For the Brisbane Broncos, those questions are becoming more and more pressing after yet another agonising 22-20 defeat at the hands of the Parramatta Eels. Star fullback Reece Walsh proved to be highlight-reel worthy all afternoon. He may have overplayed his hand, making high-profile and high-cost mistakes down the stretch that hurt the cause of his home team. Despite setting up a try for Billy Walters, Walsh’s three errors proved detrimental in a game where he almost clinched a match-winning try.
Walsh’s stats would be the envy of any forward, with a performance of 147 run metres, but his frustration was clearly visible post-match. Captain Adam Reynolds noted that Walsh is aware of the challenge ahead, emphasizing the need for him to guide himself through this rough patch.
“We all love what Walshy brings. He is an excitement machine and he is a big part of our team and a big reason why we are where we are,” – Adam Reynolds.
The Broncos now sit at one of the most consequential points in the calendar. To make the top eight, they need to win at least three of their remaining six games. Without these qualities, they will be tasty morsels come final time.
Adding to the Broncos’ woes, star prop Payne Haas has been dealing with a lower back issue for most of the year. After being spotted hobbling from the field after the semifinal against Parramatta, it was uncertain if he would be fit to play. For Queensland, coach Michael Maguire has soothed fears over Haas’s fitness. He reassured that Haas is still recovering from chronic problems but not suffering from an acute injury.
“Payno’s OK, he’s got a temperamental body at the moment,” – Michael Maguire.
Maguire went on to explain that Haas’s situation is indicative of a new longer-term strategy of tackling player health. He urged lawmakers to make the best decisions possible in the future.
“That’s his challenge, to get himself right,” – Michael Maguire.
The Broncos are in the deep end of the season now. They still have to address their self-inflicted on-field errors and need to improve their overall style of play. With both Walsh and Haas integral to their success, the team faces a critical period requiring strategic play and resilience.
