Gould admits he’s ‘rethinking EVERYTHING’, Brimson to replace Tracey? + Arrow’s emotional retirement

Welcome to NRL 360, rugby league from every angle.Joining me again, the great Glyn Tallis.Let's bring the journos in, Brent Reid and Michael Karyanis.Some terrible news today that has shook the rugby league community.South Sydney Gold Coast and Queensland legend Jai Arrow will retire effective immediately after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease.

Obviously, thank you, everyone, for attending today.Unfortunately, sad news that Jai will be announcing his immediate retirement from the NRL on medical grounds following a diagnosis of motor neurone disease.Unfortunately, Jai isn't in a position to speak today, so he has spent a lot of time crafting a statement, which I'll read from now.Thank you to everyone for being here and for the support I've received over what has been an incredibly difficult and uncertain period in my life.After extensive medical testing and consultations regarding ongoing symptoms, I've recently received a diagnosis relating to nerve and neurological condition.Further tests, specialist reviews and medical processes are still ongoing.

On medical advice, I'm not currently medically cleared to train or play at the required level.South Sydney Rabbitohs, my teammates, staff and everyone behind the scenes have made an incredibly hard situation much easier to face.I know the road ahead won't be easy, but anyone who knows me, knows I'm competitive, stubborn, and ready to fight this with everything I've got.What I need right now isn't sympathy or sadness.What I need is support, understanding, and privacy while my family and I navigate this difficult time.This is only part of my story, and when the time is right, I'll share more.

But for now, I ask everyone to respect my privacy while I continue working with my doctors and my family.Love you all.Jai." Just on behalf of the club, unfortunately, we won't see Jai on the field of play in the future.the NRO again due to this diagnosis.Jai and his family are all of his rabbit hoes.

They'll always be rabbit hoes and they'll be part of this club for many years to come.

Since 2015, when I came back to the Broncos in Brisbane, he was playing under 21s.I encouraged him to go to the Titans, which he did, and I got the opportunity to come here and coach at South Sydney.One of the first players I signed when I came to South Sydney.Goosebumps running through me now, just being here, it's just...It's the last way he wants someone to retire.And he can keep coming.

We'll take him on trips with us away.We don't need to cut him loose.We need him here with us.He will hang around here as long as he possibly can.Even after I'm gone.That's just the DNA of this club.

He'll need us.We'll need him.It's as simple as that.

Some very sad news for a champion bloke and a champion rugby league player, Gordy.Not good news today.

Well, Jai's come in here a few times.He actually is a third income guy.What you see is what you get.say on behalf of the Titans and I can say that we will be right behind him as well the time he spent there and any time he puts on a footy jersey he gave it everything and Souths couldn't have handled that any better but with what Carl Webb and so many players that we know and people that we know that have been touched by this it's a horrible disease so our thoughts and prayers are certainly with Jai.

Yeah I was there today for that press conference it was difficult to watch it sort of unfold obviously there's been whispers in the background about Jai's health for quite some time now he hasn't played this year Obviously, he got the news on Friday, I believe, that he had motor neurone disease.To hear that today, it was pretty shocking, it was shattering.He's a fighter, he's a tough bloke.He's a better bloke than he is footballer and that's saying something because he's a hell of a footballer.So, we just hope he fights hard and I'm sure he will.It's really sad.

He's got a one -year -old daughter as well and a wife, obviously, which is horrific.

It's heartbreaking.for Jai and his young family and as Wayne said he's gonna need South Sydney and the rugby league community rallying behind him throughout the next couple of years.

Gordy, Wayne loves him and I suppose I'd like to ask you, why is he the type of bloke and player that Wayne would love so much?

Wayne loves those guys because they leave everything out on the field and they hold everybody else accountable.The guys with all the talent, Wayne knows that he needs those, but they're the guys that win him the premiership.They're the guys that he knows.And Wayne used to have a saying, I used to hang my hat on you, and he'd say it to a few players in the dressing room.And I reckon Jai would certainly be one of those players where he goes, I hang my hat on you, which means you'll wear a barometer.You know, you play with some guys and they don't get...

You know, all the accolades in the paper, but you know that behind closed doors that they're the guys that you love playing with.

We love Jai.Like you said, we've had him on the panel a number of times.Every time he comes in here, he's a champion bloke.Very passionate.Absolutely.And our thoughts and prayers are with Jai and his family today.

Let's cross live to Caelan Palmer from Queensland Camp.Caelan, some sad news today.You played four Origins with Jai.You must be really feeling for him.

Yeah, no, it's crazy news.It's definitely been spoken about in this camp.Just the words that you've all been saying about him, I couldn't agree more.I played a lot of footy against Jai as well.Not one of those people you didn't want to play against for those reasons.He was passionate.

played the game right, played the game aggressively, but then afterwards you'd want to have a beer with him.So, yeah, like you've all said, our thoughts and prayers are definitely with him and his loved ones.One thing about Jaile, he's a strong bloke and hopefully, no doubt there's a journey ahead of him, but he's probably the man fit for it.So, yeah, no, justIt's a bit of a shock, isn't it, to everyone, no doubt.

Well said, Caelan.You're spot on there, mate.You missed the decider last year with injury with the Origin Series.How good is it to be back?

