NRL Round 1

Well, what a brilliant start to one of the most anticipated seasons of Rugby League in memory. Let's recap the Round;

Friday night saw a fullhouse at Parra stadium witness a polished performance by the Dellless Dragons. An industrious performance where their defence led the way. Parra seemed to continue an indifferent start to the season albeit with a major improvement on their trial form.

A big night of firsts for MapSports;

* First try of the 2010 Toyota Cup season to Rory Brien
* Try in his first NRL game for 2010 to Eric Grothe
* First Pie and Sauce for Andrew Purcell at the Western Grandstand kiosk.

The cameras then turned their attention to the all QLD Derby where a baby faced Broncos took on a Nth Qld suide boasting the likes of Tonga, Thurston and Mason. The early form of the Broncos would have been a weight of Ivan Henjak's shoulders as he attempts to rebuild the perrenial powerhouses in 2010. A fantastic fight back by the Thurston led Cowboys came up short, but there is plenty for them to go on next week.

The first Super Saturday of the season threw up a couple of interesting matchups with the World Champion Storm travelling to Shark Park hoping to continue their recent run of success by downing the tenacious Cronulla side. In the end a 4 point victory to the Storm seperated the sides and hopefully the strong showing will enthuse the Shire locals to get behind their side.

Penrith fulfilled early season predictions with a strong display against a desperate Canberra side who also performed well away from home. In the end the fleet footed Purtell and the crafty Kingston were the difference in this quality game. Map Sports Michael Gordon was successful with 5 shots at gold and polished a strong performance by playing a decisive roll in a late try scored by Lachlan Coote.

The Knights V Bulldogs clash had many predicting a cricket score, due to the personel changes and adverse press the Knights have endured during the 2010 preseason. Showing a lot more fight then the Dogs, Newcastle refused to lay down and performed fantastically for the victory.

Sunday was a chance for everyone to see the return of two incredible giftefd players in Greg Bird and Todd Carney to the NRL for the Titans and Roosters respectively. Whicst both players teams picked up the 2 competition points it was Carney that grabbed the plaudits with his 5 star performance against the Rabbits.

Last night rounded off Round 1 with the return of Lote Tuquri headlining the Tigers match against the Sea Eagles and he failed to disappoint, scoring with his first touch of the ball. Playing a fantastic brand of football, the Tigers layed on 20 points in the final 20 mins to secure the precious two points.

Be sure to come back next Tuesday for Round 2 wrap up.