NRL can handle funding demands: ARL

Updated October 25, 2011 13:02:03

Australian Rugby League (ARL) chairman John Chalk has extended an olive branch to disgruntled NRL clubs, conceding their demands for extra funding are "affordable and sustainable".

It was not immediately clear, however, if Chalk's comments referred to an up front payment clubs are seeking in 2012 as well as their demands for a TV rights bonus payment adding up to $36 million.

Some of the 16 NRL clubs have reportedly threatened not to sign club agreements to play in the 2012 competition without assurances of extra funding.

They are seeking an extra $8 million ($500,000 per club) paid in quarterly instalments next year and also want a $1.6 million advance payment on the next broadcast rights TV deal, which will be thrashed out next year.

The partnership committee of News Limited and the NRL, which controls the financial arm of the game, met last week and rejected plunging the game into debt by taking out an $8 million loan.

Their view was they were not prepared to put the game into debt to get some clubs out of debt, which did not sit well with some club bosses.

Chalk says that in his personal view the NRL clubs' funding request represented an affordable and sustainable increase for the 2012 season.

"Contrary to reports, the ARL has not taken a position to oppose NRL club requests for additional funding for the 2012 season," he said in a statement.

"I have called for an urgent meeting of the ARL (board) tomorrow (Tuesday) to discuss the issue and for a position."

The cash-strapped clubs have adopted a hard line approach, saying they either get a $500,000 payment or they will not be signing any agreements for 2012.

But there are fears the stand-off could seriously harm the incoming independent commission's ability to get on with the job and also make administrators look amateurish in their dealings.

Some NRL clubs already on the financial brink say they cannot hang on until a new TV deal is stitched up and need the funding now to survive.

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, australia

First posted October 24, 2011 19:25:00

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Ayoub betting case adjourned

Updated November 28, 2011 13:17:25

The court case into NRL player-manager Sam Ayoub's alleged involvement in a rugby league betting scandal has been adjourned until February.

Ayoub is the third NRL identity to appear in court in relation to a betting plunge on a first scoring play from a North Queensland-Canterbury match last year.

Ayoub's counsel argued at the Downing Centre Local Court on Monday it should be given time to view transcripts of the previous two cases before the matter proceeded to trial.

The magistrate agreed with Ayoub's counsel and adjourned the case until February 13.

Former Bulldogs prop Ryan Tandy and ex-rugby league journeyman John Elias have completed their trials.

Elias was last week found not guilty of attempting to gain financial advantage by deception, while Tandy is appealing his conviction of the same charge.

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, sydney-2000

First posted November 28, 2011 13:15:43

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Cleary banking on youth to revive Panthers

Updated November 09, 2011 13:11:36

It was the secret behind his success at the Warriors, and now new Penrith coach Ivan Cleary is banking on the Panthers' rich nursery of junior talent reviving the club's NRL fortunes.

Cleary's six years with the Warriors were characterised by his ability to develop talented youngsters into NRL footballers.

Of the Warriors' 17-man squad which played in this year's NRL grand final, Cleary had brought eight players through the system, while seasoned internationals Simon Mannering and Manu Vatuvei were fledgling first graders when he arrived at the club in 2006.

Panthers officials have long been frustrated by the club's inability to transfer its junior rugby league dominance to the NRL - and have entrusted Cleary to finally make it happen.

Of the 17 that took to the field for the Panthers in their round 26 loss to St George Illawarra, only five players were local juniors.

"It's no secret it's a huge junior league out here and there's lots of kids playing," Cleary said on Tuesday.

"Over the years some of the juniors that have come out of here have gone on to become great players.

"It's certainly a key area in building the club ... but that's going to take time.

"It's a key strategy of the club to build from within."

It is why Cleary is not too concerned by the departure of veteran forwards Petero Civoniceva and Trent Waterhouse, or his club's limited recruitment drive which has netted the likes of fringe first-graders Chris Armit, Cameron Ciraldo and Clint Newton.

While he would obviously like to achieve success a bit quicker than the six years it took him to get the Warriors to a decider, Cleary admitted there was no quick-fix to rebuilding a Panthers side which has played finals football just once in the past seven seasons.

"I'm happy with the squad that's here - I'm more than happy with some of the juniors we've got and the depth coming through," he said.

"It's all just about improving - just turning up each day and getting better.

"There's a long way to go and a lot of work to do, but you've got to start somewhere."

That somewhere was the training track on Tuesday, where new trainer Ron Palmer put the squad through a torturous workout in humid conditions.

"It was a tough session," centre Michael Jennings said.

"It's good to know where you're at and what you can expect for the coming weeks."

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, penrith-2750, nsw, australia

First posted November 08, 2011 17:36:29

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Bunnies searching for new Sandow

Updated October 31, 2011 22:11:02

South Sydney officially welcomed coach Michael Maguire into the fold on Monday, with the rookie NRL coach handed the onerous task of removing the Bunnies' "underachievers" tag.

With internationals Sam Burgess, Roy Asotasi, Dave Taylor and Issac Luke on the books, Souths certainly has the forward pack.

Add Greg Inglis, Nathan Merritt, John Sutton and new signing Matt King to the team and the club has got a backline that can score plenty of points.

In Maguire, the Rabbitohs believe they have found a coach that can bring them success.

But one giant question mark remains over South Sydney's chances for a successful 2012 - just how does the club replace the mercurial talents of half-back Chris Sandow?

Parramatta-bound Sandow was a shining light for the Rabbitohs this year, nearly guiding them to the finals despite manning a roster savaged by injuries.

Maguire, who learned his trade under Craig Bellamy at Melbourne before a successful two-year stint in the English Super League with Wigan, ran his first training session with the club on Monday before turning his attention towards who will fill the number seven jersey next season.

"I'll soon find out," Maguire told reporters when asked how tough it will be to replace Sandow.

"At the moment I haven't got any names. I'm just looking forward to seeing what I've got in the squad.

"I'm aware of the depth but haven't seen a lot of it.

"At the end of the day there's a number of players here that are going to have an opportunity. So we'll assess things here as soon as we start training."

Maguire may have been tight-lipped on the early favourite for the job, but he refused to rule out recruiting a half-back before the season starts.

"I'm always looking at certain things," he said.

"We'll wait and see what's available but at the moment I'm happy with what we've got."

Backrower Jason Clark, who captained Adam Reynolds in the under-20s team, says the youngster has the qualities to develop into a first-grade footballer.

"He's a great player. He's got a great football brain (and) if he gets the opportunity I'm sure he'll take it with both hands," Clark explained.

Skipper Roy Asotasi said the players would spend the next few weeks getting to understand Maguire's coaching mantra, but admitted they had a fair idea of what to expect based on his stints at Wigan and as an assistant at the Storm.

"We're just getting to learn about him and what he expects from us for this off-season," Asotasi explained.

"And all he wants from us is 100 per cent effort and to constantly improve in the off-season and not worry about what's going to happen at the start of the season.

"He's really big on the off-season and how everyone's going."

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, redfern-2016, nsw, australia

First posted October 31, 2011 22:11:02

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Tupou called up by Kiwis

Updated October 12, 2011 13:53:15

Winger Bill Tupou is the latest Warriors grand finalist to be added to New Zealand's Four Nations touring party.

Tupou replaces clubmate Krisnan Inu, who was brought into the squad as one of three replacements after Manu Vatuvei, Shaun Johnson and Steve Matai were ruled out on medical grounds.

The Kiwis meet Australia in a one-off Test in Newcastle on Sunday before travelling to England for the Four Nations tournament beginning in Warrington on October 28.

Inu withdrew on Monday for personal reasons.

Tupou joins fellow Warriors' Kevin Locke, Lewis Brown, Russell Packer, Simon Mannering, Ben Matulino and Elijah Taylor in the Kiwis squad.

After 12 matches in his rookie NRL season in 2010, Tupou made 17 appearances this year, scoring five tries.

AAP

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First posted October 12, 2011 13:46:20

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NRL asked to sort out Moltzen dispute

Updated October 13, 2011 07:12:07

St George Illawarra boss Peter Doust has asked the NRL to sort out the protracted dispute with Wests Tigers over star utility Tim Moltzen's contract.

Doust has written a detailed statement on the Dragons' website, saying the club is exploring its legal options and claiming Moltzen and his manager Martin Tauber have gone missing as the wrangling drags on.

The Dragons signed Moltzen on a three-year deal in July, saying they had assurances he would be released from his contract with the Tigers.

At the time, Tigers chief executive Stephen Humphreys expressed his disappointment at the timing of the announcement.