Yeah, it's good to be back.Always excited, nervous coming into this camp.Obviously, it's a privilege to be here.And yeah, it's nice to see some familiar faces and then some new ones as well.But just soak up the whole week, make the most of it, and then hopefully, yeah, ice the cake at the end of the week.

Well, Kalan, your number one fan is in here, Brent Reid.You're his favourite player and he's been excited all day.So I'm going to hand the mic over to him.

Welcome back, KP.Love that team of you and your mate.We're Serbians now.I've got to ask you about the selection of full -back.Were you surprised or what were your thoughts leading into the selection?Obviously with Rhys back playing, were you surprised you got the job or how did you feel about that?

My honest thoughts leading into the selection was just I'll honestly play wherever I mean wearing this jersey being in that arena Being on that stage That's you know, that's where you want to be as a player as a rugby league player Was I surprised that I got the fullback position like I guess yes and no I do I'm pretty comfortable in the footy that I've been playing I guess I mean, if I got put in the seven position, I probably would have been more surprised.But yeah, I mean, I'm pretty confident in my footy in saying that.Obviously, Reece is a great player.I have a lot of respect for him.And I mean, Billy, I've got a lot of trust in Billy.He has a lot of belief in me and in my footy at the moment.

So yeah, I guess as a competitor, I'm just happy that I am at fullback.That's where I feel most comfortable.And I know the game well from that position.So I mean, yes and no.guess is the answer to that.

Kalan you touched on the prospect of playing at half -back did you did you speak to Billy Slater at all about that?

Oh we had a phone call early in the week but yeah I mean when he said that I was playing full -back I was definitely a lot happier about that.I know what I'm like and I know what I if I did get put at seven or six You know, I would have just focused on that.I would have tuned my mitt.I just put all my, yeah, I guess, focus throughout the week.I would have committed to it.And I would have got excited by the challenge.

But yeah, like I said, I'm definitely happy I'm at the back.

Hey, Carlin, it's Gordie Tellis here, mate.Congratulations on representing Queensland again.Everybody talks about what Billy does for them, every player that goes in there.What has Billy done for your game?Well, especially that you're playing the number one jersey.

He probably knows the number one jersey better than Anyone in our in our game really so for me it's about learning even today Just little just little things like catching high balls and stuff like that.He's just got Yeah, his knowledge towards the game obviously is Is crazy for me to learn from and then just that belief as well.He makes you feel like you are seven foot tall eight foot tall He obviously works very hard at what he does and makes you want to work hard as well.But yeah, he's just so relatable, I guess.He still gets it.He can still run around and probably do it better than most.

So he adds so much.And for me as a fullback, you know, I can learn so much from him.

OK, KP, I'll probably frame that wrong.I shouldn't have said we're surprised with getting the fullback job because it's been an unbelievable form this year.What's been the secret?the shittier form, KP?

I see he's giving it to them all the time.Honestly the environment at the clubs at Newcastle's It's infectious.It's a happy place and I mean if you're happy off the field it obviously translate on the field I mean that at the addition of some staff some people within the four walls and Dill Brown and some players sort of add to that and then yeah, it just makes my role easier And I'm just excited about my foot at the moment Sammy Walker may gets an opportunity in that number seven jersey for the first time What's his first couple of days of campaign like?It's been a busy couple of days.I mean, we're on the paddock today.And I guess what we see at the trainings, what everyone sees on the weekend, is just the unpredictability.

He's someone you want to be around.He's infectious as well.He's a good lad.But that's the sort of footy that we want him to play.Eyes up.Just his game, really.

I mean, I've got a week to sort of, not get used to, but I guess adapt to.And we're looking forward to that.

Hey, Carter, what about the eligibility change that was made?recently that allowed you to play for New Zealand and Queensland.How excited were you about that rule change and how much does that mean to you?

Yeah, it means a lot.I mean, I am very grateful for the opportunity.I think my heritage, my culture, my family, that makes up my DNA.That's who I am.And as I get older and sort of learn more about my heritage, I definitely understand what it means to my family and my family back home.But in saying that, I've spent a lot of time in Queensland, like a lot of my life, a lot of my childhood, you know, it's given me so much.

opportunities and it's where I started my rugby league journey up in Townsville.So to be able to represent both sides, which do mean a lot to me, is very special.I'm very grateful.

Cailin, you've been in incredible form.No one deserves that number one Maroons jersey more than you do.So good luck this series and go and get them.

Thank you.Thanks for you as well.

I've never seen you so nervous.You dropped your pen, you were stuttering.How does it feel?

Mate, it's fantastic.He's a great footballer, isn't he?I'd have loved to have seen them both on the team.I said that from day one, Rhys and him.Did you have a word to Billy about making sure he was not there?No, no.

Billy doesn't need my advice, bro.Please.Laurie might.

You settled down now, we're going to move on.I'm sweating up a little bit, I'm a bit nervous, but we'll be alright.Alright, Azaio is not concerned after teammate Stephen Crichton failed to take part in Blues training today.

I think it might have just been a little niggle from the magic round, but we didn't do all that much.I think it was just to give him another day to recover and he'll be right tomorrow.What's the origin without an injury scare?Exactly right.No, I'm sure there'll be some coming from the other team as well.No, I don't think it's an injury scare.

