Adam Reynolds is poised to return for Brisbane’s preliminary final clash, but one Broncos great has voiced concerns about the skipper’s readiness after more than a month out.
The halfback has not played in five weeks, and his defensive load is expected to be targeted immediately by Penrith’s powerful pack.
Speaking ahead of the showdown, the club legend stressed the challenge awaiting Reynolds: “Reynolds is going to have to be absolutely rock solid, hard and fit defensively to handle the likes of Liam Martin, Scott Sorensen and Lindsay Smith because these guys will know that Reyno hasn't played in five weeks. No disrespect to Reyno, but defence is not one of his strong suits. He's a halfback and not many get paid for their defence.”
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Momentum and balance
While Reynolds’ organising skills are unquestioned, the Broncos’ recent five-match winning streak has thrived on the tempo set by Billy Walters and Ben Hunt, which in turn unleashed Reece Walsh.
The advice for Reynolds was clear: “Reyno might just have to peel back a fraction and give Reece the license to do that, because it's worked for the last five weeks. He's a smart footballer, and he will have sat back and seen how things unfolded.”
The Panthers, chasing a fifth consecutive Grand Final appearance, are expected to waste no time in testing the veteran half. Yet the confidence remains that Brisbane’s style can unsettle the champions, provided they maintain discipline, win the ruck, and avoid cheap turnovers.