For Laurie Daley, it’s starting to feel like 1989 all over again and he can feel a shock Canberra premiership coming on.
With two rounds left, the Raiders, lightly fancied at season kickoff, have emerged as a genuine title threat and Daley can’t help but be reminded of 27 years ago when he helped guide the Green Machine to their maiden title.
“It reminds me of 1989 when no one really gave us a chance,” Raiders great Daley said.
“All of a sudden, you get yourself in a position and you start to win and that breeds confidence and, for whatever reason, it happens.
“As an ex-player, it starts to get exciting because it’s the first time in a long time I genuinely feel we’re a good chance of winning.”
A glance at the 1989 Raiders’ squad reveals they were stacked with stars from top to bottom – Daley, Mal Meninga, Brad Clyde, Glenn Lazarus, Gary Belcher and Steve Walters were also superstars of their era.
It seems in stark contrast to the Raiders of 2016 who boast just one State of Origin player in Josh Papalii.
However, Daley points out that many in that Raiders squad didn’t establish themselves on the representative scene until after their premiership win.
Daley, Stuart, Clyde and Walters didn’t play rep football until that year or the year after their grand final win over Balmain.
And while key position players Blake Austin, Aidan Sezer and Jack Wighton have no Origins and one finals appearance between them, Daley said they had the qualities to handle the pressure of September.
“I think that history would suggest that you would need your key position players to have played big games,” Daley said.
“But the way they’re playing at the moment would suggest to me they’re very confident.
“They’ve got a hooker (Josh Hodgson) who has played for Great Britain, Sezer and Austin and Jack Wighton, they’re probably guys who are capable of playing rep football.”
Kombi Phil
Guest
1989 - a year of bitter-sweet memories for this Souths fan. 18 wins in the regular season, including 12 in a row at one stage, and only 3 losses. Minor Premiers (by 5 points), for the first time since 1970. Mario Fenech, Les Davidson, David Boyle, Ian Roberts, Craig Coleman, Bronco Djura, Michael Andrews, Steve Mavin, Phil Blake... coached by the great George Piggins. What a side. Then two straight losses in the finals, to Balmain and Canberra. Heartbreaking. Even WORSE was 13 straight losses and the wooden spoon in 1990... ouch.
E-Meter
Guest
Sam Williams is back at No.6. I say trouble for the Raiders.
Gaz
Roar Rookie
Yep agree to disagree. Daley had a habit of stating the obvious much like Anasta who has taken his place as the worst commentator. But unlike Daley, Anasta won the award for most over rated player year after year. The good thing about Daley coaching NSW it gives QLD a leg up and keeps him off the idiot box.
Lovey
Guest
He was more than "fair enough" as a player. He has been a losing "coach" for NSW against a champion Qld team. I find his commentary informative. I guess we disagree then.
The Barry
Roar Guru
Breaking news: ex-player tips former club to win premiership
The Koomz
Guest
I surprisingly find the Raiders team today the same make up as the 94 team. The had Captain who was a legendary goal kicker wearing the number 3. A dangerous running 5/8 and a half-back who has an astute kicking game. I also find striking resemblance to Edrick Lee to Noa Nandruku and Joey Leilua to a young Reuben Wiki, Junior Paulo to John Lomax, Rapana is having a wow of a year so did Ken N'geas in 94 who eventually played origin that year. 1994 Team 2016 Team 1. Jack Wighton. 1. Brett Mullins 2. Ken N'geas. 2. Jordan Rapana 3. Mal Maninga 3. Jarrod Croker 4. Ruben Wiki. 4. Joey Leilua 5. Noa Nadruku. 5. Edrick Lee 6. Laurie Daley. 6. Blake Austin 7. Ricky Stuart. 7. Aidan Seizer 8. Quinten Pongia. 8. Shannon Boyd 9. Steve Walters. 9. Josh Hodgson 10. John Lomax. 10. Junior Paulo 11. Jason Croker 11. Josh Papalli 12. David Furner. 12. Elliot Whitehead 13. Brad Clyde. 13. Fensom/Soliola
JVGO
Guest
Laurie imagined NSW would win Origin 3 last year too. That went well didn't it.
eagleJack
Roar Guru
He isn't part of the spine. Which is what Daley was referring to when be mentioned "key position players".
Brian S
Guest
He's delusional!!!!
Gaz
Roar Rookie
Fair enough player. Left much to be desired as a commentator and clueless as a coach. Big deal!
Massive
Guest
Wouldn't you think Crokers name should be in there !!! He's been awesome for the Raiders should be in the blues , maybe the Wobbalies should be targeting him ??? -- Comment from The Roar's iPhone app.
John
Guest
Could be the kiss of death Raiders were hoping to avoid.
Craig
Guest
Daley also thought Walker was a good selection for origin.