The 117th NSWRL/ARL/Super League/NRL season began on the weekend in Las Vegas. Tonight, the game starts in Australia. The Penrith Panthers look to continue their dominance and make their fifth straight Grand Final, something not achieved since South Sydney in 1971 and try and win four consecutive premierships, something that has not been completed since the great St George team of the 50s/60s (or the Norths Devils in the BRL in the 60s). In this 14th season preview, all the usual features are here; in-depth gains and losses for each club as well as each club’s top 17, the premiers, wooden spooners, biggest movers and sliders, top try scorer, Dally M Medalist, State of Origin winners, one to watch and my 2024 ladder which you will find after And Another Thing. All this and more are in the latest Blog of Cheese.
Premiers: They were 13 minutes away from premiership glory before Nathan Cleary sealed the Panther’s third straight premiership. This year, the Broncos will go one better in 2024 and win their seventh premiership in 18 years.
Wooden Spooners: A merged identity will win the wooden spoon for the third consecutive year. However, unlike the last two years, it won’t be the Tigers. The Dragons will “win” the club’s first wooden spoon.
Biggest Movers: I expect Des Hasler to make an impact on the Titans and fix their second-half fadeouts. The Titans have the talent to be a top team; they just need someone to put it all together.
Biggest Sliders: The Raiders’ loss of Jack Wighton is significant. Not only is he a former Dally M Medal Winner and Clive Churchill Medal winner, but he is also one of the best in the game. Also, with the loss of Jarrod Croker, 549 games of experience are gone from the club.
Top Try Scorer: Jamayne Isaako piped Dominic Young and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak last year as the top try scorer. Eleven players scored twenty tries the previous year, with the race wide open. I will pick second-year Titan Alofiana Khan-Pereira at the top of the list.
Dally M: Warriors halfback Shaun Johnson wound back the clock in 2023 and fell just short of winning the Dally M. I expect Shaun to go one better in 2024.
State Of Origin: Despite playing game one in enemy territory, the Marrons should win their third straight series. The Blues rely on star players, and the Maroons rely on the next-man-up policy.
One to Watch: Even before Solomona Faataape joined the Wests Tigers, he would be the one to watch. Solomona is a devastating ball runner who is very hard to tackle once he gets a full head of steam.
Brisbane Broncos
Gains: Fletcher Baker (Roosters), Jaiyden Hunt (Dragons), Josiah Karapani (Rabbitohs)
Losses: Logan Bayliss-Brow (Redcliffe), Kurt Capewell (Warriors), Herbie Farnworth (Dolphins), Tom Flegler (Dolphins), Keenan Palasia (Titans)
The Broncos opened the season away to the two-time defending champion Panthers. The Broncos came away with the win, putting their hands up as potential contenders for the premiership. The Broncos would win their first five straight games before an upset loss at home to the Raiders. The Broncos would bounce back with consecutive wins before a loss at home to the Rabbitohs. The Broncos would win at Magic Round before back-to-back losses to the Panthers at home and then the Storm away from home. The club would bounce back with a three-game win streak before losing to the Titans at home. The club would then win 7 straight to push for the minor premiership before surrendering it to the Panthers and another loss at home with a second-string side to the Storm. A dominant win over the Storm in week 1 of the finals led to a week off and a home preliminary final. A convincing win over the Warriors led to the club’s first Grand Final since 2015. Just like in 2015, the club looked to be in a winning position and seemingly put the cue in the rack, only to be run down and finish as runners-up.
The Broncos lose starting players Herbie Farthworth, Kurt Capewell, and Tom Flegler, so the starting lineup may be slightly weaker. Only depth has been added to the squad. They will make the top four. Depending on how the Origin season impacts the club, they could push for the minor premiership again.
The off-field discussion will revolve around extending Reece Walsh, Selwyn Cobbo, and Kotonis Staggs, who will all be out of contract at the end of 2025.
