Meanwhile, several contenders put their names forward to represent the NSW Blues in Game III of the 2026 State of Origin series as Laurie Daley prepares to make mass changes to his squad.<\/p>\n
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WHAT’S GAMBLING REALLY COSTING YOU? Set a deposit limit. For Free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au.<\/p>\n
COULD HALVES CHANGE TURN AROUND DOGS SEASON?<\/p>\n
Canterbury Bulldogs fans witnessed a new halves pairing in Round 16 with skipper Stephen Crichton slotting into the halves alongside Lachlan Galvin while Matt Burton reverted back into the centres.<\/p>\n
Having struggled to find attacking fluency in recent weeks, the bold mid-season shake-up delivered an immediate result as the Bulldogs clinched their third win in four weeks and showed far more creativity with the ball in hand.<\/p>\n
Although Crichton finished with just two carries for 15 metres, the captain\u2019s move into the halves allowed him to take on a great organisational role, becoming more involved and helping steer the side around the park.<\/p>\n
It also allowed fellow halves partner Lachlan Galvin greater freedom to play his natural game and challenge the defensive line.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, Burton was outstanding in his return to the outside backs and was able to focus on his biggest strength – running the football.<\/p>\n
Matt Burton of the Bulldogs is tackled by Brandon Wakeham of the Sea Eagles.Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n
Consistently threatening the Sea Eagles\u2019 defensive line on the edge, he finished with 144 metres from 19 carries.<\/p>\n
\u201cI didn\u2019t mind it. I thought Crichton had some good touches and it brings Matt Burton into the game. He had 19 carries for 144 metres,\u201d Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters said on Fox League\u2019s Super Saturday.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019ve said on this panel so many times over the last couple of years, the importance of Matt Burton getting the ball and running the ball. <\/p>\n
\u201cHe did it tonight, albeit at a different position, but it still creates good momentum for his side and he\u2019s played centre for NSW, so it\u2019s not like it\u2019s a completely new arena for him. <\/p>\n
\u201cHe\u2019s a very talented player and can play both positions. He doesn\u2019t mind shifting and adjusting as long as the Bulldogs are winning and they march into the finals.\u201d<\/p>\n
‘Shades of Vegas’: Ciro explains switch | 08:07<\/p>\n
While Walters backed Ciraldo\u2019s bold decision to change up the halves, fellow Fox League analyst Cooper Cronk had a different take.<\/p>\n
The former NRL halfback acknowledged the benefits of having Crichton more involved in attack but questioned whether it was the right long-term solution if the Bulldogs are serious about making an impact during the business end of the season.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere are pros and cons when you make these moves. I think they made the move because Stephen Crichton\u2019s their best player, best leader, talker,\u201d Cronk said.<\/p>\n
\u201cCommunication in attack has lacked at different stages, but Matt Burton has a better passing game. <\/p>\n
\u201cMatt Burton has a better running game, particularly with six on his back, so it\u2019s going to be interesting to see. <\/p>\n
\u201cStephen Crichton, yes, he has struggled to find his best form, but he\u2019s the best centre in the game and best defensive player as well. <\/p>\n
\u201cIf they\u2019re going to win a finals match, I don\u2019t know if Stephen Crichton should be No.6. I think he\u2019s the best centre and I think the halves just need to stand up.\u201d<\/p>\n
Stephen Crichton of the Bulldogs drinks pickle juice.Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n
Cronk\u2019s comments reflect the major question facing the Bulldogs moving forward.<\/p>\n
Is the switch a long-term solution capable of transforming the club\u2019s attack?<\/p>\n
Or is it simply a short-term fix designed to spark the side back into form after a disappointing season to date?<\/p>\n
\u201cI don\u2019t think many people saw it coming. Ciraldo said it was a few weeks in the making, so they\u2019ve obviously been thinking about it and talking about it,\u201d Luke Keary said on Fox League\u2019s Sunday Ticket.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m guessing this is for the rest of the season. I don\u2019t know if you swap him back. <\/p>\n
