| This Week |
Last Week |
Change |
Team |
| #1 |
2 |
+1 |
Penrith Panthers
The Panthers needed to make a statement after their Round 1 defeat and were impressive for 60 minutes. There are still signs that they are not as strong as last year, but most sides will find it difficult to defeat them. After all, they are the benchmark.
|
| #2 |
7 |
+5 |
Brisbane Broncos
It was another tough effort from the Broncos. This time, they had to overcome a deficit against a gritty Cowboys team. Their second half was impressive, and their defensive structure is strong.
|
| #3 |
1 |
-2 |
Melbourne Storm
Upset at home by the Bulldogs. They were missing 2 out of their regular 4 starting spine players but such a loss is uncharacteristic of the Storm, especially following an extended preparation. They will not want to make such performances a habit.
|
| #4 |
6 |
+2 |
Cronulla Sharks
A spirited performance by the Sharks as they upset the Eels on their home turf. They will be a better team with the return of Hynes but wins like that show just how capable this team is. They are a well-coached team.
|
| #5 |
3 |
-2 |
South Sydney Rabbitohs
The Rabbitohs showed determination to fight back from a 16-nil deficit to have an opportunity to level the match against the Panthers. Missing some key forwards, they were always going to find it difficult. Better games from Walker and Mitchell could’ve changed the result.
|
| #6 |
4 |
-2 |
North Queensland Cowboys
Determination and grit from their opponents were two factors stopping the Cowboys from defeating the Broncos. A 10-minute period without Drinkwater on the field also hurt their chances. He will likely be missing for a few weeks too. This may impact their chances of winning matches, but they still have the makings of a strong team.
|
| #7 |
8 |
+1 |
Sydney Roosters
They were able to grab their first win of the season against the Warriors, but their performance was far from convincing. The Roosters know how to peak for big matches, and they will need an improved effort against the Rabbitohs this week.
|
| #8 |
11 |
+3 |
The Dolphins
They’re not one-hit wonders! They backed up their opening round victory with a spirited effort against the Raiders. The Dolphins stayed in the contest and demonstrated belief; they will not be ‘push overs’ this year.
|
| #9 |
9 |
- |
Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles
A week off with the Bye following a strong Round 1 victory. The Sea Eagles have extra time to prepare for their Thursday night fixture against the Eels. That match will also give a better indication of the potential of this team.
|
| #10 |
5 |
-5 |
Parramatta Eels
A poor effort by the Eels against the Sharks, especially considering they were missing their key playmaker. Allowing 30 points is a major red flag that they need to improve upon. A tough test now awaits them against the Sea Eagles in Round 3; there is every chance they could be 0-3 to start the year.
|
| #11 |
10 |
-1 |
Canberra Raiders
Were upset by the Dolphins and are winless to start the year. They have a good base to build from (83% completion rate, 13 missed tackles) but have a tough Round 3 fixture against the Sharks. Thankfully, they are playing this fixture at home.
|
| #12 |
17 |
+5 |
Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs
Needed a strong performance after a horrible Round 1 effort and they delivered on the road against the Storm. If the Bulldogs can play to this level every week, they are going to be an exciting team to watch..
|
| #13 |
15 |
+2 |
St.George-Illawarra Dragons
Played their first game of the year in Round 2 and silenced a few doubters with a dominant performance. The quality of their opponent leaves a lingering question, but their execution and style of attack was impressive to say the least.
|
| #14 |
13 |
-1 |
New Zealand Warriors
There were plenty of positives for the Warriors in their loss against the Roosters. Their opponents made good on a few chances and the Warriors couldn’t match them in this area. They will not be an easy team to defeat throughout the season though.
|
| #15 |
16 |
+1 |
Newcastle Knights
A spirited victory for the Knights given the circumstances (players injured & sent off) but it was only against the Tigers. The Knights have a tough few weeks ahead and this victory will help with their confidence.
|
| #16 |
12 |
-4 |
Gold Coast Titans
Perhaps the Titans Round 1 victory over the Tigers wasn’t as good as it appeared. They were given a reality check by the Dragons on Sunday and their big named players need to take accountability. The Titans are a far better team with Verrills on the field but cannot rely solely on him.
|
| #17 |
14 |
-3 |
Wests Tigers
They couldn’t have had a better opportunity to win a match. They were at Leichhardt Oval, their opponents had players ruled out through injury in match and they faced 12 men for the final 15 minutes. Yet, the Tigers couldn’t get the victory. A 64% completion rate and 17 errors hurt their cause.
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