It'll be fine tomorrow.Phil Gould said that he thinks this team mightn't be able to defend its way to a win.I obviously don't agree with Gus, and I respect him a lot.No, I think we've picked a really strong side that's mobile.It's obviously got the ability to score points.We've got the utmost confidence with the group we've got here.

But, yeah, I certainly don't agree with him.

Steven Crichton not training today with the Blues.I mean, I, myself, am not looking too far into this.He's got that AC injury.It'll be three and a half weeks, I believe, when he plays Origin 1.I'm assuming it's getting better every week, having a couple of AC injuries myself.I don't think it's a bad thing, I probably would have arrested him myself today.

Yeah, I don't think there's one thing wrong with it.Like, if he was at the dogs, he'd probably rest early in the week, stay out of contact.They're doing a lot of stuff, but if he would do the last final four or five sessions, Payne has to last year.didn't train until the captain's run.And he was one of the better players on the field.So I don't think it's a problem at all.

Are you two okay with it?I've got no issue with it.They knew what they were doing when they selected him.As you said, it's three and a half weeks from that injury.It's not an injury that he picked up on the weekend and you're going, is he not going to be fit for Wednesday night?He'll be fine.

He'll train the back end of the week.So I don't have an issue with it whatsoever.

The only thing I would say is he struggled a bit at club level recently with connection and in his defence, which is surprising given he's a great defender.And now he's not training early in the week.If I'm Queensland, this is unbelievable that I would say this, but I'd be going at him.Because he's clearly not 100%.And he's a great player, right?I mean we all know how good a player he is.

Everybody gets tested.He's played a bit with Tottenham though, so the combination there in defence isn't really an issue.He's got a different number 7 too, I don't want to bring that up.

I'll be testing it.

Well they're going to test him anyway.Jose, you said you didn't agree with what Gus had to say early on in the week about the Blues.Do you guys agree with that too or not?

I understand Gus's sentiments.This is not a side that's going to grind you to victory, right?It's a side that's been picked to score some points and move the ball around.So I get the premise of it.I think you can see they've gone for a mobile side, a nimble side, a side that's going to try and play on the front foot and use the footies.kind of agree with him.

With Gus?Well, I don't think it's going to be a defence orientated mindset from NSW and I think that's pretty clear in the side that they've picked.

I don't think Gus was far off the mark myself.I do think if they are starved of possession and do make errors of the blues, they are vulnerable.That's both sides?Both sides, yes.Both sides, yes.

Is the worry, though, that the referees referee it like an old game, like a game from last year, a more traditional origin game than, if you're saying that, plays into Queensland's hands?

I don't think it's going to be slow, though.I don't think we're going to get to a point where the game slows.It's never slow.I know.So even if it is a little bit like last year's, I don't think it's going to impact the way the game's played or the side that New South Wales has picked.

a winning captain on last night, Jay Trebojevic, and when we asked him, does he think it'll be refed the same way as NRL, he said no.He tended to think that they won't blow as many penalties, and it'll be refed differently.

Well if Lawries picked a side to score points, based around what the rules are now, Doesn't it just play into Queensland's hands, if that's the case?If that does happen, if that does eventuate.

We're speculating, we don't know.We're not going to get into a situation where the ruck is super slow.It's just not going to happen.

Normally every state of origin in the history that we've ever watched is quicker, is faster, is never slower than a club game.So you'd expect it.they go up a level because of the quality of players and the level that they play at.

The great Dean Ritchie is dropping bombs again today in the Daily Telegraph with his amazing analysis and he has said that Queensland have five of the top 15 worst defenders in the NRL.Does he just know how to get under their skin and just stuff New South Wales every year and give these guys even more motivation?He's at his best during Origins.Do we agree with him though?Well the stats are there.

But I wouldn't sit there and look at those guys and go they're a defensive weakness.I don't think Harry Grant's a poor defender.I don't think Reuben Connell's a poor defender.

I think Munster in his last couple of weeks has been outstanding.Yeah they struggled early like on that edge but not lately.So yeah of course those stats are right and yeah I think that they've missed a lot of tackles this year but I don't have a concern but thanks dog.He's our best assistant coach out there.

with all the talk around Sam Walker's defense, he's not one of the guys on that list.I find that intriguing.Looks like a mounting one.

Thanks for that great analysis.He's your colleague.Is Dog your mentor?

No Mick is. I'm your mentor.

You're about 40 years older than me.

How much do you think New South Wales are going to try and get it at them two?

a super honest player.You watch him, he doesn't give up on every play.Of course Olekowicz is going to win a lot of collisions.If he gets a ball, you know, ten times, he's going to win the collision, at least eight of those.But you think that we've got two of our better men on.Munster's so strong in the collision.

I think his last couple of weeks of footy's been, he's been close to his best.He's got good timing back and he's got his confidence back, I think, both sides of the game.But this guy, He's a freak, he's a monster and he's hard to pull down.

If he can take that form to Origen, because that's his big challenge.He's been a wrecking ball, but it's a lot different to Origen.So can he take that?Last time he had the chance, you would say he probably didn't take that form, right?

