If we can somehow beat the Panthers week 1 we will most likely be playing the Bulldogs week 2 which is the best possible outcome for us. I am not saying we will win but it is better than matching up with Melbourne, Canberra, or Brisbane. There is no way the Bulldogs will be beating the Storm week 1 even without Hughes.
Winning at home against Penrith will be tougher than Canterbury away based on how the teams are going. Winning those two in a row though would be a miracle but if we could, it would be great for our confidence moving into next season with more players back.
I thought Melbourne would easily take care of Canberra this year but without Hughes that is a spanner in the works.
I would rate the 8 teams in this order moving into the finals based on both current form and big match temperament. I can't help feeling Canberra are there for the taking though. Realistically, only Melbourne, Penrith or Brisbane can do it and a lot of other teams will be grateful if we knock Penrith out week 1.
1. Canberra
2. Melbourne
3. Brisbane
4. Penrith
5. Cronulla
6. Sydney City
7. Canterbury
8. NZ
Winning at home against Penrith will be tougher than Canterbury away based on how the teams are going. Winning those two in a row though would be a miracle but if we could, it would be great for our confidence moving into next season with more players back.
I thought Melbourne would easily take care of Canberra this year but without Hughes that is a spanner in the works.
I would rate the 8 teams in this order moving into the finals based on both current form and big match temperament. I can't help feeling Canberra are there for the taking though. Realistically, only Melbourne, Penrith or Brisbane can do it and a lot of other teams will be grateful if we knock Penrith out week 1.
1. Canberra
2. Melbourne
3. Brisbane
4. Penrith
5. Cronulla
6. Sydney City
7. Canterbury
8. NZ