Rugby LeagueEddie OttoComment

NRL Finals Week 1 Preview - Broncos v Dragons @ Suncorp Stadium

Rugby LeagueEddie OttoComment
NRL Finals Week 1 Preview - Broncos v Dragons @ Suncorp Stadium

Brisbane Broncos v St. George Illawarra Dragons @ Suncorp Stadium
 
Preview - The Broncos will looks to keep their rampaging form going as they host the Dragons in an Elimination Final at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday afternoon. The Broncos have stormed into the playoffs off the back of a convincing win over the Roosters and a thumping 48-16 win over Manly as Wayne Bennett has his men playing their best football at just the right time of year. The Dragons have limped somewhat into the playoffs, having led the competition for the first 11 rounds, before finishing in 7th spot despite beating the Knights 24-14 in Newcastle last week. The sides have not met since way back in Round 1 when the Dragons dominated the Broncos at Kogarah, winning 34-10.
 
Brisbane Broncos’ Scouting Report - Andrew McCullough (concussion) returns at hooker, allowing Josh McGuire to revert to lock and Joe Ofahengaue to the bench, with Jake Turpin dropping out. Alex Glenn (calf) is also back in the second row, with David Fifita back to the bench and Kotoni Staggs to 18th man. Tevita Pangai jnr (hamstring) has been named to start.
 
St. George Illawarra Dragons’ Scouting Report - Captain Gareth Widdop (elbow) returns at five-eight, bumping Kurt Mann to the bench and Jai Field out of the squad, in the only listed change from last week. Lock Jack De Belin has been named despite sporting a moonboot on an injured ankle or foot on Tuesday. Backs Euan Aitken (hamstring) and Jason Nightingale (elbow) are both listed in the reserves and could yet come into the 17.
 
Verdict - Broncos  by 14-22

I think the Broncos will win this game fairly comfortably against a Dragons’ side that looks beaten up to me. The Broncos have everything in their favour here, with a full house at Suncorp behind them, as well as a fast afternoon surface which should play into the hands of their attacking players. Sure, the Dragons will compete hard given the stakes, however I think the Broncos will be far too good and win this game by 13+.