1. Reece Walsh 2.Corey Oates 3. Kotoni Staggs 4. Selwyn Cobbo 5.Jesse Arthars 6. Ezra Mam 7. Adam Reynolds (c) 8. Corey Jensen 9. Billy Walters 10. Payne Hass 11. Jordan Piakura 12. Jordan Riki 13. Pat Carrigan, 14. Kobe Hetherington 15. Martin Taupau 16.Fletcher Baker 17. Blake Mozer
Canberra Raiders:
Gains: Simi Sasagi (Knights), Zac Hosking (Panthers), Kaeo Weekes (Sea Eagles), Morgan Smithies (Wigan)
Losses: Elijah Anderson (Redcliffe), JJ Clarkson (Wynnum-Manly), Jarrod Croker (Retired), Matt Frawley (Leeds), Josh James (Redcliffe), Andre Niko (Norths Devils), Brad Schnider (Hull K.R.) July 2023, Harley Smith-Shields (Titans), Clay Webb (Released), Jack Wighton (Rabbitohs)
The Raiders would start the season with back-to-back losses before a win over the Sharks at home. The club would again lose back-to-back games before going on a five-game winning streak. The club would then suffer a dominating loss to the Sea Eagles at home, before back-to-back wins, before a loss at home in Jarrod Croker’s 300th game. The club would bounce back with a three-game winning streak before back-to-back losses. The club would go win-loss through August before finishing with a loss to limp into 8th. The club would fight back to force Extra Time against the Knights, but it wasn’t enough in the end, and the club bowed out in week 1 of the finals.
The club would suffer a massive loss when Jack Wighton decided he needed a new challenge and left the Raiders after 12 seasons in the nation’s capital. The club would also lose skipper and 300 gamer Jarrod Croker, who decided to hang up the boots. The Raiders surprised many by signing Kaeo Weekes as the new five-eighth, given Kaeo has predominantly played fullback in the NSW Cup. The fullback battle will be interesting, with Seb Kris, Xavier Savage, and young gun Chevy Stewart all putting their hand up for the number 1 jersey. The Raiders will miss the eight.
With Elliott Whitehead and Jordan Ropana both off contract at the end of the year and Josh Papali’i having a mutual option for 2025, the Raiders could be heading for a rebuild.
Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs
Gains: Stephen Crichton (Panthers), Josh Curran (Warriors), Poasa Faamausili (Dolphins), Melino Fineanganofo (Western Clydesdales), Drew Hutchison (Roosters), Liam Knight (Rabbitohs) July 2023, Kurt Mann (Knights), Jaeman Salmon (Panthers), Toby Sexton (Titans), July 2023, Blake Taaffe (Rabbitohs), Zane Tetevano (Leeds), Connor Tracey (Sharks), Jake Turpin (Roosters), Bronson Xerri (Free Agent),
Losses: Paul Alamoti (Panthers), Jake Averillo (Dolphins), Nu Brown (Knights) July 2023, Braidon Burns (Rabbitohs), Declan Casey (Tigers), Brandon Clarke (Central Queensland) April 2023, Andrew Davey (Eels) April 2023, Raymond Faitala-Mariner (Dragons), Kyle Flanagan (Dragons), Michael Gabrael (Sharks), Zac Montgomery (Released), Jayden Okunbor (Hull F.C), Tevita Pangai Junior, Ethan Quai-Ward (Souths Logan) Luke Thompson (Wigan), Corey Waddell (Sea Eagles)
A loss to the Sea Eagles before back-to-back wins gave long-suffering Bulldogs fans hope that a new era would begin at the club. The club would then go loss-win before three straight losses started, with 50 points being put on the club. A close win over the Dragons ended the losing streak, though the club would suffer back-to-back losses before a win over the Titans, then four straight losses. The club would exact some revenge on the Rabbitohs before back-to-back losses. A late-season win over the Dolphins in Bundaberg was the club’s final win, as they finished with 4 straight losses to finish in 15th.
The club has had a massive turnover of players in the last two years as Cameron Ciraldo intends to make his mark as a head coach. Last year, I wrote the club had released 15 years since the start of 2022 when Phil Gould became General Manager; that number is now over 30. It’s hard to have an opinion of some of the contact movements of the Bulldogs. Most of the players they signed will not push for positions in the club’s starting 13 and will end up playing NSW Cup/come in due to injury/suspension. For a club that hasn’t played finals football since 2016, this is not what you want from your club.
If the club suffers a slow start to the season, expect off-field football board/leagues club board rumblings to rear their head again, with the positions of Phil Gould and Cameron Ciraldo square on the chopping block if the club has another long season and misses the finals. Another long season for the Bulldogs.