A release is still to be finalised and Doust has accused the Tigers of not acting in good faith amidst reports Moltzen has had a change of heart and after a request from Humphreys for "further discussions".

"Our suspicions were raised earlier last week when both Martin Tauber and Tim Moltzen did not return phone calls to Dragons staff and Tim also failed to front for a pre-arranged meeting prior to his departure for an end-of-season overseas trip with other Wests Tigers players," Doust wrote.

"It is quite obvious that some circumstances at the Wests Tigers have changed in recent times, otherwise why only now three months later are we made aware that there is an issue?"

Doust said the Dragons had investigated their legal position.

"Certainly some sections within the NRL rules are worth exploring in protecting the Dragons' interests," he wrote.

"Clearly this is not something that we have been able to resolve with the Wests Tigers and we will now continue to press our contractual position in relation to Tim Moltzen and his manager's intentions for the 2012 season and beyond by formally referring the matter to the NRL."

Moltzen was among several contracted stars the Tigers allowed to explore their options mid-season as the club sought to free up some salary cap room.

The full-back starred during the side's late-season surge into the finals, finally rediscovering his best after a knee reconstruction in 2010.

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, wollongong-2500, campbelltown-2560, balmain-2041, nsw, australia

First posted October 13, 2011 07:12:07

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Lawrence wary of England forwards

Updated October 11, 2011 09:05:18

Australian centre Chris Lawrence claims England will have the strongest pack in the Four Nations after Wests Tigers team-mate Chris Heighington was named in the squad.

Heighington was picked in Steve McNamara's 22-man panel for the tournament, which gets underway on October 28, and will pack down with fellow Tiger Gareth Ellis.

Australia meets England at Wembley Stadium on November 5 with no fewer than four NRL players likely to start for the Lions, along with prop James Graham, who joins Canterbury for the 2012 season.

Ellis and Heighington will be joined by Melbourne five-eighth Gareth Widdop and Brisbane's Yorkshire-born, Queensland-raised centre Jack Reed.

Former Sydney Roosters enforcer Adrian Morley, who was infamously sent off after just 13 seconds in a clash with the Kangaroos in 2003, was also included, as was New Zealand-born playmaker Rangi Chase, who spent two years with St George Illawarra.

Chase won Super League's Man of Steel Award this season after a fine campaign for Castleford but his selection was met with criticism by English great Garry Scofield.

South Sydney prop Sam Burgess is not available due to a shoulder injury.

Heighington has been one of Wests Tigers best performers in recent seasons, but has only two NSW Country Origin appearances to his name.

He opted to pledge allegiance to the country of his father's birth after constantly being overlooked by NSW selectors.

Lawrence is fully expecting the hosts to be a difficult proposition in home conditions.

"I'd say they have the best pack out of all three nations, you have Chris, Gareth, James Graham, Jamie Peacock and Adrian Morley, that is a pretty formidable set of forwards," Lawrence said.

"With that pack and Gareth Widdop playing good footy for Melbourne, they are going to have some good halves playing in their conditions they are going to be very hard to beat.".

Newly-crowned Super League champion Leeds has seven players in McNamara's squad, but grand final man-of-the-match Rob Burrow is not included due to a rib injury.

Exciting young St Helens' half-back Jonny Lomax, 20, rated as one of the best prospects in the English game for many years, is also included for the first time.

England squad: Carl Ablett (Leeds), Ryan Bailey (Leeds), Tom Briscoe (Hull), Garreth Carvell (Warrington), Rangi Chase (Castleford), Leroy Cudjoe (Huddersfield), Gareth Ellis (Wests Tigers), James Graham (St Helens), Ryan Hall (Leeds), Chris Heighington (Wests Tigers), Ben Jones-Bishop (Leeds), Jamie Jones-Buchanan (Leeds), Jonny Lomax (St Helens), Michael McIlorum (Wigan), Adrian Morley (Warrington), Jamie Peacock (Leeds, capt), Jack Reed (Brisbane), James Roby (St Helens), Kevin Sinfield (Leeds), Sam Tomkins (Wigan), Ben Westwood (Warrington), Gareth Widdop (Melbourne), Jon Wilkin (St Helens), Kirk Yeaman (Hull).

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, england, united-kingdom, australia

First posted October 11, 2011 09:05:18

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Balmain great Killeen dies

Updated October 31, 2011 22:03:32

Wests Tigers have announced the passing of Balmain great Len Killeen.

The former goal kicking winger, 72, died last Friday in South Africa.

Born in Uitenhage near Port Elizabeth, Killeen joined the Balmain Tigers in 1967 on a transfer from St Helens.

He played with Balmain for five seasons, racking up 78 first grade games for the club, scoring 36 tries, 270 goals and eight field goals for a total of 664 points.

In 1969 he was a member of the grand final-winning team where he kicked two goals in the 11-2 victory over Souths.

His points tally of 207 in that year is a club record for most points in a season.

A member of the St Helens Hall of Fame, Len was inducted into the Balmain Hall of Fame in 2009

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First posted October 31, 2011 22:03:32

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Interview: Anthony Watmough

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Rookie Johnson named in Kiwis squad

Updated October 04, 2011 20:08:54

Rugby league world champions New Zealand has named a powerful line-up boasting nine players from Sunday's NRL grand final for its Four Nations title defence later this month.

Rookie sensation Shaun Johnson was one of seven Warriors named in the 23-man squad to head to England and Wales, his selection along with that of captain Benji Marshall and Manly pivot Kieran Foran giving coach Stephen Kearney a potent playmaking mix.

Johnson was joined in the squad by fellow Warriors stars Kevin Locke, Russell Packer, Lewis Brown, Simon Mannering, Ben Matulino and winger Manu Vatuvei, while the team that beat them in the NRL decider, Manly, will provide Foran and centre Steve Matai.

Six players in the squad - Johnson, Locke, Packer, Brisbane duo Gerard Beale and Alex Glenn and Melbourne's Kevin Proctor - have yet to make their Test debuts.

"There's evidence again that our playing depth is building," Kearney said.

"As usually happens we've had a significant number of players, who couldn't be considered due to injury, but we've still been able to bring together a strong group of players, one we're really pleased with.

"It's a benefit as well that so many of them have played deep into the finals."

The Kiwis were denied the chance to select second rower Frank Pritchard, with the 21-Test veteran opting to switch his allegiances to Samoa ahead of the 2013 World Cup.

The squad will assemble in Sydney on Sunday ahead of the October 16 Test against Australia in Newcastle.

New Zealand, which upset Australia in last year's Four Nations final, will open its title defence against the Kangaroos in Warrington on October 28.

New Zealand: Gerard Beale, Adam Blair, Lewis Brown, Nathan Fien, Kieran Foran, Alex Glenn, Thomas Leuluai, Kevin Locke, Shaun Johnson, Issac Luke, Sam McKendry, Simon Mannering, Sika Manu, Benji Marshall (captain), Steve Matai, Ben Matulino, Fuifui Moimoi, Jason Nightingale, Russell Packer, Kevin Proctor, Jeremy Smith, Manu Vatuvei, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves

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First posted October 04, 2011 17:25:30

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Bennett offers Knights no promises

Updated November 29, 2011 15:34:35

Wayne Bennett has made it clear he wants to deliver on Nathan Tinkler's Newcastle dream, but the seven-time NRL premiership winner refuses to put a time limit on its arrival.

The mining magnate has made it his mission to use a seemingly bottomless bank account to transform the Knights into a force the envy of their rivals ever since assuming ownership of the club.

At the top of Tinkler's wishlist is a third premiership for a club that tasted success in 1997 and 2001.

Speaking after Tuesday's first training session with the Knights, Bennett said he had bought into Tinkler's vision, but warned fans not to expect instant success.

"(Tinkler) has got big dreams, and I like his dreams. I just hope we can get it done for him," Bennett, who signed a four-year deal with the club, said.

"Realistically a premiership may not be forthcoming in the near future.

"More importantly we just want to build something that will provide them with long-term success.

"There's a great opportunity to build something pretty special."

Bennett's arrival at the club has led to some bookmakers installing the Knights as favourites for next year's premiership.

That move no doubt flows on from his immediate success at St George Illawarra, having guided the joint-venture to the minor premiership in his first season there before ending the Dragons' 31-year premiership drought the next.

But Bennett warned it may not be as simple a project at the Knights.

"We've got a plan for here. It won't be in fruition the first 12 months," he said.

"The first 12 months will just be to make us the best footy team we can (be) and not go too quick. Because you can get lost in all that."

