2014 season guide - NRLCEO

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“But what else can I say, I love Cam Smith!!” The Dentites ...... He's Ferguson, Twitter and Vodka Cruiser free and
• GURUS HINTS AND TIPS • 2013 TEAM OF THE YEAR • TOP PLAYERS BY POSITION • LEGENDS OF LEAGUE IS BACK • • TEAM PROFILES • 2013 STATISTICS • PLAYER GAINS & LOSSES • CLUB POINT SCORING ANAYSIS • BYE ANALYSIS •

NRLCEO

2014 SEASON GUIDE

400+ 16

PLAYER STATISTICS

173.2% MORE WATI

TEAM PREVIEWS

$7.95

Dear NRLCEO Coaches, Welcome back to another season of NRLCEO, but this time we have a brand new look in 2014! As many of you will agree, the old website had to be put on the scrap heap, burnt and forgotten. Enter TheBench. We have always been interested in expanding to other sports so when we first got in touch with TheBench we were excited to see the potential on a truly professional platform. Whilst the game will differ slightly, I’m sure you will all agree that the new benefits that we receive far outweigh the negatives. Keeper leagues, a new draft manager, mobile application and a cut back squad size option make for an interesting year. The new platform allows competition managers to customise even more than ever before. One of the most exciting exponents of this is in paid Leagues. If you don’t like the positions we have chosen for a player, your League Manager can change it to whatever your competition agrees on! We appreciate you buying this Season Guide. The profits of course go back into creating the best possible site for you. This year we also offer a premium paid version of the game to those who are really addicted to fantasy footy. At just $10 per club, this is the most complete and customizable fantasy draft option on the Internet. Now onto the footy. I don’t know about you, but I’m very excited about the potential for the pre-season 9’s competition in Auckland. I love big hits as much as anyone, but there’s nothing more exciting than a well completed length of the field try and I think we’ll see plenty of these in New Zealand. The NRL competition looks quite open once again. The Roosters go into the season as deserved favourites, but Bunnies fans will certainly be expecting to get to the decider in 2014 and with their roster I wouldn’t put it past them. At the other end of the table the Raiders, Titans, Tigers, Eels and Dragons will battle for the spoon.

Copyright © NRLCEO 2014 This Season Guide may not be reproduced without prior permission from the owners.

Now onto the questions that really matter this year: -

Can Ben Barba shine for the Broncos?

-

Will Corey Parker fill his boots once again?

-

Will Anthony Milford’s heart be in it for the Raiders?

-

Will Sonny Bill shine once again?

-

Will the Auckland 9’s be popular?

-

Will Sharks fans finally get to see some Grand Final action?

-

Will Israel Folau flirt with the NRL again after getting bored with Union?

-

Will Ricky Stuart last out the year? …and most importantly – who will you pick in Round 1 of your draft?

With the countdown to round one well and truly on, our attention is now solely on the initial (and arguably the most exciting) phase of NRLCEO - the Draft. Please get in touch with us at [email protected] if you have any questions or feedback. We love hearing from you - much more than those pesky Viagra emails. Good luck in the 2014 NRLCEO season and we hope you enjoy the NRLCEO Season Guide. The NRLCEO CEO

HINTS FROM THE GURUS We know a lot of this is the same as last year, but we want to prepare those that are new to NRLCEO. Here are a number of important things to do and don't do when preparing for your draft and then during the draft itself. Following these tips will have you headed in the right direction, but we cannot guarantee you a Premiership. Only the NRLCEO Gods (or former Melbourne Storm CEO Brian Waldrom) can do that.

1. DO: Know your league point scoring system. Well. This may sound fairly obvious (and it is) but you'd be surprised at how many coaches forget to look at the scoring system of their competition and choose the wrong types of players accordingly. Each paid League in NRLCEO has a customisable scoring system and if your competition does not reward try assists then there is no point picking your two favourite halfbacks/five eighths in the first three rounds. For the first time ever, in 2014, League Managers in paid Leagues will also be able to customise the positions that we have chosen for each of the players. This applies to both standard positions and kicking points.

2. DO: Get to know the NEW rules for 2014. With the change to the platform we have decided to keep the rules exactly the same as last year while everyone gets used to the new platform. One of the main difference that people will notice is that you cannot select a captain for double points this year. Hopefully we will rectify this for 2015, but for now everyone is on an even playing surface. The other thing you will notice is for the first time ever, paid League managers will be able to change the salary cap limit for kickers and will also be able to change the kicking points for each individual player. Now that’s giving you control.

3. DO: Prepare for your draft. Again, this may sound pretty obvious, but many coaches don't prepare. Some coaches might forget about the draft and print out a bunch of meaningless statistics without much thought. Lists can be your friend, but do yourself a favour and start getting your materials together about a week before your draft. Remember the 7 P’s? NRLCEO is no different!!! There is also the option of a predraft list which can be populated before your draft begins and will act as a safety net if you somehow can’t take your turn. On page 43, we’ve also included a handy print out for you to write down your players as you select them so you can check out the balance of your side.

4. DO: Draft until the final whistle. Many coaches can get distracted towards the end of a long draft and place less emphasis on the later picks. Don't be this person. Often, the later picks can be the difference between finishing in the middle of the pack and making the finals. If you can pick up a couple of great late picks you will find yourself in a stronger position. Now the question becomes, who do you pick with these late picks? Most of the players left at the end of the draft are the veterans (you know what you're getting) and the young unproven guys (sink or swim). You should make sure that you have enough veterans to cover your bench, but throw caution to the wind and pick some rookies with the rest of your picks. These are the guys that could be the difference in your competition.

5. DO: Know your League Members. This rule may not apply to all NRLCEO coaches because they may be in a public league but for those playing in a private league where they know the other coaches, this can be key. If you have known your opponents for years, then you know their tendencies. You might know that one opponent is a sucker for big name players that don't necessarily do well in NRLCEO. Another tip is if you all do your draft together it’s a good idea to bring some beers to the draft. It's a guarantee that at least one guy will get distracted making it easier for you to draft the squad you want!!!

HINTS FROM THE GURUS Sure, you can do what you like. This is your game, your way, so you certainly don't need to listen to us, but having developed the game and played competitively against ourselves for 10 years now we think we know our stuff. Hopefully a few of our insights will help you in your drafts.

1. DON'T: Place too much emphasis on the goal kicker. Ok, so goal kickers are crucial players in NRLCEO and can rack up a majority of your points throughout a season, but you don't want to place all your eggs in one basket. If you are in the first three picks, sure have a crack. Don't be concerned if the first five teams select their goal kickers straight up in the draft. There are plenty of great goal kickers in the NRL and the generic NRLCEO rules allow a first choice goal kicker to always be available, even if your kicker gets injured throughout the year. Yes, you want a good kicker, but there are plenty of good ones out there!

Rookies are unknown quantities and they certainly don't always work out. They may only get minimal minutes, games, or even not play at all. If you take this advice and your rookie selection doesn't pan out to be a good one, at least you didn’t select him too early in the draft and sacrifice the opportunity to get a solid player. To help you out with your Rookies, take a look at page six of this Guide for a run down on the National Youth Competition graduates and their chances of getting game time in First Grade this season.

4. DON'T: Take the draw into consideration when drafting. Often people will over analyse the NRL draw and decide against picking certain players because they are playing a few tough games early in the season. Of more importance is taking a look at our Bye Analysis later in this Guide when selecting your backup players. To help you out we have analysed which teams share two Byes, and therefore giving you an idea of which teams to steer clear of.

2. DON'T: Get caught up in a position run.

5. DON'T: Get sucked in by the reputation.

Position runs happen in every draft. That is when a coach takes a star centre (or any position for that matter), and everyone else in the competition follows suit so as not to miss out. You don't want to give in to a position run. You want to be the one to start the position run. Ask yourself: “Do I want the third best front rower or the best of another position…..”

Example 1: Kieran Foran. Fantastic player. Often wins man of the match. Ordinary NRLCEO player.

3. DON'T: Take your rookies too early.

The moral of this story is that just because a player is a fantastic NRL player, it doesn't automatically translate to NRLCEO stardom. Do your research and think about how the rules apply to particular players. While Foran might have set up the two winning tries of the game and won Man of the Match he may only get 4 points. David Williams on the other hand may have benefitted from those two balls and scored two tries with two line breaks equaling 10 points.

Rookies can often be everyone's favourite draft picks. Will you be the one to claim the rookie that goes on rack up the points in his maiden season? Everyone has their list of rookies that they have seen or read about and is 'destined to be the next best thing'. Some people become a little too nervous about missing out on their rookies so they take them four or five rounds too early.

Example 2: Sam Kasiano. Strong, explosive runner. Unfortunately his stats do not often equate to Work Horse points.

You do the math.

2013 CHAMPIONS LEAGUE WRAP BY THE SKIN OF THEIR TEETH

Other notables to enter the 2014 Champions League are:

The Champions League is the most prestigious NRLCEO public competition made up of qualifiers from the Legends of League competitions. It pits the best of the best against each other in a no holds barred grudge competition. Briggsy’s Dentites had to fight tooth and nail but eventually, were crowned the 2013 Champion of Champions after a hard fought Grand Final victory over The Clyde Frowgs.

“The boys stepped up all season in particular, James Graham and Nigel Plum! Ryan James was also epic for me throughout the finals series.”



Team Enormous (3rd in 2012)



The Fighting Mongooses (5th in 2013)



You Know It Gurus (Minor Premiers in 2012, 3rd in 2013)

Competition

Champion

Mal Meninga

Gosford Goblins

Andrew Johns

The Fighting Mongooses

Allan Langer

Briggsy’s Dentites*

Ruben Wiki

Fantasy Kings

Reg Gasnier

Rock Hudson Poofters*

Peter Sterling

Howick’s Hard Men

Johnny Raper

Sydney Cybermen

“But what else can I say, I love Cam Smith!!”

Graeme Langlands

AussiePistons

The Dentites will now go on to try and defend their title against some more serious competition most notably their Allan Langer adversary the Wallalong Emus. These two teams have a 3 year bitter history of sledging each other and this battle alone will make the competition an exciting one!

Clive Churchill

Smash Em

Bob Fulton

The Clyde Frowgs

Artie Beetson

Slapheads

Wally Lewis

You Know It Gurus*

As a testament to their consistent season, the Dentites managed to secure the minor premiership, just in front of You Know It Gurus and The Clyde Frowgs. 2012 Champion, The Bucca Bulldogs failed to make an impression on the leading teams and bowed out of contention early as did 2012 runner up, Smash Em.

Smith, who was drafted straight up by the Dentites showed just why he is regarded as NRLCEO royalty, getting the Dentites home time after time.

The Bucca Bulldogs (2012 Champion)

2013 LEGENDS OF LEAGUE COMPETITORS

Throughout the season, the Dentites remained a very consistent team and, in a game that relies on a certain amount of luck, the team from North Queensland remained relatively injury free to claim the title.

The guru coach of the Dentites was ecstatic with the victory and denied being a one man team on the back of captain/kicker, Cam Smith.



* Denotes NRLCEO Gurus (The Original Owners/Creators)

2014 LEGENDS OF LEAGUE THE RETURN OF THE LEGENDS Due to technical glitches in 2013, the Legends of League competition was vastly reduced, but have no fear; in 2014 it’s back bigger and better ever!

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

The new platform on TheBench caters exactly for competitions like the Legends of League. This year, the Legends of League Tournament has been developed to make it an even more exciting competition to be involved in. This tournament will be run utilising a promotion and relegation system with 3 tiers of competitions. Each tier will have the same set of rules and scoring system and at the end of the season, a number of successful teams will be promoted while some strugglers will be relegated. Below is an outline of each ‘Tier’ of Competition with a diagram on the next page explaining it even further. The Top Tier is the Champions League Competition where 8 victorious Legends of League teams will vie for the honour of becoming the ultimate Champion of Champions. The winner each year will be automatically invited to defend their title, the following year. The Second Tier is made up of 6 Legends of League Competitions where 8 teams in each competition will compete for a solitary position in the Champions League. The four lowest ranked teams will be relegated while the remainder will be invited back the following year for another shot with the champion obviously defending their title.

LEGENDS OF LEAGUE (Winner Promoted to CL, bottom 6 relegated to Qualifying)

Wally Lewis

Andrew Johns

Clive Churchill

Allan Langer

Arthur Beetson

Mal Meninga

QUALIFYING LEAGUES (Top 4 promoted to Legends of League)

Anthony Milford

106 PLACES

Sam Irwin

David Nofoaluma

3 TIERS OF PROMOTION & RELEGATION

Luke Brooks

$10 ENTRY

George Burgess

Ngani Laumape

TROPHIES

NRL JERSEY

FOR EACH COMP

FOR OVERALL CHAMPION

The Third Tier is made up of six Rookie Promotion Competitions. Each of these have been named after potential superstars of tomorrow.

For 2014 only, entry into the Second Tier will only be available to previous participants, but the Qualifying Leagues will be open to everyone.

In each of these competitions, all four finalists will progress to the Legends of League Competitions where they will take on seasoned NRLCEO Coaches.

The entry fee for coaches to enter Legends of League Competitions (Tier 2) and Rookie Promotion Competitions (Tier 3) is $10 per team.

Mitch Delamotte www.nycreport.com.au

THE NYC GRADUATES Last year’s Holden Cup fantasy bolters was one of our more popular articles, so it's back again!

HALF BACK - Do I need to write anything more about the Tigers’ Luke Brooks (picture below)? People have heaped too much praise on this kid already. Tigers fans could turn on him the second he strings two bad performances together in the NRL but he is a class and a half above the Holden Cup. He does have the talent to see the whole season out and I would expect to see some pick and stick, he is the Tigers future.

