NRL's kick-blocker crackdown changes the game - but the question is do we want that?
NRL kickers are under more pressure than ever. But what will the knock-on effects of the new crack-down be?
With all the running with the Warriors, Josh Hoffman held up a determined Sam Tomkins over the line after he’d been in thick of it all, already bagging one four pointer.
It was 12-6 at this time, after the Warriors had jumped to 12-0 lead after nine minutes. They hit the sheds, the Broncos in front 16-12. A ten-point turn around that started with that tackle.
While Johnson had been dangerous with his line camped in opposition territory, after the Broncos got into the grind it was Hunt’s turn to show his skills. He crossed for a spectacular try, a solo effort the likes fans have witnessed on more than a few occasions this season.
The second half started much in the same as the first, with two tries in the opening 10. This time it was a double to the mighty second rower Ben Henry.
However it was Copley’s efforts to get the ball down before being bundled into touch by a flying Tomkins that once again saw the match turn. While that was impressive, it was his work two minutes later – bursting through a gap on the way to the try line – that was simply sensational.
Jack Reed and Dan Vidot lost their places in the side after a boozy night out and both may have some cause for concern after Copley’s superb performance. In fact one of them could miss out again next week.
If it were not for Lachlan Maranta’s poor showing, it would be a certainty. Jacob Lillyman and Ben Matulino were solid as usual up front. Not to be outdone, their Broncos counterparts Corey Parker and Ben Hannant were outstanding, with the latter topping the tackle count with 44.
Hunt won the battle of the halves over Johnson on points, as the Warriors fell away from their game plan on a few occasions and let the lead slip twice.
At the end of the night, Copley proved the difference. Consistently tormenting the Warriors pack in attack and breaking the line on four occasions, he ran over 200 metres and scored the match-winning try.
The Broncos were gallant in defence and made the most of their opportunities. They capitalised on their opponent’s errors and lapses in defence. The Warriors threw everything at them in the last minutes, but the Broncos held on to be deserved victors.