The Brisbane Broncos are expected to overcome their grand final (and Vegas) hangover with a decisive victory against the Rabbitohs at the familiar Suncorp Stadium on Thursday morning.
Both teams, beginning their season with losses, are anticipated to elevate their performance.
The Brisbane Broncos put up a commendable performance in their 20-10 loss to the Roosters in Vegas during the first weekend of Round 1.
While the statistics indicated a closely contested match, the Roosters secured a crucial advantage in territory, spending 57 percent of the game in Brisbane’s half.
Unfortunately, the Broncos couldn’t capitalize on their opportunities within Sydney’s 20, and they faced difficulties with the tighter in-goal, kicking three balls dead throughout the match.
Captain Adam Reynolds, cleared to play after recovering from a knee injury, will be on the field, and Brendan Piakura will start in the second row.
Corey Jensen joins the run-on side, with Martin Taupau moving to the bench.
South Sydney experienced yet another subpar defensive showing, allowing 6 tries in their 36-24 defeat to the Manly Sea Eagles in Vegas two weeks ago.
The team’s vulnerable defense, a persistent issue at the conclusion of the previous season, is causing concern among fans at the outset of 2024.
Despite holding 50 percent possession and only a three percent deficit in territory compared to the Sea Eagles, Souths appeared unsettled on the edges, conceding five linebreaks in the match and displaying vulnerability in defending their line.
The success of their forwards is pivotal, and they must prioritize increasing their ruck speed to effectively challenge the Brisbane Broncos and catch them off guard.