But he's playing better now than I think he was last time.He's probably got, what, 60 to 80 more games under his belt since then as well.So no, he's in a better state.And the style of footy that he's playing, it's not That ad -hoc footy.It's just barnstorming.It's pretty simplistic really the way he's playing.

So I think it does transfer anyway.

He played off the bench the last two times for 20 minutes.

Very different.He's in a different mindset.He's in a different state in his career.I think he could have a cracker on Wednesday.

He's a weapon.If he's not a central part of their game plan, they've lost the plot.Because he's in such good form.He's wreaking havoc every week in the NRL.Again, I'm giving Laurie tips.I'm here for you, Laurie.

He'll be ringing you.But seriously, he's in such good form.If you're not basing your attack largely around him, you've lost the plot.

If I'm Loz, I'm ringing up Kieran Foran and I'm saying, how do we get the best out of him?Because Foz has got the best out of him.So that's the first principle.Well, he just gets the ball going.It's been simple.

It is just getting clean early ball and getting to isolate it on the half.Thanks, Coach.

Alright, Bulldogs' GM of football, Phil Good, has admitted the club is rethinking everything as the Dogs' struggles continue.

I had one theory about the whole thing and I'm not the football coach and I'm not telling the coach or anything.We've built this team over the last couple of years built on old bulldog DNA of defence and fitness and resilience.We haven't been a big point scoring team for the last two years either.We've barely backed our defence and in the game today it's hard to do that.It just hasn't suited us.You look at the point scores on the weekend, all the scoreboards look the same.

One team seems to get a run on and the other team can't seem to cope.That's a trend that we've seen over the last month in particular and we're on the wrong end of that.and it's got us rethinking everything about our operation.

What's your guys opinion?

Well they need to look at everything the way things are transpiring at the moment.Look I don't think the rule changes have helped them in a way because they have been built on that defensive grid and the defensive resolve has been terrible this year.harder this year to put back -to -back efforts defensively and they haven't been able to do that.Did they lose their defence when they focused too much on the attack?Potentially.Potentially, Braith.

And a lot of the focus from at least our end was on their attack and scrutinising their attack but they've gone away from what made them a good side which was the defensive grip.

I find it remarkable to think that looking into everyonly seven months after they were in the top four and played finals footy.How can you regress that much in such a short space of time?Clearly they've got something completely wrong.But what do they have wrong then?I don't know Gordie.

On the face of it, they shouldn't be going as bad as they are with that footy side.They shouldn't be going as bad as they are.But the majority of that football side was there last year when they played finals footy, right?

They overachieved last year.

Significantly.

Look at that, sit there and look at that roster really.And you sit there and you break it down.And do you think it's an elite roster?Do you think it's a top four, top five roster?Well it was, last year it was a top four roster.No but I'm saying, do you sit there and you look, that's what I'm saying, they're overachiever.

Oh look at that roster I go, you've got edges of Preston and Kickal, Gelbin and Burton and Harms.

Well that's not a good halves combination.I think that's been proven, that that is not a good halves combination.You can say they're good players.They're good players.It's not a good halves combination.

But you're saying the roster.I'm saying the roster.

I don't think it's a top four roster.

Cherry and Crichton in the centres, Carraz.

Should they be going better with the roster they've got?We should be competing for the finals, right?No doubt.But I don't sit here and go, that's a top four roster.You look at the Broncos roster.You look at the Roosters roster.

Did you say you're heading into this year though?

I had concerns.We spoke about it.Did you have them on your ladder?I probably had them.I had them outside the four.Definitely.

But we had...

Did you have them in the top eight?I had them in the top eight.

Yeah, I had them in the top eight.But I've had concerns about that halves combination.And then you don't have a creative...We can keep going around in circles.

Let's take a look at what Gus said on Monday.I can't read that, that's too far away.

Here it is.

Internally, there are a number of reasons for why we are struggling the way we are at the moment and there's not much we can do about it.What are the internal reasons, do we think, and why can't they do anything about it?

I've actually got no idea, Bray, and it would have been nice if he explained it a bit more.Because all that does is create more conjecture and more speculation about what the actual internal problems are.are.I don't think anyone outside Gus, clearly, maybe Cam, Soreldo, know what he's talking about.

It's cryptic Gus at his best, isn't it?

Why do you think he's saying this then?It's probably a throw off, right?

It's probably a throw off.Gordie, are you going to take on this here?I don't know, I thought you guys would know.He doesn't talk to me, Gordie.

Should we get Doggy back on?

We don't talk to Doggy either.Do you know what?Deep down, they won't come up and put their hand up.Last year when they were going good, it wasn't broken.And they thought they would fix it and maybe, in hindsight, it hasn't.So they've just got to go back to the drawing board and put some more puzzle pieces in.

And that's as deep as it gets.

Even today when he said we need to look at everything, he didn't say what exactly the problem was.Well, it's the roster, isn't it?Well, he's saying everything.

Is that the coaching?

Is that the roster?Aren't they looking for a nine?

Aren't they looking for a 1?

Aren't they looking for a 7?They're spying.He's had meetings with Verralls.They've reached out to AJ Brimson.Can you tell us more about that?Which part?

Brimson.Because that's a new one over the last few days.

