And then there were 4 … Doggies, Storm, Broncos and Eels (in finishing order). Is this the year the 8th placed team (Eels) can make the GF and possibly win? To be honest, I don’t know; I’ve given up on my tipping ability with an absolutely woeful performance over the past few weeks (At least I can make the mistake of tipping the Dragons again).
So – to the games:
Bulldogs v Eels
Young Mortimer (dodgy blood injections and all) gets to play against the Family team in the Semi’s – how exciting (where is that eye roll smiley when you need it). Unfortunately, I feel that the experience of Kimmorley will win out and get the doggies into the big game. Players to watch: Hayne – for his strike power from anywhere on the field. He is the best player this year by a mile. Kimmorley – watch him run the show for the doggies. Idris - if not for his barnstorming runs then simply for his hair. Doggies to win but I don’t think it will be by much.
Storm v Broncos
After the Storm demolished Manly two weeks ago, they have been my pick for the Premiers. They were simply on fire and, like Manly did last year, they have peaked at the right time. The Broncos have as well and their win last week against the Titans was impressive but I still can’t see them beating them, especially without Wallace. Players to watch: Inglis, because he is simply the best centre in the game at the moment. Lockyer, because he is a big game player. He fired up last week and ran the ball a lot more – that’s when he is at his most dangerous. Hodges – the second best centre in the game at the moment. Billy Slater, try scoring machine and, like Hayne, can score form anywhere – he showed he was back near his best against Manly. Storm will win this comfortably I reckon. Probably by at least 20 – unfortunately, I think I’ll be too drunk to remember watching it because we will be celebrating our own hockey GF win tomorrow night if things go to plan.
Tip for those who are reading my tips for the first time – odds are you’ll do better (or at least equally week) if you tip the exact opposite to me.
joni - apologies for the late (post game) posting - I only just opened my emails.