1. Steven Crichton (c) 2. Jacob Kiraz, Carr 3. Bronson Xerri 4. Connor Tacey 5. Josh Addo-Carr 6. Matt Burton 7. Toby Sexton 8. Ryan Suton 9. Reed Mahoney 10. Max King 11. Max King 12. Viliame Kikau 13. Josh Curran 14. Paoassa Faamausili 15. Liam Knight 16. Kurt Mann 17. Jaeman Salmon
Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks
Gains: Billy Burns (Dragons), Michael Gabrael (Bulldogs)
Losses: Matt Ikuvalu (Catalnas) April 2023, Wade Graham (Retired), Connor Tracey (Bulldogs), Matt Moylan (Leigh), Jensen Taumoepeau (Cowboys)
The Sharks started the season loss-win for the first five weeks before the bye seemed to re-straighten the ship as the club pulled off three straight wins. A loss to the Dolphins would end the streak before back-to-back wins were offset before back-to-back losses. The club would follow a similar path with 3 straight wins, again offset by 3 consecutive losses. The club would then go on another three-game winning streak, halted by a loss to the Knights. The club would finish the regular season with a win over the Raiders before being knocked out of the finals with a home loss to the Roosters in week 1.
The club has been quiet on the recruitment front. The club lost veterans Wade Grham and Matt Moylan, Wade the final member of the club’s premiership win, who was still at the club. Should be strong enough to make the finals, though question marks about the clubs’ chances at finals, with 3 consecutive losses in the last two years come finals time.
Another club with multiple fullback options is Will Kennedy, Kade Dykes and Kayal Iro, all contesting for the position. If the club could convert one into a half, it might turn the club into a premiership contender. Will and Kade are off contract at the end of 2025, with Kyal off contract this year.
1. William Kennedy 2. Sione Katoa 3. Siosifa Talaki 4. Jesse Ramien 5. Ronaldo Mulitalo 6. Kade Dykes 7. Nicho Hynes 8. Braden Hamlin-Uele 9. Blayke Brailey 10. Toby Rudolf 11. Britton Nikora 12. Teig Wilton 13. Dale Finucane (c) 14. RoyceHunt 15. Royce Hunt 16. Kayal Iro 17. Cameron McInness (c)
Dolphins
Gains: Jake Averillo (Bulldogs), Herbie Farnworth (Bronc0s), Tom Flegler (Broncos), Oryn Keeley (Knights), Josh Kerr (Dragons) June 2023
Losses: JJ Collins (Burleigh), Herman Ese’ese (Hull F.C.), Poasa Faamausili (Bulldogs), Brenko Lee (Brisbane Tigers),
The new boys on the block would surprise many with 3 straight wins to start the season with wins over the Roosters, Raiders, and Knights before a close loss in the first “Battle of Brisbane”. The club would then enter a win-loss pattern for the next eight weeks before four straight losses. A win over the Titans would halt the losing streak, though it would resume when they lost six straight before a win over the second-string Warriors to end the season in 13th.
The club have recruited strongly for 2024, adding international Herbie Farnworth, State of Origin rep Tom Flegler and Jake Averillo. Isaiya Katoa having an entire season of NRL under his belt will be better in 2024. Will push for the bottom of the 8.
1. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow 2. Jamayne Isaako 3. Jake Averillo 4. Herbie Farnworth 5. Jack Bostock 6. Isaiya Katoa 7. Sean O’Sullivan 8. Jesse Bromwich (c) 9. Jeremy Marshall-King 10. Tom Flegler 11. Felise Kaufusi 12. Kenny Bromwich 13. Mark Nicholls 14. Kodi Nikorima 15. Connelly Lemuelu 16. Ray Stone 17. Jarrod Wallace
Gold Coast Titans
Gains: Kruise Leeming (Leeds), April 2023), Ken Maumalo (Tigers), March 2023, Thomas Mikaele (Warrington), March 2023, Keenan Palasia (Broncos), Harley Smith-Shields (Raiders)
Losses: Sam McIntyre (Cowboys), May 2203, Thomas Mikaele (Warrington), August 2023, Toby Sexton (Bulldogs), July 2023, Treymain Spry (Redcliffe, Joe Vuna (Tweed Heads)
The club started the season win-loss over its first six games before back-to-back losses. The club bounced back with back-to-back wins before that good work was undone by three straight losses. The club halt the losing streak with back-to-back wins before losing four consecutive games. The club stopped that streak with a win before another four-game losing streak before ending the season with a win and finishing in 14th.
To the surprise of many, Des Hasler returns to the NRL after a year off. It was reported in the media that David Fifita and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui both had clauses in their contracts that they would be free agents if Justin Holbrook was let go. Both signed new agreements with Tino for 10 years and Dave for 3. It would then emerge that David has a clause in his contract that he still may leave, depending on his relationship with Des. A.J. Brimson has been shifted to the centres to allow Jayden Campbell to fit in the starting 17. After a disappointing 2023, I expect the Titans to return to push for the top eight, with the mad scientist pulling the right strings.