Bennett is well accustomed to coping with expectations, and said he had been dealing with them since he was a young man.

That experience will come in handy at Newcastle, with former skipper Paul Harragon saying the sky was the limit for the club's future.

"We want excellence," Harragon said.

"Newcastle's always been a town that's been renowned for battling away. Tough, resilient.

"We want to keep all those things but the sky is the limit. We're not worried about premierships, but we want to be the best."

Meanwhile, Bennett confirmed that Australian representative Darius Boyd, who followed Bennett from the Dragons to Newcastle, would play full-back - forcing captain Kurt Gidley into a playmaking role.

"He can play half-back, five-eighth and hooker," Bennett said of Gidley.

"He's destined for one of those I'd think."

AAP

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First posted November 29, 2011 10:51:51

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Morris, Yow Yeh in Four Nations duel

Updated November 11, 2011 17:36:36

Josh Morris and Jharal Yow Yeh will audition for a wing spot in the Four Nations final when the Kangaroos meet minnow Wales on Monday (AEDT).

With Australia's place in the following weekend's decider already safe, coach Tim Sheens named a new-look line-up to meet the winless Welsh at Wrexham with Daly Cherry-Evans, Corey Parker and Beau Scott all set to make international debuts.

While skipper Darren Lockyer is rested ahead of his career-ending appearance in the final, the match looms as a big test for Morris and Yow Yeh.

They will battle for the wing berth left vacant by the injury to Billy Slater that has forced Darius Boyd's move to full-back.

Morris starts on the left wing with Yow Yeh on the right but Sheens is considering switching certain selection Akuila Uate from right to left for the final, depending on who impresses most against Wales.

"I've mentioned it to both boys but whether it's left or right I go with, I'm not sure yet," he said.

"I played Akuila on the right to start with against England and then he went to left in the second half.

"Morris plays left centre but started out as a left winger, so I'll experiment with that one and see where we come out."

The Welsh have been gallant but ultimately outclassed by England and New Zealand in their first two games.

Sheens gave his players three days off this week, with a place in the final against England or New Zealand secured.

However, the veteran coach admits maintaining the players' focus was always likely to be a concern this week and he is looking to the newcomers in the team to help maintain intensity ahead of the title decider.

"The enthusiasm of the younger ones picked up today's training. That was good," Sheens said.

A Wales win would be one of the biggest shocks in the history of sport.

Although the coach will not contemplate the idea of defeat, he does fear any drop off could set the team back going into the final at Leeds.

"We have to be careful we don't go and drop our attitude," he said.

"We fired up to play New Zealand and then again for the England game so we have to maintain our enthusiasm.

"I've noticed New Zealand and England kicked away to a start against Wales and then cruised for a bit before they got hold of the game.

"We want to be more clinical than that."

Sheens has named David Shillington and Keith Galloway as his starting front rowers, with Cameron Smith to skipper the side from hooker.

Scott and Luke Lewis make up the second row with Parker, at the age of 29, making his international bow at lock.

Sheens confirmed Cooper Cronk would play the full 80 minutes, maximising his skills as a utility.

"I want Cooper to get some game time," he said.

"He'll start at five-eighth then move to hooker to give Cam a break.

"I'll then move Thurston to five-eighth to give Daly a run. Then return Cronk to half-back to give JT a rest."

Kangaroos: Darius Boyd, Jharal Yow Yeh, Greg Inglis, Chris Lawrence, Josh Morris, Cooper Cronk, Johnathan Thurston, David Shillington, Cameron Smith (c), Keith Galloway, Beau Scott, Luke Lewis, Corey Parker. Interchange: Paul Gallen, Daly Cherry-Evans, Matt Scott, Anthony Watmough, Sam Thaiday, Akuila Uate (two to be omitted)

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Tags: sport, rugby-league, wales, united-kingdom, australia

First posted November 11, 2011 17:36:36

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Sandow not feeling the pressure at Parra

Updated November 01, 2011 13:28:15

Star Parramatta signing Chris Sandow is still coming to terms with his new surroundings, but says he is not feeling the pressure to deliver on his team change just yet.

Sandow joined his Eels team-mates on Monday for his first preseason training session at the club and impressed everybody with his ability to fit in comfortably.

But the talented dynamo does not believe he is the only man in charge of turning Parramatta's woeful 2011 season around.

"I'm not thinking about the pressure, just about playing good footy and doing the right things for the team and see how we work as a group," Sandow said.

"I'll just play off the back of that, it should be really good."

Sandow is the most high-profile of the Eels' new recruits, with Australia Test centre Willie Tonga and former Canterbury five-eighth Ben Roberts also linking with the club in a bid to revitalise the roster.

"It was a bit different coming into this preseason, I don't think I've had this many changes since I've been at Parra. It's something different," star full-back Jarryd Hayne said.

One of the biggest decisions for coach Stephen Kearney to make before next season will be who lines up alongside Sandow in the halves.

Roberts signed with the Eels in a bid to lock down a starting spot in his favoured number six jersey, but Hayne has also been tried in the halves with some success in the past two seasons.

Sandow is not concerned with who wears what number - he just sees a blossoming attacking trident that should make opposition defensive lines nervous.

"It's hard to say (whether Roberts or Hayne will play five-eighth). They're both good players of the NRL," he said.

"Jarryd Hayne is always dangerous popping up - whenever he wants the ball just give him the ball.

"It's up to the coach mate, not up to me ... it will be good to play alongside both of them."

AAP

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First posted November 01, 2011 13:08:18

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Sea Eagles retain T-Rex

Updated October 18, 2011 17:45:05

Australia Test forward Tony Williams has officially put pen to paper and re-signed with premiers Manly for a further two seasons.

Williams, who made his Kangaroos debut in Sunday's 42-6 demolition of New Zealand, shunned interest from rival clubs to stay with the Sea Eagles until the end of 2013.

The news will come as welcome relief for the Sea Eagles, who have witnessed the club being pulled apart since they won the club's eighth premiership by beating the Warriors earlier this month.

But while young winger Will Hopoate will link with Parramatta and coach Des Hasler, who joins Canterbury at the end of 2012, have announced their futures lie elsewhere, Williams stayed loyal.

"We are a really close-knit family here at the Sea Eagles," he said.

"I always wanted to stay and I'm enjoying my footy here and want to stay as long as I can.

"Des and all the coaching staff have played a big part in the improvement in my game.

"I see Des as a mentor and look forward to next year playing under him. Hopefully, we can go back to back in 2012."

Manly chief operating officer David Perry is pleased to have retained the monster second rower.

"It's great news for the club to secure a quality young player like Tony for two more seasons," he said.

"He's taken his game to another level this year and we're confident he'll continue to develop under the great coaching staff here at Manly."

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First posted October 18, 2011 17:45:05

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Experience gives Sea Eagles the edge

Updated September 29, 2011 09:49:19

Manly is convinced its wealth of grand final experience will give it the upper hand in Sunday's NRL grand final against the Warriors.

The Sea Eagles will have a staggering 10 players with grand final experience running onto Sydney's Olympic stadium, including eight survivors from the club's 2008 premiership, ready to guide a host of young blood.

In contrast, the Warriors have just three - Lance Hohaia, who was a utility for the Warriors in the 2002 grand final against Sydney Roosters, and former Parramatta pair Krisnan Inu and Feleti Mateo, who played in a losing effort in 2009 alongside current Sea Eagle Joe Galuvao.

Manly's first-time grand finalists are Will Hopoate (19), Kieran Foran (21), Jamie Buhrer (21), Tony Williams (22), Daly Cherry-Evans (22), Darcy Lussick (22) and 28-year-old George Rose, who would have played in deciders in either 2007 or '08 if not for a gruesome broken leg which sidelined him for 18 months.

Veteran forward Shane Rodney, who won a grand final with Galuvao at Penrith in 2003, said the disparity in experience was something Manly should take advantage of.

"I think (having more experience) will be an advantage," Rodney explained.

"A lot of guys (in the team) have been in grand finals before so they know what to expect from the week.

"We had a little talk about it the other night after the (preliminary final win over Brisbane) ... we know what to expect."

Crafty hooker Matt Ballin, who scored the opening try in Manly's 2008 win over Melbourne, said the senior Sea Eagles would shield their young counterparts during the week and on the field to ensure they could then capitalise on the energy the new breed would bring on grand final day.

"I think it's good to have a mix of both. There's the experience of guys who have been there before but the guys who haven't just enjoy it and bring that enthusiasm because they haven't had it before," Ballin said.

"They're lapping it up and bringing the energy to the side. I think to have that blend and mix of players is a really good thing."