\u201cI think Matty Burton\u2019s probably a better five-eighth. I don\u2019t think Stephen is a genuine five-eighth, but they needed to win to keep their season alive.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s the second time he has kicked a game-winning field goal, so I think they leave him there.\u201d<\/p>\n
Greg Alexander added, \u201cI don\u2019t think Stephen played much five-eighth as a junior so he hasn\u2019t been in that position. <\/p>\n
\u201cHe\u2019s pretty talented, though, so I think he\u2019ll pick it up quickly, but even at times last night he looked like it was the first time.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou thought if they are going to put him, how does he get the best out of Burton, who is now outside him?\u201d<\/p>\n
Dogs upset Manly in GP thriller | 02:21<\/p>\n
\u2018INCREDIBLE\u2019 SHARPE PUSHES CASE FOR BLUES DEBUT<\/p>\n
It is a known fact that NSW Blues coach Laurie Daley is set to make several changes for the series-decider after they were humiliated by Queensland in Game II.<\/p>\n
Among the biggest selection headaches facing Daley is how to inject more spark and X-factor into their attack. <\/p>\n
While the likes of Bradman Best, Latrell Mitchell, Stephen Crichton and Tom Trbojevic have emerged as leading candidates to strengthen their outside backs, another name is beginning to gain momentum.<\/p>\n
That name is Fletcher Sharpe who put his hand up for selection after a starring performance for the Newcastle Knights in their close win over the Dragons.<\/p>\n
\u201cHis double early got the Knights off to a flyer and he was everywhere,\u201d Braith Anasta said on the post-match panel.<\/p>\n
Former Blues dummy-half Michael Ennis added, \u201cThey pushed Fletcher Sharpe from five-eighth to fullback and he was heavily involved in the opening ten minutes, where the win was set up.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cIt was Fletcher Sharpe\u2019s performance in that period that got them that lead.\u201d<\/p>\n
Fletcher Sharpe of the Knights: Origin bolter?Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n
Able to play every position in the backline, Sharpe\u2019s versatility adds to his appeal to be selected in Game III for the Blues as Daley weighs up his options for the do-or-die clash.<\/p>\n
It is understood that he was previously considered for being named on the extended six-man interchange bench for the opening match of this year\u2019s series.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe thing I like about Fletcher Sharpe is that it doesn\u2019t matter if he plays on the wing, fullback or in the halves. He just competes,\u201d ex-Maroons halfback Cooper Cronk said.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe will just turn up and have a go. If he played on the wing, he wouldn\u2019t sit out on the right wing and just wait for the ball to come for him. <\/p>\n
\u201cKick goes up, he chases through. If there\u2019s an offload, he\u2019s there to support and if he needs to be on the pass, two passes wide, he\u2019ll be there. <\/p>\n
\u201cHe\u2019s just a guy who wants to be involved and no matter who comes back into the side, he\u2019s one of the first people picked for Newcastle.\u201d<\/p>\n
Sharpe gets a quick double within 9 mins | 00:29<\/p>\n
Beginning his NRL career with the Knights on the wing, he quickly established himself as one of the club\u2019s most dangerous and valuable attacking weapons.<\/p>\n
This saw him transition between the halves and fullback as the club searched for ways to maximise his influence on matches.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe started on the wing. He scored 11 tries in ten games. He was incredible. He can play anywhere,\u201d Greg Alexander said.<\/p>\n
Fletcher Sharpe scored an early double against St George Illawarra.Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, Ennis believed that his greatest asset is the energy, enthusiasm and communication skills he brings to those around him.<\/p>\n
\u201cI remember being at ground level at Vegas to a similar start ot what he dished up tonight and the energy that he brings to the footy side and the communication,\u201d Ennis continued.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe was left, he was right, he was everywhere over the park and his instincts (are amazing). <\/p>\n
\u201cHe reads the games, understands where to be and (he) has got a good feel for the game and what is needed. He is a class act.\u201d<\/p>\n
Holbrook praises Dragons in ‘lucky’ win | 06:24<\/p>\n
LATRELL\u2019S CRYPTIC REPLY TO BIG ORIGIN QUESTION<\/p>\n
