3 minute read
A snapshot of round 14 NRL action when new coaches couldn't create a quick fix for the Wests Tigers or the Warriors.
SNAPSHOT OF ROUND 14 OF THE NRL
MAN OF THE ROUND: Matt Burton. While Josh Addo-Carr received the plaudits for his hat-trick in Canterbury's 34-4 drubbing of Parramatta, Burton was in everything as he set up three tries and pulled off a terrific save on Mitch Moses.
STAT THAT MATTERS: Grant Anderson became the first player to score a double on NRL debut at the SCG in 41 years as Melbourne beat Sydney Roosters 26-18.
MAGIC MOMENT: Dallin Waetene-Zelezniak's miracle try provided the only real highlight for the Warriors in their loss to Cronulla. But it was one of the most magical finishes of the season, as he sprung like a pole-vaulter to put the ball down in the corner.
QUOTE OF THE ROUND: "Obviously, it's a little bit uncomfortable seeing your name in there (newspapers) all the time. But it's also very flattering" - Penrith assistant Cameron Ciraldo, who is the main target for Wests Tigers while also being linked to the top jobs at Canterbury and the Warriors.
TALKING POINT: How long will Luke Keary spend out after his latest concussion? The Sydney Roosters five-eighth was rested for five weeks and sent to a specialist in 2019 after five head knocks in the space of 18 months. The club is closely monitoring his health after his latest blow, but the 30-year-old remains in good spirits.
CASUALTY WARD: Cowboys: Jeremiah Nanai (knee); Broncos - Adam Reynolds (rib), Cory Paix (knee), Herbie Farnworth (bicep), Payne Haas (shoulder); Roosters - Luke Keary (concussion); Knights - Kalyn Ponga (concussion); Warriors - Ben Murdoch-Masila (elbow); Bulldogs - Chris Patolo (concussion).
JUDICIARY WATCH: Storm - Felise Kaufusi (dangerous contact); Tigers - Brent Naden (dangerous throw).
UNDER PRESSURE: Two coaches have gone in the past week, and that may not be the end of the horror run for NRL mentors. Adam O'Brien and Justin Holbrook remain in the spotlight with Newcastle no match for Penrith and Gold Coast ending the round last on the ladder.