The following is a list of players you should keep an eye on, not just in round 1, but as injuries hit and during the Origin period. FULLBACKS - Zac Santo would surely have a decent shot coming into 2014, provided he has a great pre-season he should see some trial games and then the rest is up to him. Watching Santo play you get the sense he is all heart and a player that coaches like to coach, I wouldn't expect him to set the fantasy world on fire but he could very well be a handy little squad player if he gets his chance. Clinton Gutherson is the young Manly fullback is behind a Manly legend who is aging and has had considerable injuries for a few years now. Brett Stewart could easily be in 2014 State of Origin or the injury ward. Gutherson will be the backup and the likely heir to the full back jersey when Stewart retires. Kieron Moss (Panthers, pictured below) was my Holden Cup fullback of the year. He is likely to spend the year in reserve grade but Moss is a fullback in the Billy Slater type mould, in that he always pops up in the exact right position at the exact right time. Moss’ intuition and positioning is great to watch and he will finish of tries in the NRL if he gets the chance.

@nycreportleague

WINGERS & CENTRES – At the Bulldogs, John Sila (pictured above) scored 23 tries in 11 games. I don't need to go on do I? Well just in case... This guy is big! Really, really big! He will have the Tuiaki effect on the bulldogs when he gets his shot. Charli Runciman has already seen some NRL game time like a few Holden Cup stars. He didn't turn too many heads in his first couple of games but this kid has the skills to be a very fine NRL player. Runciman doesn't get lazy and just use his size advantage in the Holden Cup like many players. He has the skill to put his winger away for plenty of tries. He will be a centre of mine in season 2014. FIVE-EIGHTH - Samsioni Langi starred in the Roosters side that made it far deeper into the finals than I had predicted, obviously he is behind some great halves, but if Origin selectors stay true to form he should see some game time during the representative period. Another Bulldog, Moses Mbye is a skillful talent who starred for the Queensland 20's origin side last year. He can put a player away and should get plenty of fantasy points. A nice step with some impressive speed, if Mbye gets his chance he will put some points of the board for you. I'm not sure where he fits in at the Bulldogs.

Canberra always have a strong Holden Cup side and to be perfectly honest a host of players could step up into the NRL side. I can't remember the last time the Raiders had a stand out half, so Mitch Cornish could definitely have a crack at the position. He’ll get some game time, but one to keep an eye on him for 2015 perhaps. Speaking gap year Holden Cup stars, last year I recommended keeping an eye on Luke Keary. The Souths half could find himself being brought on slowly in 2014, do not dismiss!

Mitch Delamotte www.nycreport.com.au

THE NYC GRADUATES

@nycreportleague

HOOKERS

BACK ROWERS

Michael Lichaa (pictured below) is the heir to the throne of the number 9 jersey at Cronulla, although he started last year slowly after an injury, Lichaa has a stack of rep honors and will look to make the Hooker spot his own this year. He will probably be in a two man hooker squad sadly, so minutes will be halved.

Bryce Cartwright (pictured below) was the Holden Cup player of the year. Unlucky to miss out on 20's Origin, Cartwright at times seemed bored with running through, around and over the top of his opponents. He also has great hands and looks made for NRL already. I suspect the Panthers are taking it slow with him however. Trust in Gus! Look out for his name and when he pops up on the team sheet grab him.

Keep another eye on the name Craig Garvey, he will be a handy investment. Probably second on the pecking order at the Dragons however their hooking role hasn't exactly been nailed down. Garvey is a good all round player, however I could see him being used in a two hooker system, which again, hurts points.

Brendan Santi was my favourite Tigers player, a heart and soul leader and also now and Italian international. Santi has moved to Parramatta for an NRL contract. He has the talent for a bench spot early on in the season but we will need to watch his trial form. FRONT ROWERS Matty Johns announced his love for Jake Trbojevic (pictured above) after his NRL debut with Manly, and I've been loving this young prop all year. Hardcore Manly fans were keeping very quiet about him! He should see close to 24 NRL games this year. He will get better and better! If you are in a keeper league, I'd put him down as a keeper. Trbojevic is my one tip to people this year. The best thing about putting a Storm player in this list is that they are so well coached, so if Matthew Lodge does get a crack he won't let you down! When was the last storm player to be a massive flop? The big front rower had a storming Origin game, the biggest stage of the year for an unlucky Storm side. Surely he will see some bench time in 2014 at the least.

Corey Oates has already seen NRL like a few of this year list. Oates is likely to be a consistent scorer fantasy wise. He is a Maroons player at Holden Cup level and a class above most back rowers at that level. Oates was a part of a dynamic back row in the Holden Cup last year, his partner Timu (originally made this list) who has gone on a Mormon mission will be missed. Oates is a mature young player and should he do a fine job.

Top Players from 2013

NRLCEO Team of 2013 # 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

Name Billy Slater David Simmons Michael Jennings Jamie Lyon David Williams James Maloney Shaun Johnson Andrew Fifita Cameron Smith Sam Burgess Matt Gillett Sonny Bill Williams Corey Parker

Club Storm Panthers Roosters Sea Eagles Sea Eagles Roosters Warriors Sharks Storm Rabbitohs Broncos Roosters Broncos

GAMES 22 24 23 24 23 24 24 23 21 20 22 21 22

TRIES 17 19 17 14 19 9 10 8 2 8 7 8 2

GLS

FG

40/20

3

1 3

WH

DWH

20 19 16 13 9 22

5 6

77 97 67 81

10

1 10

TA 8 5 6 10 2 18 15 10 1 4 7 1

LB 25 25 15 8 22 15 10 6 4 14 7 12 3

LBA 12 1 8 15 3 16 16 1 10 1 4 12 1

SB

1

Overall Points* 117 112 103 99 (253) 105 104 (298) 102 (236) 139 142 (304) 109 103 106 142 (162)

Points in this guide are: Try=4 | Work Horse=4 | Double Work Horse=4 | Field Goal=1 | Try Assist = 2 | Line Break = 1 | Line Break Assist = 1 | Sin Bin = -4 | Sent Off = -6 (Brackets include Conversion/Penalty Kicking Points)

Top Players from 2013 Player B. Slater G. Inglis B. Stewart D. Boyd B. Barba

FULLBACKS Team TR MLB 17 STH 14 MAN 8 STI 10 BRS 10

TA 8 10 16 12 4

LB 25 13 12 108 11

TOTAL 117 96 89 83 64

Player J. Maloney J. Reynolds T. Carney J. Mullen J. Sutton

FIVE EIGHTHS Team TR TA SYD 9 18 CNT 9 13 CRO 2 20 NEW 2 19 STH 6 7

LB 15 12 4 4 8

TOTAL 104 82 67 61 60

Player D. Simmons D. Williams J. Taufua J. McManus M. Vatuvei N. Merritt J. Hoffman S. Perrett D. Tupou M. Brown

Team PEN MAN MAN NEW NZL STH BRS CNT SYD CNT

WINGERS TR TA 19 5 19 2 18 1 19 2 16 5 14 4 15 3 17 0 12 3 12 2

LB 25 22 29 20 15 18 16 11 17 15

TOTAL 112 105 104 100 91 86 83 79 71 70

Player S. Johnson A. Kelly M. Pearce J. Thurston D. Ch-Evans

HALF BACKS Team TR NZL 10 GLD 11 SYD 5 NQL 2 MAN 10

TA 15 11 19 21 10

LBA 16 7 17 19 10

TOTAL 102 82 81 80 80

Team SYD MAN MLB NZL NQL NEW BRS WST MAN NQL

CENTRES TR 17 14 11 13 13 11 7 12 11 9

LB 15 8 13 14 14 11 11 12 11 4

TOTAL 103 99 76 74 70 69 68 66 65 60

Player C. Smith R. Farah J. Friend A. McCullough M. Ballin

Team MLB WST SYD BRS MAN

HOOKERS TR 2 1 6 3 2

WH 19 15 18 18 22

TA 10 14 7 5 1

TOTAL 142 131 123 114 107

Player M. Jennings J. Lyon W. Chambers K. Hurrell A. Winterstein BJ Leilua J. Reed T. Simona S. Matai B. Tate

Player J. Maloney A. Reynolds J. Lyon C. Smith A. Sezer J. Thurston S. Johnson

Team SYD STH MAN MLB GLD NQL NZL

KICKERS Goals 108 100 89 84 75 68 67

TA 6 10 8 1 2 4 10 2 5 7

Attempts 124 111 128 113 88 94 89

% 87.1 90.0 69.5 74.3 85.2 75.5 75.2

Player C. Parker S. Burgess S. Williams M. Gillett A. Watmough R. Rochow L. Fulton S. Thaiday B. Cordner S. Mannering E. Taylor R. Hoffman S. Fensom P. Gallen R. Hinchcliffe

BACK ROW Team TR BRS 2 STH 8 SYD 8 BRS 7 MAN 3 NEW 2 WST 2 BRS 2 SYD 9 NZL 4 PEN 7 MLB 4 CNB 0 CRO 2 MLB 3

WH 22 16 9 13 18 18 20 19 10 16 13 13 17 13 14

DWH 10 0 0 1 2 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 2 3 0

TOTAL 142 109 106 103 99 97 96 91 90 90 90 85 78 77 75

Player A. Fifita T. Merrin A. Woods J. Graham A. Tolman N. Myles J. McGuire B. Hannant L. Douglas G. Burgess J. W-H’greaves J. Bromwich T. Grant

FRONT ROW Team TR WH CRO 8 20 STI 1 16 WST 2 15 CNT 2 15 CNT 1 17 GLD 0 18 BRS 1 15 BRS 1 13 GLD 0 16 STH 7 8 SYD 1 15 MLB 5 10 PEN 0 13

DWH 5 3 4 2 1 1 3 3 1 0 1 0 1

TOTAL 125 89 88 87 79 78 76 74 73 70 68 65 57

Top Players from 2013 TOP 10 WORK HORSES 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