In a week\u2019s time, the Blues will name their squad for the Suncorp decider, with Laurie Daley expected to make a few changes to the side that was thrashed by the Maroons in Game II. <\/p>\n
One player the Blues have desperately missed this series is Latrell Mitchell.<\/p>\n
Thankfully for NSW and the Rabbitohs, Mitchell is set to return this weekend when Souths take on Parramatta. <\/p>\n
Mitchell appeared on the Sunday Night with Matty Johns show in a rare media appearance and says he\u2019s likely to return from a back injury against the Eels this weekend.<\/p>\n
That will give him one audition before Daley picks his side.<\/p>\n
\u201cYeah it\u2019s been good. Been doing a bit of swimming, pilates,\u201d Mitchell said.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ll be pushing to play this week. See if Wayne has a position for me.\u201d<\/p>\n
Latrell Mitchell. Picture: NRL ImagerySource: Supplied<\/p>\n
Mitchell was then pressed by Johns if he\u2019ll be fit for Game III, with the superstar centre giving a cryptic reply.<\/p>\n
\u201cOh, look. Doesn\u2019t matter really,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ve been running and training well and looking forward to returning against Parra.\u201d<\/p>\n
It\u2019s safe to say that if Mitchell gets through this Thursday\u2019s clash, he\u2019ll be a certainty to be selected.<\/p>\n
Johns believes Mitchell is just what the Blues need, urging Daley to pick big-game players with presence.<\/p>\n
\u201cDon\u2019t pick on form,\u201d Johns said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere\u2019ll be changes and without going too far into it now, don\u2019t pick on form. What they should do is pick big game players who have presence. Like Latrell, Liam Martin, Api Koroisau.<\/p>\n
\u201cThose are the blokes who don\u2019t fear the big occasion and have presence.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe other thing is we have to simplify our football.<\/p>\n
Will Daley pick Ethan Strange?Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n
\u201cAt the moment, Teddy and Nathan Cleary have never really worked. It\u2019s like oil and water so they have to make a decision there.<\/p>\n
\u201cIs there a possibility of putting Ethan Strange alongside Nathan because Ethan can run the football.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019d start with Addin Fonua-Blake, Payne Haas and Cam Murray at lock. You want to start on the front foot and get the other guys like Nathan into a rhythm.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mitchell also called for Koroisau to be given an opportunity in the decider. <\/p>\n
The Tigers hooker was picked in Game II but didn\u2019t see the field, with Reece Robson playing all 80 minutes at nine.<\/p>\n
\u201cI felt like Api could\u2019ve done a bit with his creativity,\u201d Mitchell said.<\/p>\n
\u201cI know Robson gets through a lot of work and defends well but when is it time to make that call, you know?\u201d<\/p>\n
Ricky irate after blown Raiders lead | 05:56<\/p>\n
THE \u2018SHINING LIGHT\u2019 IN DRAGONS LOSSES<\/p>\n
The St George Illawarra Dragons may have lost their 13th match of the season on Thursday night against the Knights, but a \u201cshining light\u201d emerged in the defeat.<\/p>\n
Despite the results, there were encouraging signs for the Red V with several of the young forwards standing up and delivering against a more experienced opposition forward pack.<\/p>\n
\u201cTheir forward pack is getting better with every game,\u201d Braith Anasta said on Fox League\u2019s post-match panel after their match.<\/p>\n
While they have unfortunately only racked up a single victory – which was against the reigning premiers in the Brisbane Broncos – the effort areas from the Dragons\u2019 forwards <\/p>\n
have continued to draw praise.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey haven\u2019t played 50 games. Individually, they haven\u2019t got near that mark yet where players start to feel comfortable as first graders,\u201d Michael Ennis said.<\/p>\n
Ennis pointed to the inexperience within the squad, but also stressed the likes of Dylan Egan and Toby Couchman have the raw potential to have long careers in the NRL.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey\u2019re still so young and raw in their careers at this top level, but excelling,\u201d Ennis added.<\/p>\n
\u201cToby Couchman was outstanding. His late footwork and late offloads really started to trouble (the Knights). <\/p>\n
