2017 Auckland Nines Preview
2017 Auckland Nines Preview. It feels as though the Sharks have just won their maiden premiership and the celebrations are continuing, but party time is over and the footy has already well and truly returned.
This year’s Auckland Nines promises to be one of the most exciting pre-season competitions to date, with superstars Jonathan Thurston, Jarryd Hayne and Shaun Johnson all headlining the Auckland Nines tournament.
So much talent will be on offer the entire weekend that fans will be itching for more come Sunday evening, with the weekend promising some of the games hottest prospects and seasoned stars to light up Eden Park.
The Brisbane Broncos and North Queensland Cowboys have arguably named the strongest line ups, whilst the Rabbitohs are also sending a host of NRL stars despite Adam Reynolds being ruled out through injury.
The Parramatta Eels will be looking to defend their crown after they claimed the title for the first time last year, and will be lead by last year’s Player of the tournament Corey Norman.
PIHA POOL
St.George Illawarra Dragons ($21)
They have been hit hard following the heart breaking injury to Drew Hutchinson late last year, but despite the injury risk the Dragons are still talking a vast array of their NRL stars. Tyson Frizell, Euan Aitken and Joel Thompson are just a few that have been named, and should be in for an exciting weekend considering the talent on display. There are promising signs from their young athletes taking part, after their Under 20’s side made the preliminary final last year.
One to watch: Matt Dufty
He has lit up the Under 20’s Competition over the last four years and his scintillating form in 2016 has seen him become one of the most exciting prospects in Rugby League. Dufty’s lightning speed and blistering acceleration is his pride and joy, and it’s the natural talent that has seen him find the line 55 times in his 65 NYC appearances. Don’t be surprised if you see this man at the top of the try scorer’s list at the end of the tournament.
Tip: They have named a strong team. Can certainly push for a place in the finals.
Parramatta Eels ($7)
They won the Auckland Nines last season but it didn’t take long for the Eels to crash and burn after a disasterous 2016 campaign. Salary cap drama’s and off field issues plastered the new look side and they will certainly be looking to turn things around this weekend. Corey Norman will captain the side after a breakthrough 2016 season, whilst Semi Radradra has also been named despite on going legal issues.
They have sent a host of other key players including Clint Gutherson and speedster Bevan French, in the hope of becoming the first team to win back-to-back titles.
Player to watch: Bevan French
After just 13 first grade games you wouldn’t expect too much from a young rookie; but Bevan French set the NRL alight in his handful of appearances. His 19 tries, 11 linebreaks and 64 tackle breaks is simply ludicrous, and fans will be salivating at the prospect of French in full flight over the weekend.
He is arguably the fastest player in the game, so if this man finds some open space..don’t expect anyone to run him down.
Tip: They are sending a very strong squad, should be very competitive once again. Contender.
Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles ($41)
After the arrival of Trent Barrett as head coach last season, the former Dragon has done incredibly well in shaping a new look Manly outfit. They have recruited fairly well over the off season, with new signings Curtis Sironen and Akuila Uate all named to take part in the Nines. The late addition of star Dylan Walker is a massive boost for the young squad, with a host of young talent ready to put their hand up for a first grade jumper.
One to watch: Brian Kelly
Speaking of young talent, this man is no stranger to the hype and is now one of Manly’s most exciting prospects. Recently signed from the titans on a two year deal, the speedster enjoyed a successful 2016 season with 11 tries in 15 games.
His speed is his strongest asset and it will no doubt be on show on the weekend, and Kelly will want to put his best foot forward in the hope of pushing for a spot in Manly’s backline for 2017.
Tip: Considering the squad of the Warriors and Eels, I can’t see them making it to the finals.
New Zealand Warriors ($6)
There’s no question as to what team everyone is most looking forward to watching this weekend, with the Warriors sending in a blockbuster side which includes kiwi legend Ruben Wiki and Kiwi superstar Shaun Johnson. Surprisingly, the Warriors haven’t claimed the title yet despite being amongst the favourites every year, but will hope to turn their good fortune around in front of their home crowd.
