Opportunity awaits for depleted Broncos in Dogs challenge

Broncos captain Adam Reynolds is hoping the players called in to his side to face the Bulldogs can make the most of their opportunity as they aim to spring another upset.

Brisbane were the first team to hand the Bulldogs a loss this season when they met in Round 8 at Suncorp Stadium, stunning them with a 42-18 win.

This week, both sides will be missing a number of their stars with State of Origin duty, but Reynolds was still expecting to face a strong challenge at Accor Stadium.

With Payne Haas in Blues camp and Pat Carrigan representing the Maroons, it has seen coach Michael Maguire name Xavier Willison the start at prop, while Kobe Hetherington moves to lock.

“They're a great side, they've showed that through the whole season,” Reynolds said.

“They've got some great structures, they’re a defensive team, they've got talent right across the park, it's another great test for us and these are the games you want to be a part of.

“It's not going to come easy; we know that.

“Whether that was an off night for them or not (in Round 8), I'm not too sure, but we have just got to worry about ourselves, make sure we get our preparation right.

“Our Origin boys aren't going to be there, so it’s next man up mentality.

“We lose a bit of punch through the middle there with our two big boys, but in saying that, we've got some other boys who will step in and do a great job for us.

“No doubt they'll rise to the occasion and it'll be a great contest between us and the Dogs."

In late changes after the captain’s run, in-form winger Jesse Arthars has been sidelined with a rib issue, while prop Corey Jensen has also been ruled out with a calf complaint.

Delouise Hoeter returns for his first NRL game since late 2023, while new signing Ben Talty will debut from the bench.

“We've got some great depth in the squad and we've been speaking this for a long time that we're going to need these boys," Reynolds said. 

“They've been prepping us every week of training and getting us right for the games.

“It's good to see them get an opportunity.”

Fullback Reece Walsh has been selected as 18th player for the Maroons, seeing Selwyn Cobbo return to Brisbane fold after spending the past few weeks with Wynnum Manly Seagulls.

Deine Mariner comes in at centre for Gehamat Shibasaki, who has been called up for a fairytale Queensland debut.