The Broncos continue to build under new coach Michael Maguire and it’s not just their usual suspects like Payne Haas and Pat Carrigan leading the way.
Last week’s hard-fought win over the Dolphins saw a player of the match performance from NRL journeyman Gehamat Shibasaki, while Cory Paix - who played no games of NRL last year - continues to make the most of his starting opportunity each week.
The home side will face a test from the spirited Wests Tigers, who are defying expectations each week. Going down narrowly to the Warriors last week due to a penalty goal, Benji Marshall’s side have shown plenty of tenacity this year and refuse to back away from a fight.
Led by the craftiness of co-captain Api Koroisau and spark from rising young half Lachlan Galvin, the visitors will be looking to pounce against Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium.
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Team News
Broncos: Jaiyden Hunt is set for his first NRL game of the year after being named on the bench following Jordan Riki's suspension. The forward's absence will see Brendan Piakura start in the second row. No changes for the Broncos in Friday's team update, with Martin Taupau and Deine Mariner remaining in the extended squad.
Wests Tigers: Samuela Fainu has been ruled out of the clash with a leg injury, with Jack Bird shifting from the bench to the starting side in Friday's team update. Tony Sukkar comes on to the bench in jumper No.22, with Heath Mason the 18th man. Centre Adam Doueihi will play despite his late withdrawal due to a groin strain in the warm-up last Sunday. Emerging playmaker Latu Fainu will wear the No.7 jumper after Jarome Luai accepted a one-game suspension, while teenager Luke Laulilii will start on the wing.
Broncos v Wests Tigers
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Stat Attack
- The Broncos have scored 80 points in their past two games against the Tigers.
- Wests Tigers have won only two of their past eight games at Suncorp Stadium.
- Broncos centre Kotoni Staggs has scored five tries in his past five games at Suncorp Stadium.
- Wests Tigers centre Adam Doueihi has scored six tries in his last seven games at Suncorp.
- The Broncos’ 118 points is their highest tally after four rounds since 1996.
Stats supplied by David Middleton, League Information Services, author of the official annual of the NRL.