Stars Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, Issac Luke and Ben Matulino have not been named in the squad, with bookies going against the Warriors considering the vast array of inexperience in the side
One to watch: Shaun Johnson
Bit obvious, isn’t it? The man they call “Magic Johnson” will carry the weight of Kiwi fans when he steps onto the hallowed turf of Eden Park. His brilliant footwork and blistering speed are his greatest assets, and often creates something special with little opportunity. The structure of the Nines is perfectly suited to his electrifying talent, and Johnson will be searching for redemption after a heartbreaking loss in last year’s final.
Tip: Playing in front of their crowd is a massive advantage, and considering they haven’t won yet they’ll be extremely determined to finally claim victory. Hard to beat.
HONUA POOL
North Queensland Cowboys ($4)
The 2014 Auckland Nines Champions know what it takes to lift the trophy and what’s more exciting is that future Immortal Jonathan Thurston will board the flight to Auckland later this week. They boast an array of speed in their outside backs, with the likes of Gideon Gela-Mosby and Kalyn Ponga both named to play. With Michael Morgan and Dally M Winner Jason Taumalalo in the squad, you have to seriously consider them as a threat for the title.
One to watch: Kalyn Ponga
The name Kalyn Ponga has certainly become a household name within the last couple of months, with the teenage sensation signing a lucrative five year contract with the Newcastle Knights. His debut in the Semi Final against the Bronco’s was one to remember, with his razzle dazzle footwork and natural instincts proving he is born to play the game. The Nines format certainly suits his style of play, and if he finds the ball in his hands with some open space…watch out.
Tip: Huge Contender. If the Bronco’s somehow struggle, the Cowboys will be the ones lifting the trophy.
Sydney Roosters ($21)
To say that the Roosters performances last season were disappointing is an understatement. Their massive fall from grace comes after three successive Minor Premierships and a Grand Final victory. With a much cleaner off-season,I dare say the Chooks will be looking to make a bold statement this weekend. Fans will be eager to see new signings Paul Carter and Zane Tetevano don the Red, White and Blue, with both players looking to re-ignite their careers.
Trent Robinson rarely sends his best players over to Auckland to compete in the tournament, however 2016 sensations Latrell Mitchell, Joseph Manu and Conor Watson have all been named.
One to watch: Latrell Mitchell
It was a breakout season for the teenage prodigy and after a strong performance at the Nines last year, the boy from Taree will be looking to carry his good form into the tournament. He will be full of confidence following his selection in the Indigenous All Stars, and with his speed to burn and ferocious power, Mitchell will be looking to stamp his authority in Auckland once again.
If the Roosters are to make any sort of damage in the tournament, this young man will be a significant reason why.
Tip: They certainly haven’t named their strongest squad and may struggle to push for a place in the finals.
Canberra Raiders ($34)
They were the most improved side throughout 2016 and this year marks a genuine opportunity for the Raiders to charge for the premiership. Halves Aidan Sezer and Blake Austin will make significant contribution to their performances over the weekend, whilst Jeff Lima will lead from the front and captain the side.
There is a vast array of inexperience across the squad with Rick Stuart opting not to risk his star players with Josh Hodgson, Joey Leilua and Jordan Rapana excluded from the squad.
One to watch: Nick Cotric
The Raiders have struggled to maintain their junior prodigies over the years but this guy is someone they hope won’t go away. Nick Cotric is an Australian Schoolboy and has been one of the shining lights throughout the junior grades for the Raiders. His outstanding form throughout the 2016 season saw him selected in the Under 20’s Team of the Year, and will no doubt be looking to make a name himself on the weekend.
Tip: The will find it tough considering they are lacking premium strike power. Don’t like their chances but will play some very exciting footy.
South Sydney Rabbitohs ($12)
Few would consider South’s as a genuine threat to the pre-season competition but who could write off a team who won two years ago and boast such promising young talent in their squad. They have named a very strong squad with the likes of Cody Walker, Thomas Burgess, Alex Johnston and Kyle Turner all being named, Adam Reynolds was expected to captain the side, but the 2015 Player of the Tournament has been ruled out with a hamstring injury.
One to watch: Cody Walker
The name Cody Walker was a name that was rather unknown amongst rugby league fans last year, but after a stellar debut season for the Rabbitoh’s he has certainly made a name for himself. The crafty five eight was one of the shining lights in a poor year for South Sydney, recording 8 tries, 15 line breaks, 12 try assists, 13 linebreak assists along with 80 tackle breaks. Although small in stature, his elusive pace and elite spatial awareness will be significant assets that will be on show this weekend.