Avg

Tot

Corey Parker

1

1

1

1

2

2

1

2

2

1

1

-

2

1

-

2

1

-

2

2

1

2

1

1

2

1.45

32

Andrew Fifita

1

1

1

1

2

0

1

1

1

1

2

-

1

0

-

1

1

-

2

2

2

1

1

1

1

0

1.09

25

Cameron Smith

1

0

1

1

1

1

1

2

2

2

1

-

1

2

-

1

1

1

0

1

2

1.1

23

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

2

-

1

1

1

1

0

1

1

0

1

1

0.96

23

Liam Fulton

1

1

1

1

-

1

1

1

1

0

-

1

1

-

1

1

1

1

1

1

2

1

1

21

1

1

1

1

1

1

2

1

1

-

1

1

1

2

1

0

1

1

1

1

21

1

0

1

1

0

0

2

2

1

1

0

-

1

1

0

-

1

1

0

Andrew McCullough

1

1

1

Sam Thaiday

1

1

1

0

1

1

1

Matt Ballin

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

0

0.83

20

Anthony Watmough

1

1

1

1

1

1

2

1

1

2

1

-

1

1

-

1

1

1

1

0

1

0

0

1

0

1

1

0

1

1

1

2

-

1

1

-

1

0

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

20

0

1

0.95

Kevin Kingston

1

0

0.83

20

Aaron Woods

0

1

1

1

2

1

2

1

2

1

2

-

2

1

-

1

1

-

1

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1.25

20

TOP 10 TRY SCORERS 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

Avg

Tot

David Simmons

0

1

2

0

0

0

2

0

2

1

0

-

1

2

-

0

2

2

0

0

1

1

2

0

0

0

0.79

19

David Williams

1

0

0

2

0

0

1

0

0

2

0

-

0

1

1

1

0

2

3

0

0

3

2

0.83

19

2

0

1

0

0

2

0

1

1

2

1

0

James McManus

1

0

0

-

4

1

0

1

0

0

0

2

0.83

19

0

3

2

0

2

0

0

1

0

0

0

-

0

1

-

0

3

1

0

2

0

Jorge Taufua

1

0

1

1

18

1

0

0

3

0

0

1

1

0

0

0

-

1

1

-

0

0

-

1

2

0

1

3

0.77

17

Michael Jennings

0

0

0

1

0

1

2

2

1

0

1

0

0

1

0

2

2

1

0

0

0.74

17

1

1

0

0

0

2

2

1

0

0

0

0

0

0

1

3

1

0

0

0.71

17

0

3

2

1

1

1

2

0

1

-

0

0

0

3

1

0.84

16

0

0

1

1

1

0

2

1

0

0

1

0

0

0

0.63

15

0

1

0

2

0

0

-

-

0

0

2

0

-

1

1

0

-

2

0

Kevin Gordon

1

1

2

2

0

0

1

0

1

0

0

0

Josh Hoffman

1

0

1

Manu Vatuvei

1

3

1

0

0

2

Sam Perrett

1

0

2

0.82

Billy Slater

0

1

0

3

1

0

0

0

0.68

15

Top 100 from 2013 Rank

Name

2013

Rank

1

Cameron Smith

142

26

2

Corey Parker

142

27

Name

2013

Rank

Liam Fulton

96

51

Sam Thaiday

91

52

2013

Rank

Cooper Cronk

77

76

Steve Matai

65

Paul Gallen

77

77

Jesse Bromwich

65

Ben Barba

64

Name

Name

2013

3

Andrew Fifita

139

28

Manu Vatuvei

91

53

Will Chambers

76

78

4

Robbie Farah

131

29

Boyd Cordner

90

54

Josh McGuire

76

79

Josh Papalii

64

5

Jake Friend

123

30

Simon Mannering

90

55

Ryan Hinchcliffe

75

80

David Mead

64

6

Billy Slater

117

31

Elijah Taylor

90

56

Konrad Hurrell

74

81

Anthony Milford

64

7

Andrew McCullough

114

32

Trent Merrin

89

57

Mitch Rein

74

82

Bryson Goodwin

62

8

David Simmons

112

33

Brett Stewart

89

58

Ben Hannant

74

83

Luke Lewis

62

9

Sam Burgess

109

34

Nathan Friend

89

59

Gavin Cooper

73

84

Dean Whare

61

10

Matt Ballin

107

35

Aaron Woods

88

60

Chris Houston

73

85

Jarrod Mullen

61

11

Sonny Bill Williams

106

36

James Graham

87

61

Luke Douglas

73

86

Blake Ferguson

60

12

Isaac Luke

106

37

Nathan Merritt

86

62

Daniel Tupou

71

87

John Sutton

60

13

David Williams

105

38

Josh Reynolds

86

63

George Burgess

70

88

Mitch Aubusson

60

14

Mick Ennis

105

39

Ryan Hoffman

85

64

Antonio Winterstein

70

89

Brent Tate

60

15

James Maloney

104

40

Josh Hoffman

83

65

Kevin Gordon

70

90

Jayson Bukuya

60

16

Jorge Taufua

104

41

Darius Boyd

83

66

Mitch Brown

70

91

Ashley Harrison

60

17

Matt Gillett

103

42

Albert Kelly

82

67

Adam Reynolds

69

92

Tyrone Roberts

58

18

Michael Jennings

103

43

Mitch Pearce

81

68

BJ Leilua

69

93

Kane Linnett

58

Josh Jackson

58

19

Kevin Kingston

103

44

Johnathan Thurston

80

69

Jack Reed

68

94

20

Shaun Johnson

102

45

Daly Cherry-Evans

80

70

Sisa Waqa

68

95

Justin Horo

57

21

James McManus

100

46

Aiden Tolman

79

71

Jared W-Hargreaves

68

96

Brett Morris

57

22

Jamie Lyon

99

47

Sam Perrett

79

72

Akuila Uate

68

97

Jarryd Hayne

57

23

Anthony Watmough

99

48

James Segeyaro

79

73

Todd Carney

67

98

Tim Grant

57

24

Robbie Rochow

97

49

Nate Myles

78

74

Joseph Paulo

66

99

Tohu Harris

56

25

Greg Inglis

96

50

Shaun Fensom

78

75

Tim Simona

66

100

Shaun Kenny-Dowall

56

BRONCOS TWO MANY FULLBACKS All the pre-season talk surrounds new recruit Ben Barba but is he the man to get the Broncos back to where their fans demand – top 4 and title contenders?

0%

73 TRIES

No one will deny the fullback’s extraordinary capabilities on the field but after a tumultuous start to the 2013, the livewire custodian has struggled to keep his head above water ever since. In a surprising move and perhaps one smelling a bit like desperation, Captain Sam Thaiday has been stood down with Corey Parker and Justin Hodges given the co-captain role. “Letting Sam concentrate on just playing harder” is the reason cited for the change. The only thing Parker won’t be doing this season is driving the team bus it would seem…. 2014 will be sink or swim for Broncos coach, Anthony Griffin. His recruitment plan has been somewhat of a head scratcher with the Broncos strong pack bolstered and the inside backs almost non-existent! The halves is where the Bronco mystery unfolds as out go halves Peter Wallace, Scott Prince and Corey Norman and in comes….well….no one. The Broncos banked heavily on the signing of Anthony Milford and failed. That speed bump in recruitment still means that the Broncos can’t afford to bypass 2014 and look to 2015 when Milford will arrive – the pressure to perform is on.

PIGS

50%

12

8

3

10

BACKS

Attack v Defence

Premiership Odds: $17 Premierships: Six Bye Rounds: 14 & 18

100%

SQUAD CHANGES:

111

2014 Gains: Ben Barba (Bulldogs), Martin Kennedy (Roosters), Todd Lowrie (Warriors), Stewart Mills (Sharks), Daniel Vidot (Dragons), Marmin Barba (Titans)

WORK HORSE

The addition of Ben Barba to the roster has caused some grief for Josh Hoffman and the obvious question is how Barba is going to score tries running off the apparent lack of halves. The answer to that question revolves heavily around Ben Hunt and whether he can turn glimpses of brilliance into week to week consistency. For the NRLCEO Coach, the forwards will once again be a goldmine with Hannant, McGuire, Thaiday, Parker, McCullough and Gillett all heavy workers. The backrowers in particular love sniffing around for a try off a flat pass at the line. There’s plenty of draft value there. In the backs, Barba will have NRLCEO coaches in two minds. It’ll be a case of proceed with caution as many were burned in 2013 with an early Barba pick up in the draft. If Josh Hoffman ends up on a wing he is more value than he is at the back – that’s if he stays! Overall, it is anticipated that the Broncos preseason will be spent reinvigorating their scoring capabilities in 2014. The Broncos forwards appear to be where it is at but will the signings of Kennedy and Lowrie impact on any of the rep players’ minutes? Only time will tell….

2014 Losses: Scott Anderson (Wakefield), Corey Norman (Eels), Scott Prince (Retired), Lama Tasi (Salford), Peter Wallace (Panthers), Dunamis Lui (Sea Eagles), Kurt Baptiste (Raiders)

BEST LINE-UP

BRONCOS 2013 STATISTICS Player

Position(s)

GAMES

TRIES

GOALS

Corey Parker Andrew McCullough Matt Gillett Sam Thaiday Josh Hoffman Josh McGuire Ben Hannant Jack Reed Ben Barba Todd Lowrie Dan Vidot Justin Hodges Corey Oates Alex Glenn Martin Kennedy Lachlan Maranta Ben Hunt Jordan Kahu David Stagg Mitch Dodds Stewart Mills Nick Slyney Jordan Drew David Hala Jharal Yow Yeh

BR, (KP 7) HK CT, BR BR, FR FB, WG FR FR CT FB, FE BR WG, CT CT CT BR FR WG HB FB BR FR WG BR WG FR WG

22 24 22 21 24 19 16 21 16 21 15 14 9 20 15 18 23 10 14 11 5 4 1 13 0

2 3 7 2 15 1 1 7 10

10

HOT!

FG

40/20

WH

DWH

TA

LB

LBA

22 18 13 19

10 2 1 2

1 5 4

3 5 7 3 16 1 2 11 11

1 7 4

15 13

12 9 6 8 2 2 5 2 4 1 1 1 1 1

Yep – it’s humble pie for us! Last year we crucified him after a disappointing 2012 season, but in true Queensland style, Corey Parker stepped up and showed exactly what he is capable of in 2013. His form was so exquisite that he forced his way into the QLD and Australian teams and like a fine wine, Parker seems to be getting better with age.

3 3

3 1 1 10 4 1 1 7 1

7 5 3 2 1 1

1

9 6 9 3 2 6 2 3 2 1 1 1

SB

1 1 1 2 9 5 1 6

1

1

2 1 6

1

1

In 2013, he scored tries at will on the wing but he wasn’t happy about it! Fast forward to 2014 and Josh Hoffman has indicated that he wants to play at fullback – or nothing! With the signing of Ben Barba, this may not be possible and consequently the disgruntled Hoffman’s stats are set decline. Make no mistake – he is a great player – but is he happy?

TOTAL 162 114 103 91 83 76 74 68 64 51 47 46 43 41 31 26 22 19 14 9 8 5 4 3 0

NOT!

BULLDOGS IN THE DOG HOUSE The Bulldogs 2013 did not go to script. Infighting among players, cover-up of off field incidents, their saviour and CEO leaving midseason and their star prop missing the first 8 weeks translated to below average performances on the field. Coach Des Hasler will be glad to get season 2013 behind him and also gone are many of the ‘distractions’ which brought their campaign to a sudden halt. The Bulldogs have been very quiet in the player market despite being linked to every fullback who has laced on a boot – in league and union! Josh Morris filled in admirably for the absent Ben Barba last season and did the job with ease. He appears to be the man for the fulltime gig which opens up a centre position for Tim Lafai – a player who looks classy when given space. Other than the fullback position, the Bulldogs have a look of sameness about them and if last year is anything to go by, they will struggle to score points without Barba. For the NRLCEO coach, the Bulldogs don’t seem as attractive as they have in the past. Forwards, James Graham, Aiden Tolman and Captain Ennis clock up the big minutes and stats but the rest of the pack are made up of big bodies who get rotated to preserve their freshness.

0%

95 TRIES

PIGS

50%

BACKS

Attack v Defence

6

1

9

13

100%

70 WORK HORSE

In the backs, all are capable but none look like they are 16+ a season try scorers. Sam Perrett loves scoring his tries in doubles so it’s a case of all or nothing for him. Overall, the Bulldogs look likely to struggle to score big points meaning sharp shooter Hodkinson may not be the value he was in 2013. Josh Reynolds is a worthy 5/8 draft choice as he loves to test the line with his strong running game. He sets up plenty of tries and after a taste of representative football in 2013 he will look to have a stronger season this year. Any NRLCEO coach who drafts Tony Williams deserves immediate competition expulsion followed by public beating – the bloke is a walking pillow and if he wasn’t on plenty of coin, he’d be turning out in the NSW Cup each week…. Sam Kasiano will once again frustrate many. He is powerful and explosive, but carrying over 120kg’s means he rarely reaches the number required for a work horse.

Premiership Odds: $12 Premierships: Eight Bye Rounds: 12 & 16

SQUAD CHANGES: 2014 Gains: Damien Cook (Dragons), Reni Maitua (Eels), Pat O’Hanlon (Eels), Chase Stanley (Dragons) 2014 Losses: Ben Barba (Broncos), Danny Galea (Widnes), Dene Halatau (Tigers), Kris Keating (Hull), Martin Tapau (Tigers)

BEST LINE-UP

BULLDOGS 2013 STATISTICS Player

Position(s)

Trent Hodkinson Mick Ennis James Graham Josh Reynolds Aiden Tolman Sam Perrett Mitch Brown Krisnan Inu Josh Jackson Chase Stanley Tim Lafai Josh Morris Tony Williams Reni Maitua Dale Finucane Frank Pritchard Sam Kasiano Greg Eastwood Drury Low Pat O'Hanlon Tim Browne Joel Romelo David Klemmer Lachlan Burr Jon Talioe Sila

HB (KP 7) HK FR FE FR WG WG CT (KP 1) BR CT (KP 1) WG FB, CT BR BR BR BR FR BR WG FR BR, FR HK, FE FR BR WG

HOT!

GAMES

TRIES

GOALS

FG

19 24 17 22 24 24 23 17 24 21 15 21 22 23 24 18 12 18 4 9 14 2 4 1 0

4 4 2 9 1 17 12 5 2 2 7 5 5 1 1 3 3 1

63

3

40/20

WH

DWH

17 15

2

17

1

2

9 10 15 1

Last year we bagged him as he missed the first third of the season but when he finally got onto the field, he was epic. Pommy prop James Graham is a man mountain in the middle of the ruck and loves tackling and taking two hit ups every set – NRLCEO heaven for his coach! Watch for Graham to once again demonstrate his tremendous engine.

1 3 6 1

TA

LB

LBA

9 5 2 13

3 2 3 12 1 11 15 8 1 4 8 7 6 6 3 2 4 2 1

5 9 4 10 2

2 4 3 4 6 10 2 3 2 1 1 1

SB

3 8 3 5 4 5 5 6 2 2 1 1

1 1

He’s humungous, a damaging runner and can hit like a freight train – in his dreams! Tony Williams has been nothing but a passenger since he arrived at the Dogs and fans must be wondering where the International from the Sea Eagles went. In 2014, look for ‘T-Rex’ to sit on the pine for longer lengths of time!

TOTAL 171 105 87 86 79 79 70 62 58 55 54 52 39 34 31 24 20 9 4 4 2 0 0 0 0

NOT!

COWBOYS MANGO DROUGHT Despite making the finals on the back of an impressive winning streak, the Cowboys season failed to reach the heights that many predicted. With one of the best and most versatile squads on paper, the Cowboy’s deficiency in the hooker position really impacted negatively on the first half of their season. With new coach Paul Green at the helm, the Cowboys have an air of uncertainty about them again in 2014. Losing favourite son Matty Bowen will be hard for many to come to grips with and much will depend on how Lachlan Coote fills those considerably sized boots. Cowboy’s management has moved to rectify the troublesome dummy half position with former Australian schoolboy Cameron King signed from the Dragons. If he can remain fit, he will slot in nicely to deputise for Ray Thompson who was a revelation in the back half of the season, scoring NRLCEO points at will. For the NRLCEO coach, if the Cowboys have a good season, then it will be once again off the back of the inspirational Johnathan Thurston. The Cowboys represent NRLCEO value across the park. In the forwards, the likes of Scott, Tamou, Cooper and Riethmuller all work hard when on the field. Their impact players such as Tariq Sims and Jason Taumalolo may win you the odd game with a two try burst, but their consistency will leave you frustrated.