Rodney was a bright-eyed 20-year-old when he picked up his premiership ring with the Panthers, and he explained this week what advice he would give the likes of Cherry-Evans, Foran and Hopoate.

"One thing I'll be telling these younger guys, is when I was a younger bloke, you don't really appreciate it too much that it's hard to get to here," Rodney said.

"I'm going to make sure those guys enjoy the week and make the most of it come next weekend.

"They're all pretty level-headed and know what's ahead of them.

"They're all pretty grounded and appreciate where they are now.

"We'll have a little chat in between when I see blokes, but I'm sure they'll be fine."

Meanwhile, a Manly official said it was a precautionary move from his side for back rower Anthony Watmough to leave Wednesday's training session early due to a cold.

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First posted September 29, 2011 07:17:03

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Interview: Pita Godinet

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Roosters sign Eels discard Mortimer

Updated October 24, 2011 14:58:12

The Sydney Roosters have signed Parramatta five-eighth Daniel Mortimer on a two-year deal, potentially filling the void left by Todd Carney's departure.

The 22-year-old Mortimer, a grand finalist in 2009, was granted a release by the Eels, having been used by new coach Steve Kearney in only nine first-grade games in the 2011 season.

Roosters recruitment manager Peter O'Sullivan believed Mortimer would prove a useful asset.

"Daniel suits the Roosters' style of play and with his ability to play five-eighth or half-back, we see him playing a key utility role, adding great depth to our halves alongside the likes of Braith Anasta and Mitchell Pearce," O'Sullivan said.

"Daniel is widely regarded as a quality person on and off the footy field and we are looking forward to watching him develop as part of our team over the coming seasons."

Eels chairman Roy Spagnolo praised Mortimer's contribution to the club.

"Daniel has been a terrific member of our club and everyone here has an enormous respect for him," Spagnolo said.

"It's obviously been a tough period for him over the past season but he's shown his class throughout.

"Although he had a couple of players ahead of him for a spot this year, he continued to work hard on and off the field and his positive attitude in doing so is a credit to him and his upbringing."

Carney, who won the Dally M Medal after an outstanding 2010 season, was released for disciplinary breaches this year.

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, bondi-junction-2022, nsw, australia, parramatta-2150

First posted October 24, 2011 14:58:12

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Leeds extends Saints' grand final pain

Updated October 09, 2011 08:25:24

Former New Zealand Warriors full-back Brent Webb kick-started a run of three tries in nine second-half minutes as Leeds inflicted a fourth Super League grand final defeat over St Helens in five years.

The 30-year-old, who made over 100 appearances for the Warriors, touched down in the 64th minute at Old Trafford as the Rhinos overturned a 16-8 deficit to win 32-16.

Rob Burrow's solo try ensured the Rhinos went in at the break 8-2 ahead however St Helens began the second half well with tries from Tom Makinson and Michael Shenton seemingly putting them in control.

However Ryan Hall, Carl Ablett and Zak Hardaker all followed Webb's lead in scoring as Leeds ran out comfortable winners in the end with Kevin Sinfield exceptional with the boot, kicking six goals.

The loss compounds a torrid time for St Helens in recent grand finals with the result not only its fourth defeat in five years to Leeds but fifth straight as well.

Both teams started at breakneck speed on a wet surface but it took more than 20 minutes for the deadlock to be broken courtesy of a Jamie Foster penalty.

Sinfield followed Foster's lead with a penalty of his own for the Rhinos minutes later before a moment of brilliance from Burrow saw Leeds open the scoring.

He wormed his way through the Saints defence drawing out namely Tony Puletua, who made over 200 NRL appearances for the Penrith Panthers, before storming over.

If the shutters were up for most of the first-half the second was a different story - Andrew Dixon looking as if he had scored St Helens first try six minutes in only for the video ref to think otherwise.

However the tide was turned minutes later as Makinson chased his own short kick inches from the try line and reached around a lacklustre Webb - the video ref this time calling in his favour.

Shenton crashed over six minutes later but despite two further goals from Foster making it 16-8 Webb made up for his earlier error scoring the first of four unanswered tries to set up the win.

The full-back made it 16-14 before another moment of brilliance from Burrow saw Leeds take the lead with Ablett adding to it, all in less than 10 minutes.

St Helens was now flagging and its Super League grand final misery was completed a minute before the final hooter as Hardaker broke through and Sinfield converted for the 32-16 win.

AFP

Tags: rugby-league, sport, england, united-kingdom

First posted October 09, 2011 08:25:09

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English ref back for Kangaroos clash

Updated November 09, 2011 08:59:04

English referee Phil Bentham will take charge of Australia's Four Nations clash with Wales at Wrexham on Sunday.

Bentham infuriated Tim Sheens with his performance in the tournament opener between Australia and New Zealand, with the Kangaroos coach claiming he did not police the ruck speed correctly, allowing the game to descend into a battle of attrition.

England coach Steve McNamara accused Sheens of intimidating tournament officials following his side's defeat to Australia at Wembley on Saturday.

McNamara claimed comments by Sheens in the build-up to the game put New Zealand official Henry Perenara under pressure, and led to his side being on the wrong end of some contentious decisions.

Australian whistleblower Matt Cecchin will take charge of the crunch clash between England and New Zealand at Hull's KC Stadium on Saturday night.

The winner of that game will face Australia in the final at Elland Road, Leeds, on November 19.

AAP

Tags: rugby-league, sport, england, united-kingdom, australia

First posted November 09, 2011 08:59:04

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Asotasi joins calls to outlaw 'cannonball'

Updated October 31, 2011 18:50:14

Former New Zealand skipper Roy Asotasi has called on officials to clean up international rugby league and eradicate the controversial "cannonball" tackle.

Asotasi's South Sydney team-mate Issac Luke is under the spotlight for employing the tactic in the Kiwis' previous two games against Australia.

The tackle involves a player targeting the legs of an attacking player who is already held by one or more defenders.

From the past fortnight alone Luke's rap sheet includes a nasty "cannonball" tackle on forward Sam Thaiday in Newcastle, and one from last weekend's 26-12 loss to Australia which resulted in a knee injury to Kangaroos prop David Shillington.

And while Asotasi admits he would not be able to change Luke's mind on his own, he argues the blueprint for wiping it out of rugby league was drawn up by the NRL this year.

"That's up to the officials to have a really good look at international level because it's definitely outlawed in the NRL," the South Sydney skipper told reporters on Monday.

"Obviously there was a reason it was picked on (by referees) throughout the season.

"I can't really say too much about it but it does look like a pretty tough tackle to be on the other end of."

The Australian camp is fuming over Luke's actions, with assistant coach Dave Furner warning of an increase in the "cannonball" tackles unless immediate action was taken.

Luke's similar tackle on Kangaroos forward Sam Thaiday escaped the attention of the match review committee, but his hit on Shillington could yet see him miss this weekend's clash with Wales.

"Unless they take a stance against it now we are going to see it through the tournament," Furner, who is coach of Shillington's NRL club Canberra.

"It is more than dangerous, and we saw that with what happened to Shillo."

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, redfern-2016, nsw, australia

First posted October 31, 2011 18:50:14

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Civoniceva ready to fight for spot

Updated November 09, 2011 08:48:43

Petero Civoniceva said he feels like he is starting his career all over again with a "huge challenge" to break into Brisbane's 17-man NRL match squad next season.

But the 35-year-old Civoniceva believes missing Australia's Four Nations campaign though injury may help him in that regard.

Despite having 45 Tests and 30 Origin appearances to his name, there are no guarantees following his return to the club from Penrith.

He is competing with fellow representative prop Ben Hannant, 21-year-old Josh McGuire, who finished 2011 as the most improved frontrower in the game, plus Scott Anderson, Mitchell Dodds and Nick Kenny.

"It's a huge challenge and it's not going to be easy getting back into that 17," said Civoniceva, who is doing rehab following post-season surgery to re-attach a torn pectoral muscle.

"I feel like I'm starting all over again.

"When I went to the Panthers (2008) I felt I had to prove myself all over again. It feels very much like that again coming back to Brisbane."

The Fiji-born Civoniceva, who played more than 200 NRL games for the Broncos, was grateful for the opportunity to end his career where it began in 1998.

"It's just great to be home," he said.

"I thought I'd end my career with Penrith but football is unpredictable and now I get a chance to go back to my roots and finish with Brisbane which is nice."

He saw great potential in the youthful Brisbane squad and hoped his experience would prove useful to new captain Sam Thaiday following Darren Lockyer's departure.

"Brisbane had an amazing (2011) season," he said.

