Finalists Preview
1 South Perth Lions, 22pts, +388
Defending Premiers ..Minor Premiers. What more needs to be said? After a mid season hiccup where they were humbled by the Sharks, they have been in devastating form, including a punishing defeat over the highly fancied 2nd place Sea Eagles. Deserving of their title favouritism they seem to have timed their push at the title to perfection. With their forward pack leading the charge, and superior ball control then most teams at the back half of the season its hard to see the other teams match the Lions. Although finals football is a totally different game.
One thing to watch will be complacency. A lot can be said of having a week off first up in the finals, and while it can be good to get rid of niggling injuries, many argue that it is a momentum killer, which is exactly what it will be for the Lions. Do they train as normal? Do they have a session on the Saturday to stay fit? Do you put a contact session in? Tough times for the coaching staff to keep the players up.
Players Watch
Scott Jones Second Row
A WA and Affiliated States representative, Jonesy is the modern day 2nd rower. In the Feleti Mateo mould, Scott has all the attributes of a devastating and complete footballer. A solid runner of the football, with a great offload, Scott possesses the ball skills of most halves and is not afraid to show it. With rock solid defence typical and big hits typical of the big kiwis game, it is the things he does off the ball that create room and opportunities for his outside players.
Jon Phipps Front Row Captain
Phippsy is on the other end of the scale when it comes to mould. Easily a throwback to an earlier era of rugby league, he is all guts and effort. Bruising hitups, cover defence and never say die attitude are traits of the captain which make him the genuine leader of the competition favourites. While not the fittest or fittest looking player in the competition, he will never give up and his teammates would attest to not wanting anyone else next to them in defence.
Isacc Thomas Halfback / 5/8 / Utility
Long regarded as the best player in the competition, Isacc has set the bar extremely high in previous years. As a 2004, 2006 & 2007 Ken Allen Medal winner, Isacc is all class. A highly competitive nature, and tenacity of the Lion to match, Isacc is constantly in the game. Whether it be in offense, defence or the breaks in between, Isacc can always be heard pushing his troops. Great players lift in the finals, and Isacc will be no exception.
2 North Beach Sea Eagles, 22pts, +328
Even in finishing 2nd, North Beach have snuck under the radar leading into the finals. After a powerhouse start, theyve lost games to the Sharks and have been hammered by the high flying Lions. Injury and unavailability have hurt the Sea Eagles, but with some luck, the time is now for them to fly. Coming off the back of 3 straight wins gives them some momentum and much needed confidence heading into the Major Semi against Fremantle this weekend, although unfortunantly all 3 wins are against sides that are not in the finals race.
The North Beach backs will be the key. Who is available and who isnt? The rumour mill is in overdrive when it comes to their side, and they are playing their cards close to their chest. A deft kicking and speed unmatched, while not being given the praise that they were earlier in the year, write the sea eagles off at your own risk.
Players Watch
Jason Godecke Winger
Probably the fastest player in the competition, Jason is a known try scorer. An uncanny knack of finding the try line, Jasons in and away is one of the most devastating moves in the competition, and he is always finding noted defensive centres and wingers out. While not the biggest player in the world, Jasons defence is not affected as he possesses great timing and a big heart. His communication out wide and almost telepathic understanding of his inside men will play a big part.
Craig Phillis 5/8
A former Ken Allen Medal winner in 2005, Craig has been a rock in the side all year. Rumours have been spread about Craig being unavailable because of work, but for the Sea Eagles best chance at the competition he is one of the keys. A game typical of a good 5/8, Craig has a strong kicking, passing and running game, making him and everyone around him a dangerous prospect.
Tyrone Cranston Fullback Captain
Probably the most dominant player in the competition earlier in the Season, there isnt a player who has a more definite affect on how North Beach competes. Usually when Tyrone is on form, North Beach are untouchable. Injury and work may have robbed us of his influence, but if you catch a sight of the mercurial fullback in action, it will be well worth the admission. Speed, Flair and Guile he is the competitions Ben Barba and is not afraid to chance his arm from anywhere on the field
3 Fremantle Roosters, 22pts, +227
The ever consistent Roosters have been the benchmark team all year. While never dominating the competition (even though they have been in first place), the Roosters have always been in the battle, and are a tough adversary. They have kept teams honest throughout the year and have beaten all the other teams in the finals in tight and close encounters. The Roosters offensively are a team that loves to go left, which is going to give right side defences in this league a big workout, but also tend to be quite vulnerable on that same side in defence.
A big question mark remains over the Roosters ability to win the competition. Many in the competition dont believe Fremantle are genuine Premiership contenders. They will get their chance to prove people wrong, but a daunting trip to North Beach awaits them.