Tip: With Reynolds playing I’d be confident in saying that would make the final four. Now that he’s been ruled out, they may even struggle to make the finals.
ORANGITOTO POOL
Newcastle Knights ($34)
Many people have already put a line through Newcastle for the Auckland Nines and 2017 season, however may need to reconsider considering they made the finals last year. Yes, they struggled dearly last season and will more than likely experience the same pain in 2017, but they have named a side that is certainly not short of NRL talent. Jamie Buhrer will captain the side, with barnstorming rookie Mtich Barnett and flyer Nathan Ross both named to take part.
It will take a miracle for Newcastle to do any considerable damage to the competition, but don’t be surprised if they compete strongly in their pool matches.
One to watch: Brock Lamb
He managed three first grade games last season and there is no doubt that Brock Lamb will be looking at many more throughout 2017. With captain Jarrod Mullen suspended indefinitely, the 19 year old will be looking to show his worth in the hope of claiming the Number 6 jumper. He has brilliant vision and a classy ball playing ability that will be dangerous when taking on the line this weekend.
Tip: They have plenty of speed out wide and a decent mix of youth and experience. May see them in the finals but unlikely.
Wests Tigers ($26)
The words “potential” and “young talent” are words that are often used amongst teams in the NRL, but it’s no more relevant when the word “Tigers” is used in the same sentence. One of the most exciting teams in the competition; the Tigers will love the open play this weekend with the likes of Kevin Naqaima, Justin Hunt and Luke Brooks all named to take the park.
Their lack of experience may cost them in the crucial parts of their games, however will relish at the opportunity of consistent broken down play and show off their remarkable style of footy.
One to watch: Kevin Naqaima
You could say that 2016 was a break out year for the dynamic Tigers centre, after some dominant displays saw him cross for 11 tries to go with 64 tackle breaks. Reports from Tigers training camp says that Naqaima is as fit as he ever has been, dropping a heap of weight and increasing his speed to be in the best shape of his career. If Tigers are to go deep into the finals, this man will be one of the main reasons why.
Tip: They’ve drawn a tough pool, might make the finals but will need to play some sparkling footy…which they are capable of.
Brisbane Broncos ($5)
Wayne Bennett has named an incredibly strong Auckland Nines squad for this weekend with new signing Benji Marshall headlining the experienced squad. They team includes a host of first grade superstars with Anthony Milford, James Roberts and Darius Boyd all named to play. After failing to win a game in last years competition, the inclusion of serious NRL talent with the mix of promising young stars will be sure to put them in prime position for a shot at the title.
One to watch: Benji Marshall
It certainly wasn’t the easiest pre-season for the Former Tigers and Dragon five eight, after a majority of NRL clubs refused to show their interest in signing the veteran Kiwi. In his prime, Marshall was simply electrifying. Truly gifted and born to play the game, Marshall thrives in the nine-a-side contest and has a dominant touch football background. Fans will be eager to see him in a Bronco’s jersey for the first time, with most hoping he still has what it takes to play in the NRL.
Tip: Have definitely named one of the strongest squads. My tip to claim the title.
Melbourne Storm ($21)
The Melbourne Storm have named an Auckland Nines squad stacked with young talent and limited NRL experience. As expected, the “Big 3” will not take part in the weekend and will be lead by Kenny Bromwich and Young Tonumaipea. They will be boosted by the addition of star fullback Cameron Munster, as well established NRL players Cheyse Blair and Tim Glasby.
Their high professional standards will ensure they are competitive in their pool matches but do lack the strike power to be any threat in the finals.
One to watch: Josh Addo-Carr
There is no better sight in Rugby League than seeing a speedster race away in full flight, and Josh Addo-Carr has fast built a reputation as one of the games quickest players. He has no problem in finding the line with 18 tries in the Intrust Super Premiership last year, whilst also crossing for 6 more in his 9 appearances in first grade. Look for the Storm to spread it wide early to give Addo-Carr some extra space in attack, and it certainly won’t take much for him to find it.
