Rugby League Scores: State of Origin Looms, but NRL Delivers Thrilling Matchups
(May 29, 2023 – Sky Sports Rugby League)
As the NRL approaches the midpoint of the season, the impending State of Origin series has created a unique landscape, but that didn’t stop the league from delivering a thrilling slate of fixtures over the weekend.
The action kicked off with Parramatta’s victory over Cronulla, as Clint Gutherson and Mitch Moses returned to guide the Eels to a win over a Sharks side missing key players Nicho Hynes and Cam McInnes. Interestingly, Parramatta’s playoff hopes last year were derailed in the third Origin-affected round when Moses and Gutherson were called up, highlighting the ebb and flow of the representative period.
Friday saw Canterbury easily dispatch Newcastle, before Saturday brought an upset of sorts, with the Dragons downing a Panthers outfit missing several key starters due to Origin duties. The day’s action concluded with a cracking encounter in Redcliffe, as Canberra shocked the Dolphins with a golden point win.
“It was a strong week for St George Illawarra, who defied the absence of Penrith’s stars to secure a stunning second-half comeback and win at the Panthers’ fortress for the first time since 2018.”
Sunday’s marquee matchup between the Roosters and Cowboys proved to be one of the season’s biggest upsets, as North Queensland staged a late turnaround to secure a vital victory despite missing 11 players to Origin camp.
Standout performer Jordan Rapana was the hero for Canberra, kicking a late field goal to send the game to golden point and then sealing the victory with a second drop goal, showcasing his composure and grit. In contrast, Cronulla’s Braydon Trindall had a forgettable outing, failing to make a significant impact in the Sharks’ loss to the Eels.
As the State of Origin series looms, much of the discussion has centered around the perceived weaknesses in New South Wales’ squad, with coach Michael Maguire facing criticism for his selections. However, Queensland’s own team has also raised eyebrows, with the inclusion of several Cowboys players despite the team’s recent struggles.
The NRL’s international contingent also made their mark, with Englishmen Dom Young and Will Pryce continuing to impress, while Herbie Farnworth‘s involvement in a controversial incident in the Raiders-Dolphins clash highlighted the ever-evolving nature of the game.
🔗 Source
