Raiders Shock the Pundits & The Resting Controversy
Kenty and Woz unpack one of the most unpredictable weekends in modern NRL history. The pair dive into the Canberra Raiders’ stunning rise to the Minor Premiership, the fallout from the Penrith Panthers' mass resting of players, and the looming "Book of Feuds" clash that could decide the fate of the top eight.
The Green Machine’s "Fairy Tale" Minor Premiership
Defying almost every pre-season prediction that had them pegged for the wooden spoon, the Canberra Raiders have officially claimed the Minor Premiership. Kent draws parallels to the legendary underdog runs of the 2005 Tigers and 2003 Panthers, noting that the "unfashionable" squad from the capital has proven the pundits wrong through sheer grit and fitness.
The discussion highlights Ricky Stuart’s quiet confidence throughout the off-season. While external critics were writing the Raiders off, the internal belief was built on a high-intensity, unorthodox attacking style that has left better-resourced teams struggling to keep pace.
The Resting Scandal: "Ivan Did Nothing Wrong"
The NRL world was sent into a frenzy when Ivan Cleary opted to rest 16 frontline players against the Bulldogs, leading to calls for league intervention. Kent is quick to dismiss the "fake indignation" from the media and rival clubs, arguing that a coach's primary responsibility is to win a Premiership, not to appease the betting markets or Round 26 spectators.
Kent points out the hypocrisy in the outrage, noting that successful clubs like Melbourne have historically rested stars before the finals without facing such scrutiny. He argues that the focus should be on the NRL's lack of transparency in team announcements rather than penalising coaches for managing player welfare.
The Roosters’ Statement & Melbourne’s Reality Check
Despite a slow start that saw them trailing 10-0 at the break, the Roosters produced a scintillating second half to pile on 40 unanswered points against the Storm. While the win secures the Roosters' momentum, Kent suggests the lopsided result might actually serve as a well-timed "kick up the backside" for Craig Bellamy’s men, forcing a refocus ahead of the qualifying finals.
The "Book of Feuds": Souths Out to Ruin the Roosters
The stage is set for a blockbuster final round where the South Sydney Rabbitohs have the opportunity to play the ultimate spoiler. With the Roosters' season on the line, the foundation rivalry enters a new chapter. Kent notes that if Souths can pull off an upset to knock the Roosters out of the eight, it will be a moment of triumph for the Redfern faithful, regardless of their own ladder position.
Coaching Merry-Go-Round: Adam O'Brien’s Exit
The panel reflects on the impending departure of Adam O’Brien from the Newcastle Knights. Kent commends O’Brien for his dignified handling of a difficult situation, suggesting that his reputation remains intact. He predicts that O’Brien will be a "gold mine" for any club looking for a high-level assistant, noting that his experience in the "head coaching furnace" has made him a more rounded mentor.
Finals Outlook and the "Sydney Anomaly"
The episode concludes with a look at the unusual geographical spread of the finals. With Brisbane, Canberra, and potentially Melbourne and the Warriors hosting matches, Kent notes we could see a finals series with very little football played in Sydney. The duo also touches on the "Wildcard Weekend" proposal, with Kent remaining a firm critic, arguing that it dilutes the prestige of the top eight.
Watch the full episode on Fanatics TV.
