Berrigan Brain Explosion Marrs Bronco Courage
by
Friday April 18, 2003

The Brisbane Broncos' courageous underdog display in their 27-20 loss to the premiership favourite Sydney Roosters was soured by an ugly incident in the first half involving halfback Shaun Berrigan.  The gutsy and competitive utility lashed out with a boot at Sydney Roosters skipper Brad Fittler as he crossed for a try, inciting an angry reaction from Fittler and his teammates.

It's difficult to see what Berrigan was actually intending to attempt, his right boot hitting Fittler's midriff, possibly as an attempt to dislodge the football.  Referee Paul Simpkins put the incident on report, but the dangerous and irresponsible action seems almost certain to leave Berrigan alongside teammates Andrew Gee and Petero Civoniceva on the sideline with suspension.

The incident marred what was otherwise an inspirational first half display from the Broncos, who, despite being rank outsiders for the first time since their 28-14 defeat of the Wests Tigers last year, led 20-12 at one stage, despite conceding the opening try in the first minute.

Stuart Kelly made the initial blunder, failing to clean up a Fittler kick ahead for Finch to score after 45 seconds.  Kelly made amends moments later when he finished off a classic Broncos 90-metre try started by Darren Lockyer.  Fittler's try put them back in front before Mick De Vere crossed for his third try in two games to level the scores.  De Vere's boot put the Broncos in front and then a controversial try to Dane Carlaw saw the Broncos lead by 8.

But tries to Justin Hodges and Brad Fittler either side of half time were ultimately the difference, the Roosters dominating the second half with a well thought out kicking game eventually wearing the Broncos down.

However, it was a much improved effort by the Broncos on last week's disappointing capitulation against the Warriors and they can go into next week's clash with archrivals Parramatta with some confidence of breaking their two-game losing run.

The solid return of Scott Prince from injury during the second half will also give confidence, as would the strong effort of Ben Ikin.  If those two combine in the expected absence of Berrigan, the Broncos will go a long way to reaffirming themselves as genuine premiership contenders.

That the Broncos came within 7 points missing former Test forwards Gee and Civoniceva, and with Lockyer having a horror night with both his hands and boot, is an encouraging sign.  But they will have to rectify their handling problems further - 17 errors is still far too many.