Well it is. I mentioned the other night that they were in the market for potentially a fullback.That's my understanding.They did check in on Brimson to see whether he'd be available.Gordie, as I understand...

Yeah, I didn't know.Look, we were talking about it off air.So AJ is a full -back and he's played Queensland full -back and I think he is and he played for England.He's the number one.At our club, our best option is for him to play in the Senators.

He doesn't want to be a Senator though, Gordie.He thinks he's a full -back.And that's going to be an issue because he's not going to play full -back at that football club.And he's on big money.He's going to be at 20 -30.

Gordie, just quickly, I don't want to put you on the spot because you're not obviously involved in recruitment and money and everything like that.Do you think they consider letting him go?It's a tough one to put him on the spot with.

I think where we are we want our best players and he's a local junior.But that would certainly be a question for Scott Sattler.

They've got to let him go, Bruce.Well, you don't have to let him go.For the balance of your salary cap, you're paying $900 ,000 roughly, Reedy, for a bloke that's not a centre.

Who's playing in the centre.

Who's playing in the centre.So you're talking about roster management, cap management.And Keanu Kinney's a really good player.Keanu Kinney's their best full -back in the club.I get that, right?But for too long, and we've seen repeated coaches try and nail this puzzle.

No one's got it right.So they've danced around this issue for too long.And the best outcome for AJ Brimson and the Titans is to part ways.

And if he goes to the Dogs, the Dogs pay a certain amount.The Titans would then have to probably top that up a little because the Dogs won't be paying $900 or whatever he's on there, right?If AJ was to go to the Bulldogs, how much does he improve them, do you think?

He's a good player.And this has been the fear for the Titans is that he's such a good player, we don't want to let him go, right?But he will go there and he will change that attack almost instantly.

Yeah, it's a great signing for them because they need a full bell.Connor Tracy, we've spoken about on the show, he's struggled for form and confidence in recent weeks and he can drop back and be a 14 potentially.

And they need a 9 as well.

Yeah, they do.I think there's some concerns over his injury history, I think he's got a shoulder issue apparently and I think that's scared them away basically.

That's where it's, you know, they improved against Penrith but it's still a tough run.You don't see where the next win's coming from.

Okay, so we're about four weeks away.Who are the candidates?

I think it's down to two.I think it's Dean Young and Ben Hornby.Two 2010 premiership winning teammates.Hornby was the captain, Dean Young the vice -captain.I can't see them at this stage.The process hasn't started yet.

But it must be close.If there's only two candidates and we're...It hasn't started.

The process hasn't started.But if there's only two candidates.They haven't formally put the applications or received applications or put the fields out.From other coaches?From other coaches, right.

I reckon the process started the minute Dean Young got the job because he was auditioning.

That is right.Reid is right by saying that.No doubt about that.There's been no formal process yet because they wanted to give Dean every opportunity to prove himself to be the coach.It took 28 minutes.

Only as good as your last game brother.

Now let's take a look at the Dragons next four games and will this hinder Dean Young, we have spoken to this a couple of times, but they haven't got the best of runs.Now, the Warriors, I think it's a bit of a, it's a danger one for the Warriors I think, because with the improvement to the Dragons and you know, I think Warriors are clear favourites and they should be, but there are some possibilities here the next three weeks.

Absolutely, like the Warriors, it was a big game for them at Magic Round, they've been up for a while, they lost their half -back, right, then they got Brisbane, and then And that's without their origin plays?No seriously, without their origin plays?

I'm thinking about the Warriors.Have you seen the Warriors play lately?Yes, that could be a bloodbath.

It could be, Reedy, but like there is, I'm with Gawley, we could be horribly wrong, but it's hard to stay up a whole season, they've been travelling a lot, they've got to go back down to Sydney.

I reckon they improved a hell of a lot the way they played against Penrith.

Because you know what, it could have been a bloodbath against Penrith.Alright, Fosbore is flying at the moment, and Jake Cziborewicz has extended, he was on last night, he's having another year, look how happy he is.Is he ever not smiling?Why didn't he tell us last night?

Well he even called it Jake -Bore.

You did too.Who'd done this story, do we know?No, the club just announced it this afternoon.What do we think of this, because Jake was in a hole as well as his team, we were talking about it.We all got a call for his head.And to be fair, as much as we love him, he was doing it too.

And obviously the style that Sebo was coaching wasn't complimenting his game.And now the style that Fozz has brought is.And it's great news.

It's really good to see him get the extension.After the first three rounds of the competition, you thought Jake was cooked.Seriously.You didn't think that he could go on and play another 12 months.But under Kieran Thornton, you guys have seen him in the last couple of weeks.How happy is he again?

That's the Jake that we all got to know.But he wasn't lying to us.that over the last couple of years but Jake is back, he's playing really good football and most importantly he's again contributing to that manly side so I'm really happy to see him go around for another 12 months.

He's great for the footy club right to have him around, he's a great leader at that footy club, helps set the culture of the place so you know I'm glad he's going around again too.

Alright Vegas baby, we're back again.The Vegas teams are in another trip for all of us here at Fox League.What are the details Mick?

Yeah, well, who's playing?Reidy, you're across from Storm.

