A highly anticipated clash, known as the “battle of Brisbane,” is on the horizon as the Broncos and Dolphins prepare to face off in Round 6. However, there are concerns surrounding one of the game’s superstars.
Reece Walsh sustained a serious facial fracture during a collision with Panthers player Taylan May in Round 3. It was initially expected that Walsh would require four to six weeks to recover and return to play. Surprisingly, after only three weeks, Walsh is now poised to make his comeback. Nevertheless, NRL360 co-host Paul Kent believes that Walsh is taking a risk by returning to the field prematurely, potentially putting himself at further risk of injury.
While acknowledging the risk involved, James Hooper emphasizes the significance of Reece Walsh as a superstar player for the Broncos. With the absence of Adam Reynolds, Walsh’s importance to the team’s offensive strategy becomes even more apparent.
Paul Kent acknowledges the inherent risk involved in Reece Walsh’s decision to return to play despite his fractured cheekbone. Kent expresses skepticism about the effectiveness of the headgear in providing adequate protection. He explains that the impact required to fracture a cheekbone is substantial and can easily surpass the protective capabilities of the headgear. While the headgear may provide some psychological comfort and serve as a reminder of the injury, it is unlikely to offer significant physical protection. Kent draws a comparison to boxing, where headgear is not compulsory and is primarily used to prevent cuts rather than to prevent concussions. Ultimately, Kent warns that if Walsh experiences another forceful impact, the fractured cheekbone is susceptible to re-injury.
Upon his return, Reece Walsh will face his former teammate Tom Flegler, who, alongside Herbie Farnworth, switched sides to join the Dolphins in 2024. Although Farnworth is currently sidelined with an AC joint injury, the Queensland derby is expected to be emotionally charged. James Hooper explains that Wayne Bennett, the coach of the Dolphins, is eager to secure a victory. The match has been touted as the “battle of Brisbane,” with genuine animosity between the two teams. Hooper highlights that Bennett departed the Broncos under strained circumstances, adding to the tension between the clubs. Furthermore, Bennett has been successful in leading the NRL’s newest franchise, as the Dolphins currently hold the top spot in the competition after five rounds.
Wayne Bennett undoubtedly harbors a strong desire to see his team, affectionately regarded as the little brother in the city of Brisbane, emerge victorious over the Broncos. The Broncos have historically been a highly successful and dominant club, often considered a powerhouse in the league. The Dolphins’ notable signings during the offseason, including Herbie Farnworth (currently injured) and Tom Flegler, only add to their growing strength and potential. The acquisitions are expected to have a lasting impact on the team’s progress and further enhance their competitiveness, as highlighted by Michael Carayannis of The Daily Telegraph.
Paul Kent also suggests that we can expect to witness more player movements between teams, contributing to the intensification of rivalries. He believes that Queensland’s rugby league fans are increasingly embracing the interstate rivalries, particularly since the Dolphins joined the NRL in 2023. Similar to the heated clashes between Sydney-based teams, the Broncos, Cowboys, Dolphins, and Titans now have their own intense encounters.
Kent appreciates the distinct differences between Queensland and New South Wales fans. In Queensland, loyalty is often divided between supporting the Maroons and following local teams such as the Broncos, Cowboys, or Titans. The concept of local derby rivalries, as seen in Sydney with teams like Parramatta and Canterbury, was not as prominent in Queensland until recently. However, as Queensland experiences more of these intense intrastate clashes, fans are beginning to understand and appreciate the passion and animosity associated with such rivalries, similar to what NSW encounters in their contests against each other.