"I see my value in helping Sam and the other senior players lead this exciting young team.

"It's an exciting time for Sam to lead the club that he loves and I've enjoyed watching his progress and the respect he now commands in the game."

Civoniceva is very impressed with McGuire, believing he has a big future.

"I remember hearing about him and what a great talent he was before I left for the Panthers," he said.

"He's had a tremendous year and he can build on that now."

Civoniceva also liked what he saw of Brisbane's youth in 2011.

"I really admired how their young players carried themselves and how they responded when tested at certain times," he said.

"I thought they showed a great resolve. You can tell they're a close-knit group.

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, brisbane-4000, qld, australia

First posted November 07, 2011 23:02:40

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Buderus to return to NRL with Knights

Updated October 01, 2011 14:49:40

Former Test and NSW hooker Danny Buderus will return to the NRL next season to see out his playing career with former club Newcastle.

Both Buderus and the Knights confirmed on Saturday the 33-year-old had secured a release from the final year of his contract with Super League club Leeds and would link up with incoming Newcastle coach Wayne Bennett on a one-year deal.

Buderus made the announcement after helping the Rhinos to a 26-24 victory over Warrington to book a berth in next weekend's grand final, ensuring his Super League career will end in style.

"It's been going on for a while behind closed doors and I've got to give thanks to the Rhinos for their patience and for allowing me to finish off my career at my hometown club," said Buderus, in his third season at the club.

"They've wished me well which is great.

"To go home with an appearance (in the grand final) at Old Trafford is a dream script.

"But we want to go there and win it.

"We've got some momentum and that makes us a dangerous team.

"I've enjoyed everything about the Rhinos and my English experience and to finish on this note will put me in good stead for the next couple of years of my career."

Leeds will face either St Helens or Wigan in the competition decider.

Buderus played 221 first grade games for the Knights and was part of their premiership-winning side in 2001.

Knights chief executive Matt Gidley said the club was delighted to welcome back one of its favourite sons.

"It is fantastic news that Danny will play his final year with the Newcastle Knights," said Gidley, a former team-mate of Buderus.

"I'm sure every Knights member and fan, and even supporters of other NRL clubs, will be happy to hear we have been able to work through this with Leeds and bring him home.

"Danny was always a popular member of the team, not just for his on-field brilliance but for the person he is off the field."

AAP

Tags: sport, nrl, rugby-league, newcastle-2300, nsw, australia

First posted October 01, 2011 09:09:02

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Sheens keen not to rush back Inglis

Updated October 25, 2011 13:02:03

Australian coach Tim Sheens admits it is unlikely Greg Inglis will line up against New Zealand in Friday's Four Nations opener in Warrington.

Inglis is recovering from minor off-season knee surgery and has not played since sustaining ankle syndesmosis in South Sydney's defeat to Brisbane in September.

Although the Queensland centre was passed fit to fly to the UK with the rest of the squad last week, Sheens is not keen to rush him back, with Chris Lawrence and Willie Tonga both impressing in the 42-6 win over the Kiwis in Newcastle.

The veteran coach hinted on Monday that the 24-year-old may return for the second game against England at Wembley on November 5, which he has pinpointed as the team's pivotal fixture.

"Greg's in full training," Sheens said.

"Whether we'll use him in the first game or the second game will be determined by this week's training.

"Wembley is England's spiritual home.

"Australia played there in '94 and lost the first Test to England so I'm very, very wary of England at Wembley.

"And so, if you lose to New Zealand, you can find yourselves out of the tournament.

"It's a tough draw for us."

The emphatic win over New Zealand in Newcastle has seen the bookies make the Kangaroos red-hot favourites to repeat their success of 2009.

However, Sheens believes that victory will count for nothing when the two teams run out at the homely surroundings of the 13,000-capacity Halliwell Jones Stadium on Friday.

"If anything, it works in reverse," he said.

"They will fire up from that. We've got to fight to maintain an intensity.

"We still felt we owed them for last year's Four Nations so there's a bit of an element of that and I'll be using that a little bit for this game too."

AAP

Tags: rugby-league, sport, england, australia, new-zealand

First posted October 25, 2011 07:09:41

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NRL coaching a no-go for Lockyer

Updated November 13, 2011 15:21:37

Darren Lockyer insists he has no intentions of ever joining the coaching ranks when he ends his glittering rugby league career next Saturday.

The Australia, Queensland and Brisbane skipper will lead the Kangaroos side out in the Four Nations final for the last time at Elland Road, for his 471st senior game in all competitions.

Although Lockyer will take up an ambassadorial role with the Broncos, do not expect to see him at any time in the future follow in the footsteps of two of his mentors Wayne Bennett and Mal Meninga.

"Over the years I've pondered it, " Lockyer said in Manchester on Saturday.

"As you come to the end of your career, you start to think 'what's for me next'?

"Coaching was one of those options, but as I got towards the end I felt that a part of the reason why I wanted to finish playing was to get out of the pressure cooker environment.

"When you're playing for Queensland, Australia and the Broncos, they're all high-profile teams. Being captain brings extra responsibility and pressure.

"Going into coaching you won't escape that. And I think for me, it's important to get out of the environment where expectation to perform at a high level is constant."

A media career is set to beckon for Lockyer in Brisbane with the Nine Network.

And although he will still be associated with the Broncos, he is determined to withdraw fully from the football side of the club, as he weans himself off the game.

"I will be acting as a corporate ambassador for the Broncos and I'll still be around the club, as I have a lot of friends there who still play there," he said.

"But I won't have any direct involvement with the football team, that is something I need to do."

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, england, united-kingdom, australia

First posted November 13, 2011 15:16:53

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Hasler to coach Dogs from 2013

Updated October 07, 2011 11:19:03

Two-time premiership coach Des Hasler has reportedly agreed terms to coach the Canterbury Bulldogs from the 2013 NRL season.

Just days ago Hasler activated a one-year extension to stay at the Sea Eagles in 2012, but has now seemingly passed on a lucrative three-year offer by Manly in favour of joining the Bulldogs.

Canterbury is expected to call a press conference on Saturday to announce the deal.

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, belmore-2192, nsw, australia, canterbury-2193, manly-2095

First posted October 07, 2011 11:19:03

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Hayne snubbed for NRL grand final

Updated September 27, 2011 14:28:24

Referee of the year Shayne Hayne has been overlooked for Sunday's NRL grand final, with Matt Cecchin to officiate in his first decider alongside veteran whistleblower Tony Archer.

NRL referees coach Bill Harrigan said the decision to go with Cecchin and Archer - who has been involved in the last four finals - was rewarded for consistent performances over the three weeks of the finals.

Their appointment is not without controversy however after Hayne was this week awarded the Col Pearce medal as the game's best referee for 2011.

"Tony and Matt have been the best performed referees throughout the finals series," Harrigan said.

"They have proven to be a successful combination and have earned the right to referee the biggest match of the year.

"The depth in our ranks has never been stronger and for Matt to break through and earn the right to officiate in a grand final is testament to the way he has performed in the finals series.

"Tony is the most experienced grand final referee in our squad and for him to achieve this honour again is a reward for his professionalism, skill and leadership within our team."

Paul Holland and Dan Eastwood will be the touch judges with Russell Smith and Sean Hampstead the video referees.

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, sydney-2000, nsw, australia

First posted September 27, 2011 14:28:24

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Interview: Luke Lewis

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NRL clubs reject breakaway talk

Updated October 13, 2011 07:43:20

NRL clubs have backed away from claims they could start a breakaway competition if they do not receive a hefty increase in funds from the game's governing body.

Speaking on behalf of the 16 disgruntled clubs - 14 of which are running at a loss - Wests Tigers chairman Dave Trodden denied reports the NRL and the incoming commission had been issued with a threat.

Rather, Trodden says the clubs were simply reacting to an offer from the NRL, in which they state the $3.65 million they will receive in 2012 is well short of the mark.

In an email sent to NRL powerbrokers on Tuesday, the clubs said they needed $6 million a year to keep their heads above water.

"There is no threat," Trodden said of the possibility of a breakaway competition.

"Our position has really been misrepresented."

As part of the paperwork ahead of the formation of the independent commission - the formation of which is again expected to be delayed from its November 1 start date - clubs were given two agreements to sign to confirm their participation in the competition.

One is a member agreement, while the other is a licence agreement, which clubs have been signing on a rolling basis since the NRL began.

The licence agreement contains the amount of money the clubs would be scheduled to receive over the next six years.

"The clubs were asked to comment on it and all that the clubs did was to comment on it," Trodden said.