Storm, Eagles, Tigers and Titans.I know who the four teams, but who are they playing against?Oh, sorry, the Storm are playing the Tigers.Yeah.Power's playing Gordie's Titans.You two have got a tricky game up here, boys.

Sorry, yeah.

That's Reidy's magical back page.

You throw to him and I actually write the art.That's his back page.Doggy sets the bar here and you two are just out there.That's poor hosting, because you threw it to the wrong guy.Two journalists don't know who's playing.It's the Storm v. the Tigers.

The Eagles v. Gordie's Titans.

I know Gold Coast is very exciting.I think it's a great celebration for your fans to go there.I know I can't wait.

I'm glad they're going, Gordie, because Rebecca and Brett Fazell have supported this concept from day one.I think they've gone every year, so I'm glad the Titans are going.I'm glad the Melton Storm are going because Storm may or may not get a Guernsey.

And it's good for the West Tigers fans to get an opportunity.Are you going to jump in on any other team and stop them?

You're not with the Dragons last year.He came back so early, you don't have a big year this year.I haven't won since.

They played Canterbury, I didn't tip them.Let's be clear.

Alright, before we go, Rudy, this Friday you were going to be the Gascock.Is that true?Let's have a look at Brent Reid here.You've got too much time on your hands.

You're on that morning, eh?Friday morning.

I'd be that desperate to do that.

Yeah, that looks quite fun.Me and Woodsy.Yeah, Woodsy.

That looks quite fun.Bo Woodsy and Kat, they'll be there with their cock outfit on.Mate, you played over 50s soccer and pulled your hamstring, how are you going to go here?Well that's an issue, that is an issue.I'll be wearing a compression bandage.

Alright, thank you Reedy, thank you Mick.Up next it's a Legends Agenda with Ben Elias and Billy Moore and fans of the four clubs playing.The only way to get directly to Vegas is on the NRL club themed charters.Visit vegastravel .nrl .com to get yours.

Welcome back, time now for Legends Agenda with Ben Elias and Billy Mourner.It's your favourite time of the year, Legends.It's Origin time and the teams are in.Let's start with James Tedesco, getting the nod over Edwards.You happy with this one?

Absolutely, no question.I've never seen Teddy play as good as he's playing at the moment.He's an absolute icon.He's learned a lot in the last two years.I just love the way he competes.Absolute moral for the number one spot for the Blues.

There's your first mistake.What's wrong?Where was I wrong in that?Well, you reckon you look after Dylan Edwards.

I feel for Dylan.You can't have both of them on there, unfortunately.

Tedesco has earned his right to come back.Obviously, he's done everything he can do to get back.He's a very dangerous player, especially his fatigue sitting in around that ruck.

Now, on your team, Caelan Ponga gets the job and Rhys Walsh gone.Gone, yeah.

Well, as you know, Walsh didn't play last year.Obviously, that final series obviously didn't come in Australian fullback.I've got a very strong suspicion that Billy Slater and Reece Walsh have had a conversation and Walsh is not right.He's not ready for it.Obviously he had the knock, broken cheekbone.Come back early from that cheekbone.

I have no doubt that Slater and him have had a chat and said, mate, you're not your best.

No, that's a lot of rubbish.Sit back and just wait for game two.You've just made that up, Billy.No, I haven't.You're only thinking that...I'm a bit on my own hotline.

Absolutely no way in the world.I have no doubt he's not his best.That is their first crack in their armour.That's your first crack in your armour, not having Walsh.Absolutely.Mate, he's the incumbent number one for Australia.

So you're saying Colin Poggen can't play one?

Hey do you know, you had two New South Wales wingers playing for Australia.

Yes we did.

And you had a New South Wales back row.We're talking about Australian players.No we're talking about Australian players that you guys didn't pick.And Dylan Edwards was another one on to it.

We've just got to overwhelm him.Would you say that right now the competition based on this season's form, Carlin Ponger is probably the number one full -back.Getting around the NRL.So he's definitely earned his spot too.

I'm glad to see Walsh out of the side by the way.It's just a shock because of the way he responds.

But you would have had him in your team at least Benny.Walsh?Absolutely.

100%.

That to me is obvious common sense, we're saying it.You couldn't say that Billy Slater's not one of the smartest Braggable League brains you've ever seen.There's obviously a reason for him not putting him on the bench.And that's all I can fathom.

The blokes that are on the bench, in the history that we've watched blokes, they've got to play more than one position.And I think Rhys can.But if you looked at him, he can go full -back, right?Where Tabui Faddo can go centre and full -back and wing and then Shibasaki.So I think they've got every base covered.I really do.

What about Ezra on the bench?Are you happy with that?Yeah, well that gives you obviously, as Gordie's talking about, flexibility.He can come on, obviously play, lock, obviously get around the ruck, can play 5 -8, can play half -height if need be.So he does what Tick the Box and Gordie's talking about, flexibility.And one thing about Ezra Mann, he makes something happen.

Things around him happen, he's got speed.

He's the most dangerous player for Queensland against us, Ezra Mann.Without a doubt.

Fatigue's going to come into the game.

Benny, you're one of the smaller guys playing the game in your area, Sam Walker.

Yep.

You like him playing?Love him.

