, keeping their fourpoint advantage at the top of the table. A home final now appears inevitable, with the Storm having the chance to not leave Melbourne during the finals until the decider.
Casualty ward
Warriors — Taine Tuaupiki (concussion), Adam Pompey (knee); Storm — Grant Anderson (knee); Broncos — Brendan Piakura (groin); Rabbitohs — Richie Kennar (concussion); Sea Eagles — Lehi Hopoate (eye socket); Knights — Bradman Best (hamstring); Panthers — Paul Alamoti (arm).
Judiciary watch
Tigers — Aidan Sezer (dangerous contact); Storm — Joe Chan (dangerous contact).
Under pressure
Wests Tigers. They are now firmly on track for their third straight wooden spoon, Sezer adding to their woes.