"(We are) saying 'the amount of money that you put in that document is insufficient for clubs to be financially sustainable, and if you want to know how much it's going to cost for clubs to be financially sustainable, this is the figure'."

The bid would represent an injection of more than $34 million for the clubs, but the NRL has only $18 million in cash reserves.

But the NRL claims it does not have the funds to meet the $6 million figure.

The league released a statement on Wednesday afternoon saying there was no way it could match the demands of the clubs.

While there is plenty of debate over whether the new independent commission will be up and running by November 1, the NRL said handing out funds ahead of the commission's implementation was not feasible.

"It would be completely unrealistic to saddle the commission with club grants of $6 million that simply can't be funded at this stage," the statement read.

"Ultimately the club agreements underpin stability in the game and the funding for the clubs themselves."

Trodden insists the money is there - one area of saving being the cost duplication that will be eliminated when the independent commission comes in.

Asked if he was confident clubs would get a better deal, Trodden said:

"We've got to get a better deal for next year.

"You ask Cronulla how they're going to get through next year if they don't get a better deal."

Having been through the Super League war that ripped the game apart in the 1990s, Australian skipper Darren Lockyer said the game could not afford another division.

"We did that 15 years ago and it was a debacle so I don't think we'll go down that path," he said of a potential breakaway competition.

Lockyer was confident the commission, along with the new broadcast deal it strikes for the 2013 season, would solve many of the game's financial issues.

"I think we need to know the number that comes in with the TV rights before we start distributing it out," he said.

"To me that sounds like the easiest and simplest way to do it."

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, sydney-2000, nsw, australia

First posted October 12, 2011 16:49:23

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Rose's judiciary appeal successful

Updated October 13, 2011 07:12:43

Manly forward George Rose had a grade two striking charge downgraded at the NRL judiciary on Wednesday evening.

Rose was placed on report during the Sea Eagles' grand final win over the Warriors when his elbow came in contact with Aaron Heremaia's face in a tackle.

He will be suspended for one match rather than the original two-game penalty.

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, manly-2095, nsw, australia

First posted October 12, 2011 22:25:03

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Cherry-Evans brushes Manly woes aside

Updated November 12, 2011 13:26:59

Daly Cherry-Evans insists he will not allow the problems engulfing Manly to ruin his international debut for Australia on Monday (AEDT).

The Sea Eagles half-back is named on the bench for the Kangaroos' clash with Wales at Wrexham and been promised at least half a game by coach Tim Sheens, who will rotate his playmakers during the match.

There has been drama surrounding Brookvale all week, with coach Des Hasler being sacked by the club less than six weeks after guiding the team to a second premiership in four years.

However, Dally M rookie of the year Cherry-Evans insists the dramas at his club are the last thing on his mind.

"There's all these lows is going on back home, but the biggest moment of my career is about to happen," Cherry-Evans said in Manchester.

"I'm obviously over here and not too sure what is happening.

"But I'm going to push all this aside and just worry getting on the pitch this weekend."

Sheens is fully expecting a pumped-up Welsh side to adopt a physical approach when his side face the Four Nations minnows.

The Dragons have lost 42-4 and 36-0 in their opening fixtures against England and New Zealand respectively.

Although they were outclassed in both games, Sheens acknowledged they showed plenty of fight and determination.

"They have nothing to lose in these games, and what they may lack in real top quality players they make up for in spirit," Sheens said.

Sheens insists his players are street-wise enough to cope with anything physical thrown their way and claimed England adopted similar tactics last week.

"Ben Westwood tried a bit of that on us as well," Sheens said.

"I am starting with some size in the front row in David Shillington and Keith Galloway, then I will bring on the starting props on later in the game.

"I will also experiment using Sammy (Thaiday) in the front row."

Wales' Australian forward Tyson Frizell will miss out on the chance to play against Australia after failing to recover from injury.

AAP

Tags: sport, rugby-league, nrl, manly-2095, nsw, australia, england, united-kingdom

First posted November 12, 2011 13:26:59

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Eels board clears Osborne

Updated November 14, 2011 20:23:37

Eels chief executive Paul Osborne could not wait to start celebrating after he was cleared of allegations of misconduct by the Parramatta board on Monday night.

An inquiry into Osborne's role in negotiating staff, sponsorship and player contracts as well as his use of a company credit card found the Eels boss had no case to answer.

With his name cleared after a month-long investigation, Osborne said his greatest sense of relief was for his family - so it was only fitting that they be the subject of his celebrations.

"It's been an extremely difficult period for me and I'm pleased it's over," he said.

"It's my daughter's seventh birthday, I'm just going to go home and enjoy her birthday and take it all in and have a peaceful night's sleep.

"The most impact has been on those close to me, that's probably been the thing that's caused me the greatest level of concern."

Eels football club deputy chairman Sid Kelly headed the inquiry, with his report which was handed down to the Parramatta board on Monday night finding "there were no probity issues arising with respect to staff, sponsorship and player contracts," according to a club statement.

Amongst the issues under investigation were the validity of third party arrangements and player contracts and claims he ran up $35,000 in unauthorised expenses on his club credit card in 2010.

Director Glenn Duncan, head of the club's major sponsor Pirtek, resigned over the issue last month.

Osborne admitted he could improve the way he conducted business, but felt he had the full backing of the Eels board.

"There's obviously ways I can improve - I want to have a good look at the report and make whatever improvements I need to make," he said.

Osborne was also cleared of a complaint from a female staff member, with a ruling of "insufficient grounds" for any further action having being already upheld at last month's board meeting.

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, parramatta-2150, nsw, australia

First posted November 14, 2011 19:16:35

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Gallop backed over Stewart exchanges

Updated October 04, 2011 19:41:54

Incoming NRL commission chairman John Grant has backed chief executive David Gallop's handling of the tense post-grand final exchanges with Manly's Stewart brothers.

Gallop and both Glenn and Brett Stewart took part in prolonged discussions as they shook hands during the presentation ceremony after Manly's 24-12 grand final win at the Olympic stadium on Sunday.

It was their first meeting with Gallop since Brett Stewart was slapped with a four-match ban at the start of the 2009 season for drunken behaviour at the club's season launch.

While none of the involved parties have revealed what was said, there is speculation Brett Stewart demanded an apology from Gallop for what he believed was unjust punishment.

It was the start of a horror two-year period in which Brett Stewart was forced to defend a sexual assault charge while a serious knee injury also threatened his playing future.

While he was reluctant to enter into the debate, Grant backed Gallop's actions.

"The commission fully supports the dignified manner in which NRL CEO David Gallop conducted himself during the grand final day presentation and in the days that have followed," Grant said.

"There are clearly appropriate and inappropriate times to raise issues of conflict, just as there is a responsibility on club administrators to provide leadership to their personnel.

"The commission is yet to assume stewardship of the game, but it will continue to ensure players and clubs recognise the importance of protecting the image of rugby league."

Speaking after the grand final, Glenn Stewart suggested that he and his brother were ready to move on from the feud.

"It's very special, probably the final chapter and everything's back to where it was and moving on and normal life's good and footy's going well so I can't complain," he said on Sunday night.

Grant says he will not make any further comment on the matter, leaving open the question of whether the two parties will be brought together for conciliatory discussions ahead of next season.

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, australia

First posted October 04, 2011 19:41:54

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Interview: Darren Lockyer

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Lockyer signs off with Broncos award

Updated October 08, 2011 14:30:08

Retiring skipper Darren Lockyer signed off in style after a record 355 NRL games for Brisbane, carrying off his third player of the year award on Friday night.

Lockyer (101 votes) edged out lock Corey Parker (98 votes) to add the club's 2011 highest individual honour to his wins in 2002 and 2003.

"I'm pretty blown away that I'm up to collect this award," said Lockyer, after earlier receiving a standing ovation after thanking the club and his family for their support during his 17 seasons with the Broncos.

"I've said it before, but it's been a privilege to play for this club," the champion five-eighth told several hundred guests at Brisbane's end-of-season awards ball.

"This is special. I didn't expect it when I came here tonight.

"It's been an easy thing to do, turn up at Broncos training and do my job.

"Knowing it was my last year, I gave it everything I had.

"After 355 games I leave with a lot less hair, a new voice, a few different characters and the odd titanium plate here and there.

"I've made so many friendships, a lot of great memories and not one single regret.

"Thank you, it's been the ride of my life."

It was a huge night for Lockyer's parents Dave and Sharon with Lockyer's younger brother, Russell, also named Carina's player of the year.

