Reynolds Nearing Return as Maguire Brushes Off Tallis Criticism Ahead of Storm Clash
Brisbane Broncos coach Michael Maguire is optimistic that injured skipper Adam Reynolds will be fit to play next week, dismissing ongoing criticism from club legend Gorden Tallis as a non-issue heading into a crucial grand final rematch against the Melbourne Storm. Reynolds was forced from the field in the dying moments of last week’s encounter with Parramatta due to a rib complaint. However, his subsequent flight to Sydney for a media engagement drew the ire of Tallis, who labelled the travel as “not great optics” for a player supposedly nursing an injury.
The situation has been a talking point throughout the week, threatening to escalate, but Maguire remains unfazed by the scrutiny. “Not at all,” he stated in Melbourne, with veteran Ben Hunt expected to deputise at halfback for the upcoming match. “At the end of the day, I look after my players and my captain. That’s my viewpoint, and everyone else has their viewpoint as well. Our big focus is what we’re doing tomorrow. That’s the most important thing for where we are. I actually thought he (Reynolds) was going to be able to play, but he was just unfortunate that he couldn’t make the trip down. But he’ll be all right next week. Well, I think he will be.”
Maguire has faced considerable flak for Brisbane’s disappointing 0-2 start to the season, a stark contrast to their premiership-winning campaign last year. Storm coach Craig Bellamy publicly branded the criticism as “ridiculous” on Thursday. Maguire, however, downplayed the external noise as he prepares to end Brisbane’s losing streak at AAMI Park on Friday night.
“To be honest, I don’t pay too much attention to it,” Maguire admitted. “As much as people say (it’s an issue) it’s more about what we’re trying to build here. I’m really enjoying coaching this group because we’re trying to build something that can have sustained success. Each week is another challenge, and this is no different. The boys will go about what they need to, and I’m very proud of the way they go about their training and what they’re trying to build here. That’s the most important thing for me.”
Defensive Woes and Team Changes Ahead of AAMI Park Showdown
The Broncos have struggled defensively this season, conceding a concerning 66 points already. They now face a formidable Storm outfit that has been in blistering attacking form, spearheaded by the electric fullback Sua Fa’alogo. In response to these defensive frailties, Maguire has opted for personnel changes within his squad. Notably, strike centre Gehamat Shibasaki, who represented Australia just months ago, has been moved to the bench.
“Everyone plays a part in defence,” Maguire explained. “The whole game cycles on itself, so we’ve got to be better in areas to be able to help our edges. I’ve obviously made a couple of changes there so those boys will come in and they’ll be fighting to make sure we can stiffen up that edge.”
The Broncos’ defence has been a significant concern, with opponents exploiting perceived weaknesses on the edges. The decision to shift Shibasaki, a player with considerable experience and skill, highlights Maguire’s determination to address these issues. The coach’s focus remains firmly on the team’s internal development and building a culture of sustained success, rather than getting caught up in external commentary. This approach, he believes, is paramount to navigating the challenges of the current season and laying the groundwork for future triumphs. The upcoming clash against the Storm will be a significant test of their resolve and their ability to implement the necessary adjustments.