Players Watch
Delane Edwards 5/8 Captain
Probably the best second rower/lock in the competition, Delanes versatility sees him slot straight into the 5/8 role for his club. A strong runner with a fair passing game, Delane is a Greg Bird type playmaker with more of a running role. A good leader and always willing to do the hard work, it is not out of place to see him running the ball straight into the teeth of the defence to give his tired forwards a break.
Taj Mailata Centre
If there is a harder person to mark in the competition one on one Id really like to know who it is. A nightmare for an opposing centre, teams have been well aware of the danger Taj presents. Has been decimating defences all year, and with his name constantly appearing on the scorers sheet teams are still finding it hard to limit his impact. Big and fast, Taj would not look out of place in an NRL or even Force jumper.
Rowan Hastings Halfback
A lot can be said of the kind of player Rowan is. Too much of an old school halfback, doesnt take the line on enough, gets kick happy. But of all of the things that Rowan can do, he is close to, if not the best at what he does. A deadly kicking game, a sharpshooter of a goal kicker and halfbacks mouth to boot, Rowan is the voice of the Roosters side. A classic halfbacks game with sublime, simple and effective passing, he pushes his team to where they need to be.
4 Rockingham Sharks, 21 Points, +265
Devastating and Disappointing. Not normally two words used in the same breath when describing a side. The Sharks started with 2 defeats in a row, then went on a 9 game winning streak, before a disappointing last 3 weeks of football. A 26 all draw in the final round against Joondalup robbed the sharks of a top 3 finish and now they must do it the hard way. A lot of drama has unfolded from that particular game with a 1st minute sendoff, a few questionable calls, and an argument for a winning field goal missing or going over.
Despite their late season crash, the Sharks are a dangerous and unpredictable side, with firepower in the forwards and backs. But it remains to be seen whether they can recreate their mid season surge. Injury and unavailability may hurt the Sharks, but the season all boils down to now. Will be looking for a good showing this weekend against the Titans to regain some confidence.
Players Watch
Kevin Brown Fullback
The diminutive fullback is all energy and excitement. With good footwork and guts to match, Kevin is always around where the action is happening. Being a former halfback, he also has no qualms about chiming into the line and playmaking. A great support player, Kevin sometimes has some ball handling issues, but when push comes to shove will pull through on the other side.
Luke Faulkner Hooker
Very much a Robbie Farah player, Luke is all skill and class. Possessing speed off the mark and great intuitive instincts Lukes dummy half darts are catalyst to a lot of the Sharks offensive raids. Crisp delivery both ways and a good kicking game when needed, Luke will normally play the whole 80mins. While not a damaging defender, has a good work ethic and will not let anyone down.
Danny Smith Front Row
The most consistent performer in the Sharks lineup, Danny is always among the best players on the field. While not the biggest front rower in the competition, Danny possesses a great rugby league brain and can find the try line for a front rower. Good footwork and quick hands make Danny one of the most dangerous front rowers in the competition and probably leaves old school props scratching their heads because of his skill level.
5 Goldfields Titans, 8pts, -264
The Titans are in the finals. After their midweek victory in the qualifying final against Kalamunda, they are hoping to shake up this competition. Despite only fielding 12 players, they played with a tremendous amount of heart and the one point victory will only give them more confidence. Will fancy themselves will a full lineup this weekend against the Sharks and they will not die wondering as the Goldfields boys are well know for their flair and throwing caution to the wind
The Achilles heel of this side is, as always, the amount of time it takes to travel. An 8 hour trip to and from the game on Wednesday and then back it up 3 days later is a huge ask for any team. Also, when playing the top 4 sides this year, they tend to drift in and out of games instead of staying in the contest the whole 80 minutes. Will need a much more committed effort if going to make a splash in the finals.
Players Watch
Shemaiah Evans Front Row Captain
Quicker than a lot of backs, plays 80mins and almost impossible to stop offloading, Shemaiah is an enigma. Unbelievably fast for his size and with great hands, it is only because of his frame that he has ended up in the front row spot. Can kick and pass with the best of them, he is one of the true entertainers and his ability to play 80 minutes at such a high quality is a testament to him as a player and a leader.
Matthew Murray Hooker
While not receiving most of the praise for his sides performances, Matthew is held in high regard by his coach and fellow players. Gutsy and highly competitive, he always gives 110% and despite his small stature is not afraid to mix it with the bigger guys. A quiet achiever, Matthew is a quality player and would not look out of place in any side.
Kuraau Temata Fullback
Big and Fast, Kuraau is reminiscent of Jarryd Hayne. His ability to bust the line, set up his outside men or hit in defence is almost a mirror image of the Hayne Plane. Unfortunately he also carries his shortcomings as well. Disappearing from games, and sometimes showing a lack of urgency, the Titans boys will need a huge showing from one of their offensive weapons this weekend.