Lockyer credited new coach Anthony Griffin, who said the doors had been opened to future success, with helping him find and extra 10 per cent to his game.

"I thoroughly enjoyed 2011, it was a great year," said Lockyer, whose last play for the club was kicking the match-winning field goal in golden point against former coach Wayne Bennett's St George Illawarra at Lang Park last month.

In any other year, Parker would have waltzed away with the club's Player of the Year award after finishing almost 50 points clear of half-back Peter Wallace.

But Parker, who at 29 will make his debut for Australia in the upcoming Four Nations in the UK, was recognised for his wonderful season.

Parker, who was recalled to Queensland's State of Origin side this year, was named Brisbane's best forward and the club's players' player.

In Townsville, Ashley Graham was rewarded for his best season in the NRL by winning the Paul Bowman Medal for the North Queensland player of the year.

Graham polled 26 votes, four ahead of runner-up Johnathan Thurston, with Matthew Scott and James Tamou sharing third on 22.

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, brisbane-4000, qld, australia

First posted October 08, 2011 09:36:42

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Highway section renamed to honour Lockyer

Updated September 29, 2011 06:07:13

The Queensland Government has renamed a section of the Warrego Highway to honour retiring Broncos skipper Darren Lockyer.

The 85-kilometre Darren Lockyer Way stretches from Riverview, west of Brisbane, to the bottom of the Toowoomba Range.

Lockyer says he travelled the road regularly playing junior football and is humbled by the honour.

Earlier this week, Lockyer was named in Australia's training squad for the Four Nations tour in the UK.

The tour will be his last for Australia.

Tags: local-government, nrl, riverview-4303

First posted September 28, 2011 13:18:23

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Blues keeping tabs on Maloney

Updated September 30, 2011 22:42:18

Warriors five-eighth James Maloney's ability to pilot the club into Sunday's grand final has caught the attention of the New South Wales State of Origin hierarchy.

Blues assistant coach and former five-eighth Trent Barrett says Maloney's breakthrough season will have his name being mentioned in representative circles next year if his impressive form continues.

"He's certainly putting himself in the frame," Barrett said.

"He's a country boy so that's handy, we've got another half to choose from when the Country selectors sit down to choose their side.

"Certainly what he's done this year, he'd have to be in the top echelon of halves in the competition at the moment."

The 25-year-old Orange-born half left Melbourne at the end of 2009 looking for an opportunity and has become the steady hand around which the brilliance of the Warriors' young guns can shine.

"He's been one of their best players, he adds a lot of composure to their side and his kicking game's been really good," Barrett said.

"But the best part of his game last week was probably his defence, he's really defending well and he's a big part of their side.

"He's really good for Kevin Locke and Shaun Johnson, he steers the ship for them and he's a bit of a steady hand."

Maloney's stint at the Auckland-based club has had him under the radar for most NRL fans, but Barrett says that is changing and might even bolster his representative chances even further.

"This (grand final) will work wonders for his profile," he said.

"If they didn't know much about him at the start of the year they will after this weekend or they do now.

"The tip is he will be back in Sydney [when his contract ends after 2012].

"I'm not sure what will happen there but I'd say he'd be in hot demand at the moment."

The Blues have gone through a plethora of halves combinations in six unsuccessful Origin series, finally settling on Mitchell Pearce and Jamie Soward for all three matches this year.

Blues coach Ricky Stuart has made loyalty to a core group of players his number one priority since taking the reins again in 2011.

Maloney says playing Origin is a goal for him.

"I think everyone's got those goals to play rep footy if they can," he said.

"It definitely would be a goal but that's a long way from the mind at the moment.

"This premiership's first and foremost and that's where all my focus is."

AAP

Tags: rugby-league, nrl, sport, new-zealand

First posted September 30, 2011 22:32:12

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Coal Train departs Kangaroos squad

Updated October 10, 2011 16:21:14

Australia's injury woes have deepened ahead of the Four Nations campaign with giant back rower David Taylor the latest player ruled out of the squad.

Taylor and Kangaroos medical staff met with a specialist in Sydney about his shoulder injury on Monday and it was determined he would not be fit to face New Zealand in Newcastle this Sunday or to contest the Four Nations tournament in Britain.

The giant Queenslander - nicknamed "Coal Train" - joins a list of withdrawals - most through injury - that already includes Manly pair Glenn and Brett Stewart, Jarryd Hayne, Petero Civoniceva, Kurt Gidley and Justin Hodges.

However, Kangaroos coach Tim Sheens has been boosted by news that Greg Inglis will make the tour after being passed fit following an ankle problem.

Inglis will not play in the one-off Test in Newcastle, but is expected to be available when the teams meet again for the opening game of the Four Nations in Warrington on October 28.

Sheens will name a replacement for Taylor later this week, with North Queensland back rower Dallas Johnson or Brisbane prop Ben Hannant the likely replacements.

AAP

Tags: rugby-league, sport, australia, new-zealand

First posted October 10, 2011 16:21:14

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Rose to fight striking charge

Updated October 05, 2011 13:42:03

Manly front rower George Rose will interrupt his premiership celebrations to front the NRL judiciary and dispute the grading of his striking charge from the grand final.

Rose was put on report after thrusting his forearm into the face of the grounded Warriors hooker Aaron Heremaia during the first half of the Sea Eagles' 24-10 win on Sunday.

The 28-year-old will miss the opening two games of Manly's 2012 campaign should he fail to get a downgrade for the grade two charge.

Heremaia was also placed on report for a high tackle on Vic Mauro, but took the early guilty plea and will not miss any matches.

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, manly-2095, nsw, australia

First posted October 05, 2011 13:42:03

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Club Challenge may shift to Australia

Updated November 23, 2011 16:42:12

Next year's World Club Challenge rugby league final will be staged in England but the event could be held in Australia in the near future.

It has been confirmed Headingley, the home of Super League champions Leeds, will stage the final on February 17 when the Yorkshire side face NRL premier Manly.

In the 12 years since the fixture between the British and Australian champions was revived, the match has always been played in England.

But Leeds chief executive Gary Hetherington had said in the past that the fixture could take place in Australia or even a 'neutral' venue such as Dubai.

"Whilst there has been talk about that for the last eight or nine years (playing the World Club Challenge outside the UK), it's never really got far," he said.

"But just recently, there does seem to be an appetite, particularly from the Australian clubs, to start to explore that possibility.

"I think the fact that we were prepared to play the game in Australia probably took the Australians by surprise and it made the NRL think seriously about staging it.

"It turned out to be too short a time scale for 2012 but I think, for the future, it's very much on the agenda now.

"It has taken quite a while to determine both the date and the venue but we are delighted that Headingley should stage this event."

Rhinos captain Kevin Sinfield, fresh from England's Four Nations final defeat by the Kangaroos, is looking forward to facing the Sea Eagles.

"It's always nice to play against the Australian sides," he said.

"We weren't good enough at the weekend but I'm sure the guys involved would love to get another crack, especially against Manly.

"We have some good memories from our previous World Club Challenges at Elland Road but to take on the NRL champions on our home ground will be incredible.

"The lads have talked about this game since the grand final. I wish it was tomorrow."

In Leeds' meeting with Manly in 2009, the Sea Eagles won 28-20.

AFP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, england, united-kingdom, australia

First posted November 23, 2011 16:42:12

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England boss backs Graham to star in NRL

Updated October 25, 2011 13:11:08

England coach Steve McNamara has backed prop James Graham to be a superstar in the NRL with Canterbury next season.

The 26-year-old St Helens forward will link up with the Bulldogs after the Four Nations tournament in the UK next month, and McNamara believes he can follow the success of Gareth Ellis and Sam Burgess when he heads to Sydney.

"What you see from James is what you get," McNamara said.

"He is a real competitor, has a great football brain and superb hands and I think Canterbury fans will really warm to him and the way he plays and he'll be a great addition to their side."

McNamara admits he was not thrilled at Graham's decision to leave the Super League but said he had no problems with him wanting to try his luck in Australia.

"You want to keep your best players in the Super League because there is a danger of diluting the competition if they head to Australia," he said.

"Our fans want to see our best players so it is a bit disappointing to see him go, but I wish him luck and completely respect his decision to try a new challenge."

Despite being a fan of the NRL, McNamara was not about to agree that the Australian competition is much superior to Super League or that Ellis and Burgess had become better players since moving Down Under.

"I wouldn't say the NRL is better than Super League, but the two competitions are very different," he said.

"I think both demand different skills and Sam and Gareth have learned new skills since going out there, but they were both very good players before they went, and it's wrong to say they are better now than before."