0%

88

PIGS

50%

6

7

15

BACKS

Attack v Defence

TRIES

5

100%

75 WORK HORSE

Premiership Odds: $13 Premierships: Nil Bye Rounds: 14 & 18

SQUAD CHANGES: 2014 Gains: Lachlan Coote (Panthers), Cameron King (Dragons), Hezron Murgha (Northern Pride) 2014 Losses: Matt Bowen (Wigan), Dallas Johnson (Retired), Ashley Graham (Retired), Jayden Hodges (Sea Eagles), Chris Grevsmuhl (Rabbitohs), Kalifa Faifai Loa (Titans)

In the backs, Linnett, Winterstein and Tate are always up for a pie but none will be top try scorer in 2014. The real smokey lies with whoever gets the right wing position vacated by Ash Graham. Whether it be Kyle Feldt, Wayne Ulugia or some other Neville Nobody, expect that man to score plenty as has been the norm in recent seasons. Johnathan Thurston won’t let you down in the halves. He should be expected to score around the 80-100 points before conversions. Overall, much of the Cowboys value rests with Coach Green’s style of play. Coming from the Roosters may mean that the Cowboys will blend a tough defensive attitude with a certain freedom to run the ball in attack. All in all, an exciting brand of rugby league. However, like the Bulldogs, much will depend on how the Cows cover the loss of their diminutive but pivotal attacking weapon at the back…. We will miss you Mango!

BEST LINE-UP

COWBOYS 2013 STATISTICS Player

Position(s)

GAMES

TRIES

GOALS

FG

Johnathan Thurston Gavin Cooper Antonio Winterstein Brent Tate Kane Linnett Matt Scott James Tamou Ray Thompson Robert Lui Tariq Sims Joel Riethmuller Glenn Hall Wayne Ulugia Clint Greenshields Ashton Sims Rory Kostjasyn Michael Morgan Kyle Feldt Lachlan Coote Scott Bolton Jason Taumalolo Ethan Lowe Cameron King Anthony Mitchell

HB (KP 7) BR CT CT CT FR FR HK HB BR BR FR WG FB, WG FR BR FE WG (KP 1) FB BR BR BR HK (KP 1) HB, HK

21 21 23 22 24 21 21 19 15 22 11 24 3 6 17 19 9 3 7 17 13 2 11 4

2 7 13 9 9

68

1

HOT!

3 7 4

40/20

WH

TA

LB

LBA

21

10 9 14 4 8 1 3 1 5 3 2 3 3 3

19

9 2 7 4 13 12 7 5 4 8 3

2 5 3

1 1 5 2

3 5 4

2 3 1 2 1 1

DWH

3 1

He’s back! For the first half of 2013, Gavin Cooper was playing minimal minutes and providing little impact off the bench. Then suddenly, Neil Henry when back to the tried and tested structure on the Cows left side and they once again looked dangerous! In 2014, we won’t get sick of the Thurston to Cooper short ball.

1 3 4 1

1 3 1

SB

6 6 2 2 2 4 1

1 2 4 3 2

4 2

A new coach means that there is some serious risk in predicting the style of football that the Cowboys will play in 2014. The loss of Matty Bowen should theoretically mean that the wingers will be less productive. Bowen was the man with the last pass more often than not – can Coote fill the same role? We don’t think so.

TOTAL 216 73 70 60 58 55 55 47 57 40 34 23 23 22 20 20 19 18 15 10 8 12 2 0

NOT!

DRAGONS RED V SPENDING SPREE After a very lean season, the Dragon’s fans are calling for blood and Coach Steve Price must be under no illusions – perform or be the first sacked in 2014. In his favour though, is the recruitment by Dragons management and Price finally has a squad that he can claim as his own – well and truly out of the shadow of Uncle Wayne. After a year where the Dragons failed to breathe fire into their season, a number of loyal servants are now gone but there is a lot to like about the new recruits. The halves have rightly been identified as a problem area and new recruits Sam Williams and Gareth Widdop will be the men entrusted with the job of igniting a mostly new look backline where only Morris, Nightingale and Dugan remain. Following the spending spree, there now appears to be an abundance of depth in Dragon problem areas and the competition for starting positions should bode well for this season. If Kyle Stanley can stay injury free, then Price will have some nice selection headaches each week. However, Dragons critics can’t be entirely happy with front rowers a little scarce in the squad. Captain Ben Creagh looks set for a big 2014 doing the hard yards in the middle and his numbers were impressive late last season. Dan Hunt will also carry plenty of workload with new Pom Mike Cooper likely to join the rotation off the bench.

0%

64 TRIES

PIGS

14

9

5

1

50%

BACKS

Attack v Defence

100%

58 WORK HORSE

When looking at the Dragon’s squad, one gets the feeling that if the Dragons are to defy the odds and be successful in 2014, they need a vacant injury ward of forwards. For the NRLCEO Coach, Trent Merrin is a star but his minutes were not consistently high in 2013 while hooker Mitch Rein looks set for big minutes with a number of positional rivals leaving the club. In the backrow, there doesn’t appear to be a hard worker who represents early draft value. In the backs, Brett Morris looks like he has rediscovered his mojo after a successful World Cup Campaign and Josh Dugan showed big signs last season that he will be tremendous value if he can stay off twitter and the cruisers. The likes of Jason Nightingale, Gerard Beale and Dylan Farrell are all worthy considerations for late draft picks but typically, the Dragon backs are ones to avoid. Overall, if the new Dragon’s recruits click straight away, then they could cause a ripple but the more likely scenario is they take a season to gel with NRLCEO coaches to reassess them next year.

Premiership Odds: $34 Premierships: One Bye Rounds: 11 & 18

SQUAD CHANGES: 2014 Gains: Gareth Widdop (Storm), Sam William (Raiders), Mike Cooper (Warrington), Dylan Farrell (Rabbitohs), Matt Groat (Tigers), Peter Mata’utai (Knights), Joel Thompson (Raiders), Michael Witt (London) 2014 Losses: Matt Cooper (Retired), Nathan Fien (Retired), Matt Prior (Sharks), Chase Stanley (Bulldogs), Dan Vidot (Broncos), Mick Weyman (Hull), Josh Miller (Retired)

BEST LINE-UP

DRAGONS 2013 STATISTICS Player

Position(s)

GAMES

TRIES

Trent Merrin Mitch Rein Brett Morris Jason Nightingale Ben Creagh Josh Dugan Gareth Widdop Jack De Belin Joel Thompson Adam Quinlan Bronson Harrison Tyson Frizell Dylan Farrell Sam Williams Dan Hunt Jack Stockwell Nathan Green Leeson Ah Mau Charlie Runciman Gerard Beale Josh Drinkwater Kyle Stanley

BR, FR HK WG WG BR, FR FB (KP 2) FE (KP 6) BR, FR BR FE, HB BR BR WG, CT HB FR FR WG< CT BR CT FB, WG, CT HB (KP 1) FB (KP 2)

18 23 21 24 24 11 14 20 18 10 18 22 13 9 14 20 8 15 6 5 4 0

1 1 9 9 3 6 3 1 3 5 1 2 5 2

Will Matthews

BR

5

Mike Cooper

FR

24*

HOT!

GOALS

FG

40/20

WH

DWH

TA

LB

LBA

16 13

3 1

3 4 3 3

1 3 12 6 3 8 3 1 5 3 3 3 1 3

2 3 3 8 1

10 11 2

2 2 1

8 8 4 3 6 5 3 6 6 2 1 1 2 1 1

1 3 2 1 1

SB

7

3

2 2

3 1 1 1

TOTAL 89 74 57 56 56 54 42 37 33 32 31 31 29 25 24 17 16 11 6 4 2 0 0

1*

He’s Ferguson, Twitter and Vodka Cruiser free and Josh Dugan seems to be enjoying his footy in the Red V. In 2014, Dugan will be looking to retain his Blues jersey and with a stronger Dragons outfit, he seems destined to feature in the NRLCEO top fullbacks list. He could also get a hold of the kicking tee too depending on selections.

4*

After a big 2012 with impressive stats, Dan Hunt’s season last year succumbed to injury and his worth consequently diminished. It is not known how this injury will affect him in 2014 but Ben Creagh’s move to the front row will also impact on his minutes. With a multitude of young talent coming through, Hunt may be on the outer.

NOT!

EELS SLIPPERY AS A SPOON The Parramatta Eels are coming off back to back seasons to forget and as usual, have been a continual focus in all the news headlines. Whether it be the coaching merry-go-round, questionable player behaviour or complete board turmoil, the Eels would prefer that it be their positive game play in 2014 that makes the news. The big offseason move involves arguably the most over rated coach in NRL history - Ricky Stuart has deserted the sinking ship and the appointment of Brad Arthur as head coach appears to be a smart one. Among the player ranks, there is fresh meat at Arthur’s disposal, many of whom will excite the fans. Will Hopoate is one such player who will fill an attacking role sadly lacking in seasons gone by. Other recruits in Nathan Peats and Corey Norman along with the reincarnation of the forgotten Chris Sandow could and should combine for possibly, a more positive season. Of course, the true Eel resurgence will rely on the one and only Jarryd Hayne. After starring in the centres in the World Cup, the Hayne Plane and his fans will be praying for an injury free season. Combined with his newfound confidence and some quality recruits, Hayne’s involvement in the custodian role should see him become an early NRLCEO target once again. The real problem for the Eels and NRLCEO coach is the lack of a marquee forward, especially so

16

16

14

12

0%

57 TRIES

PIGS

50%

BACKS

Attack v Defence

100%

65 WORK HORSE

considering that no one actually stepped up and took over from Hindy last season. Tim Mannah gets a well-earned mention with his numbers generally good but he lacked support, even when Ricky placed the entire squad on notice! Of the backs, Ken Sio looks to have one wing position locked down with the other likely to be a showdown in the trials. Justin Hunt is a chance and if he gets the nod, could be a value kicker at recruitment time. But Semi Radradra’s form was pretty good late last season and will probably get the gig first up. Overall, like many teams this season, much will depend on the Eels’ new untested halves combination. The question marks surrounding Sandow are infinite but on a positive, Corey Norman will have something to prove after being banished to Qld Cup by the Broncos for the second half of the season. All in all, the facts are that the Eels are looking to avoid three straight spoons and whatever happens, their journey this season should be a little more exciting with Hopoate’s re-entry to the NRL.

Premiership Odds: $67 Premierships: Four Bye Rounds: 11 & 17

SQUAD CHANGES: 2014 Gains: Liam Foran (Salford), Will Hopoate (Mormon Mission), Justin Hunt (Rabbitohs), Lee Mossop (Wigan), Corey Norman (Broncos), Nathan Peats (Rabbitohs), David Gower (Sea Eagles) 2014 Losses: Cheyse Blair (Sea Eagles), Ben Roberts (Released), Matt Keating (Burleigh), Reni Maitua (Bulldogs), Jake Mullaney (Salford), Pat O’Hanlon (Bulldogs), Taulima Tautai (Wakefield), Matt Ryan (Wakefield)

BEST LINE-UP

EELS 2013 STATISTICS Player

Position(s)

GAMES

TRIES

GOALS

Chris Sandow Joseph Paulo Jarryd Hayne Tim Mannah Ken Sio Corey Norman Ryan Morgan Fuifui Moimoi Semi Radradra Luke Kelly Peni Terepo Vai Toutai Daniel Harrison Jacob Loko Brayden Williame Darcy Lussick Justin Hunt Kelepi Tanginoa

HB (KP 6) FE, BR FB FR WG FB, FE (KP 1) CT FR WG FE, HB BR WG BR CT WG BR, FR FB, WG (KP 1) BR

15 24 15 24 20 17 19 23 7 18 17 15 7 13 6 22 3 9

1 1 8

35 6

Nathan Peats

HK, BR

16

2

Ben Smith

BR

8

2

Junior Paulo

FR

11

David Gower

FR

11

Willie Tonga

CT

4

Mitchell Allgood

FR

20

HOT!

FG

40/20

WH

DWH

4 12 1

TA

LB

LBA

8 4 4

4 3 10

5 7 6

SB 1

13 10 2 6 3 5 2 4 4

11 3 5 1

5 1 4

1 3

1

9 5 10 3 7 1 2 5 1

2

9

3

3 3

3 2

1 2

2

1

1

3

Ok – we’ll join the bandwagon! Jarryd Hayne is an enigma and when fit, is capable of anything on the footy field. His World Cup performances proved that and he was simply brilliant in the centres. The Hayne Plane will return to the Eels with rejuvenated spirits but it may not take long for the Eel’s performances to deflate the custodian once again in 2014.

103 78 57 52 49 44 40 35 27 23 22 21 17 15 15 14 14 12 11 8

1 1

1

5

1

5

1 2

TOTAL

1 1

3 2

You’d have more chance of winning lotto than picking the Eels starting pack in 2014 and this mystery really does put NRLCEO coaches off! With a host a newbies, Joseph Paulo will be there somewhere but we can’t see him providing much impact this season. In the World Cup, he showed that he wasn’t a great play maker – maybe he just needs to tackle more.

1

NOT!

KNIGHTS TIME TO FILL THE TROPHY CABINET IN THE CASTLE ‘NRL experts’ rate the Knights in 2014 but we simply can’t see it. They are a team that has some genuine veterans combined with young talent who are capable of anything on their day. However, the loss of favourite son and inspirational hooker, Danny Buderus is a massive one. While Supercoach Bennett still pulls the reins, anything is a possibility though and the Knights showed in the semi-finals that they are capable of anything – who can forget their performance against Melbourne…. Not much has changed to the playing squad for season 2014 with the starting 13 seemingly settled. Plenty will depend on the fitness of Kurt Gidley because the next best option at hooker could be anyone. If past seasons are anything to go by, Coach Wayne will need a back-up plan for the injury prone Gidley and it looks like new recruit Michael Dobson may well be the answer. For the NRLCEO Coach, the Knights wingers are try scorers with McManus and Uate likely to again sit among the top try scorers. Dane Gagai and BJ Leilua are solid centre recruits but can go missing for large chunks of the season. There are better recruitment options. Typical of a Bennett coached team, the real value for the CEO could lie in the forwards.

