Season 2012 is just days away and I can not wait! last season after a bad start ended up being a successful one, finishing 65-54-3 @ 54.6% for +8.69u! I will look to improve on this. Here is a quick guide to how I rate the teams before kickoff and my top 8.
Premiership Contenders:
STORM
With Slater, Smith and Cronk leading the way, Melbourne will once again be a force in 2012. Coach Bellamy is the master at getting the best out of people. While the loss of Blair will hurt, they have signed Hoffman and Ryles who will fill that hole beautifully. Chambers returning is a bonus also!
WARRIORS
I see the Warriors as a huge threat this season. Off the back of last seasons run to the Grand Final I expect this young team to only get better. I love the emergence of Locke and Johnson in the 1 & 7 jumpers and Friend is a huge addition. Mt Smart will be a fortress and NZ will be Top 4!
TIGERS
Disappointing how they finished 2011, I expect the Tigers to be right there again. Benji is right with the best of them and with a fit Lote and the signing of Blair they have no excuses. Top 4 material.
COWBOYS
I think the books have got this team way off! they have them @ $16 for the flag and even money to make the top 8! I wouldn't be surprised to see Nth Queensland win the comp! I give them a huge chance to finish top 4! A fit JT pairing with new signing Lui is gold! This team has one of the best packs in the game and great depth! huge year for the Cowboys IMO!
BRONCOS
This is a hard one. I see the Broncos either dominating or falling right off the cliff! Their youth is the best in the game! and still have a great pack and great leaders in Sam, Petro and Parker! but how will the cope without Lockyer? I still rate them highly. Top 8 and always a danger.
BULLDOGS
Can this group pull together under new coach Des? Yep! Big improver's 2012. Graham is a great get and only adds to the already tough pack of Ennis, Tolman and Frank! Barba looms as the spark and I expect a breakout year! He is my tip to score the most trys in 2012! young halves is my only concern but have them in my top 8!
KNIGHTS
Bennett has arrived and has brought some friends! on paper they have a great spine. 1,6,7,9 in Boyd, Gidley, Mullen & Buderus! I expect a big jump for the Knights this year but perhaps 2013 is their time.
SEA EAGLES
The Premiers of 2011 are facing a drop IMO. The loss of Hasler is massive. While I love the halves in Foran & DCE, I see a bit of a slide but still top 8.... Just.
DRAGONS
Much like Manly only the loss of Bennett will take a while to get over. Boyd hurts also. Dragons will be there abouts but don't see them really threatening
RABBITOHS
Souths are forever taking 1 step forward 2 steps back! can they make the finals in 2012? Not quite for mine. While they are strong in the centres with King a true professional and still have a devastating pack, its the halves that is the concern. I hope they scrap in but wouldn't bet on it.
ALL THE OTHERS
TITANS
Have added some great signings and will improve. After finishing last they had to right! I do have optimism for the Titans. But I think will fall short of the 8.
SHARKS
Carney will be a hit and no one can argue with Gallen's efforts and presence on and off the field. This team will have some success in 2012 and are building something!
EELS
Sandow brings excitement and should bring Hayne into the game more which will excite the fans. But not this year for Parramatta
PANTHERS, ROOSTERS, RAIDERS
Spoon anyone? Tough year coming for these teams
So my Top 8 is.....
STORM
WARRIORS
COWBOYS
TIGERS
BRONCOS
BULLDOGS
SEA EAGLES
KNIGHTS
DRAGONS, RABBITOHS, TITANS all just miss
