Benji Marshall’s Halfback Experiment and the Mid-Season Report Card

It was a day of deep reflection on the state of the league as Kenty and Woz continue ther mid-season report cards on the latest episode of Kenty Blitz. From the tactical shifts at the Wests Tigers to the "rich man’s game" being played over stadium rights in Sydney, the NRL remains the sport that simply keeps on giving.

The Lui Experiment and the Hunt for a Halfback

The primary talking point this week focused on the Wests Tigers and the apparent abandonment of "Plan A." Despite investing a staggering 1.2 million dollars to bring Jerome Lui to the club as the chief playmaker, the club has shifted him back to five-eighth this week to allow rookie Latu Fainu to take the number seven jersey.

Kenty expressed serious concerns over the move, questioning whether the Jerome Lui experiment at halfback has already failed. "It is fascinating that here we are in round 17 and it looks like plan A has now been discarded," Kenty noted. This tactical shift comes amidst whispers that the Tigers are now chasing Bulldogs halfback Toby Sexton, following a failed pursuit of Adam Reynolds. Kenty suggested these moves might be "intended to save Benji’s job," as the coach prioritises immediate wins over long-term development.

The Battle for Allianz Stadium

The off-field drama reached a fever pitch with the news that South Sydney’s high-powered celebrity ownership group—including Anthony Albanese, James Packer, and Russell Crowe—is lobbying to move home games to Allianz Stadium. Kenty was quick to label the saga as "a game that rich men play," pointing out the irony of Souths wanting to leave Homebush after previously claiming their fan base had migrated west.

Kenty also highlighted the exclusive perks the Rabbitohs currently enjoy at the Olympic stadium, including a private dressing room that no other sport is allowed to use. "The Rabbidos have the keys to the door and won't unlock it for anybody," Kenty revealed. He praised Roosters chairman Nick Politis for standing his ground against the move, suggesting that once a club moves their identity to a new territory, they should not expect to simply "buy back" their old home.

Mid-Season Report Cards: The Verdict

The boys also continued their exhaustive grading of the NRL squads as they navigate the halfway point of the season:

• The Dragons (7/10): Despite a weak squad and some heart-breaking Golden Point losses, Shane Flanagan has them competing. Kenty noted that while a premiership is a long way off, the club is finally showing "signs of life."
• The Sea Eagles (4/10): A disappointing grade for a team with so much young talent. Kenty described the squad as "disjointed" and highlighted the "brave" but risky move by Anthony Seibold to be brutally honest with his players, which has reportedly left some "upset."
• The Panthers (8/10): After a shaky start where their defense was "all over the shop," Ivan Cleary has successfully schooled the next generation. Kenty remarked that "the defense is finally clicking" and they are once again a side to be feared.
• The Roosters (8/10): Trent Robinson received high praise for blooding young stars like Noah Steindl and Hugo Savala. Kenty believes the Roosters are on a steep upward trajectory, finding "new levels every week."
• The Sharks (6/10): Currently a side "lacking confidence," the Sharks were criticised for their "sideways" attack and poor execution under pressure, particularly in their recent collapse against the Broncos.

Beanie for Brain Cancer

Finally, we want to remind everyone that this weekend is the "Beanie for Brain Cancer" round, supporting the Mark Hughes Foundation. Brain cancer remains the leading cause of death for Australians under 40, and we encourage everyone to buy a beanie and support this incredible cause.

Watch the full episode on Fanatics TV.