Adam Reynolds is assuming the role of chief goal-kicker for the Brisbane Broncos. He is determined to erase the memories of his previous failures during this weekend’s grand final against the Melbourne Storm. The veteran player, who previously missed a crucial conversion in South Sydney’s narrow 14-12 loss to the Penrith Panthers in the 2021 grand final, has been given another chance to prove himself on the big stage. Broncos coach Michael Maguire made Reynolds’ selection as the kicker official, emphasizing the 37-year-old’s experience and calmness in pressure situations.
Reynolds had a hard year, struggling with hamstring issues that kept him out for stretches of the season. Alongside the doubting, the debt and the death, Tarry demonstrated tremendous poise and fortitude in last week’s qualifying final. He hit a 55-yard sideline conversion, clinching a dramatic 16-14 staking win over the Panthers. This victory not only brought Penrith’s premiership dynasty to a screeching halt but it solidified Reynolds’ capability to execute in critical moments.
Pushing Reynolds into attack Maguire has very fond memories of Reynolds from last grand final day and is confident of his abilities. He stated, “Reyno knows how to perform on this stage.” The coach recalled Reynolds’ pivotal role in their 2014 premiership win with the Rabbitohs, asserting, “He got it right in 2014, I can tell you that.”
Last week’s game against Penrith featured Walsh taking on the kicking duties with Reynolds’ injury history certainly in mind. In a brave call, Maguire brought Reynolds back in as the first-choice kicker for the grand final. He categorically shot down any talk of a shift in the lineup. “Ezra will come off the bench – he came off the bench and did a fantastic job last week,” Maguire explained, indicating that while there was consideration for Ezra Mam to start alongside Reynolds, he preferred to maintain consistency.
Maguire imagined what must have gone into getting Reynolds to this point, considering the trials he’s had to overcome. “He’s gone through a fair bit … he knows the path that he’s gone on,” Maguire remarked. The coach emphasized that Reynolds has consistently demonstrated his ability to thrive in critical moments, stating, “Last week was a great example of what I’ve seen Reyno doing most of his career at times and he thrives off those moments.”
The Broncos are in for a very special rematch. All eyes will be on Reynolds as he looks to shake off his grand final hoodoo and lead his new team to glory.