0%

92 TRIES

PIGS

7

12

8

11

50%

BACKS

Attack v Defence

100%

73 WORK HORSE

However, the Knights forwards were rotated more than usual last season, resulting in less workhorse contenders. Robbie Rochow was the exception and played 80 minutes in almost every game that he played – he seems to be Bennett’s new golden child, taking over from Beau Scott…. Other Knights workhorses of years gone by were a little disappointing in season 2013 and one must be cautious when drafting. This is especially the case for names like Houston, Snowden, Scott and Smith. Overall, the Knight’s NRLCEO value will be determined by the style of play that they bring to the table. Let’s be honest, not much will change from last season. Typically, the Knight’s halves prefer the sweeping backline movement to the left which benefits Leilua and McManus but Uate’s blockbusting value on the right cannot be denied. Darius Boyd remains a mystery and is the epitome of sporadic NRLCEO value. If his State of Origin tries counted, he would be more than handy – but they don’t, so avoiding him is best practice!

Premiership Odds: $17 Premierships: Two Bye Rounds: 11 & 17

SQUAD CHANGES: 2014 Gains: Michael Dobson (Hull KR), Clint Newton (Panthers), Russell Packer (Jail via Warriors) 2014 Losses: Danny Buderus (Retired), Neville Costigan (Hull KR), Craig Gower (Retired), Siuatonga Likiliki (Titans), Peter Mata’utia (Dragons), Kevin Naiqama (Panthers)

BEST LINE-UP

KNIGHTS 2013 STATISTICS Player

Position(s)

GAMES

TRIES

GOALS

Tyrone Roberts James McManus Robbie Rochow Kurt Gidley Darius Boyd Chris Houston BJ Leilua Akuila Uate Jarrod Mullen Kade Snowden Dane Gagai Adam Cuthbertson Jeremy Smith Alex McKinnon David Fa'alago Beau Scott Clint Newton

HB (KP 5) WG BR HB, HK (KP 5) FB BR, FR CT WG FE FR CT BR, FR BR BR BR BR BR

24 23 24 14 23 21 16 21 23 20 20 13 16 16 19 13 23

6 19 2 2 10 2 11 13 2 1 5 2 1 2 2 2 2

38

Timana Tahu

CT

5

2

Josh Mantellato

WG

1

1

Willie Mason

FR

19

Anthony Quinn

WG

4

Matt Hilder

BR

3

Michael Dobson

HB

25*

Adam Clydsdale

HK

0

HOT!

FG

40/20

WH

DWH

18 38 15

TA

LB

LBA

9 2 5 2 12

8 20 3 1 11 1 11 10 4 2 4 2 2 4 2 2 2

8

1

134 100 97 93 83 73 69 68 61 56 36 35 34 32 22 18 17

1

1

12

1 4 2 19

2 14

5 6 7 3 3 2 1

1

3

1 3

4 4 8 6 2 9 1.5 2 1 2

1 2

1

1 84*

1*

In 2013, he outshone his more fancied wing partner and recaptured his state jersey. James McManus is a quality finisher and on the back of the Knights’ beloved backline sweep to the left, the Scotsman seems likely to repeat his try scoring feats again this year. The Knight’s obvious obsession with the left hand attack only benefits McManus.

TOTAL

11 8

1 6*

SB

5 4 193* 0

The tough as nails campaigners are getting older and Jeremy Smith and Beau Scott certainly fit into that category! Injuries and less work is the result of their no compromise style of play and for the NRLCEO coach, these guys are simply past it. Although they will rack up the odd workhorse try, there are better options available.

NOT!

PANTHERS BEWARE OF THE WEST The Panthers are a team on the rise and their recruitment for this season has been excellent! Under the guidance of Gus Gould, the Panthers have assembled a squad that will go close to winning the competition in the next three years. However, despite there being plenty of depth and competition for positions, the Panthers still appear to lack a genuine game breaker. Coach Cleary has some headaches in selecting a starting 13 and in particular the halves seem to carry plenty of conjecture. New to the squad is Jamie Soward and with Peter Wallace’s return, where does this leave Isaac John? The Panther’s backline has plenty of x-factor and names like Whare, Moylan, Naiqama and Mansour are fast and exciting! The forwards consist of a nice blend of workhorse and impact with many a kiwi now residing at the foot of the mountains! If the Panthers are to be true title contenders, one gets the feeling that the frontrow rotation must stay intact. Tim Grant is the obvious forward leader and he will need to improve on a quiet 2013. For the NRLCEO Coach, the Panthers are a really difficult side to predict. David Simmons was in a try scoring spree last season and if the Panthers can click, then a repeat this season is likely.

0%

81 TRIES

PIGS

50%

BACKS

Attack v Defence

10

15

12

2

100%

68 WORK HORSE

Dean Whare’s form in the World Cup was exquisite and he will be looking to have a huge season after recently inking a three year contract extension. In the forwards, Elijah Taylor looks to be the out and out workhorse and will relish the complete confidence from his coach. James Segeyaro is also dynamite but he seems destined to share the hooking duties with Kevin Kingston again this season, detracting from his value. In years gone by, Jamie Soward’s kicking has been hit and miss but if the Panthers get on a roll, he could be a handy kicker selection. In further positive news, the Panthers have finally acknowledged that Cameron Ciraldo is utter rubbish and his inevitable retirement will be welcome news, not only to Penrith fans but the entire NRL! Overall, the Panther’s squad is very similar to the Dragons in that it is new and unpredictable. Morale appears to be high with the mountain men who are looking to break into the top 8 this season.

Premiership Odds: $26 Premierships: Two Bye Rounds: 11 & 15

SQUAD CHANGES: 2014 Gains: Jamie Soward (London Broncos/Dragons), Brent Kite (Sea Eagles), Kevin Naiqama (Knights), Elijah Taylor (Warriors), Tyrone Peachey (Sharks), Shaun Spence (Tigers), Peter Wallace (Broncos) 2014 Losses: Blake Austin (Tigers), Cameron Ciraldo (Retired), Lachlan Coote (Cowboys), Danny Galea (Widnes), Mose Masoe (St Helens), Travis Robinson (Storm), Luke Walsh (St Helens)

BEST LINE-UP

PANTHERS 2013 STATISTICS Player

Position(s)

David Simmons Kevin Kingston Elijah Taylor Jamie Soward James Segeyaro Dean Whare Tim Grant Jamal Idris Lewis Brown Brent Kite Isaac John Nigel Plum Josh Mansour Matthew Moylan Sika Manu James Roberts Peter Wallace Matt Robinson Wes Naiqama Kevin Naiqama Ryan Simpkins Tyrone Peachey Adam Docker Sam McKendry Jeremy Latimore

WG HK BR FE (KP 6) HK FB FR CT CT, BR FR FE, HB BR, FR WG FB (KP 1) BR FB, WG HB (KP 2) BR CT (KP 1) WG BR FE BR FR FR

HOT!

GAMES

TRIES

24 24 23 12 24 24 21 15 23 23 16 18 14 13 20 6 24 10 8 4 10 7 17 12 8

19 3 7 3 10 5

GOALS

21

FG

4

40/20

WH

DWH

TA

LB

LBA

19 13

1

5 2

25 5 8

1 2 2 5 3 15

1

13 4 3 4 1 4 3 5 6 2 1 2 2 1 1

8 1 10

6

3 9 7 2

1 5 5 1 7 1 3 5

1 1

6 4

1

1

Dave Simmons came from nowhere to top the try scoring list last season and behind a better team this season, he looks likely to keep on going! However, he will have to maintain his form as the back-up options are qualified and numerous. If new signing Jamal Idris can stay fit inside of Simmons, look for the experienced winger to score 20+ tries.

1 2 2 2 3 2 2

10 6 1 5 7 1 4 9 3 5 4 1 1 3 2 1 2 1 1 1

SB

14 3 2 7 2 3

5 2 2 1

Kevin Kingston was almost clubless for this season despite a solid 2013 season in the stats. However, James Segeyaro’s meteoric rise and consistent explosive form should see Kingston pushed out of the starting line-up and on the outer. Kingston is a more than solid defensive player but lacks the attacking prowess of Segeyaro.

TOTAL 112 103 90 80 79 61 57 45 44 41 41 34 33 32 29 28 28 21 17 16 14 14 13 13 9

NOT!

RABBITOHS TIME TO STEP UP For the second successive year, the Rabbitohs were cut down just one game short of the final, despite looking like world beaters for much of the season. Coach McGuire and his team have developed some seriously good combinations over the past two years but late in season 2013, there were some questions being asked about their ability to find an extra gear in big games. This doesn’t really affect the NRLCEO Coach though and despite there being few changes in the Rabbitohs squad for season 2014, the men from Redfern should once again prove to be title threats. The Rabbitohs squad is filled with superstars and Greg Inglis headlines the backs while the love affair with Sam Burgess looks likely to continue for at least another year. Isaac Luke also rates highly and if he can slightly increase his tackle rate, he will be a value double workhorse hooker in 2014. For the NRLCEO coach, the Rabbitohs represent quality across the park. They score plenty of pies and also boast workhorse forwards. Nathan Merritt shot out of the cannon early last season scoring plenty but his woeful origin performance destroyed his confidence in the latter half of the season. He also sees less clean ball with Bryson Goodwin a reluctant passer in the centres!

0%

97 TRIES

PIGS

50%

BACKS

Attack v Defence

2

3

10

9

100%

60 WORK HORSE

The other side of the backline is in question with the departure of Andrew Everingham and the poor behaviour from bad boy Dylan Walker. NRLCEO Coaches should keep a close eye on this in the trial and surely they have someone better than Joel Reddy to fill the void…. In the forwards, the Burgess boys dominate everything including the Channel 9 coverage, with George and Sam’s statistics impressive. George in particular was an attacking beast but he defensively went missing at vital stages of the Rabbitohs season. With McGuire searching for that extra attacking gear, there could be a selection surprise though. Impressive youngster Luke Keary, could find himself permanently in the number 6 jersey with John Sutton moved to provide extra scrum base variety in the lock position. This is possible but unlikely given the strength of the red and green pack. Overall, the Rabbitohs will once again be a better team than most and on the back of it, Adam Reynolds will thrive. If he can reinvent his running game this season, one feels that the Rabbitohs will be a genuine premiership contender...

Premiership Odds: $6.50 Premierships: Twenty Bye Rounds: 15 & 18

SQUAD CHANGES: 2014 Gains: Joel Reddy (Tigers), Joe Picker (Raiders), Chris Grevsmuhl (Cowboys), Lote Tuqiri (Rugby Union/Tigers) 2014 Losses: Roy Asotasi (Warrington), Mick Crocker (Retired), Andrew Everingham (Rugby Union), Dylan Farrell (Dragons), Justin Hunt (Eels), Matt King (Retired), Jeff Lima (Catalans), Nathan Peats (Eels), Josh Starling (Sea Eagles)

BEST LINE-UP

RABBITOHS 2013 STATISTICS Player

Position(s)

GAMES

TRIES

GOALS

FG

40/20

Adam Reynolds Sam Burgess Isaac Luke Greg Inglis Nathan Merritt George Burgess Bryson Goodwin John Sutton Ben Te'o Dylan Walker Ben Lowe Chris McQueen Beau Champion Joel Reddy Jason Clark Luke Keary Luke Burgess Dave Tyrell Lote Tuqiri Joe Picker Tom Burgess Apisai Koroisau Chris Grevsmuhl

HB (KP 9) BR, FR HK (KP 1) FB FB, WG FR WG (KP 1) FE, BR BR, FR WG, CT BR BR CT WG, CT BR, FR FE, HB FR BR, FR WG BR FR HK BR, FR

24 20 24 18 23 22 23 23 22 14 20 21 8 14 9 10 5 16 4 8 9 0 0

4 8 3 14 14 7 10 6 4 7

93

2

2

Kyle Turner

BR

HOT!

WH 16 12

DWH

TA

LB

LBA

1

20 1 10 10 4

3 14 4 13 18 9 12 8 3 4

6 1 18 7 4 1 4 14

8 1

3 7 7

1

3 3 1 2 2 1 1 1

5 2

2 2 1 3

1 2 1

SB 1

2 2 5 3 3 2 1

3

1 1

0

The media love the Burgess brothers and love him or hate him; Sam Burgess is an NRLCEO star. His stats are consistent and he constantly puts himself in try scoring situations. If his hands were a little better, he would double his try tally! Season 2014 should see more of the same with Burgess leading the Rabbitohs to another strong season.

TOTAL 255 109 106 96 86 70 64 60 47 38 26 24 17 16 11 10 9 8 7 4 1 0 0 0

Since his diabolical origin performance last season, Nathan Merritt has not been the same. Whether it be a lack of confidence, injury or a slight loss of speed, he struggled in the back half of the season and it remains to be seen if he can continue his try scoring feats of years gone by. In fact, if the Rabbitohs had a handy back-up, Merritt could be in Reserves.

NOT!

RAIDERS A NEW LEADER IN THE NATION’S CAPITAL Tony Abbott started his new position in Canberra this year, but the main focus of the faithful in the ACT is the return of the prodigal son; Ricky Stuart.

