Wests Tigers v Melbourne Storm, CommBank Stadium
Melbourne will do well to bounce back from a horror injury toll, with Christian Welch (Achille’s) and George Jennings (ACL) looking at lengthy stints. Brandon Smith is also out for at least a month with a broken hand. But Ryan Papenhuyzen was electric, as was Jahrome Hughes. Cameron Munster and Harry Grant also return next week. The Tigers had nice passages, especially Luke Brooks who looks more than comfortable running and playing along side Jackson Hastings. Backrower Kelma Tuilagi will also cause headaches on his left edge.
Christian Nicolussi
St George Illawarra Dragons v New Zealand Warriors, Sunshine Coast Stadium
With so many new faces, it was unrealistic to expect St George Illawarra to click straight away. They did enough to get away with a win against the Warriors, their first since last year’s infamous BBQ. There were some good signs; Mikaele Ravalawa was at his barnstorming best and Tyrell Sloan showed touches of class, as well as the areas he’ll need to improve to become a truly elite fullback. The Warriors showed plenty of spirit. Missing Reece Walsh and Matt Lodge, this is one that got away. Shaun Johnson showed glimpses of his best in his return to the club, but you get the feeling a third season on the road will take its toll.
Adrian Proszenko
Sydney Roosters v Newcastle Knights, SCG
A few Roosters players were clearly under-done heading into the opener, and their cause was not helped with poor handling and lack of possession. Jared Waerea-Hargreaves and Sio Siua Taukeiaho missed a vital training camp because of pending baby arrivals, and will be the biggest improvers from the Newcastle hitout, as will Angus Crichton. Luke Keary and Sam Walker will need a bit longer than most think to click, although again it was hard to work their magic with such little possession. Newcastle deserved five stars for their defence. And Dane Gagai is a serious attacking weapon out wide, while Bradman Best is just as lethal on the left.
NRL round 1: Key takeouts
Source: Philippines Alive
