The Mole: Discussion Required Between Sharks Coach and ‘Fiery’ Star; Time for Broncos to Start Their Inquest

Ronaldo Mulitalo has cemented himself as one of the standout wingers in the NRL, yet Sharks coach Craig Fitzgibbon may need to have a word with him this week to rein him in.

The passionate winger shone during the Sharks’ 31-26 victory over competition heavyweights Melbourne but tarnished his performance by instigating multiple confrontations.

Known for his fiery temperament, Mulitalo engaged in a number of push-and-shove incidents throughout the tense match.

In days gone by, a hefty front-row forward might have sent Mulitalo packing for running his mouth — a quick end to the matter.

However, times have shifted, and unless the Sharks set him straight, Mulitalo is likely to continue stirring the pot against opposing teams.

INQUEST REQUIRED FOR STRUGGLING BRONCOS

Broncos management must instigate an immediate investigation into their underwhelming team’s performance following an unexpected loss to wooden spoon contenders St George Illawarra in front of their bewildered supporters.

It’s been a tumultuous week for the Broncos, who faced backlash over Ezra Mam’s return, issues surrounding their horse mascot, and the sacking of Marty Taupau… but this loss feels like rock bottom.

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The star-studded Broncos were thoroughly outplayed and out-enthused by the Dragons, failing to score a single try while Jaydn Su’A was sitting in the sin bin.

With a roster brimming with Test and Origin players, their performance was simply unacceptable.

The Broncos have now secured only five victories from their last 11 matches, with Mam—who was under considerable pressure following a lengthy absence from NRL—being the only player to show any signs of form.

FLANAGAN’S ‘LUXURY’ WITH COOK’S SIGNING

The Dragons have established a dynamic duo in the hooking role that rivals the best in the league.

Damien Cook and Jacob Liddle bring speed and offensive prowess from dummy-half, both playing pivotal roles in the Dragons’ unexpected triumph over the Broncos on Sunday.

Liddle demonstrated his exceptional pace with a stunning 70-metre try, while Cook assisted in securing a vital try for skipper Clint Gutherson that clinched the memorable victory for the Red V.

Having two talented hookers is a luxury for the Dragons, and coach Shane Flanagan is deftly rotating them in the game plan.

NEWCASTLE’S DISMAL SITUATION

Things are consistently getting worse for the Newcastle Knights.

The Knights experienced yet another scoreless first half at home, this time against the league’s poorest defence… Ponga’s try drought has stretched to 12 games… and they faced a humiliating defeat at home.

There seems to be no end in sight, and the atmosphere within the squad appears to be quite discontented.

The beleaguered Knights have inadvertently assisted the Eels in regaining form and provided the blue and golds with a much-needed boost of confidence.

MARKY MARK’S UPS AND DOWNS

Mark Nawaqanitawase made headlines with his incredible acrobatic solo try against the Bulldogs, but unfortunately followed it up with a dismal performance on Friday night.

Admittedly, the playing conditions were challenging, yet the talented rugby union convert committed no fewer than six handling errors in their narrow defeat to the Dogs.

Several of those errors came under towering bombs from Matt Burton that would have challenged even the most skilled catchers.

As a result, Nawaqanitawase can expect a deluge of high kicks targeted his way in the upcoming weeks, and his confidence is sure to take a hit after Friday’s performance.

LAST-MINUTE BID FOR MAROONS JERSEY

Kurt Capewell has made a late push for a Queensland State of Origin spot later in the series with a dominant showing for the Warriors against the Dolphins.

Capewell held his own against Herbie Farnworth, who is viewed by many as the premier centre in the league, scoring a crucial try and accumulating 100 running metres.

His versatility, playing both centre and in the second row, could see him called up by Billy Slater during the three-match series.

JAKE’S ORIGIN CAREER NOT FINISHED YET

Fate spared Blues coach Laurie Daley from making a difficult decision regarding Origin during the match in Townsville on Saturday night.

Incumbent Blues captain Jake Trbojevic suffered a grade one head knock, ruling him out of contention for Origin I.

There has been ongoing speculation for weeks that Trbojevic’s position in the Blues lineup was under threat — a tough decision considering he led the team to a series victory last season.

However, that decision has now been made for Daley, although Jake may still have the opportunity to feature in the final two matches of the series.

RYLES’ TEAM STRENGTHENS

For the first time since taking the reins, Jason Ryles had his two primary players, Mitch Moses and Zac Lomax, together on the field.

The difference was evident.

The Eels’ attack, which has struggled for much of the season, suddenly appeared sharp and fluid, with both players combining to score the Eels’ first three tries, leading to a comfortable win.

Jack Williams delivered his best performance since transitioning from Cronulla as the Eels aim for a surprising late push towards the finals in this unpredictable season.