There is a prevailing sentiment that Keaon Koloamatangi, the South Sydney powerhouse, ought to have been one of the first selections for the Blues in Perth.
Backing up this belief, he racked up an impressive 232 running metres during a relentless 80-plus-minute performance in a losing effort against the Storm—more than any other player on the field.
When comparing Koloamatangi’s impressive statistics to those of Max King, who managed just 47 metres in 25 minutes, it becomes evident who should spearhead the forward pack in the series decider.
Pairing Koloamatangi with the high-performing Payne Haas from the Broncos would certainly pose significant challenges for the Maroons against a formidable Blues side.
Keaon Koloamatangi takes a carry against Melbourne. Getty
Grant’s Outstanding Performance Against the Rabbitohs
Harry Grant made a significant statement with his performance during Melbourne’s nail-biting 25-24 victory over South Sydney on Saturday.
On the very pitch where the third Origin game will unfold in a few weeks, Grant followed up his impressive outing against the Blues in Perth with another standout display.
Contributing with a try, a line break, and leading the tackle count, Grant proved to be the key difference between two evenly matched teams.
He is undoubtedly the premier hooker in the NRL, clearly surpassing the current Blues No.9 Reece Robson in dummy-half prowess.
Grant’s ability to divide the Blues defence will intensify the pressure on Laurie Daley to consider a more dynamic dummy-half option, such as Api Koroisau from the Tigers or Wayde Egan from the Warriors.
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Harry Grant on the move against South Sydney. Getty
Reynolds Sets the Record Straight for the Broncos
Some within the Broncos camp might have been keen to see Adam Reynolds depart at the season’s end, but the seasoned halfback made a compelling case at Suncorp on Sunday.
Reynolds hit the ground running, delivering a five-star performance that steered the Broncos back from a precarious 22-6 deficit to secure vital points.
With a few Broncos players ready to succumb to panic, Reynolds maintained his composure, making crucial plays at pivotal moments.
As teams battle for positions in the coming weeks, playmakers will be integral—and the Broncos are fortunate to have one of the best in the business among their ranks.
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Paulo and Hawkins Rise to the Occasion for the Eels
Junior Paulo’s season may not have been the best thus far, but he rose to the occasion on Sunday, playing a crucial role in keeping the Eels’ finals aspirations alive.
The imposing forward showcased determination and skill, contributing two line breaks in the Eels’ 36-20 victory over the Titans.
Meanwhile, Dean Hawkins appears to have secured the halfback role while Mitchell Moses is sidelined, also putting in a solid performance. The Eels currently sit in 15th place, but they are just three points off the top eight.
Panthers’ ‘Accidental Hero’ Returns to Form
What’s happened to Paul Alamoti? That’s the question many have asked throughout 2025 after the unexpected star of last year’s grand final found himself struggling for form and confidence.
Alamoti got off to a strong start with four tries in the opening three rounds, but he has since only managed to cross the line twice.
He seemed a mere shadow of the player who dazzled the NRL last season, prompting coach Ivan Cleary to sideline him at one point.
However, when the Panthers needed him the most—fielding five Origin players missing in Auckland on Saturday—Alamoti made an impressive return to form.
He delivered significant contributions, including a try and a line break, while amassing 170 running metres as the Panthers surged into the top eight with a stunning victory over the Warriors.
The win was sure to boost the youngster’s confidence, and he looks set for more first-grade opportunities in crucial matches ahead.
Paul Alamoti in a contest for the ball against Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad. Getty
JFH’s Display of Sportsmanship After the Game
James Fisher-Harris had much at stake when he faced off against his former four-time premiership-winning mates from the Panthers in Auckland.
Unfortunately for ‘The Fish’, the day didn’t unfold as he had hoped.
In a shocking turn of events, the depleted Panthers managed an unexpected victory, whilst Fisher-Harris had a game he would likely prefer to erase from his memory.
For just the second time this season—excluding matches in which he was injured—he failed to record 100 running metres.
Additionally, he missed five tackles and never quite displayed the imposing presence that has earned him respect as one of the top props in the league.
Nevertheless, his sportsmanship shone through, as he was the first to congratulate his former teammates after the final whistle, acknowledging their potential turning point of a win during the season.
May and Koroisau Enhance Their Origin Credentials
Although the Tigers faced defeat in their match against Canberra on Friday, their two prospective Origin III players showcased impressive performances that will undoubtedly aid their selection hopes.
Terrell May, who may very well have been acknowledged by the Blues for his previous absence, ran for 180 metres—surpassing every forward on the pitch—and made three offloads.
Apisai Koroisau, renowned for his attacking prowess from dummy half, has often faced questions regarding his defensive skills but led the tackle count for both teams with 48.
More considerations for Laurie Daley as he finalises his squad.
Terrell May powering through Canberra’s defence. Getty
Tapine Poised for Dally M Captain of the Year
Don’t be surprised if Joe Tapine is awarded the Dally M Captain of the Year accolade in his initial season leading the Raiders.
Since stepping in for the departed Elliott Whitehead, Tapine has delivered exceptional performances.
He has elevated his own game significantly, and his leadership quality is a pivotal factor in the Raiders’ commendable position on the premiership ladder.
Against the Tigers on Friday, Tapine scored a try, prevented another from crossing, and tallied 117 running metres.
Truly inspirational!
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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