0%

81 TRIES

PIGS

13

50%

BACKS

Attack v Defence

100%

56 WORK HORSE

The backline still boasts some good young talent in Edrick Lee and Jack Wighton, but their spine is the real problematic area. Terry Campese still hasn’t fired since 2010, Josh McCrone is not a natural half and they are yet to find a quality hooker. If he stays fit, big Edrick Lee will top score for the Raiders in 2014.

So what can Ricky do with this current lot? Recent history suggests the Raiders are due to make the finals again this season in an even year, but even those with green tinted glasses must be wondering how.

For workhorse scoring, potential, the Raiders have always been difficult for NRLCEO coaches to nail down. Shaun Fensom is the obvious choice in the first few rounds. His consistent tackle count guarantees he will score in or around the 100 point mark depending how many tries he sneaks.

Some suggest his mind will be at the Broncos in 2014, but we are confident he will be just as explosive as last season. This kid can really play and from fullback or the halves he will score well.

15

7

No one can ever doubt that the Raiders have had a very talented roster over the last few years. They have an uncanny habit of producing quality juniors, but can’t seem to hang on to them. Todd Carney, Josh Dugan and now Anthony Milford (in 2015) all launched their careers in successful juniors Raiders sides and then have progressed their careers further afield.

After losing both of the roof top Cruiser bruisers Dugan and Ferguson, there is one clear cut super star in their backs; the enigma Anthony Milford. His two man of the match performances for Samoa in the World Cup show exactly why the Raiders and the Broncos put so much effort into his contract tug-of-war.

6

From there, it becomes more difficult to pin point the guns. Due to the sheer size of their front row, the Raiders haven’t had a consistent workhorse up front for a number of years. If any of them are to stand up then young Italian stallion Paul Vaughan will be it, but he still has plenty to learn before he is first choice. In the back row Josh Papalii and Joel Edwards have showed glimpses of scoring potential, but there are far safer choices in the competition.

Premiership Odds: $41 Premierships: Three Bye Rounds: 12 & 16

SQUAD CHANGES: 2014 Gains: Lagi Setu (Storm), Kyle O’Donnell (Knights), Kurt Baptiste (Broncos) 2014 Losses: Blake Ferguson (Lost the Plot), Shaun Berrigan (Retired), Sandor Earl (Rugby Union/the Courts), Mick Picker (Retired), Joel Thompson (Dragons), Sam Williams (Dragons), Joe Picker (Rabbitohs)

BEST LINE-UP

RAIDERS 2013 STATISTICS Player

Position(s)

Jarrod Croker Shaun Fensom Josh Papalii Anthony Milford Josh McCrone Reece Robinson Joel Edwards Edrick Lee David Shillington Terry Campese Jack Wighton Bill Tupou Brett White Glen Buttriss Paul Vaughan Sami Sauiluma Dane Tilse Matt McIlwrick Lagi Setu Sam Mataora Tom Leoroyd-Lahrs Kyle O'Donnell Mitch Cornish Jarrad Kennedy Kurt Baptiste

CT (KP 6) BR BR FB, HB HB FB, WG BR WG FR FE (KP 1) WG, CT WG FR HK BR, FR WG FR HK BR BR FR BR HB BR HK

GAMES

TRIES

GOALS

21 20 21 18 24 22 23 9 22 17 18 12 20 15 18 7 24 8 7 3 8 0 0 4 0

8

52

4 9 4 7 3 7 2

FG

WH

DWH

17 9

2

1 1 1 7

1 3

TA

LB

LBA

4 1 2 3 11 6 1 2

4

5

7 14 3 9 3 6 2 2 4 6

1 7 12 5

5 11 1 1

4 3 5 3 2

SB

1

1 3 1

1 3

1

2 2 1

Edrick Lee is a monster and before injury he showed what he is truly capable of. Whether it be blinding pace down the sideline or extreme leaps to capture a bomb, Lee was a major attacking threat and seems destined for higher honours if the Raiders attack can click in 2014.

HOT!

40/20

2 2

Off-field controversies have rattled his cage and being more than vocal about Ricky Stuart’s appointment could see David Shillington become a player of yesteryear. Having lost his origin position, Shillington’s form and stats dropped significantly in season 2013 and we see no reason why he’ll improve under a coach who he doesn’t want…

TOTAL 153 78 64 64 54 52 45 39 30 27 23 20 20 13 12 11 8 6 6 0 0 0 0 0 0

NOT!

ROOSTERS TEAM TO BEAT The honour of Minor Premiers and then the second half thrashing of the Sea Eagles in the Grand Final doesn’t get too much better for the Bondi Boys and Coach Robinson deserves all the praise that he receives. The Roosters title campaign benefitted from a brilliant recruitment in 2012 and the title was well deserved by a team that oozed strength and consistency throughout the squad. Astute signings in James Maloney, Michael Jennings and Sonny Bill Williams were beautifully complimented by the explosion onto the scene by youngsters Boyd Cordner, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and Daniel Tupou. The result was a team with attacking prowess across the park combined with rock solid defence in the middle. For the NRLCEO Coach, the Roosters were a goldmine. The outside backs were always threatening to score while the forwards worked hard in the middle to grind out games when opposition defence was tough. Jake Friend’s form was brilliant and if it wasn’t for his team consistently closing out games by the 60th minute, his stats would have been even more impressive! Other forwards to show real workhorse value were Boyd Cordner on the left edge and Jared Waerea-Hargreaves who led the pack forward with authority and intimidation.

0%

97 TRIES

PIGS

50%

BACKS

Attack v Defence

1

13

11

6

100%

59 WORK HORSE

Premiership Odds: $4.75 Premierships: Thirteen Bye Rounds: 15 & 18

SQUAD CHANGES: 2014 Gains: Remi Casty (Catalans), Heath L’Estrange (Bradford), Jackson Hastings (Dragons) 2014 Losses: Martin Kennedy (Broncos), Adam Henry (Bradford), Jack Bosden (Released), Nafe Seluini (Released)

There were others who occasionally stepped up in the stats but generally the rotation of the Rooster forwards was often. Aiden Guerra is one to watch for the future and his big engine combined with line breaking ability makes him a genuine all round forward but he seems destined for a bench role this season. In the backs, it is hard to go past Michael Jennings. He was electrifying and if he wasn’t scoring tries, he was setting them up for boom rookie Daniel Tupou. James Maloney’s playmaking and goal kicking was high quality and he should find himself in a NSW jersey again this season. In season 2014, the Roosters must do what no other team has done for 20 years – go back to back but when one looks at their roster, it is easy to see why they are favourites to give the title a real shake again. Much will rely on Mitchell Pearce. His second half of the season was brilliant and in combination with the blockbusting SBW, the right hand attacking edge had a field day. Overall, it is hard to see the Roosters slipping too far down the ladder.

BEST LINE-UP

ROOSTERS 2013 STATISTICS Player

Position(s)

James Maloney Jake Friend Sonny Bill Williams Michael Jennings Boyd Cordner Mitch Pearce Daniel Tupou Jared Waerea-Hargreaves Mitch Aubusson Shaun Kenny-Dowall Roger Tuivasa Sheck Daniel Mortimer Sam Moa Aiden Guerra Anthony Minichiello Isaac Liu Frank Paul Nuuausala Dylan Napa Remi Casty Heath L'Estrange Samisoni Langi Kane Evans Jackson Hastings Tautau Moga

FE (KP 9) HK BR CT BR HB WG FR BR CT WG FE FR BR FB BR BR FR FR HK FE FR HB (KP 1) WG, CT

Kem Seru

BR

HOT!

GAMES

TRIES

GOALS

22 24 21 23 19 23 23 19 23 24 22 24 20 19 21 14 20 5 26* 24* 2 0 0 0

9 6 8 17 9 5 12 1 6 8 8 5 3 3 6

97

FG

40/20

WH

DWH

1 18 9

1

10

15 5

2 4 5

1

TA

LB

LBA

18 7 7 6 2 19 3 1 2 4

15 6 12 15 8 6 17

16 7 12 8 2 17

4 2 1 2 1

10 9 18 3 4 2 4 2

4 2 7 2 5 1 2 1

SB

1.5

3

1 2*

0

Boyd Cordner was on fire in 2013 and there’ll be more of the same to come for quite some time. The youngster has hit the scene with his tough defence combined with evasive hole running and together, saw him rise to representative honours. Cordner will be a very solid backrow draft option and if given 80 minutes is a good chance to double up.

TOTAL 298 123 106 103 92 81 71 68 60 56 52 40 37 36 31 6 5 4 8* 0* 0 0 0 0 0

In a team full of superstars, we had to pick someone who will not be effective in NRLCEO. That honour goes to the veteran Anthony Minichiello who simply has to stop at some stage. His numbers indicate that he is on the try scoring decline and quite simply, there are about 12 better fullback draft options.

NOT!

SEA EAGLES FLYING HIGH With a similar and aging squad, the Sea Eagles just keep on surprising and 2013 was no different. In 2014, Coach Toovey will simply be asking for ‘more of the same’.

0%

Daly CherryEvans is developing into a brilliant young player and his combinations with Brett Stewart and Jamie Lyon have become a real joy to watch. On the other side of the field, Foran’s consistency something to marvel at – he rarely plays a poor game. The halves combination has seen the Manly wingers thrive and there is no reason why Taufua and the Williams can’t rack up similar try scoring numbers in 2014. For the NRLCEO coach, Anthony Watmough, Matt Ballin and Brenton Lawrence were excellent in 2013. Glenn Stewart came good towards the end of the season after recovering from injuries – but he is getting lazy and no longer racks up the tackles that he used to. His NRLCEO stocks are in decline. With the loss of big engines, Georgey Rose and Brent Kite, there is ample opportunity for a young forward to step up and fill the void.

50%

BACKS

100%

nd

108

Attack v Defence

4

2

8

2

TRIES Over the last half decade, the Sea Eagles have developed a tried and tested formula which has resulted in success through bashing their opposition senseless combined with flair from their dynamic halves.

PIGS

4

80 WORK HORSE

At this stage, it looks like Lawrence will have to play more minutes, much to the benefit of his stats. Jason King is still a mystery and if he can’t shake his injury run, then the Sea Eagles have a genuine issue up front. Once again, Jamie Lyon comes into the season as the recognised kicker and if he can get his boots on song away from Brooky, then his draft value will go up – the Sea Eagles always score points! Overall, the Sea Eagles pack has a fine mixture of players who fill the worker and playmaker roles. Anthony Watmough headlines the hit list but his knee injuries late in the season are a concern going into 2014. Jamie Buhrer looks destined for a career off the bench with Horo leap-frogging the utility for a starting spot in 2013. Matt Ballin continues to play big minutes and is ever solid when it comes to NRLCEO. Of the backs, you can’t go wrong with the wingers – unless the Wolfman’s confidence is shot from a forgettable grand final display. Despite having a fantastic 2013 season, Steve Matai is a ‘draft with caution’ option.

Premiership Odds: $8 Premierships: Eight Bye Rounds: 11 & 14

SQUAD CHANGES: 2014 Gains: Cheyse Blair (Eels), Jayden Hodges (Cowboys), Dunamis Lui (Broncos), Josh Starling (Rabbitohs) 2014 Losses: Joe Galuvao (Retired), Brent Kite (Panthers), George Rose (Storm), David Gower (Eels)

BEST LINE-UP

SEA EAGLES 2013 STATISTICS Player

Position(s)

Jamie Lyon Matt Ballin David Williams Jorge Taufua Anthony Watmough Brett Stewart Daly Cherry-Evans Steve Matai Justin Horo Kieran Foran Glenn Stewart Jamie Buhrer Brenton Lawrence Tom Symonds Peter Hiku Cheyse Blair Clint Gutherson Richie Fa'aoso Nick Skinner Jason King Liam Foran Dunamis Lui Michael Chee Kam Esi Tonga Josh Starling

HOT!

GAMES

TRIES

GOALS

CT (KP 7) HK WG WG BR FB HB (KP 1) CT BR FE BR BR, HK FR CT, BR FB, WG WG, CT WG FR FR FR HB FR BR CT

24 24 23 22 21 17 23 23 23 23 18 22 23 15 10 6 1 15 2 4 0 13 0 0

14 2 19 18 3 8 10 11 9 1

77

FR

4

FG

2

3 4 3 2 1

40/20

WH

DWH

22

1

18

2

2

TA

LB

LBA

10 1 2 1 1 16 10 5

8 3 22 29 4 13 6 11 7

15 2 3 1 1 12 10 4 2 12 2 2

3 8 6 10

19 7 2 2 1 1 1 1

4 5 3 5 1 1 1

SB

3 1 1 1 1

1

When it comes to superstars, Manly have one of the best in the making in Daly Cherry-Evans. DCE continues to impress with his excellent organisation, attacking and scoring flair. The halfback is a genuine draft choice and if you’re not after a kicking halfback, then you can’t do much better than DCE.

1

TOTAL 253 107 105 104 99 89 80 65 57 54 48 46 45 26 20 12 8 4 4 0 0 0 0 0 0

Father time is catching up with Glenn Stewart and his stats are no longer worthy of an early draft pick. Stewart looks like he is carrying too much beef and no longer flops his way to 40. Combined with the fact that he rarely scores tries, there appears to be better backrow options. He’s also a chance for a send off.

NOT!