1. Jayden Campbell 2. Alofiana Khan-Pereira 3. A..J. Brimson 4. Brian Kelly 5. Phillip Sami. 6. Keiran Foran 7. Tanah Boyd 8. Tino Faasuamaleui (C) 9. Sam Verills 10.Moeaki Fotuaika 11. Beau Fermor 12. David Fifita 13. Erin Clark 14. Isaac Liu 15. Keenan Palasia 16. Jaimin Jolliffe 17. Chris Randall
Manly Warringah Sea Eagles
Gains: Jake Arthur (Sea Eagles) (May 2023, Luke Brooks (Tigers), Nathan Brown (Roosters), Aitasi James (Tigers), Bailey Hodgson (Knights), Matt Lodge (Roosters), July 2023, Jaxson Paulo (Roosters), Tommy Talau (Tigers), Corey Waddell (Bulldogs), Aaron Woods (Dragons), March 2023
Losses: Morgan Boyle (Released), Latu Fainu, Samuela Fainu (Tigers), Morgan Harper (Eels), Cooper Johns (Retired), Sean Keppie (Rabbitohs), Kelma Tuilagi (Eels), Christian Tuipulotu (Dragons), Kaeo Weeks (Raiders)
The Sea Eagles started the season strongly, winning their first two games before their first loss against the Rabbitohs. They would then participate in the only drawn game of 2023. They would suffer their worst season loss against the Panthers after their draw. They would bounce back with back-to-back wins before a three-game losing streak. The next four games, they would go win-loss before another loss to make it two straight losses. They would go win-los again before back-to-back wins, then another three-game losing streak. They would finish the season with back-to-back wins to finish in 13th.
The Sea Eagles surprised many with the signing of Luke Brooks to the club, given Josh Schuster spent the majority of the season at five-eighth and has said it is his preferred position. Given that Josh’s contract was extended to 2027 (the same year as Luke’s), the club hopes Josh is happy to return to the back row. Will miss the eight
1. Tom Trbojevic 2. Reuben Garrick 3. Brad Parker 4. Tolu Koula 5. Jason Saab 6. Luke Brooks 7. Daly Chery Evans (c) 8. Taiela Paseka 9. Lachlan Croker 10. Josh Aloiai 11. Haumole Olakau’atu 12. Josh Schuster 13. Jake Trbojevic 14. Ben Trbojevic 15. Corey Waddell 16. Karl Lawton 17. Ethan Bullemor
Melbourne Storm
Gains: Shawn Blore (Tigers), Lazarus Vaalepu (Sunshine Coast),
Losses: Tom Eisenhuth (Dragons), Jordan Grant (Panthers), George Jennings (Released), Jayden Nikorima (Catalans), Justin Olam (Tigers), Tariq Sims (Catalans),
The Storm would require Golden Point to keep their round 1 streak under Craig Bellamy alive. The club would follow up on their round 1 heroics with back-to-back losses. The club would turn it around with three straight wins. The club would then have four consecutive weeks of loss-win before back-to-back wins. Another three-game winning streak followed a dominating loss to the Cowboys away from home. The club would follow it up with five straight weeks of loss-win before a five-game winning streak to finish the regular season in 3rd and a warning that the Storm would still be a force to reckon with. A dominating loss to the Broncos in week 1 led to a week 2 matchup against rivals the Roosters before another dominating finals loss, this time to the Panthers in the preliminary final.
The Storm have been quiet on the recruitment front, losing regular first graders Tom Eisenhuth, Jordan Grant and veteran Tariq Sims. The club also lost Justin Olam, who fell out of favour at the club and was involved in a trade with Shawn Blore. When the Falcons dominated the Queensland Cup regular season in 2019, the Storm bought through a number of those players. It wouldn’t surprise me if the club did the same with the Brisbane Tigers, who won the Queensland Cup in 2023. The Storm still have enough quality across the park to make the eight; how far they go will be the question.
