sidelined

And so it begins. Eight teams enter. Only six leave. Doesn’t really have that ominous ring to it unless your are a fan of the two teams that get knocked out. And history suggests that this will the teams that have finished seventh and eighth. The money is on the Storm to repeat their winning way but I don’t think they are sure things this year. We will know if I am right the first Sunday in October but for now, let’s have a look at week 1 of the finals.

Sydney Roosters v Brisbane Broncos, Friday 7:30 Sydney Football Stadium

The Roosters won last week but have they really been that convincing? Wet weather really can even teams up and I still think the result would have been different if a dry track. But the Roosters will not wanting their first finals appearance since 2004 end with a whimper.

On the other hand the Broncos have some old hands well versed in the ways of finals footy to guide their young guns. And there also is the Wayne Bennett factor. It is his last hurrah for the Broncos and they will be wanting to give it their all.

This is Fittler’s first season in the finals as a coach. He gives away a lot to Bennett but will have the enthusiasm for the task. But it is this experience that will prove to be invaluable for the Broncos and they will overcome the home side.

Cronulla Sharks v Canberra Raiders, Saturday 6:30pmn Toyota Stadium

You couldn’t have two teams of greater contrast in the style of their football. The grind of the Sharks versus the expansive daring of the Raiders. Neil Henry deserved coach of the year as he has done well to bring the rag tag Raiders this far. But Stuart also deserves a mention for his efforts for the Sharks. In past seasons the Sharks have faltered in the race to the finals. Finishing on equal points with the Sea Eagles and Storm deserves recognition.

The Bulldogs showed that the Raiders have some defensive issues. They countered with attack but that is going to be so much harder against Sharks miserly defence.

The Raiders could pull off an upset but their great run should come to an end. The home side in what will be an very interesting game.

Manly Sea Eagles v St George Illawarra Dragons, Saturday 8:30pm Brookvale Oval

Matt Orford has the Dally M. But I bet he would trade it all for a premiership. He has his chance this season to both win it all and put to rest the notion that he fails to perform in big games.

The Dragons are a better team than their 7th position finish. They got bogged down in the wet last week and drier conditions will suit them. And they are Manly’s bogey side and that may play on the Sea Eagle’s mind a little.

But Manly will be out to better themselves this year. If they don’t then they will likely to burdened with the tag of finals chokers. This motivation to go one better will carry them past the Dragons.

Melbourne Storm v New Zealand Warriors, Sunday 3:00pm Olympic Park

Can the Warriors do what no other side has done? Eighth has never beaten first since the current finals system was adopted. It will happen one day but I just don’t see this miracle for 2008.

That is not to say the Warriors will not give it a go. They have nothing to lose and will put everything on the line.

It won’t be an easy game for the Storm and they may end up a bit battered in the end. But they will be victorious and have a week off to recover.