SHARKS TIGER SHARKS CIRCLING The Sharks will look to put a turbulent 2013 behind them and with no distractions should once again be a team on the rise. However, can ASADA stay away or will there be further developments to disrupt another season? Interim coach Peter Sharp is highly respected and with a settled squad boasting plenty of superstars, the Sharks will be eyeing a top four position in 2014. With names like Gallen, Fifita, Lewis and Graham, the pack is outstanding. The backs are ever improving with plenty of attacking flair surrounding Carney and Gordon at the back. However, the critic could rightly point towards numerous areas of concern which would have many suggesting that 2014 will not be the breakout season of the Shark. In a quiet recruitment period, Blake Ayshford takes Ben Pomeroy’s centre position as the only likely change to the starting team. Many Sharks supporters will not miss ‘the Pom’ though, with his hot and cold hands and freak injuries having them pull their hair out at times. For the NRLCEO coach, Shark wingers have never really been attractive so don’t expect the likes of Feki and Ryan to dominate the top try scorers list. The real attraction of the Sharks list is no doubt with Andrew Fifita who charged onto the NRLCEO scene with some remarkable performances.

0%

95 TRIES

6

1

9

13

PIGS

50%

BACKS

Attack v Defence

100%

70 WORK HORSE

The hulking prop showed in 2013 that he is on the cusp of NRLCEO royalty, doubling up at will with his hard working ethic, combining brilliantly with an uncanny ability to cross the stripe. We expect him to be on top of many hit lists come draft time but can coaches realistically expect him to repeat his feats of season 2013? Once again, Paul Gallen’s minutes and game time comes under scrutiny for the NRLCEO coach. His vital role for NSW now sees him miss many a Shark game and his aging body and confronting style of play must be catching up with him. Fatigue is a factor and a concern. Overall, the Sharks players can historically be rocks or diamonds for the NRLCEO coach. Their attacking prowess relies solely on Carney’s fitness but they will always be solid in defence, gang tackling their way with a grinding type game plan.. On the gossip watch, we expect Eric Grothe to be racking up far more Tweets than minutes in First Grade this season, but it’s great to see a character back in the game.

Premiership Odds: $19 Premierships: Nil Bye Rounds: 12 & 14

SQUAD CHANGES: 2014 Gains: Blake Ayshford (Tigers), Eric Grothe (Pub Rock Scene), Daniel Holdsworth (Hull), Matt Prior (Dragons) 2014 Losses: Jayson Bukuya (Warriors), Stewart Mills (Broncos), Tyrone Peachey (Panthers), Ben Pomeroy (Catalans), Ben Ross (Retired), Mark Taufua (Retired), Chad Townsend (Warriors)

BEST LINE-UP

SHARKS 2013 STATISTICS Player

Position(s)

Todd Carney Andrew Fifita Michael Gordon Paul Gallen Luke Lewis Chris Heighington Wade Graham Jeff Robson John Morris Jonathan Wright Sosaia Feki Matt Prior Beau Ryan Anthony Tupou Nathan Stapleton Blake Ayshford Isaac De Gois Bryce Gibbs Sam Tagataese Matthew Wright Tupou Sopoaga Nathan Gardner Ricky Leutele Michael Lichaa David Fifita

HOT!

GAMES

TRIES

GOALS

FE (KP 3) FR FB, CT (KP 7) BR, FR BR BR FE, BR HB HK WG, CT CT BR, FR WG BR WG CT HK FR BR WG BR FB CT HK

20 23 20 14 18 24 21 23 24 22 17 23 17 18 11 16 22 8 19 5 1 1 3 0

2 8 7 2 4

46

FR

0

2 7 4 5 6 1 6

FG

40/20

WH

DWH

3 20

1 2

4 4

5 2 2 1 1 1

There is no surprise with Andrew Fifita being named here. He will go very early in most drafts and rightly so. With 8 tries complimenting a strong work ethic, Fifita surprised many with his amazing engine, regularly playing big minutes. His amazing season saw him rise to ultimate representative honours.

LB

LBA

20

4 6 13 1 1 1 2 4 7 6 5 1 2 4 4 3 1

12 1 3 2 5

5

35 13 9 13 7

TA

3

2 1 2 4 7 2 3 3 1 2 1

SB

4 3 6 2 1 2 1 2 2

1 1 1 1 1

1

TOTAL 159 139 118 77 62 53 50 50 41 34 30 29 29 26 24 15 9 8 5 5 4 2 0 0 0

Luke Lewis is recovering from injury and it is likely to impact heavily on his minutes and effectiveness. Although a brilliant player, Lewis’ seasons are now littered with numerous niggling injuries and it is only a matter of time before his NRLCEO effectiveness goes to zero…

NOT!

STORM STORM IN A TEACUP The slope is getting more slippery for the Storm with the Big 3 now on the wrong side of 30. Many are suggesting that the Storm’s inevitable slide will start this year with major questions being asked of Craig Bellamy’s squad late last season. Fatigue seemed to get them in the end!

3

0%

106 TRIES

PIGS

50%

BACKS

Attack v Defence

100%

83 WORK HORSE

Ben Hampton showed glimpses of brilliance when given the chance in 2013 and Cody Walker lit up the Qld Cup last year and is a more than promising talent. Either could be named in the 6 come round 1 but with Cronk likely to miss the start of the season, both will get an opportunity to shine.

While most team positions will be filled with known starters, there are a few mysteries which will see opportunities arise in the trials. The outside backs, in particular a centre and wing position seems to be the major quandary for Coach Bellamy. Will Chambers and Sisa Waqa are assured their starting jerseys but the remaining two positions will be made up of a combination of numerous potentials .

For the NRLCEO Coach, the Storm ‘no name’ forwards are typically rotated around the mainstays – Smith and Hoffman. The likes of Hinchcliffe, Proctor and Harris can be attractive draft options but Bellamy rotates them freely, rarely giving them the full 80 and frustratingly, never for the same time from week to week.

The other major mystery revolves around who will fill Widdop’s shoes.

1

16

Despite the likes of Smith, Slater and Cronk continuing to play well and scoring dominantly in NRLCEO, this season seems destined to be a defining one. Gone are club stalwarts like Ryles and Widdop and more than ever, the Storm’s depth and investment in youth will be tested.

Justin O’Neill’s defensive lapses and the inconsistency of Mahe Fonua’s hands are a concern, as is the departure of the dynamic Maurice Blair to the Titans. Others to vie for a backline position are the mercurial Matt Duffie and new boys Hymel Hunt and Travis Robinson.

2

In the backs, Billy Slater is still electric and when he scores, he does so in doubles and triples, but his aging knees are starting to hinder his reliability. Despite shoulder concerns, Cooper Cronk will be fresh off his 2013 Dally M and is a very good nonkicking halfback option for the draft. Overall, the Storm backs are always attractive but picking who will fill the roles is more of a guessing game this year for the NRLCEO Coach. Going with the Big 3 is always advisable but their heavy representative workloads could see them rested at the money end of the season if Bellamy finds his side resting comfortably in the top 4.

Premiership Odds: $7.50 Premierships: Two* Bye Rounds: 11 & 17

SQUAD CHANGES: 2014 Gains: George Rose (Sea Eagles), Travis Robinson (Panthers), Hymel Hunt (Titans) 2014 Losses: Maurice Blair (Titans), Brett Finch (Retired), Jason Ryles (Retired), Matt McGahan (Rugby Union), Junior Sa’u (Salford), Lagi Setu (Raiders), Gareth Widdop (Dragons), Siosaia Vave (Sharks)

BEST LINE-UP

STORM 2013 STATISTICS Player

Position(s)

Cameron Smith Billy Slater Ryan Hoffman Cooper Cronk Will Chambers Ryan Hinchcliffe Sisa Waqa Jesse Bromwich Tohu Harris Justin O'Neill Mahe Fonua Kevin Proctor Travis Robinson Bryan Norrie Matt Duffie Ben Hampton George Rose Jordan McLean Kenneath Bromwich Tim Glasby Junior Moors Slade Griffin Mitch Garbutt Hymel Hunt Cody Walker

HK (KP 8) FB BR HB CT BR, HK WG FR BR WG, CT WG BR WG, CT FR WG FE, HB FR FR FR BR BR FR FR WG, CT FE (KP 2)

HOT!

GAMES

TRIES

GOALS

21 22 22 21 23 21 20 24 23 19 13 21 7 23 4 2 15 12 9 2 10 10 3 1 0

2 17 4 4 11 3 11 5 2 9 9 3 5 1 3 2 1 1 1 1

81

FG

40/20

WH

DWH

TA

LB

LBA

19

6

10 8 4 19 8 1 5

4 25 8 2 13 4 12 4 2 7 7 5 4 1

10 12 1 15 3 1 2 1

13 3

Cam Smith is NRLCEO royalty, able to win games with the flick of the switch. Smith always gets a workhorse try and if he is in a running mood, will always go close to doubling up. When the Storm is on, so is Smith and consequently his boots makes him a valuable commodity. If only he was a shoe-in to kick 80% of goals, he would be taken first in every draft.

3 14 10 11

6 2

1 3 2

SB

1 1 1

1 1

1

In 2013, his defensive inequities were exposed in the centres and one gets the impression that Justin O’Neill will be fighting for his position all season. Known as the Ferrari, O’Neill’s speed is unquestioned but Coach Bellamy’s patience in his defensive lapses must be wearing thin. With plenty of competition on the left flank, O’Neill is a risk.

1

TOTAL 304 117 85 77 76 75 68 65 56 50 48 41 25 13 12 8 5 5 4 4 1 0 0 0 0

NOT!

TIGERS POST BENJI LIFE The Tigers 2014 campaign hinges on three words – Life After Benji. However, based on his performances last season, one could argue that the Tigers were without Benji Marshall last season anyway! The Tigers squad for this season is a real blend of speedy youngsters in the backline with age and experience in the forwards. Despite attempts to bolster it, the forward pack looks a little frail with Tigers fans themselves, fearing the likes of Anasta and Blair being named in the starting pack. The Tigers have been active in the player market but to be honest, none of the new recruits seem to be season defining names. In fact, one could suggest that Tim Sheens provided the recruitment policy for season 2014 – it is that random! Names like Halatau, Taupau and Paterson are hardly going to excite… One thing is certain - if the Tigers are to be successful in 2014, they will need to be relatively injury free for much of the season – including their lynchpin and Captain Robbie Farah. In the pack, big names like Farah, Woods, Galloway and Fulton work hard and lead by example, but the pack really lacks some x-factor and this is where their weaknesses could be exposed. If the pack does not dominate their opposition, the untested halves combination that Coach Potter comes up with could fail to unleash a

15

10

4

3

0%

70 TRIES

PIGS

50%

BACKS

Attack v Defence

100%

88 WORK HORSE

backline that oozes speed, excitement and class. Luke Brooks will be the halfback and is highly rated. But with the injury to Moltzen, the number 6 jersey could fall by default to the dinosaur, Braith Anasta. For the NRLCEO Coach, the Tigers backs are always good - if they can remain fit and if they are allowed space. The likes of Nofoaluma, Simona and Koroibete are all exciting prospects and if it is their season, they could easily score 20+ tries. However, the return of kicker Pat Richards seems likely to lock up one wing position, with a youngster destined to miss out with Chris Lawrence at left centre. In the pack, the Tiger’s workhorses are always attractive and rack up big numbers. However, most are coming off an injury riddled season and should be drafted with caution. Overall, the Tigers are unfancied by many but their NRLCEO value could be as good as ever. It’s a reoccurring statement that simply holds true – their season revolves around whether anyone can strike up a halves combination with Luke Brooks. Tiger’s fans definitely don’t want to be SOS’ing Benji early on in the season.

Premiership Odds: $41 Premierships: One Bye Rounds: 12 & 15

SQUAD CHANGES: 2014 Gains: Blake Austin (Panthers), Dene Halatau (Bulldogs), Keith Lulia (Bradford), Cory Paterson (Hull KR), Pat Richards (Wigan), Martin Taupau (Bulldogs), Yileen Gordon (Newton) 2014 Losses: Blake Ayshford (Sharks), Matt Groat (Dragons), Benji Marshall (Rugby Union), Eddy Pettybourne (Wigan), Joel Reddy (Rabbitohs), Lote Tuqiri (Rugby Union/Rabbitohs)

BEST LINE-UP

TIGERS 2013 STATISTICS Player

Position(s)

Robbie Farah Liam Fulton Aaron Woods Tim Simona James Tedesco David Nofoaluma Jack Buchanan Adam Blair Curtis Sironen Marika Koroibete Chris Lawrence Sauaso Sue Ben Murdoch-Masila Keith Galloway Tim Moltzen Braith Anasta Matt Utai Dene Halatau Luke Brooks Joe Luani Masada Iosefa Jacob Miller Bodene Thompson Blake Austin Pat Richards

HK BR FR CT FB WG BR, FR BR, FR FE WG CT BR FR FR FB, HB FE, BR (KP 2) WG BR HB HK HK HB FR FE, BR WG (KP 6)

HOT!

GAMES

TRIES

18 21 16 17 19 15 23 24 19 9 13 17 23 9 7 18 4 24 1 1

1 2 2 12 8 8 1 1 3 5 3 1 2

GOALS

40/20

WH

DWH

TA

LB

LBA

15 20 15

5 1 4

14 1

7 2 2 12 6 9

12

2 3 1 9 7 3

4 2 4 1

1 4 5 5 1 4

SB

TOTAL 131 96 88 66 46 44 40 33 34 25 23 21 16 16 15 22 10 10 10 10 8 5 5

2 2 2 1

4 2 2

4 3 1 2 2 1

2 4

4

2 1 2

1 1 1 25*

FG

2 2 1 2

1 2

1

1 1 0

16*

101*

The Tigers backline is stacked with talent and if Tim Simona or David Nofoaluma can find space, then look out! Both are livewires and are worthy of draft consideration – depending on how the Tigers are performing. If the Tigers gel, expect either youngster to be the beneficiary in attack and score 15+ tries, all of which will be spectacular!