1. Ryan Papenhuyzen 2. Xavier Coates 3. Remis Smith 4. Nick Meaney 5.Will Warbrick 6. Cameron Munster 7. Jahrome Hughes 8. Tui Kamikamica 9. Harry Grant (c) 10. Christian Welch 11. Trent Loiero 12. Eli Katoa 13. Josh King 14. Tyran Wishart 15. Nelson Asofa-Solomona 16. Joe Chan 17. Alec MacDonald
Newcastle Knights
Gains: Nu Brown (Bulldogs) July 2023, Jed Cartwright (Rabbitohs), Jack Cogger (Panthers), Tom Jenkins (Panthers), Kai Pearce-Paul (Wigan), Will Pryce (Huddersfield), Blake Woodford (Sunshine Coast),
Losses: Dane Aukafolau (Northern Pride), Nu Brown (Hull FC), Adam Clune (Huddersfield), Lachlan Fitzgibbon (Warrington), Eddie Hampson (Townsville), Bailey Hodgson (Sea Eagles), Hymel Hunt, Jack Johns (Released), Oryn Keeley (Dolphins), Cooper Jeninks (Norths Devils), Lachlan Miller (Leeds), Kurt Mann (Bulldogs), Simi Sasagi (Raiders), Dom Young (Roosters)
The Knights would go win-loss over the season’s opening month before being involved in the only draw of 2023. The club would follow the draw with a win before a three-game losing streak. Win-loss-win would follow before another three-game losing streak. The loss to the Panthers would be the club’s final loss of the regular season as they would go on a nine-game winning streak to finish the regular season in 5th. The club would be forced into extra time to pull off the win in week one of the finals before a dominating loss to the Warriors in week 2, where nothing seemed to go right.
The club has recruited well, landing Englishmen Kai Pearce-Paul and Will Pryce. Kai has already played for England and has been referred to the English Sonny-Bill-Williams. Will is the son of former Super League player Leon Pryce and is adept at several positions like his dad. The Knights could be hard to stop if Kalyn returns to his late-season form from last year.
1. Kalyn Ponga (c) 2. Enari Tuala 3. Bradman Best 4. Dane Gagai 5. Greg Mazrhew 6. Tyson Gamble 7. Jackson Hastings 8. Daniel Saifiti 9. Jayden Brailey (c) 10. Jacob Saifiti 11. Tyson Frizell 12. Kai Pearce-Paul 13. Adam Elliott 14. Phoenix Crossland 15. Brodie Jones. 16. Leo Thompson. Jack Hetherington
North Queensland Cowboys
Gains: Sam McIntyre (Titans) May 2203, Thomas Mikaele (Warrington), Viliami Vailea (Warriors)
Losses: Jake Bourke (Townsville), Mitch Dunn (Retired), Brendan Elliot (Retired), Ben Hampton (Released), Peter Huku (Hull K.R.), Luciano Leilua ( Dragons), Riley Price (Panthers), Taniela Sadrugu (Rugby Union), Gehamat Shibasaki and James Tamou (Townsville)
Thanks to a late Chad Townsend field goal, the club would win their first game of the season. The club would then follow it up with back-to-back losses. A win at home, followed by three straight losses. The Cowboys would go win-loss before two consecutive wins. A 60-point loss to the Tigers followed, seemingly ending the club’s season. Another loss would follow, followed by a six-game winning streak, breathing life into the club’s 2023 season. The club would end the season, losing four out of their last five to finish in eleventh.
Despite a disappointing season, the club has been quiet on the recruitment front, seemingly putting the 2023 season down to an aberration and believing the club is closer to the one that made the preliminary finals in 2022. The way they use Jason Taumalolo to how the club fares in 2024.
Halfback Chad Townsend is off-contract this year. It will be interesting to see if they extend him or pick a new halfback to replace Tom Dearden.
1. Scott Drinkwater 2, Murray Talulagi 3. Zac Laybutt 4. Valentine Holmes 5. Kyle Feldt 6. Tom Dearden (c) 7. Chad Townend 8. Jordan McLean 9. Reece Robson 10. Jason Taumalolo 11. Jeremiah Nanai 12. Heilum Luki 13. Reuben Cotter 14. Kulikefu Finefeuiaki 15. Jake Granville 16. Griffin Neame 17. Thomas Mikaele
Parramatta Eels
Gains: Andrew Davey (Bulldogs), April 2023, Morgan Harper (Sea Eagles), Joey Lussick (St Helens), July 2023,, Joe Ofahengaue (Tigers), May 2023, Kelma Tuilagi (Sea Eagles)
Losses: Jake Arthur (Sea Eagles) May 2023, Waqa Blake (St Helens), Andrew Davey, Josh Hodgson (Retired), Samuel Loizou (Tigers), Jack Murchie (Huddersfield)
The Eels would start the season slowly, losing their first three games as they seemed to suffer from a Grand Final hangover. A Golden Point win over the arch-rival Panthers in the “Grand Final Rematch” gave the club their first win of 2023. The club would lose their next match before back-to-back wins. The club would go loss-win before two straight losses. The club would then go on a five-game winning streak to get their 2023 season back on track. The Eels would once again go loss-win before two straight losses. The club would once again defeat the Panthers to finish the season on a high, though it wouldn’t be enough to make the finals, with the club finishing in 10th.
