Broncos Halves Decision Under Scrutiny After Panthers Rout

Brisbane Broncos coach Michael Maguire has clarified his decision to start Ben Hunt at five-eighth and place Ezra Mam on the bench for the game against the Panthers. This lineup was previously used in last year's finals, where the Broncos secured the premiership with Hunt partnering Adam Reynolds in the halves. However, it reversed the configuration seen in the World Club Challenge, where Mam started and Hunt was on the bench.

Game Day Result

The lineup change did not yield a positive result on Friday night, as the Panthers defeated the Broncos 26-0. Mam struggled to significantly contribute after entering the game, and Hunt's performance was noted as below his usual standards.

Coach Maguire's Rationale

Maguire stated in his post-game press conference, "I just felt that having Ez coming on and we obviously didn't get our start with the way the game rolled, we didn't put them under pressure." He added that the team failed to induce fatigue in the Panthers, which prevented Mam from showcasing his abilities as intended.

"I just felt that having Ez coming on and we obviously didn't get our start with the way the game rolled, we didn't put them under pressure."

Expert Calls for Change

Following the game, Fox League commentators Michael Ennis, Braith Anasta, and Greg Alexander advocated for Mam to start in future games, with Hunt potentially moving to the bench.

• Braith Anasta questioned the decision, stating, "I couldn't get my head around it...after a pre-season when he is your best option at five-eighth. It's so hard to get into the game as a half when you start on the bench." Anasta suggested Mam might have tried too hard upon entering the game.

  "I couldn't get my head around it...after a pre-season when he is your best option at five-eighth. It's so hard to get into the game as a half when you start on the bench."

• Greg Alexander supported Mam starting, commenting, "I'd start Ezra. Off the back of what I saw him do last year. He can win you the match on his own."

  "I'd start Ezra. Off the back of what I saw him do last year. He can win you the match on his own."

• Michael Ennis expressed sympathy for Hunt due to extensive defensive duties and suggested that Hunt would be more effective as an interchange player, highlighting a preference for the "Mam and Walsh" combination.

  Michael Ennis highlighted a preference for the "Mam and Walsh" combination.