NRL, ROUND 23, AUGUST 5TH, 2023 BRISBANE BRONCOS v NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS
QUEENSLAND COUNTRY BANK STADIUM,TOWNSVILLE
In what promises to be an electrifying Queensland derby, the Brisbane Broncos and the North Queensland Cowboys are gearing up for a high-stakes showdown on August 5th, 2023, at the Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville. As the regular season nears its end, both teams have a lot riding on this encounter.
The Broncos, eyeing the coveted minor premiership, have their sights set on claiming victory and gaining an advantage over their major obstacle, the Panthers, who face the Melbourne Storm this week. A comprehensive win against the Cowboys could propel the Brisbane side to the top of the ladder, setting them up for a strong finish to the regular season.
On the other hand, the Cowboys find themselves precariously holding onto the eighth spot on the ladder, with the Knights and Sea Eagles hot on their heels. A triumph on Saturday afternoon is vital for the Cowboys to solidify their position in the top eight and avoid being pushed out of contention should other results not go their way.
The history between these two teams adds to the excitement, with memories of their 2015 Grand Final replay still fresh in everyone’s minds. The anticipation for this clash is heightened as fans recall the exhilarating moments from that memorable match.
Both teams have significant changes in their lineups. The Cowboys will be without Origin star Valentine Holmes, who faces a four-week suspension due to a high tackle charge. Kyle Feldt’s return to the first-grade side might fill the void left by Holmes, but the final composition of the team is yet to be confirmed. However, the Cowboys will welcome back Heilum Luki, who returns after recovering from a facial fracture sustained in round 16.
Meanwhile, the Broncos are boosted by the return of winger Jesse Arthars from suspension and Brendan Piakura from illness. Jordan Riki’s possible comeback from injury further adds to the team’s strength.
The individual battles on the field are just as intriguing as the team contest. Reece Walsh and Scott Drinkwater will be the players to watch, as their electrifying playing styles and determination to make their mark promise to influence the outcome of the match significantly.
Furthermore, the clash between veteran playmakers Chad Townsend and Adam Reynolds is poised to be a spectacle, with both players boasting premiership-winning experience and a wealth of skill and knowledge.
As NRL Round 23 approaches, anticipation is building for this high-stakes Queensland derby. The Brisbane Broncos and the North Queensland Cowboys are set to deliver a thrilling encounter at the Queensland Country Bank Stadium. With the push for the minor premiership and the fight for a top-eight spot at stake, this match promises to be an unmissable spectacle for rugby league fans.
Broncos: 1. Reece Walsh 2. Jesse Arthars 3. Kotoni Staggs 4. Herbie Farnworth 5. Selwyn Cobbo 6. Ezra Mam 7. Adam Reynolds 8. Thomas Flegler 9. Billy Walters 10. Payne Haas 11. Kurt Capewell 12. Brendan Piakura 13. Patrick Carrigan 14. Tyson Smoothy 15. Corey Jensen 16. Kobe Hetherington 17. Keenan Palasia 18. Deine Mariner 19. Xavier Willison 20. Jordan Riki 21. Jock Madden 22. Tristan Sailor
LATE MAIL???
The Broncos have been dealt a major blow for their blockbuster clash with Queensland rivals the Cowboys after halfback and skipper Adam Reynolds was ruled out.
Reynolds has groin tightness while he will be joined on the sidelines by Kobe Hetherington who has a back cork.
Cowboys: 1. Scott Drinkwater 2. Semi Valemei 3. Valentine Holmes 4. Peta Hiku 5. Murray Taulagi 6. Tom Dearden 7. Chad Townsend 8. Jordan McLean 9. Reece Robson 10. Jason Taumalolo 11. Luciano Leilua 12. Coen Hess 13. Reuben Cotter 14. Jake Granville 15. Griffin Neame 16. Heilum Luki 17. Jamayne Taunoa-Brown 18. Sam McIntyre 19. Kyle Feldt 20. Riley Price 21. Brendan Elliot 22. Jack Gosiewski
Referee: Gerard Sutton
PREDICTION
Get ready for a nail-biting showdown as the Cowboys face off against the Broncos in what promises to be an exhilarating close contest! The Cowboys will be feeling the absence of their star player Val Holmes, who is unfortunately suspended. With a challenging run ahead, they are desperate for every win to keep their top-eight hopes alive. On the other hand, the Broncos are riding high on their recent form and will be looking to capitalize on the opportunity. As the tension rises, I’m placing my bet on the Broncos to snatch victory in this thrilling encounter!
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