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I’m willing to stick my neck out and tip Parramatta to win the season’s first trophy at the NRL Nines in Auckland.
Even though he’s leaving Jarryd Hayne at home, new coach Brad Arthur has announced a big, strong and fast combination; he is sending his boys out to make an early statement.
While the majority of teams will be going to Auckland for some fun and bonding, it is clear to me that Parra is desperate to show they have a different mindset in 2014.
Of course, the inaugural Nines trophy won’t really ignite their chances in the big stuff but a winning mentality and a positive squad culture certainly will.
After the Eels collected back-to-back wooden spoons, Arthur has one heck of a job to do but I hear there is already a positive vibe from the Parramatta camp.
The players are enjoying their work under Arthur, who has been there before and collected some good raps.
The Nines could turn out to be the catalyst for a strong season from Chris Sandow. Early reports are he is extremely fit and desperate to atone for an incredibly disappointing and dramatic 2013.
He will thrive in the Nines – the fact Hayne won’t be there will give him some extra responsibility – and he has the talent around him to get the Eels at least to the finals.
Semi Radradra, with his speed, strength and nimble footwork, could be a sensation out wide. He has represented Fiji in the rugby union sevens and certainly knows how footy is played in the reduced number format.
Newcomers Corey Norman and Nathan Peats have the skills to keep the Eels powering forward, while Peni Terepo was great last year and could be a runaway rhino alongside another power runner in Fui Fui Moi Moi.
Yep, the wily old Wizard sees tremendous value in the Eels at around 14/1. Have a little something on them at the TAB (and you are welcome to send your thanks when I write my next column).
I can also see strong showings from the likes of the Dragons, Titans and Broncos.
Naturally, the Shaun Johnson-led Warriors will be highly competitive as the host team.
Plenty of critics have had a field day bagging veterans Brad Fittler and Steve Menzies for playing in this event but I’m tipping each will have his moments and their selections will be more than justified.
I’m not sure we will see a whole lot of structure in this type of football.
I played in the old pre-season sevens format and you’ve just to go out there and run as hard and as fast as you can and keep making second and third efforts when your body is screaming for a breather.
You have to play what is in front of you. Ad lib rugby league will be seen in Auckland like never before.
I am looking forward to this different opening to our season. The Nines are already a guaranteed success at the gate with both days virtually sold out.
To me, this is an exciting and fun entrée to the main event and I congratulate all clubs for their efforts to make the event spectacular.
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