1 South Perth Lions, 22pts, +388
Defending Premiers ..Minor Premiers. What more needs to be said? After a mid season hiccup where they were humbled by the Sharks, they have been in devastating form, including a punishing defeat over the highly fancied 2nd place Sea Eagles. Deserving of their title favouritism they seem to have timed their push at the title to perfection. With their forward pack leading the charge, and superior ball control then most teams at the back half of the season its hard to see the other teams match the Lions. Although finals football is a totally different game.
One thing to watch will be complacency. A lot can be said of having a week off first up in the finals, and while it can be good to get rid of niggling injuries, many argue that it is a momentum killer, which is exactly what it will be for the Lions. Do they train as normal? Do they have a session on the Saturday to stay fit? Do you put a contact session in? Tough times for the coaching staff to keep the players up.
Players Watch
Scott Jones Second Row
A WA and Affiliated States representative, Jonesy is the modern day 2nd rower. In the Feleti Mateo mould, Scott has all the attributes of a devastating and complete footballer. A solid runner of the football, with a great offload, Scott possesses the ball skills of most halves and is not afraid to show it. With rock solid defence typical and big hits typical of the big kiwis game, it is the things he does off the ball that create room and opportunities for his outside players.
Jon Phipps Front Row Captain
Phippsy is on the other end of the scale when it comes to mould. Easily a throwback to an earlier era of rugby league, he is all guts and effort. Bruising hitups, cover defence and never say die attitude are traits of the captain which make him the genuine leader of the competition favourites. While not the fittest or fittest looking player in the competition, he will never give up and his teammates would attest to not wanting anyone else next to them in defence.
Isacc Thomas Halfback / 5/8 / Utility
Long regarded as the best player in the competition, Isacc has set the bar extremely high in previous years. As a 2004, 2006 & 2007 Ken Allen Medal winner, Isacc is all class. A highly competitive nature, and tenacity of the Lion to match, Isacc is constantly in the game. Whether it be in offense, defence or the breaks in between, Isacc can always be heard pushing his troops. Great players lift in the finals, and Isacc will be no exception.
2 North Beach Sea Eagles, 22pts, +328
Even in finishing 2nd, North Beach have snuck under the radar leading into the finals. After a powerhouse start, theyve lost games to the Sharks and have been hammered by the high flying Lions. Injury and unavailability have hurt the Sea Eagles, but with some luck, the time is now for them to fly. Coming off the back of 3 straight wins gives them some momentum and much needed confidence heading into the Major Semi against Fremantle this weekend, although unfortunantly all 3 wins are against sides that are not in the finals race.
The North Beach backs will be the key. Who is available and who isnt? The rumour mill is in overdrive when it comes to their side, and they are playing their cards close to their chest. A deft kicking and speed unmatched, while not being given the praise that they were earlier in the year, write the sea eagles off at your own risk.
Players Watch
Jason Godecke Winger
Probably the fastest player in the competition, Jason is a known try scorer. An uncanny knack of finding the try line, Jasons in and away is one of the most devastating moves in the competition, and he is always finding noted defensive centres and wingers out. While not the biggest player in the world, Jasons defence is not affected as he possesses great timing and a big heart. His communication out wide and almost telepathic understanding of his inside men will play a big part.
Craig Phillis 5/8
A former Ken Allen Medal winner in 2005, Craig has been a rock in the side all year. Rumours have been spread about Craig being unavailable because of work, but for the Sea Eagles best chance at the competition he is one of the keys. A game typical of a good 5/8, Craig has a strong kicking, passing and running game, making him and everyone around him a dangerous prospect.
Tyrone Cranston Fullback Captain
Probably the most dominant player in the competition earlier in the Season, there isnt a player who has a more definite affect on how North Beach competes. Usually when Tyrone is on form, North Beach are untouchable. Injury and work may have robbed us of his influence, but if you catch a sight of the mercurial fullback in action, it will be well worth the admission. Speed, Flair and Guile he is the competitions Ben Barba and is not afraid to chance his arm from anywhere on the field
3 Fremantle Roosters, 22pts, +227
The ever consistent Roosters have been the benchmark team all year. While never dominating the competition (even though they have been in first place), the Roosters have always been in the battle, and are a tough adversary. They have kept teams honest throughout the year and have beaten all the other teams in the finals in tight and close encounters. The Roosters offensively are a team that loves to go left, which is going to give right side defences in this league a big workout, but also tend to be quite vulnerable on that same side in defence.
A big question mark remains over the Roosters ability to win the competition. Many in the competition dont believe Fremantle are genuine Premiership contenders. They will get their chance to prove people wrong, but a daunting trip to North Beach awaits them.
