This has been an unpredictable start to the season - the Roosters whom the Broncos thrashed by 50-14 just over a week ago upset the reigning premiers Penrith in Parramatta last night; and as you say the Broncos are copping a reality check against the Raiders as we speak.
The Sea Eagles, who were so impressive against the Cowboys last Saturday night, were beaten by the Warriors (who had been thrashed by the Raiders in Las Vegas) last night as well.
Reminds me of an interesting stretch early in the 2005 season when:
- Round 4: Storm 50 def Broncos 4
- Round 5: Broncos 54 def Eels 14
- Round 6: Eels 26 def Storm 14
The last match in this stretch saw Greg Inglis make his NRL debut, just three months after turning 18.
The Broncos’ loss to the Storm inspired this infamous NRMA Insurance ad:
Courtesy: popcultaddict
In that same stretch:
- Round 4: Raiders def Dragons 42-22
- Round 5: Dragons def Sea Eagles 32-6
- Round 6: Sea Eagles def Raiders 36-14
Despite Manly’s win in round six, the Raiders were still top of the ladder, but would ultimately finish the season second-last only ahead of the Newcastle Knights (who had lost their first 13 matches that season).
Also worth noting the Eels lost to each of the bottom four teams (Bulldogs, Rabbitohs, Raiders and Knights).