Despite losing Josh Hodgson to retirement after an injury-plagued season, the club has failed to recruit a new hooker, with the position a glaring weakness. Another club that has been quiet on the recruitment front for 2024.
The club might ask one of the other clubs with excess fullbacks if they want to release them to give the club an “x-factor” fullback. Will miss the eight.
1. Clint Gutherson (c) 2. Maika Sivo 3. Will Penisini 4. Sean Russell 5. Bailey Simonsson 6. Dylan Brown 7. Mitchell Moses 8. Regan Campbell-Gillard 9. Joey Lussick 10. Junior Paulo (c) 11. Shaun Lane 12. Ryan Matterson 13. J’Maine Hopggod 14. Daejaran Asi 15. Joe Ofahengaue 16. Bryce Cartwright 17 Wiremu Greig.
Penrith Panthers
Gains: Paul Alamoti (Bulldogs), Jordan Grant (Storm), Dane Laurie (Tigers), Riley Price (Cowboys), Brad Schnider (Hull K.R.)
Losses: Eddie Blacker (Norths Devils), Jack Cogger (Knights), Stephen Crichton (Bulldogs), Zac Hosking (Raiders), Tom Jenkins (Knights), Spencer Leinu (Roosters), Jaeman Salmon (Bulldogs), Chris Smith (Released)
The two-time defending premiers were chasing history in 2023. Their season got off to a slow start with a loss to the Broncos at home. The club would defeat their Grand Final opponents from 2021 before losing to their Grand Final opponents from 2022 in extra time. The club would string together three straight wins before their third-season loss. The club would then suffer an upset loss to the Tigers in Bathurst, the only time the club lost back-to-back all season. The club would reel off another five-game winning streak. The club’s fifth loss would come as an under-strength Panthers lost to the Cowboys. The club would win eight straight before another loss to the arch-rival Eels. The club would secure the minor premiership by getting revenge on the Cowboys. The Panthers would dominate in their finals to set up the club’s fourth straight Grand Final. The Panthers would win their third consecutive premiership the hard way by coming from 24-6 down to win by 2 points.
Stephen Crichton is the only significant loss for the club. Spencer Leinu is a decent loss, though he predominantly played off the bench in 2023. The club has added depth to its squad for 2024. The Panthers will continue chasing history in 2024. Boredom will be the Panthers’ biggest challenge during the regular season. It will take something almighty to stop the Panthers in 2024.
1. Dylan Edwards 2. Sunia Turuva 3. Taylan May 4. Izack Tago 5. Brian To’o, 6. Jarome Luai 7. Nathan Cleary (c) 8. James Fisher-Harris 9. Mitch Kenny 10. Moses Leota 11. Liam Martin 12. Scott Sorensen 13. Issah Yao (c) 14. Soni Luke 15. Luke Garner 16. Soni Luke 17. Lindsy Smith
South Sydney Rabbitohs
Gains: Braidon Burns (Bulldogs), Sean Keppie (Sea Eagles), Jack Wighton (Raiders)
Losses: Jed Cartwright (Knights), Josiah Karapani (Broncos), Liam Knight (Bulldogs) July 2023, Hame Sele (Dragons), Blake Taaffe (Bulldogs),
The Rabbitohs started the season with a win over the Sharks before back-to-back losses. The club then went win-loss before a six-game winning streak. The club then lost four of its next five games. The Rabbitohs won their next game before back-to-back losses. The club then went win-loss for the next four weeks before a loss to finish the season in ninth place.
The Rabbitohs have secured the services of Clive Churchill medal winner Jack Wighton. With Latrell Mitchell having a lock on the fullback position and Cody Walker having a similar lock on the five-eighth jersey, Jack will slot into the centres. They have enough quality across the park to make the top 4.