Look, he's certainly earned that number 7 spot there for Queensland.He reminds me a little bit of Alf in his earlier days.He just plays the game, he doesn't go for the statistics, he doesn't go for the rhetorical sort of plays.You just don't know what he's going to do.A player like that in state of origin football is what you require.

So he plays for now, this set of six.Nathan Cleary will play to beat you in the 60th, 70th, 80th minute.Does that work in Origen?Do you believe play and play for now?

It's a very good question Gordy.I don't know.I'm really interested to see the speed of this state of Origen.First game with all these real changes and we say the six again and again and again.I really find that this is going to be a real test for the athletes who can sustain and be there at the end.

A lot of people are comparing him to Alfie and Alfie made it work because he was very special.So we're going to see whether Sam Walker can make it work and how special he really is in origin.Now Benny, there's been a lot of talk about the bench for New South Wales.Are you happy with it or what's your thoughts on it?

Well they've picked an athletic bench.side on the bench, without a doubt.Radley being probably the toughest of the bench.that we have.I just think we're going for the athleticism and that's why we've picked a light side.We haven't picked any big forwards on the bench which really shows you that we're going for the athleticism and the side that goes the furthest, that's able to handle the pace for the whole 80 minutes as you say.

What do we think about Radley?

Can't wait.That's fantastic.You never thought it would happen.Victor reminds me of Spud in the way that you are going to get something.You're not quite sure what it is, but he's going to throw everything into this.He's going to go hammer and tong.

He won't die wondering.It's going to be infectious.He's going to be a focal point.When he comes on, he's going to explode.When do you put him on?I can 20, 25 in.

You look at the two at the bench in Wales.You've got Sy Feedy.He's the only big middle they've got.So you can tell with Cameron Murray, Victor Radley and those sort of guys, they're looking for speed.They're expecting the six again, six again scenario.So that's going to be interesting.

But I reckon Victor Radley is made for Origen.I'm excited to see him.I think he along with Sam Walker are my two most favourite inclusions.The Sterling debutants, they're the two I can't wait to see how they process Origen.

What do you think?Do you think Gordie that they're going to limit the six again?

No.No, if you break the rules it gets done.Like, anyway, I just hope that as referee, I hope the players don't try to break the rules because it's going to cost your team.And it's open, and the best, and the players decide.OK, so you think it'll be similar to our, yeah?Yeah, I think it'll be end -to -end, and it's so they can hang in there the longest.

And go through when they're on the back foot, and right down on the mouth guard, and just turn up on that one extra play and see where it's at.

I think you'll find this game will be the most number of tackles recorded in Rugby League history in a match.

So I think you'll see over 850 tackles.Well, that comes down to our defence.It got highlighted from a great friend of this show.Bullfrog, Richie.

A great defender in his day, Bullfrog.wasn't he?

A mud crab, he used to get in his hole, called the mud crab.

No but like, would that be an issue for Quinn?No, that's why Billy's gone on the edge Obviously you've got Catewell and you've got Cotter.You've got blokes who will not stop.They're your plugs on the fringe.So I don't see it being an issue.The game's going to be super quick.

Grant will mop it up in the middle.You've got Max Plath.Max Plath, he's another player that's absolutely going to thrive in this environment.He'll be like a Gary Larson, he'll make 60, 70 tackles in a blink.That's a good comparison.What about your Tigers, Benny?

Last time you were on this show, we were loving the Tigers.They were flying.They've had a lot of injuries though, Benny.We have, we've had.Do you put it down to that?Look, it's a mix of...

Or a Luwai announcement.Since then it hasn't been too good.

Look, I dig that point.The circus started with Luwai going over there on a private jet going over to Papua New Guinea.During the week, before we were playing the Sharks, as we recall, Sharks put 50 on us and I thought, wow, it couldn't get any worse.And then it followed up the following week, we got another 40 put on us.And then last week against Manly, it's just been a horrible three weeks.If you ever need a game to get back on track, we need desperately to get back on track.

Luckily, we've got the bye this weekend.They can get away and rest up.Instead of flogging the players, I think they should be rest up.It's the athleticism and the taxing it has on the body, it's frightening.I just think they need rest.

Can they turn it around?

I think they can.It's important they do.We've got the Bulldogs, which are obviously a very desperate side, and they've got their own problems.But, you know, we are desperate to get back on that win.in track and get our season back on schedule.

What that shows you, the Louis situation, you don't sign 18 months in advance.

No.

That's where it comes unstable, derails the whole momentum.I understand where he goes, oh, you know, he had a window to sign.That's got nothing to do with the competition.You shouldn't be talking before the 1st of November for the following year.

It shouldn't have allowed it to happen.And our coach said, look, he came out clearly.He said, look, there's transparency.We're aware of it.We respect the fact that Lewis has come out and told us this is what he's doing.But by goodness gracious, he's our highest paid player.

He's our captain.And the last thing you need leading into a big game against the Sharks was him going over there and the circus began.

Billy, Perth Bears memberships are now...Tonight was the Lord's Expressions of Interest because we can't actually get the memberships going until we see the draw in October.The system crashed because it was overloaded.It looks like we're on track for over 30 ,000 members.Straight up.Straight up.

Which, ground behold, 21, 22.So to all those in the Perth that are getting behind this, thank you so much.Obviously the people in the east are doing the same.But load up 1st of October when you can buy your memberships.It's gold!Love it.