Players Watch
Delane Edwards 5/8 Captain
Probably the best second rower/lock in the competition, Delanes versatility sees him slot straight into the 5/8 role for his club. A strong runner with a fair passing game, Delane is a Greg Bird type playmaker with more of a running role. A good leader and always willing to do the hard work, it is not out of place to see him running the ball straight into the teeth of the defence to give his tired forwards a break.
Taj Mailata Centre
If there is a harder person to mark in the competition one on one Id really like to know who it is. A nightmare for an opposing centre, teams have been well aware of the danger Taj presents. Has been decimating defences all year, and with his name constantly appearing on the scorers sheet teams are still finding it hard to limit his impact. Big and fast, Taj would not look out of place in an NRL or even Force jumper.
Rowan Hastings Halfback
A lot can be said of the kind of player Rowan is. Too much of an old school halfback, doesnt take the line on enough, gets kick happy. But of all of the things that Rowan can do, he is close to, if not the best at what he does. A deadly kicking game, a sharpshooter of a goal kicker and halfbacks mouth to boot, Rowan is the voice of the Roosters side. A classic halfbacks game with sublime, simple and effective passing, he pushes his team to where they need to be.
4 Rockingham Sharks, 21 Points, +265
Devastating and Disappointing. Not normally two words used in the same breath when describing a side. The Sharks started with 2 defeats in a row, then went on a 9 game winning streak, before a disappointing last 3 weeks of football. A 26 all draw in the final round against Joondalup robbed the sharks of a top 3 finish and now they must do it the hard way. A lot of drama has unfolded from that particular game with a 1st minute sendoff, a few questionable calls, and an argument for a winning field goal missing or going over.
Despite their late season crash, the Sharks are a dangerous and unpredictable side, with firepower in the forwards and backs. But it remains to be seen whether they can recreate their mid season surge. Injury and unavailability may hurt the Sharks, but the season all boils down to now. Will be looking for a good showing this weekend against the Titans to regain some confidence.
Players Watch
Kevin Brown Fullback
The diminutive fullback is all energy and excitement. With good footwork and guts to match, Kevin is always around where the action is happening. Being a former halfback, he also has no qualms about chiming into the line and playmaking. A great support player, Kevin sometimes has some ball handling issues, but when push comes to shove will pull through on the other side.
Luke Faulkner Hooker
Very much a Robbie Farah player, Luke is all skill and class. Possessing speed off the mark and great intuitive instincts Lukes dummy half darts are catalyst to a lot of the Sharks offensive raids. Crisp delivery both ways and a good kicking game when needed, Luke will normally play the whole 80mins. While not a damaging defender, has a good work ethic and will not let anyone down.
Danny Smith Front Row
The most consistent performer in the Sharks lineup, Danny is always among the best players on the field. While not the biggest front rower in the competition, Danny possesses a great rugby league brain and can find the try line for a front rower. Good footwork and quick hands make Danny one of the most dangerous front rowers in the competition and probably leaves old school props scratching their heads because of his skill level.
5 Goldfields Titans, 8pts, -264
The Titans are in the finals. After their midweek victory in the qualifying final against Kalamunda, they are hoping to shake up this competition. Despite only fielding 12 players, they played with a tremendous amount of heart and the one point victory will only give them more confidence. Will fancy themselves will a full lineup this weekend against the Sharks and they will not die wondering as the Goldfields boys are well know for their flair and throwing caution to the wind
The Achilles heel of this side is, as always, the amount of time it takes to travel. An 8 hour trip to and from the game on Wednesday and then back it up 3 days later is a huge ask for any team. Also, when playing the top 4 sides this year, they tend to drift in and out of games instead of staying in the contest the whole 80 minutes. Will need a much more committed effort if going to make a splash in the finals.
Players Watch
Shemaiah Evans Front Row Captain
Quicker than a lot of backs, plays 80mins and almost impossible to stop offloading, Shemaiah is an enigma. Unbelievably fast for his size and with great hands, it is only because of his frame that he has ended up in the front row spot. Can kick and pass with the best of them, he is one of the true entertainers and his ability to play 80 minutes at such a high quality is a testament to him as a player and a leader.
Matthew Murray Hooker
While not receiving most of the praise for his sides performances, Matthew is held in high regard by his coach and fellow players. Gutsy and highly competitive, he always gives 110% and despite his small stature is not afraid to mix it with the bigger guys. A quiet achiever, Matthew is a quality player and would not look out of place in any side.
Kuraau Temata Fullback
Big and Fast, Kuraau is reminiscent of Jarryd Hayne. His ability to bust the line, set up his outside men or hit in defence is almost a mirror image of the Hayne Plane. Unfortunately he also carries his shortcomings as well. Disappearing from games, and sometimes showing a lack of urgency, the Titans boys will need a huge showing from one of their offensive weapons this weekend.