\u201cThere was a lot to like and Dean Young will be really proud of what his team dished up tonight. There were just a couple of moments they didn\u2019t win, but they could\u2019ve won.\u201d<\/p>\n
Dylan Egan and the young Dragons pack are giving fans plenty to be excited about.Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n
While their forward pack has earned praise, the same can\u2019t be said for their back-line and halves, who have struggled to consistently create opportunities and deliver that X-factor in attacking situations.<\/p>\n
However, Anasta stated that the incoming reinforcement of several star players next season is a reason for optimism and they will only keep getting better.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey\u2019ve got Drinkwater coming. They\u2019ve got Luke Metcalf coming. They\u2019ve got Connor Watson,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cGuys who can light it up and create opportunities so there is a shining light there for the Dragons if they can finish this season strong and play with the heart, ticker and desire.<\/p>\n
\u201cWith those players coming, you can see an improvement next year.\u201d<\/p>\n
Dean Young, interim head coach of the Dragons.Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n
As the Dragons\u2019 forward pack continues to fire and the incoming arrivals in 2027 will add further creativity in attack, the club\u2019s long-term rebuild is starting to take shape.<\/p>\n
This saw former NRL playmaker Greg Alexander back the club\u2019s direction and reveal that interim coach Dean Young should be handed the full-time gig, despite the team\u2019s ongoing struggles.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey\u2019re still not getting wins, but I don\u2019t think it hurts Dean Young\u2019s chance of keeping the job that much,\u201d Alexander said.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs long as they\u2019re performing and their efforts are there and look like they\u2019re improvising as a side. I think Dean Young keeps the gig.\u201d<\/p>\n
Young on a heart-breaking 2pt loss | 03:00<\/p>\n
JWH: THE TWO PLAYERS LOZ MUST PICK<\/p>\n
NRL legend and 33-time New Zealand international Jared Waerea-Hargreaves has urged NSW Blues coach Laurie Daley to select two hard-running edge forwards for the Origin series-decider after they were overlooked for Game II.<\/p>\n
Known as one of the most feared yet respected forwards in the history of rugby league, Waerea-Hargreaves believes that Haumole Olakau\u2019atu (Manly Sea Eagles) and Liam Martin (Penrith Panthers) must be selected by Daley.<\/p>\n
\u2018I think he\u2019s shown all year why he should be on the big stage for New South Wales and tonight he was just a menace out on the edge,\u201d Waerea-Hargreaves said on Fox League\u2019s Super Saturday about Olakau\u2019atu.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe ran with such conviction and was physical in defence. Every time he touched the ball, everyone felt his presence so I think he should be playing on Wednesday night. <\/p>\n
\u201cI think he\u2019s a hell of a player to look at and know that he\u2019s going to some damage on that right edge.\u201d<\/p>\n
Sensationally axed for Game II, the Sea Eagles\u2019 back-rower delivered an emphatic response over the weekend, putting together 161 running metres, 12 tackle busts and 23 tackles against the Bulldogs.<\/p>\n
Haumole Olakau’atu and Laurie Daley.Source: Supplied Source Known<\/p>\n
In this powerful all-round display, he reminded Blues selectors of his impact and why he needs to play in the series-decider.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think he\u2019s on the bench for me. Whatever happens, I think Haumole could do something off the bench for New South Wales,\u201d Cooper Cronk added.<\/p>\n
The former Sea Eagles and Sydney Rooster front-rower also believes that Liam Martin should be recalled into the Blues squad for Game III.<\/p>\n
A four-time premiership winner, Martin was unavailable to be selected for the opening match of the series due to injury but was then overlooked for Game II in favour of Dylan Lucas.<\/p>\n
\u201cI believe he should be (selected). He plays with such intensity that makes everyone around him better, and he goes after every single moment,\u201d Waerea-Hargreaves added.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe saw that from the carry where he scored the try. He absolutely wanted that. <\/p>\n
\u201cHe\u2019s been back for a couple of weeks now and he\u2019s got to be in that Origin (side). He brings so much fear factor. <\/p>\n
