As the NRL Grand Final approaches, experts Matty Johns and Cooper Cronk have provided their analysis on where the Melbourne Storm and Brisbane Broncos will find their edge in this highly anticipated matchup. The game, set to be a thrilling encounter, will see the two teams clash at Sydney’s Accor Stadium this Sunday.
Both Johns and Cronk have dissected the strengths and weaknesses of each team, offering insights into the potential game-changing moments and players to watch. Their breakdown highlights the critical role of the ‘spine’ in rugby league and how each team’s key players could influence the outcome.
The Storm’s Spine: A Powerhouse Reunited
The Melbourne Storm boasts one of the most formidable spines in the NRL, featuring Ryan Papenhuyzen, Cameron Munster, Jahrome Hughes, and Harry Grant. However, the quartet has been plagued by injuries and suspensions throughout the season, limiting their time on the field together. Now back in full force, the Storm’s spine poses a significant threat to the Broncos.
Cronk emphasized the importance of the Storm’s spine adopting a ‘run-first’ mentality in crucial games. He noted their ability to dominate the field by running straight through the middle, rather than relying solely on lateral plays. “I think the Storm spine have been waiting a long time for this moment,” Cronk said on Fox League’s Matty and Cronk.
“Yes, they had a game plan, but it was almost like that was second in their mindset. Mindset one was get the ball and be the dominant player on the field.”
Jahrome Hughes, returning from a broken arm, demonstrated his resilience and skill in the preliminary final against the Sharks. Despite concerns about his defensive capabilities post-injury, Hughes proved pivotal in the Storm’s victory, showcasing his running prowess and determination.
Johns compared Hughes’ rapid recovery to that of legendary Broncos enforcer Shane Webcke, highlighting the impressive nature of his return. “Jahrome Hughes 22 days from a broken arm and back playing and was a star of the game,” Johns remarked.
Broncos’ Dilemma: Balancing Experience and Fresh Talent
The Brisbane Broncos face a strategic decision regarding their lineup, particularly concerning Ezra Mam and Ben Hunt. Mam, who recently returned from a hamstring injury, showed promise in his brief appearance against the Panthers. However, Cronk suggests that starting Mam might not be the best approach.
“No, he was good but I don’t think he should,” Cronk said, advising that Mam’s impact could be maximized off the bench, allowing Hunt to settle into his role before transitioning to hooker.
The Broncos have demonstrated resilience, overcoming deficits in recent matches. Yet, against a team like the Storm, allowing an early lead could prove costly. Cronk supports the tactic of using Cory Paix initially to absorb pressure, before introducing Mam to inject energy and creativity into the Broncos’ attack.
Battle of the Forward Packs
Grand Finals are often decided in the forward packs, and this matchup is no exception. The Broncos and Storm both boast powerful forwards capable of dictating the pace and physicality of the game. Brisbane’s pack, led by Payne Haas and Patrick Carrigan, will need to match the intensity of Melbourne’s formidable lineup.
Cronk praised the Storm’s forwards for their performance against the Sharks, noting the impact of players like Tui Kamikamica and Stefano Utoikamanu. “The Storm’s best players played well and the Sharks’ best players were quiet,” Cronk observed.
However, the Broncos’ forwards, including Jordan Riki and Xavier Willison, have shown they can rise to the occasion, making this a key area to watch in the Grand Final.
Preparation and Defensive Strategies
Preparation time has been a point of contention leading into the final, with the Storm benefiting from two extra days of rest and recovery. While Broncos coach Michael Maguire dismissed this as inconsequential, Johns and Cronk believe the additional preparation time gives the Storm a “monumental advantage.”
“Two days extra to recover, on top of the nature of the two contests, it is advantage Melbourne,” Johns stated.
Defensively, both teams have vulnerabilities that could be exploited. The Storm’s left edge, in particular, has shown weaknesses, as evidenced by the Sharks’ success in attacking that side. Similarly, the Broncos’ left edge was exposed in their preliminary final, highlighting potential areas for the Storm to target.
Final Predictions: Who Will Prevail?
As the Grand Final looms, both Johns and Cronk have made their predictions. Cronk favors his former team, predicting a dominant Storm victory with Eliesa Katoa potentially earning the Clive Churchill Medal for his performance.
“Melbourne Storm win for me, I think it’s a dominant victory, let’s call it 28-10 and Eliesa Katoa for Clive Churchill Medal,” Cronk predicted.
Meanwhile, Johns anticipates a closer contest, with Ryan Papenhuyzen playing a pivotal role in securing a narrow win for the Storm.
“I’ve gone Storm by four and Ryan Papenhuyzen for Clive Churchill Medal,” Johns concluded.
As fans eagerly await the showdown, the insights from Johns and Cronk offer a comprehensive look at the dynamics at play, setting the stage for what promises to be an electrifying NRL Grand Final.
