In a post-match press conference, Broncos coach Kevin Walters criticized a journalist as his team’s season teetered on the edge following a heavy 40-6 defeat to the Dolphins in the Saturday night’s Battle of Brisbane. Despite the disappointing performance at a sold-out Suncorp Stadium, Walters maintained that the club still has a chance to reach the finals. For this to happen, the Dolphins and Dragons need to lose their matches against the Knights and Raiders respectively in the final round next week, while Walters’ team must secure a victory over the Storm, who are anticipated to field a full-strength squad after resting several players this week.
The Broncos’ recent loss could symbolize a disappointing end to a season that began with high expectations, especially after their narrow defeat in last year’s grand final. The team came close to winning, but Nathan Cleary’s late performance led Penrith to victory.
If the Broncos fail to secure a top-eight finish this season, it will be the third time in Kevin Walters’ four-year tenure that the club has missed the finals. Walters expressed his frustration with the loss, saying, “It’s just not part of who we are as a club or a team.” He acknowledged his current inability to fully explain the team’s performance but promised to investigate the issue thoroughly. Walters also highlighted the pressure that comes with playing for the Broncos, stressing that both players and supporters need to understand and accept the ongoing challenges associated with the team.
