Brisbane Broncos vs. Canberra Raiders - Preview

Last time Brisbane ventured down to Canberra Stadium, they were absolutely destroyed. Sure, we beat them on the return leg at Suncorp but that flogging would still be burned into the memories of the players and fans. Things have changed since then and this week will show what we're made of both offensively and defensively.

We head down with an unchanged lineup (Setu is likely to be omitted pending injury/Corey Parker's pending child birth) which means that youth is being retained and that is a positive sign. The baby Broncos repaid Henjak's faith last week and looking to do it again.

I'll reserve my opinions on our ability to be top 4 contenders until we face Melbourne or the Gold Coast (both of which are grinding out wins without setting the world on fire) but this Monday will still provide a stern test. Canberra's pack is smaller and more mobile than most and while their backline are generally no-namers, their work ethic is solid and they possess class in Campese and Tongue which might get them across the line.

Defence out wide will be the biggest test as far as I'm concerned. We're a young side who's centres and wingers could be facing a torrent of attacking play should Canberra manage to hold on to the ball long enough. Beale, Norman, Winterstein and Folau aren't renowned defenders as last week proved. Aerial attacks down the Beale/Winterstein side could prove successful as Thurston had them in trouble on the odd occasion he did head down that path. Folau's defensive flaws have been widely documented however signs are that he's improving as one would expect from a player of his ilk.

Canberra's record at home was a bit varied last year but they did manage to string impressive victories over the Broncos, St George and Newcastle at the tail end of the season. Their Monday night record was also a bit suspect but generally if they were at home on a Monday, they turned it on.

This game will be decided on completion rates and the ability to convert ball inside the opponent's 20 into points. The Broncos have the edge here with Lockyer/Wallace but cannot dismiss the Raiders entirely. Should be a solid game.

Prediction: Broncos 24 Canberra 10.