Rising Scores and Lopsided Results in the NRL
The National Rugby League (NRL) has entered a new era, marked by high-scoring matches and lopsided results that are becoming increasingly common. This trend is not just a passing phase but a significant shift in the way the game is being played. As the season progresses, it’s clear that the current landscape of the NRL is evolving rapidly.
Uncharted Territory for the NRL
This year has seen the NRL surpass an average of 50 points per match over the first 10 rounds of the season. This is a historic milestone, as it marks the first time in the league’s 118-year history that such a feat has been achieved. The increase in scoring is not just about more points; it also reflects a broader change in how teams approach the game, with a focus on attacking play and fewer defensive strategies.
In the opening 10 rounds, there have been several instances where both teams scored over 30 points. For example, the golden-point clash between North Queensland and Parramatta was the seventh game this year to feature both teams reaching the 30-point mark. This trend has led to comparisons with the old Holden Cup, which was discontinued in 2017 due to various issues, including concerns about player welfare and development pathways.
Similarities Between the NRL and the Holden Cup
One of the criticisms of the under-20s competition was the lack of defensive discipline, often resulting in high-scoring shootouts or lopsided games. This year’s NRL season has exceeded even those standards. In the last Holden Cup season in 2017, there were six games where both teams scored 30 or more points, with an average margin of 16.5 points. This year, the average margin has increased to 17.9 points, indicating a growing trend of one-sided games.
Canterbury coach Cameron Ciraldo, who previously coached Penrith in the Holden Cup, acknowledged the similarities between the two competitions. He noted that while some teams are experiencing blowout results, the top teams are focusing on strong defensive play and minimizing points conceded.
The Impact of the Set-Restart Rule
The rise in scoring and lopsided results has coincided with the introduction of the set-restart rule, which was expanded in 2026. This rule has significantly changed the dynamics of the game, making it faster and more open. Kieran Foran, a former under-20s player who now coaches in the NRL, believes the game has evolved in a positive direction.
Foran recalls his early days in the NRL, where the game was more physical and focused on grinding out close victories. However, he acknowledges that the game has shifted towards more points and entertainment, which has made it more exciting for fans.
A New Era for the NRL
Despite the changes, Foran insists that the evolution of the game is not necessarily a bad thing. He believes the NRL is in a great place, with the right decisions being made to keep the sport exciting and relevant. The speed of the game has increased, and the unpredictability of the scorelines adds to the thrill for fans.
As the season continues, it will be interesting to see how these trends develop. While the increase in scoring and lopsided results may raise questions about the balance of the game, the overall sentiment among players and coaches seems to be one of acceptance and enthusiasm for the new direction of the NRL.
Key Statistics from the Season
- Average points per match: 50
- Games with both teams scoring 30+ points: 7
- Games decided by 20+ points: 32
- Average margin in games: 17.9 points
- Comparison to 2021 season: Higher average margin than the most lopsided season since 1935
These statistics highlight the dramatic shift in the game’s structure and style, signaling a new chapter in the history of the NRL.
