It’s only Round 11, yet most teams are still waiting to see their club hit top gear and show their true form. Unlike the usual lists talking about who will make the finals, I’ll explain why each team won’t be there come September.
Broncos
The Broncos have been perhaps the most underwhelming side of 2014. Signing Ben Barba was meant to give them the X-factor that they’ve been searching for, yet he hasn’t been anywhere near his top form.
The Broncos have been most disappointing in the tight games this year. In the first two rounds of the competition, they beat opponents the Bulldogs and Cowboys by six and four points respectfully. Yet since then, have only won games by 14 points or more.
Raiders
The Raiders have had a horror month. Ricky Stuart has been fined $10,000 and the club is in turmoil. Canberra’s lack of creativity in attack and effort in defence has seen them fall to second last on the ladder with the worst defence in the game.
The Raiders clearly don’t have the attitude to make a dent in the competition in 2014. Something must be done as soon as possible. Mitch Cornish for Terry Campese, anyone?
Bulldogs
The Bulldogs have been the most in-form team in the competition so far in 2014. The Dogs were considered long-odds to win the competition in 2014 after a poor 2013, yet are now one of the main threats.
The Bulldogs main threat to winning the competition this year will be the Origin period. The Bulldogs are missing five internationals in their side due to Origin and injuries. After last nights loss to the Roosters, Origin is going to play a big part in how the Dogs maintain their confidence.
Sharks
The Sharks have also had a horror start to 2014, with injuries and ASADA hanging over their heads. It doesn’t get easier for Cronulla with Paul Gallen, Todd Carney and Andrew Fifita out of the side.
It remains to be seen if the Sharks can improve in season 2014.
Titans
The Titans also had a great start to 2014, yet in recent weeks have fallen short of expectations. The loss of Aidan Sezer long term is a huge bummer for the Gold Coast side.
Injuries to key players in the halves as well as Origin taking away Bird and Myles for a few games is a big factor in the success of the Titans. They also lack big game and finals experience.
Sea Eagles
The only way Manly will be halted this year from winning the premiership is going to be through injury to some of their key performers.
Manly need to keep Daly Cherry-Evans on the park and they should march deep into September.
Storm
The Melbourne Storm has had an indifferent start to the year. We’re used to seeing them at the top of the ladder after the opening 10 rounds, yet find them currently at fifth.
So far they’ve been OK at best. Melbourne seem to lack a five-eighth to assist Cooper Cronk steer the ship. Already Ben Hampton, Ben Roberts, Cameron Smith and Joel Romelo have been used to fill the void in the halves. Now with Origin coming around, Melbourne will face one of their biggest challenges in years.
Knights
The Knights have had a very poor year, not only on the field, but also off it. The distractions on and off the field are going to be the main problem for the Knights this year.
Contracts must be properly overviewed as soon as possible and the players must be assured of their future. The Knights need a leader to stand up on the field and take control of the game. Enter Jarrod Mullen. He is the only one that can resurrect the Knights’ season.
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