1. Latrell Mitchell 2. Alex Johnston 3. Jack Wighton 4. Campbell Graham 5. Izac Thompson 6. Cody Walker 7. Lachlan Ilias 8. Tevita Tatola 9. Damien Cook 10. Tom Burgess 11. Keaon Koloamatangi 12. Jai Arrow 13. Cameron Murray (c) 14. Sean Keppie 15. Sila Havili 16. Tallis Duncan 17. Shaq Mitchell
St George Illawarra Dragons
Gains: Corey Allan (Roosters), Tom Eisenhuth (Storm), Raymond Faitala-Mariner (Bulldogs), Kyle Flanagan (Bulldogs), Luciano Leilua (Cowboys), Jesse Marschke (North Sydney), Hame Sele (Rabbitohs), Christian Tuipulotu (Sea Eagles), Brandon Webster-Mansfield (Tigers)
Losses: Talatau Amone (De-registered), Billy Burns (Sharks), Jaiyden Hunt (Bronc0s), Tyrell Fuimaono (Released), Josh Kerr (Dolphins) June 2023, Nick Lui-Toso (Tigers), Moses Mbye (St Helens) July 2023, Tautau Moga (Wests Devils), Zane Musgrove (Warrington), Jayden Sullivan (Tigers), Aaron Woods (Sea Eagles) March 2023
The club has been busy recruiting and linked with many others. Kyle Flanagan has joined with his dad at the Dragons. It remains to be seen how long they will be without Luciano Leiua due to off-field issues. The club loses Talatau Amone due to an off-field incident. The biggest problem at the club is Ben Hunt. Ben said he wanted out last year, though he was denied by the Dragons. Incoming coach Shane Flanagan has convinced Ben to stay at the Dragons. If the Dragons start slow, Ben might want to find the exit door quickly. It’s not a good look when your captain doesn’t want to be there. A long year for the joint venture.
1. Tyrell Sloan 2. Zac Lomax 3. Moses Suli 4. Jack Bird 5. Mikaele Ravalawa 6. Kyle Flanagan 7. Ben Hunt (c) 8. Blake Lawrie 9. Jacob Liddle 10. Ben Murdoch-Masila 11. Jayden Su’A. 12. Dan Russell 13. Jack de Belin 14. Tom Eisenhuth 15. Toby Couchman 16. Francis Molo 17. Ramond Faitala-Mariner
Sydney Roosters
Gains: Spencer Leinu (Panthers), Lewis Murphy (Huddersfield), Dominic Young (Knights)
Losses: Corey Allan (Dragons), Fletcher Baker (Broncos), Nathan Brown (Sea Eagles), Billy Burns (Sharks), Drew Hutchison (Bulldogs), Matt Lodge (Released) June 2023, Paul Momirovski (Leeds), Jaxson Paulo (Sea Eagles), Ben Thomas (North Sydney), Jake Turpin (Bulldogs)
The Roosters would start the season with a shock loss to the Dolphins. The club would bounce back with three straight wins. The club would then lose back-to-back games to the Storm and Sharks. The club would then win back-to-back games before losing three consecutive games. The Roosters would go win-loss over the next four games before two losses. The club would then go win-loss before flicking the switch once August hit, winning five straight games to end the season in 7th. The Roosters would defeat the Sharks in the first week of the finals before a loss to the Storm finished the Roosters’ 2023 campaign.
The Roosters added Englishman Dominic Youung to an already strong backline; it will be interesting to see how the Roosters fit all their plays in. Spencer Leinu adds impact off the bench and may take over from Jared Waerea-Hargreave when Jarred leaves the Rosters at the end of 2024.
The Roosters hope for an improved 2024 from James Tedesco and Brandon Smith. As I wrote last year, it was going to take time for Brandon to adjust from being a middle forward at the Storm to being a full-time hooker. I expect the Roosters to make the finals, and they could cause an upset or two along the way.
1. James Tedesco (c) 2. Daniel Tupou 3. Joseph Manu 4. Billy Smith 5. Dominic Young 6. Luke Keary. 7 Sam Walker 8 Jared Waerea-Hargreaves. 9. Brandon Smith 10. Lindsay Collins 11. Sitili Tupouinua 12. Angus Crichton 13. Victor Radley 14. Connor Watson 15. Spencer Leniu 16. Nat Butcher 17. Egan Butcher
Warriors
Gains: Kurt Capewell (Broncos), Chanel Harris-Tavita (Free Agent), Roger Tuivasa-Sheck (Rugby Union)
Losses: Josh Curran (Bulldogs), Valingi Kepu (Released), Bailey Sironen (Catalans), Viliami Vailea (Cowboys), Brayden Wiliame (Retired)
1. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad 2. Dallin Watene-Zeleznaik 3. Roco Berry 4. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck 5. Marcello Montoya 6. Luke Metcalf 7. Shaun Johnson 8. Addin Fanoua-Blake 9. Wayde Egan 10. Bunty Afoa 11. Kurt Capewell12. Tohu Harris (c) 13. Jazz Tevaga 14. Dylan Walker 15. Mitch Barnett 16. Marata Niukore 17. Chanel Harris-Tavita
The Warriors would start the season strongly, winning four of their first six games, before a three-game losing streak that began on Anzac Day. The club would then go win-loss before a three-game winning streak. A loss to the Rabbitohs would be followed by a 7 game-win streak, cementing their top 4 positions. An understrength side suffered from a less-than-ideal preparation to end the season with a loss. The club would suffer a one-sided loss to the Panthers in week one of the finals before a complete 180 against the Knights in two of the finals. The Warriors were outclassed in week three of the finals.
