EXCLUSIVE: Billy Slater identifies ‘serious issue’ for Broncos as worrying pattern persists

Billy Slater has highlighted a “significant concern” for the Brisbane Broncos in recent weeks, specifically regarding their second-half showings.

Michael Maguire’s side has experienced consecutive defeats against teams far lower on the ladder, with their round 10 loss to a depleted South Sydney raising considerable doubts about their championship potential.

In the last three weeks, including a win over the Bulldogs, the erratic Broncos have allowed 52 points in the second half while managing to score only eight.

This pattern is understandably troubling for coach Maguire, who emphasises toughness over the full 80 minutes in his teams.

Slater is of the opinion that their recent performances are “definitely not at the level” that’s expected.

“When we examine the history, results, and form, it’s clear that the Broncos’ second halves are a genuine problem,” he remarked on Nine’s Billy Slater Podcast. “We all recognise the exceptional talent the Broncos possess, but in the past three weeks, their second-half performance has been appalling, losing 52-8.”

“Their transition from half-time discussions to the second half is certainly not up to the standard set in the first half. They haven’t scored a try in the second half for a couple of weeks, which raises serious concerns regarding the Broncos.”

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Currently positioned seventh with five wins and five losses, the Broncos still have ample opportunity to rectify their form and re-establish their status as a serious title contender.

However, the road ahead won’t be easy with the State of Origin looming, as several key players are likely to be selected, while Ben Hunt will be out of action due to injury.

Slater has urged the team to concentrate on their overall gameplay rather than lamenting the absence of key players.

“There’s absolutely no need to panic; they possess too much talent for that,” he stated.

“With Ben Hunt out for a while, could Ezra Mam return straight into the squad? That seems timely, but there’s plenty of work to be done.

“Undoubtedly, Ezra Mam and Reece Walsh improve the Broncos’ quality, lending better balance to the side. Simultaneously, they’ll be reflecting on the performance of the players who were on the field against the Rabbitohs last Friday night.”

“You need to focus on what’s in front of you. They can’t simply think, ‘We’re getting some big names back; we’ll wait for them.’ They must evaluate the standard of their play.”

The Broncos will take on the struggling Dragons in round 11 at Suncorp Stadium.