The Workhorse Watcher’s Grand Final Preview
If you’re like the Workhorse Watcher, you’re probably struggling to decide on who to cheer for in this year’s NRL Grand Final.
Sure it would be nice for the Sharks if they finally won one but that would mean some of rugby league’s least endearing players get to hold up the trophy and go home with a premiership ring.
I know several long suffering Sharks fans who I’d be very happy for if Cronulla were to win it, but can I bring myself to actively cheer for them?
And what of Melbourne? Does state pride carry any weight? Do we really care if once again the trophy travels down south?
There are plenty of reason not to cheer for either team so why not let the workhorse stats be your guide? Melbourne finished with 96 workhorse tries during the regular 26 rounds with Cronulla finishing on 87.
Cameron Smith and Dale Finucane were equal seventh for workhorse tries with 22 each and were ably supported by Tohu Harris and Kevin Proctor with 16 each.
The Sharks meanwhile were led by Paul Gallen and Andrew Fifita with just 16 each, Gal’s 16 was well down on the 24 he scored in 2015.
Melbourne have named a massive bench with everyone who has scored a workhorse this season listed, however 95 of their 96 workhorses have come from the forwards named in the 17. The Sharks also have all their workhorses name including Chad Townsend who has scored two this year.
So if you see picking between Melbourne and Cronulla akin to being asked which side of your face you’d like to be punched on, follow the workhorse numbers.
If a player has been great for you this year, cheer their team on this Sunday. Equally, if a player was a massive let down for you then screw that guy, cheer against him.
ADDENDUM
Waiting for some take away at my local Chinese restaurant on Saturday night, I had a quick exchange with two ladies that made my decision for me.
With only one spare seat in the waiting area I offered the two older ladies my seat so that they could both sit down.
The said they were fine, as they’d been sitting down all day having driven up from Melbourne.
“What brings you up here?” I asked, making polite conversation.
“We’re here for the rugby.” one replied.
I tried to think what rugby was on and clearly my face did not hide my puzzlement.
“We’re up here to cheer for the Storm,” the lady clarified.
And that sealed it. I don’t mind those who don’t follow league mistakenly calling it rugby, but from two ‘fans’ that just drove 9 hours to watch it? That I can’t cop.
So it’s Up Up Cronulla! here at the Workhorse Watch. The Sharks faithful may be unbearable if they win it, but at least they’ll appreciate it and know what game we’re playing.
Geoff Adams
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