267*

Tiger’s fans don’t want him and for the neutral supporter, Braith Anasta should change careers to golf. With the pre-season injury to Tim Moltzen, it appears that Anasta will not only get first crack at the 6 jersey but also the kicking boots - we all know how that story ends. Anyone who drafts Braith has serious issues and we’ll leave it at that…

NOT!

TITANS BEWARE OF THE AGEING TITANS FROM THE NORTH The Titans were hit and miss in 2013 and they have been relatively quiet in the transfer market where they prepare for an improved 2014. Maurice Blair headlines the new recruits and will most likely be the only one to feature in the top 17. The Titans have long been lacking a quality left centre and Blair’s signing could see Kevin Gordon become much more dangerous down that left side. No one would deny that the Titans ooze classy names across their squad but something is still missing. It is hard to suggest what it is exactly but there seems to be a hint of sameness in the pack. The Titans need Dave Taylor to cement a starting position as he is the only real dynamic forward that the Titans have in a team of workers. Harrison, Myles, Douglas and Bailey aren’t going to set the world alight with flair and these days with Father Time casting his long shadow, they could genuinely be regarded as glorified plodders. The outside backs are speedy and if the Titans had of kept Idris, then they could have been a much more dangerous outfit. Having said that Maurice Blair is a solid customer and while not as flashy is more than capable of completing the job.

9

11

16

4

0%

90 TRIES

PIGS

50%

BACKS

Attack v Defence

100%

85 WORK HORSE

Injuries seem to be the defining aspect in an aging Titans starting squad. Zillman, Bird, Mead, Bailey and Harrison are all injury prone and need a light offseason to get over niggling injuries which hampered their 2013 season. The Titans could become a formidable force with halves Albert Kelly and Aiden Sezer gelling better than expected after the departure of Scott Prince. For the NRLCEO coach, there are potential stars across the paddock. Wingers Mead and Gordon are the definition of dangerous when given early ball with space. The forwards all work hard and are better than average NRLCEO value. Overall, Coach Cartwright loves using his big name forwards for large chunks of time. There are ‘Titan diamonds’ ripe for the picking but knowing who is going to remain injury free is impossible to predict. Matt Srama lurks as the main hooking option but there is generally a back-up option on Cartwright’s bench which diminishes his NRLCEO effectiveness….

Premiership Odds: $12 Premierships: Nil Bye Rounds: 12 & 16

SQUAD CHANGES: 2014 Gains: Maurice Blair (Storm), Kalifa Faifai Loa (Cowboys), Siuatonga Likiliki (Knights) 2014 Losses: Marmin Barba (Broncos), Hymel Hunt (Storm), Luke O’Dwyer (Retired)

BEST LINE-UP

TITANS 2013 STATISTICS Player

Position(s)

Aiden Sezer Albert Kelly Nate Myles Luke Douglas Kevin Gordon David Mead Ashley Harrison Greg Bird Maurice Blair William Zillman Ryan James Dave Taylor Anthony Don Brad Takairangi Beau Falloon Matt Srama Luke Bailey Mark Minichiello Kalifa Faifai-Loa Brad Tighe Beau Henry Steve Michaels Ben Ridge Sam Irwin Jamie Dowling

HB (KP 6) FE BR, FR FR WG FB, WG BR FE, BR CT, FE FB FR BR WG CT HK HK FR BR WG CT FE, HB (KP 1) WG BR HK CT

HOT!

GAMES

TRIES

GOALS

FG

40/20

22 21 19 24 22 16 19 20 16 16 22 20 13 18 17 19 20 16 7 7 1 9 17 10 9

1 11

75

2

2

WH

18 16 15 11 1 3 9 6 3 4 7 5 2 2

2 1

DWH

1 1

12 6 1 9 3

4 3 7 2

3 3

1 1

TA

LB

LBA

13 11

5 9

1 1 3 2 6 1 5 3 3 5 2 2

1 6 13 2 4 8 15 4 5 10 6 4 6

9 7 2 2 2 1 2 7 3 2

1

4 3

SB

1

1 6 4 5 1 1 1

6 6 2

2 1

1 1

1 2

1

Ok – we are going out on a limb here and suggesting that Dave Taylor will have a huge season. We don’t know where this is coming from but instinct says that he is not only due, but he will be hungry to regain his Origin jersey. With the Titans pack looking decidedly old, the boys from the Glitter Strip really need a shining light to spark them –Taylor.

Speaking of old, it pains us to suggest that NRLCEO favourites Ashley Harrison and Luke Bailey are coming to a screeching halt but it’s the truth. In 2013, both experienced injuries galore and both were major disappointments all season. Unfortunately, the Titans will still rely on the old guys heavily, but they are not the picks they once were.

TOTAL 198 82 78 73 70 64 60 59 52 51 48 45 44 40 37 35 33 25 17 12 12 10 6 4 4

NOT!

WARRIORS I AM SAM After a disappointing 2013, Warriors management has moved to shore up depth in key areas of past concern. The major signing of Pommy fullback, Sam Tomkins, is an excellent one and will provide them with an extra ball playing option. However, where this signing leaves Kevin Locke is anyone’s guess. Theoretically, the Warrior’s team looks very similar to last season but there is potential for major positional shake-ups across the starting 13. This will impact on the NRLCEO Coach as they try and guess what Coach Elliot’s next move is after each Warrior’s loss…. Shaun Johnson is a certain starter but Thomas Leuluai’s utility value could see him slot in at hooker more this season. This could see Tomkins play at ‘standoff’ which could decrease his try scoring ability and NRLCEO effectiveness. Kevin Locke would then move into the custodian role. The other player who this will affect is Nathan Friend. Friend has been an NRLCEO favourite for many years – his relentless work ethic in defence and his newfound ability to run the ball makes him an attractive draft option. For the NRLCEO coach, the Warriors can truly be regarded as rocks or diamonds – depending on who and where they play.

0%

90 TRIES

PIGS

50%

BACKS

Attack v Defence

11

14

6

5

100%

72 WORK HORSE

The backs are highlighted by the Beast who seems to score in braces – but his hammies are always tight! Konrad Hurrell will be keen for a break out year with consistency in defence at the forefront of his mind – no one can deny his attacking prowess. In the forwards, new recruit Jayson Bukuya will be very dangerous on the right edge and the loss of Elijah Taylor could see Captain Mannering move into the middle of the ruck. If this happens, expect his numbers and value to go up dramatically. When searching for a reliable kicker, Shaun Johnson is a definite option with his accuracy improving, complimenting his genuine try scoring ability. His 30 point haul late last season sank many a finals team in NRLCEO and this potential alone should be considered for 2014! Overall, the Warriors should be a team on the rise in 2014 and they exude NRLCEO quality. Tomkins is the obvious mystery and how he handles the step up in competition truly holds the Warriors key to success this season. He’s a confident young man but the NRL is physically tougher than the Superleague – can he adapt?

Premiership Odds: $15 Premierships: Nil Bye Rounds: 14 & 17

SQUAD CHANGES: 2014 Gains: Jayson Bukuya (Sharks), Sam Tomkins (Wigan), Chad Townsend (Sharks) 2014 Losses: Todd Lowrie (Broncos), Russell Packer (Jail), Steve Rapira (Salford), Bill Tupou (Raiders), Alehana Mara (Released)

BEST LINE-UP

WARRIORS 2013 STATISTICS Player

Position(s)

Shaun Johnson Manu Vatuvei Simon Mannering Nathan Friend Konrad Hurrell Jayson Bukuya Thomas Leuluai Kevin Locke Glen Fisiiahi Ngani Laumape Jacob Lillyman Feleti Mateo Ben Henry Sam Rapira Jerome Ropati Ben Matulino Suaia Matagi Kevin Locke Chad Townsend Dominic Peyroux Carlos Tuimavave Sam Tomkins Sebastine Ikahihfo Sione Lousi Sam Lousi

HB (KP 7) WG BR HK CT BR FE FB WG WG FR BR CT (KP 1) FR CT BR FR WG HB (KP 1) CT FE FB, FE BR FR BR

HOT!

GAMES

TRIES

GOALS

FG

40/20

24 19 23 21 20 20 24 20 11 14 22 24 7 22 4 24 11 20 4 12 3 21* 8 0 0

10 16 4

67

3

3

13 7 6 2 5 5 1 1 3 1 2 1 1

WH

16 18 6 1

2 1

5 2 1 2

DWH

1

TA

LB

LBA

15 5 2 4 1 3 6 8 3

10 15 5

16 2 1 5 6 1 5 7 1

4 1 2

2

1

1 2 1 1

14 1 10 6 3 8 3 2 1 2 2 1 2 1

SB

3 1 2 2 1 3 2

1 23*

As far as the Warriors go, much will rely on Shaun Johnson and the young halfback has plenty of tricks up his sleeve for this season. With his goal kicking much improved and his elusive step providing many a try, Johnson firms as a very good draft option for those who are looking for a kicker outside of the main options.

With the departure of Elijah Taylor, Feleti Mateo will have the opportunity to play bigger minutes this season but is his heart really in it? When on song, Mateo can win game by himself, his lethal offload providing the catalyst for some great tries. But unfortunately, this may not be enough and we feel that his days at the Warriors are numbered…

TOTAL 236 91 90 89 74 60 51 38 30 28 27 29 22 16 16 14 8 8 6 2 1 92* 0 0 0

NOT!

ATTACK v DEFENCE We all know how important Work Horses are to any NRLCEO side. Tackle hungry hookers and back rowers as well as barnstorming front rowers are key to winning a title. But just how does the breakdown work between each team in the NRL? We’ve counted up all the points from tries from each teams squads in 2013 (GREEN) and compared it to all of the points from work horse tries (RED) to give you an insight into which teams you should be looking at when drafting.

Broncos

Bulldogs

Cowboys

Dragons

Eels

Knights

Panthers

Rabbitohs

Raiders

Roosters

Sea Eagles

Sharks

Storm

Tigers

Titans

Warriors

Compared to 2012 there was a lot more of a try scoring skew in 2013. There were only two sides last year who had more points through work horses than tries and they were the Broncos and the Tigers. The Broncos are a peculiar case. For years names like Parker, Thaiday, McCullough and Hannant have dominated the work horse tackle numbers. Unlike any other team they were able to consistenly have a pack full of work horses. This will likely continue in 2014 and the only other team with a similar structure is the Tigers (mainly because they didn’t score many tries in 2013). The most successful teams in 2013 before the finals had the best try to work horse ratios with the Rabbitohs and Roosters leading the charge. Both teams should continue to score plenty of tries in 2014 and only have one or two stand out regular workhorses such as Jake Friend, JWH and Sam Burgess. The perennial tall timber at the Raiders will continue to rely on Shaun Fensom to take the brunt of the work and will need another player to step up in the total tackle department.

ANALYSING THE BYES If you’re prone to going cross-eyed look away now! The reason this is at the end of the guide is that although it looks complicated and important, it’s just a quick guide for you to look out for when drafting. The main importance of this table is for your backup players. For example if you draft Cam Smith in Round 1 as your starting hooker and kicker, you might be looking for a backup hooker for when he has the bye. In this instance you would not select an Eel or a Knight as they share two weeks (11 & 17) with the same Bye Round. Your best bet would be a Broncos, Bulldogs, Cowboys, Rabbits, Roosters, Sharks, Tigers or Titans hooker as they do not share a single bye week. BRONC

DOGS

BRONC

COWS

DRAGS

14 & 18

18

EELS

KNIGHT

PANTH

RABBIT

RAIDER

18

14

ROOST

EAGLES

SHARK

14

14

DOGS 14 & 18

DRAGS

18

18 18

18 11

EELS

11

KNIGHT

11

11 & 17

PANTH

11

11

RABBIT

18

18

RAIDER

14

14 & 17

ROOST

18

EAGLES

14

SHARK

14

11

TIGERS

12

TITANS

12 & 16 14

KEY:

14

14

18

11

11

11

11 & 17

17

11

17

11

11 & 17

17

11

11

15

15 15 & 18

17

11

11 & 17

17

14

14

14

17

11

15

15

11

17

Teams do not share a single Bye Round

14 & 17

Teams share two Bye Rounds

14 12

12

14

12

14 17

12

12 17

14 & 17 15

14

11 15

14

15 & 18

11

15 15

14 15

11 & 17

14

11

12

STORM

18

12 & 16

11

18 11

12

11 & 17

15 11

WARRI

11

11

18

TITANS

11

18

11

14 & 17

TIGERS

14

12

COWS

WARRI

STORM

14

12 17

Teams share one Bye Round

MY SQUAD …………………………………………………………. FRONT ROW

…………………………………………………………. FRONT ROW

…………………………………………………………. HOOKER

…………………………………………………………. BACK ROW

…………………………………………………………. BENCH 2

…………………………………………………………. BACK ROW

…………………………………………………………. BENCH 3 …………………………………………………………. BENCH 4

…………………………………………………………. BACK ROW

…………………………………………………………. SQUAD MEMBER

…………………………………………………………. HALF BACK …………………………………………………………. FIVE EIGHT

…………………………………………………………. CENTRE

…………………………………………………………. BENCH 1

…………………………………………………………. CENTRE

…………………………………………………………. SQUAD MEMBER …………………………………………………………. SQUAD MEMBER …………………………………………………………. SQUAD MEMBER

…………………………………………………………. WINGER

…………………………………………………………. WINGER …………………………………………………………. FULL BACK

…………………………………………………………. SQUAD MEMBER …………………………………………………………. SQUAD MEMBER

NRLCEO

2014 SEASON GUIDE

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