The Warriors welcome back former captain and Dally M Medalist Roger Tuivasa-Sheck after a stint in Rugby Union. With the form of Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, Roger will be spending time in the centres. Chanel Harris-Tavita is a surprise return to the club after his year off. Chanel will be in a three-way battle for the five-eight jersey with Luke Metcalf and Te Maire Martin. The club also picks up the experienced Kurt Capewell, who has been part of the Panthers and Broncos Grand Final sides and was at the Sharks when they won the comp in 2016. The Warriors will return to the top 4 in 2024.
Wests Tigers
Gains: Solomon Alaimalo (Rugby Union), Declan Casey (Bulldogs), Latu Fainu, Samuela Fainu (Sea Eagles), Solomona Faataape (Brisbane Tigers), Justin Olam (Storm), Jayden Sullivan (Dragons), Aidan Sezer (Leeds), Nick Lui-Toso (Dragons)
Losses: Shawn Blore (Storm), Luke Brooks (Sea Eagles), Aitasi James (Sea Eagles), Dane Laurie (Panthers), Ken Maumalo (Titans) March 2023, ua Ngatikaura (North Sydney), David Nofoaluma (Salford), Joe Ofahengaue (Eels) May 2023, Triston Reilly (Rugby Union), Tuki Simpkins (Norths Devils), Tommy Talau (Sea Eagles), Brandon Wakeham (Blacktown), Brandon Webster-Mansfield (Dragons)
The Tigers would start the Tim Sheens era with 7 straight losses. The club would register their first win with an upset over the Panthers in Bathurst. The club would follow that up with a win over the Dragons at Magic Round. Following a loss to the Rabbitohs, the Tigers would put 66 points on the Cowboys, giving Tigers fans the idea that the tide was beginning to turn. Unfortunately for Tigers fans, the club would go on a 10-game losing streak. The club would break that streak with a late penalty goal, sealing the win over the Dolphins. The Tigers would finish the season with back-to-back losses to finish with back-to-back wooden spoons.
Veteran NRL half Aidan Sezar returns to the NRL to add stability in the halves. It will be interesting to see if Adam Doueihi or Jayden Sullivan partners Aidan in the halves. The club picks up out-of-favour former Storm centre Justin Olam. If Justin re-discovers his previous form, he could be a bargain buy. The club lost veteran winger David Nofoaluma as Benji Marshall attempted to set standards at the club. The only “big four” (Woods, Tedesco, Mosses) to stay, Luke Brooks has left for a fresh challenge.
As the Benj Marshall era begins at the Tigers, the club hopes it works out better than the Tim Sheens era. It will take a while for the club to turn things around.
1. Jahream Bula 2. Brent Naden 3. Justin Olam 4. Starford To’a 5. Junior Tupou, 6. Adam Doueihi 7. Aidan Sezer 8. David Klemmer 9. Apasi Koroisau 10. Stefano Utoikamanu 11. Isiah Papali’i 12. John Bateman 13. Alex Twal 14. Jake Simpkin 15. 16. Fonua Pole 17. Jayden Sullivan
And Another Thing: The NRLW season is played at the wrong time of the year. The season should start in February with night games to give it clear air and prevent it from competing with the NRL.
If you want to contact me, you can email me. Remember to like the page on Facebook to find out when new blog posts are available. Also, to find out the latest news, views and opinions from the world of Rugby League. Follow me on Twitter to get all this, plus live and full-time scores from every game in the NRL. as well as full-time scores from the Super League, Knock-On Effect NSW Cup, Hostplus Cup, Kingstone Press Championship, Kingstone Press League 1, Ron Massey Cup, Denton Engineering Cup, Illawarra Cup, Sydney Shield, Brisbane Rugby League, Jersey Flegg Cup, Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership, BMD Premiership, National Rugby League W and Women’ Super League. Now on Blue Sky Social
Till next time,
Cheese
NRL Ladder
- Brisbane
- Warriors
- Panthers
- Rabbitohs
- Sharks
- Storm
- Roosters
- Titans
- Knights
- Cowboys
- Eels
- Dolphins
- Canberra
- Sea Eagles
- Bulldogs
- Tigers
- Dragons