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The race to the finals

Editor
17th July, 2007
2

manly

As the NRL season trundles onwards, the race for the top eight is looking more convoluted than ever. Statistically at least, everyone can still make it. Realistically, though, several can be cut out of the equation already, including the Roosters, the Dragons, the Titans and the Knights.

I think the Rabbitohs also are one season away from being genuine finals contenders. As for the Panthers, they are clearly a troubled club, which is surprising given that Matt Elliot – very much a team player in his day – has generally prided himself on creating a sense of kinship amongst the teams he has coached. The papers are suggesting the Matt Adamson is at the root of the problem. But one wonders whether these problems run far deeper at the foot of the mountains. Penrith seems to operate in much the same way that the Brumbies have: lead by a group of elite senior players who perhaps exert a little too much influence over the club. All of which has made for interesting headlines this year, but a string of disappointing performances on the field. So how about this for a final eight: Storm, Manly, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sharks, Eels, West Tigers, Warriors. Let us know what you think.

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