Good signs early there, Billy.Who will deliver this week thanks to Macca's 99 cent mic delivery?

Rainer's Dolphins game can't wait.The Finns are up.are on the roll.They've won three in a row.The most exciting team in the comp.The Finns go four in a row.

Yeah, the Doggies versus Storm should be an absolute cracker.I think the Doggies are going to get back in the win.I've never seen them more desperate.A lot of pressure now with their general manager and also their CEO and the senior players.They're going to miss Crichton but they need to crack back.Against the Storm it would be a big stage.

Did you bag the Dogs?Yep, that was it.

I ain't as good as I once was, and tonight it's all about origin in forces.Benny, what have you got for us?

Mate, this bloke here on my right hand side, I've never seen a bloke.have such an impact in State of Origin football in this Blake.I remember your very first game, Gordie, and you were the absolute beast.And you were the player that absolutely destroyed us.And mate, from day one, you playing State of Origin, you became one of the absolute awesome players of the game.And mate, more fierce a competitor than you, mate, I've never seen.

Billy, what have you got?Well, actually, independently, I've put the big guy in my list.We played together.We did play together for a couple of years.And what got me is you get that very rare quality.You're a thug, mate.

They don't have it today.They don't have the thing called intimidation.I don't see that in players today anywhere near as much.What's this?What's this?What's this?

Wingers, mate.What's he doing?He only tackles you when you're over the triangle.So Gordie gets my wrap easily for Queensland.Is it Wales?

Yep.

Paul Harrigan, again, he had intimidation.He was the king of the jungle and no one was more fearsome.I remember I played against him many times and every time he tackled you or you tackled him, I think I just missed him.It was just such a...He was a great player and he left nothing in the tank.

We played with people like David Gillespie and Mark Carroll and Blocker Roach and Syrenen.We had some awesome blokes in our pack too.

I'll tell you what, when I was sitting on the couch, someone that I reckon did something on a footy field was Mark Guyer.

Oh yeah.

You jumped in.He goes mad here.This is on half time.He chops people in the head.He throws punches here.He knocks blokes out.

He shoulder charges Michael Hancock.and he gets up.And then I don't think, and this is why when I say Wally Lewis is one of the greatest.Mark Guy's going off here, right?Could you imagine Jonathan Thurston going up to Paul Gellin, Darren Lockheed going up to that?So Wally Lewis goes up to the biggest, most intimidating guy in that moment, in that arena.

And I don't know what you're doing, mate.You had a photo seat spent.

Talk us through what was going on there.Gus Gould just wound up M .G.all week about Wally Lewis being the absolute icon of State of Origin football and you just had to get this bloke.We control Wally Lewis, we control Queensland.And so M .

G.just went...And he just said, mate, no one's ever been sent off on, you know, in State of Origin football.There's no rules here, you just go for it.And so M .G.

, you can just see his eyes rolling before the kick -off.What do you say here, mate?Yeah, I just don't say that.

You can't say those things about that, Tim, about his...

I think he was a Queenslander too.Of course he was.But wasn't that great competition back then?

Do current players have intimidation?Yeah.Mate, I think Luttrell's got it, I think Payne has.And I think Cameron Smith and those guys had it too with how calm they are.

So I don't think you've got to grab people and ruffle them up to intimidate.Welcome back, time now for Sportsnet's weekend forecast with a great job.Kane, Joel, best time of the week.

Let's do it.Your Honour, it is a wonderful time.Don't call me sugar, please.I've got some damning things.Colonel Gordon, did you order Coach Slater the code left?I did what I had to do.

Your Honour, look at this, please.Your Honour.Take a shot.Please.It's so obvious what they're doing, these maroons.On the right -hand side, we expect to see Moses there.

Now, Billy and this guy, they know they've played next to no football together.18 minutes, Moses with Homoli at origin level.Two tries in that time.I know what they're doing.You turn over the page.We think Moses is going to be there.

Which of our halves has the most break causes?It is the six Mitchell -Moses, right?So if that wasn't fishy enough, I heard Gordy on the phone.He said they're going to be in danger.I said grave danger?He said, is there any other kind, right?

Then I go to this.You wonder why Ponga got picked.Look at the left hand side.Ponga, Munster and Walker.Left hand side only.Left is where they're going.

Then they have the audacity, the temerity, the gall and the hide to pick Hammer at left centre.He scored nine tries in eight games at left centre.This guy is a freak.We know.So you can do it on this side of the field as well.But that's a ruse.

We're showing you this as a ruse because I know what's going on.Danger.Grave danger, he said.The left -hand side is where they're going to go.Don't you worry about that.So what I'm saying to you folks, it's all set up on the left -hand side for the hammer.

General Gordon, did you order the cold left?

You're goddamn right I did!

Thank you very much.Great acting by you two.That was outstanding.I ate my breakfast 400 metres.

What a great movie.

Do we do it any justice?No, I loved every bit of it.

Mate, so you could play Stallone.

Bring me in.I'm ready.Alright, thank you Joel.Thank you Gordie.That's it for NRL 360 for this week.Finished on a high note there, I love that.

Now it's time for face -to -face.