McNamara has included four NRL players in his Four Nations squad in Ellis, his Wests Tigers team-mate Chris Heighington, Brisbane's Jack Reed and Melbourne playmaker Gareth Widdop.

Reed scored a long-range try on his debut against France last Friday and McNamara has been impressed with the 23-year-old Yorkshire-born, Queensland-raised centre.

"He is a real character around the squad, a real Jack-the-lad and he has fitted into the squad really well," McNamara said.

"He is a very talented lad and we are delighted to have him."

Heighington also made his debut against the French in Avignon, a game the Lions won 32-18, and McNamara revealed he spoke to a number of people in Australia, including Sydney Roosters coach Brian Smith before naming him in his squad.

"Chris is very solid player and a real 80-minute guy," he said

"I spoke to Brian among others about all of the guys that play in the NRL and they all had good things to say about him.

"Gareth (Ellis) also gave him a ringing endorsement and had only good things to say about Chris."

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, canterbury-2193, nsw, australia, england

First posted October 25, 2011 09:59:45

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Eels laud Hopoate signing

Updated October 06, 2011 19:21:54

Parramatta is confident Will Hopoate can emulate the success of NFL stars who have completed Mormon missions when he joins the NRL club at the conclusion of his religious sabbatical from the game.

The Eels announced on Thursday that the 19-year-old New South Wales winger will link up with them in 2014, less than a week after helping Manly to the premiership.

Hopoate signed a lucrative two-year deal starting at the end of his mission in Queensland, believed to be in the region of $500,0000 a year.

However, doubts have been expressed about whether he can return to the game at the same level as when he left, with little evidence of success from other players who have followed a similar path.

His uncle, Albert Hopoate, left Sydney Roosters for a mission in 2008 but failed to recapture his best form upon his return and now plays Shute Shield rugby for perennial strugglers Penrith Emus.

Exciting Gold Coast winger Jordan Rapana also shelved his burgeoning career to take up a missionary role in the UK in 2008 but failed to pick up an NRL club, before agreeing to a deal with the Western Force Super Rugby team for next year.

Parramatta chief executive Paul Osborne said plans have been devised by the club's physical performance staff to ensure Hopoate returns in the best possible shape, and believes staying in Australia works in his favour.

"He doesn't need to adapt to another country's food, his access to training facilities is a lot simpler, and the climate is similar," Osborne said.

"So in that respect it's a very manageable task from a physical performance point of view."

Osborne believes the signing is a calculated risk and revealed the club's coaching staff researched athletes in the United States before completing the deal.

"We looked at quite a few different sports and particularly in the NFL and there were plenty of examples of young players coming out of college and embarking on their mission, before entering the draft," he said.

"There was no hesitation from some of the top franchises in the NFL in snapping them up, and a lot of them went on to complete long and successful careers."

Among those include offensive lineman Edwin Mulitalo, who embarked on a two-year mission in Idaho before joining Baltimore Ravens in 1999 and won a Super Bowl that year.

Current Washington Redskins back-up quarterback Paul Kruger spent two years in Portugal from 2004 ahead of being drafted in the second round in 2009.

A similar path was taken by St Louis Rams linebacker Brady Poppinga, who was part of the Green Bay team that won the 2010 Super Bowl having spent two years in Uruguay from 1999.

Osborne said the Eels earmarked Hopoate as a possible signing at the start of the season with only three first grade appearances under his belt.

"It's great for us to attract a player from a premiership-winning club as strong as Manly, but I think he just wanted to be part of what we are building here and get the chance to work under Steve Kearney," he said.

Hopoate will be joined at the Eels by two of his younger brothers, who follow him from Manly, but Osborne denied that the trio's father, the controversial John Hopoate, would be given a role on the club's coaching team.

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, parramatta-2150, nsw, australia, manly-2095

First posted October 06, 2011 11:23:59

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Buderus not afraid of tainting legacy

Updated November 04, 2011 19:23:33

Returning champion Danny Buderus is not concerned about tarnishing his Newcastle legacy with one last fling in the NRL next year.

Buderus answered the call from incoming Knights coach Wayne Bennett to end his career at Newcastle, signing a one-year deal with the club for which club he played 220 matches.

He did so despite the potential to sour his image after three years in the English Super League.

Buderus is revered alongside Andrew Johns and Paul Harragon as a giant of the Newcastle club, having captained the Knights and helped deliver a premiership in 2001.

Put simply, he has a lot to lose should his comeback fall flat.

"They're the thoughts that go through your mind, for sure. You're worried about all that sort of stuff," Buderus told reporters on Friday.

"But you don't want to live life in fear and worrying about that sort of stuff.

"I want to come back and, looking at it the other way, it's a plus and a privilege in this part of my career to be able to come back to my home town club and play in front of these great supporters and on this ground that I've cherished.

"I'm just excited about it all and I'm not worried about the legacy."

Buderus is one of a host of big names arriving at Newcastle this off-season, with super coach Bennett bringing his wealth of experience while the Knights have also added a pair of internationals, Darius Boyd and Kade Snowden, to a stacked roster.

Former New South Wales and Australian skipper Buderus understands the expectation that will be on his team from the first round to deliver results.

"You're crawling back into the furnace on a number of different levels," he said.

"Especially this year, you're going back to an expectation with Wayne arriving, the record obviously speaks for itself with Wayne and the squad that has come together.

"There's going to be pressure and expectation. Hopefully, there's patience from everyone, from the media and the fans alike.

"If we get going when the whips are cracking at the good time of the year, I think that's what it will be all about.

"It might be a bit slow at the start, but I'm sure when the big games arrive you'll probably see the best of the team."

The 33-year-old, who will not resume training until mid-December following his grand final victory with Leeds last month, said he was open to playing again in 2013 should his form warrant a contract extension.

"I guess it's a bit of an open book at the moment," he said.

"If your form is good and you're consistent, you're doing your part in the team and your body feels great, I'd throw my hand up for sure."

AAP

Tags: nrl, rugby-league, sport, newcastle-2300, nsw, australia

First posted November 04, 2011 19:23:33

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League full-back named for Barbarians

Updated November 21, 2011 22:20:56

Barbarians rugby union selectors have surprised by inviting England rugby league star Sam Tomkins to play against Australia at Twickenham on Saturday.

The impressive Wigan full-back will complete a unique double by taking on the Wallabies a week after facing the Kangaroos in the Four Nations rugby league final in Leeds.

Wigan owner Ian Lenagan said he and his 22-year-old star were very pleased to accept the invitation.

"Sam is an exceptional player in either code of rugby and his selection shows the growing mutual respect between the codes of rugby league and rugby union in England," he said in a statement released by the game's organisers.

"It's a great opportunity for Sam to experience the Twickenham atmosphere and showcase his talents on another major stage."

Barbarians' commercial director Mike Burton added: "The Barbarian club has a tradition of thinking outside the circle when inviting players with league backgrounds and usually to everyone's benefit."

Their coach is recently retired New Zealand boss Graham Henry and the 22-man squad, drawn from 10 countries, share an astonishing 1,000-plus Test caps.

The latest additions include Italy's Mauro Bergomasco (88 caps), Salvatore Perugini (83) and Marco Bortolami (88), France's Sylvain Marconnet (84), Scotland's Jason White (77) and Ireland's Peter Stringer (98).

They join a squad already boasting Springbok lock legend Victor Matfield (110) who, two years ago, captained the Barbarians to victory over the All Blacks.

Sonny Bill Williams has withdrawn because of a hamstring injury and is replaced by another of New Zealand's Rugby World Cup squad, Richard Kahui, while further additions are Fiji's Seru Rabeni and Nemia Kenatale.

The captain will be announced when the squad assembles in London on 22 November.

Barbarians squad: Sam Tomkins (England RL), Bryan Habana (South Africa), Isaia Toeava (New Zealand), Robbie Fruean (Crusaders), Stirling Mortlock (Australia), Richard Kahui (New Zealand), Seru Rabeni (Fiji), Danny Cipriani (England), Peter Stringer (Ireland), Nemia Kenatale (Fiji), Keven Mealamu (New Zealand), Adriaan Strauss (South Africa), Salvatore Perugini (Italy), Sylvain Marconnet (France), Eusebio Guinazu (Argentina), Victor Matfield (South Africa), Simon Shaw (England), Marco Bortolami (Italy), Jason White (Scotland), Jerome Kaino (New Zealand), Adam Thomson (New Zealand), Mauro Bergamasco (Italy).

AAP

Tags: rugby-union, rugby-league, sport, england, united-kingdom, australia

First posted November 21, 2011 22:20:56

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