Tip: They were safe with their selections and are taking a very youthful squad. They wont threaten for the title but they will take a lot out of the experience.
WAIHEKE POOL
Cronulla Sharks ($14)
The Cronulla Sharks have named a strong Auckland Nines squad and will be boosted by the inclusion of Grand Final Stars Luke Lewis, Wade Graham and Jack Bird. Graham will captain the side that could be considered rather inexperienced, with a host Under 20’s and ISP players making the squad. They have a significant amount of NRL talent talent on show, with Chris Heighington, Gerard Beale and Matt Prior also named in the side.
Rookies include classy NYC back-rower Jayden Walker, as well as Kurt Kara and Malakai Houma who are coming off big seasons for the Newtown Jets.
One to watch: Jayden Walker
Rugby League can be a cruel game sometimes and Jayden Walker knows better than anyone what that exactly means. After earning himself an Australian Schoolboys jersey in 2014, the hard-working forward has endured the pain of serious injury over the last two seasons. In 2016, he only managed 12 appearances in the NYC, however put in some starring performances which has now seen him train with the first grade squad over the preseason.
Gold Coast Titans ($9)
After a rather tame return to Rugby League, Jarryd Hayne will take his first steps towards redemption and make his debut at the Auckland Nines. Coach Neil Henry has named a strong squad to travel across the ditch, including barnstorming front rower Ryan James and rookie Kane Elgey. They have taken the option to blood some youth in the hope that some may demand a first grade jumper, whilst also sending a strong mix of experience in the hope of going deep into the finals.
One to watch: Jarryd Hayne
He didn’t set the world on fire in his return to Rugby League, but there is no denying that Jarryd Hayne will set the Nine’s on fire this weekend. Quite possibly one of the most naturally talented players to ever play the game, the Former Eel will look to stamp his authority in the nine-a-side contest. It’s an intriguing prospect considering the ridiculous athletic ability he possesses, with the Nines the perfect opportunity for Hayne to replicate his new talents he learnt from his stint in the NFL.
Tip: They will be threatening in the round matches however may struggle against more experienced sides if they make the finals.
Penrith Panthers ($26)
They have an incredibly exciting few years ahead and have some of the hottest young talent in the competition. They have limited NRL experience boarding the plane to Auckland but will have star rookie Nathan Cleary lining up on Saturday. James Tamou will make his club debut in his first outing for his new club, with back-rower Isaah Yeo named to captain the side.
Anthony Griffin has opted to rest a majority of his stars, with Bryce Cartwright, Matt Moylan and Trent Merrin all left out of the squad.
One to watch: Dylan Edwards
The Panthers have invested significantly into their development squads over the past few years and fullback Dylan Edwards is a key reflection of their commitment to their juniors. He earned himself a first grade debut last season after he caught the eye of Coach Anthony Griffin with some starring performances. In just 17 games, he recorded 12 tries, 17 linebreaks, 14 try assists and a whopping 148 tackle breaks. After a strong preseason, many suggest that he will be filling the void of injured winger Josh Mansour.
Tip: They will be one of the strongest teams throughout 2017 but won’t be as dominant in the Nines. May find themselves a place in the finals but nothing more.
Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs ($41)
There has been significant pressure mounting on the Bulldogs over the off season, with Coach Des Hasler under fire for their lacklustre results in 2016. He has named a reasonably experienced squad to tackle the Nines, with Josh Reynolds named to captain the side. David Klemmer and Sam Kasiano have also been named to play, along with a perfect mix of their up and coming stars. Young talent who have earned selection include Tyrone Phillips, Renouf To’omaga and Marcelo Montoya.
One to watch: Marcelo Montoya
The name isn’t familiar now but reports from the Bulldogs suggest that this man is on the verge of making his first grade debut. An absolute flyer, Montoya notched 19 tries in just 18 games in the NYC, along with 19 linebreaks and 64 tackle breaks. He earned himself an opportunity in the Bulldog’s ISP side where he also scored 6 tries in 7 games. Despite being just 20 years of age, a strong performance at the Nines could see Montoya squeeze a spot on the wing for Round 1.
Tip: With the team they have named, I wouldn’t be surprised if they make it deep
into the finals. Contender.
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Words: Andre Cupido