\u201cHe\u2019s also done it for many years. He\u2019s played 14 Origin games. He\u2019s won four comps. He\u2019s just a winner and can get the job done.\u201d<\/p>\n
Liam Martin of the Panthers celebrates a try.Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n
Cronk backed the views of his former club teammate, agreeing that the Blues needed to select Martin.<\/p>\n
However, while he stated that Olakau\u2019atu would be best utilised off the six-man interchange bench, he could see the Panthers star starting in the back-row. <\/p>\n
\u201cHe would be in my side if you\u2019re going to pick someone who can walk into Suncorp and believe they can dominate,\u201d Cronk said. <\/p>\n
\u201cThe intensity that Liam Martin plays with, he\u2019s in the side. There\u2019s a lot to get through the next week or so, but he\u2019s definitely in there.\u201d<\/p>\n
‘SHOULD have put the game away’ | 06:00<\/p>\n
CHRISTCHURCH PUSHES CASE FOR EXPANSION CLUB<\/p>\n
Christchurch hosted its first-ever NRL match on Sunday and, in doing so, may have strengthened its case to become the new home of the competition\u2019s 20th team.<\/p>\n
A sold-out crowd packed the new One NZ Stadium as the Warriors defeated the Cowboys on Sunday afternoon and if Sunday\u2019s turnout is any guide, Christchurch showed that they deserve a place in the NRL.<\/p>\n
From start to finish, the atmosphere was electric and the attendance highlighted the region\u2019s growing case for permanent inclusion into the NRL.<\/p>\n
\u201cIf the spirit in this venue was big at the start of the game, it\u2019s gone up several levels,\u201d Fox League\u2019s Niko Pajarillo said.<\/p>\n
This comes following reports from The Courier-Mail that New Zealand is the frontrunner to win the NRL\u2019s 20th licence, with a second Kiwi team edging ahead of another club from Queensland.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt truly is a wall of sound. Add the acoustics of an indoor ground with a sold out crowd and the rowdiness of one of the most loyal fan bases in the NRL, it\u2019s the perfect cocktail for an incredible atmosphere here in Christchurch,\u201d Fox League commentator Matty Russell added.<\/p>\n
\u201cWarriors fans waving, smiling. It\u2019s been quite the atmosphere from before kick off as footy fans flock from the city centre of Christchurch into this sparkling, One New Zealand stadium.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat an addition to the city it is.\u201d<\/p>\n
CNK stars in Wahs HISTORIC victory | 01:32<\/p>\n
It is understood that the ARL Commission has a strong appetite for another NRL team in New Zealand and it is part of an international expansion strategic plan to expand the competition to a 20-team league.<\/p>\n
Fox League commentator Dan Ginnane added, \u201cThat scene in Christchurch was astonishing.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cAt a time when the game is looking at expansion, gee didn\u2019t Christchurch look good today?\u201d former NRL hooker Michael Ennis continued.<\/p>\n
While Perth and Papua New Guinea have already been confirmed as the next two entrants to the competition in 2027 and 2028, the race for the final expansion spot continues to take shape.<\/p>\n
However, if the performance from the Christchurch crowd on Sunday is anything to go by, it will keep New Zealand firmly in the conversation and at the front of the race.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe star of the show was the new ground at Christchurch. Unbelievable, insane,\u201d Matthew Johns said on Sunday Night Football with Matty Johns.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"The Bulldogs rolled the dice with a surprise halves reshuffle in Round 16, but could coach Cameron Ciraldo’s…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":751536,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[568],"tags":[64,63,761,762,158,85],"class_list":["post-751535","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-nrl","tag-au","tag-australia","tag-national-rugby-league","tag-nationalrugbyleague","tag-nrl","tag-sports"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/751535","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=751535"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/751535\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/751536"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=751535"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=751535"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=751535"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}