The Mole: Michael Maguire’s Selection Quandary as Selwyn Cobbo Continues Impressive Streak

Could the Broncos be a stronger side in 2025 without Reece Walsh while having Selwyn Cobbo take up the fullback position?

This is a pertinent question following Thursday night’s remarkable 42-18 victory over the table-topping Bulldogs.

While Walsh exhibits brilliance when at his peak, he has displayed inconsistency throughout the season, costing the Broncos crucial points with several uncharacteristic mistakes.

After conceding a crucial golden point loss to the Warriors last week, Walsh was diagnosed with a knee injury, ruling him out for a minimum of four weeks.

In his absence, Cobbo moved to fullback, delivering a steadier performance than Walsh, significantly contributing to the Broncos’ formidable form.

Cobbo has now had three starts at fullback, and the Broncos have secured victories in all of them!

Catch the NRL 2025 premiership live and free on Nine and 9Now.

BILLY SLATER FACES A DILEMMA WITH BIG RED

Corey Horsburgh is currently showcasing form that ranks him among the best in the front-row category, putting pressure on Billy Slater to consider him for Origin I selection.

Previously seen as too temperamental for top-tier rugby, Horsburgh has only featured in one Origin match despite his evident talent.

After a well-publicised rift, Ricky Stuart has managed to help Horsburgh maintain his discipline, and they now appear to be in sync.

Horsburgh was exceptional as the Raiders mounted a thrilling comeback from a 28-10 deficit to outclass the Dolphins 40-28 on Sunday; his resurgence is a key factor in why the Green Machine is now a top four contender.

YOUNG COWBOYS STAR REINVENTS HIMSELF

If you check Jaxon Purdue’s profile on the Cowboys’ official website, you’ll find he’s primarily noted as a halfback.

This makes the 19-year-old’s contributions this season, while playing as a centre, all the more impressive.

With Jake Clifford and Tom Dearden firmly holding down the halfback positions, Purdue has redefined his role as a centre – and he’s been excellent!

The local talent from Mackay has scored six tries in his last six outings, with a standout try against the Titans that broke an 18-all deadlock, paving the way for a decisive Cowboys victory.

The rookie also achieved a pair of line breaks on the weekend and appears to be improving with each match played.

ROOSTERS’ YOUTH DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY PAYS OFF

What’s the solution when your junior league is amongst the smallest? You create your own! Sandon Smith has emerged as the first success story from the Roosters’ innovative youth strategy.

After forming a partnership with the large Central Coast junior ranks, the Central Coast Roosters were established, and Smith is their first player to rise through the ranks into the NRL.

In a spectacular debut performance on Anzac Day at a jam-packed Allianz Stadium, Smith obliterated the Dragons, leading the Roosters to a thrilling win.

This occasion will be remembered as the moment a star was born, with his man-of-the-match showing sure to boost Smith’s confidence moving forward.

PANTHERS STRUGGLE WITHOUT LUAI

Out of all the players the Panthers have parted ways with in the last five years, Jarome Luai’s exit seems to have struck the hardest blow.

His dynamic play style and energetic spirit have been sorely missed this season, placing added pressure on Nathan Cleary.

Blaize Talagi shows promise as a player but is currently far from Luai’s calibre.

In their unexpected defeat against the Sea Eagles, Talagi struggled, missing five tackles and committing two errors as the Panthers faltered to the bottom of the standings.

EMERGING STAR FOR WARRIORS

During the off-season, Warriors coach Andrew Webster resolved to inject more power into his forward pack for 2025 after a disappointing campaign.

Enter Erin Clark, the former Titan and an unsung hero of the NRL.

Watch the 2025 NRL premiership live and free on Nine and 9Now.

The 27-year-old veteran, who began his career with a single game for the Warriors in 2017, is now a standout performer for the Kiwi club upon his return.

Clark topped the Warriors’ tackle count during an easy victory over the Knights on Friday, running for over 150 metres in the process.

With James Fisher-Harris absent, Clark has stepped up as a pivotal figure in the Warriors’ forward line, leading his team with impressive skill in Christchurch.

STORM RECORD CONTINUES AFTER DEFEATS

Eliesa Katoa is rapidly emerging as one of the league’s most formidable back-rowers.

The Storm giant was instrumental during the 24-16 victory over Souths on Anzac Night, scoring a brilliant try while racking up over 150 running metres and consistently posing a threat from the flanks.

This latest win continues an astounding streak for the Storm, who have now won 15 consecutive games following a loss.

Craig Bellamy has instilled a remarkable ability in his men to bounce back, especially on Anzac Day, with the Storm clinching their last nine encounters on this auspicious occasion.