Coaching Decisions and Team Dynamics
Brisbane coach Michael Maguire has made a bold move, threatening to make significant changes to the team’s lineup. This decision was evident when Ezra Mam was moved to the bench and young talent Tom Duffy was recalled as five-eighth. The decision came after a series of challenges for the Broncos, who have struggled in recent games.
Mam had previously been on the Queensland bench, hoping to be included in the opening State of Origin clash. However, his performance has not met expectations, leading to his exclusion from the starting side. There is no guarantee that he will play against Gold Coast at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday night.
The Broncos have faced a tough stretch, losing their last four matches. This has put pressure on players like Mam, who were expected to contribute significantly to the 2025 premiership hopes. In contrast, Tom Duffy, just 22 years old, has shown impressive form in the three NRL games he has played for the Broncos.
The recent 30-26 loss to St George Illawarra highlighted some of the issues within the team. Mam was not at his best, and the Dragons took a commanding lead of 30-8. Although he experienced a leg issue and briefly went to the bench, he returned to the field quickly.
Maguire expressed his frustration with the team’s performance, stating, “Obviously we’re not getting the starts right, we’re not matching intensity at times and it’s not good enough.” He emphasized his willingness to make changes to revitalize the 11th placed Broncos.
To support the team, the club has brought in Cameron Smith, a Melbourne and Queensland legend, as a consultant. Smith’s role is to mentor senior leaders and spine members. He was present at Brisbane HQ on Tuesday, sharing his insights and experience.
Veteran half Ben Hunt, who often comes off the bench, described the post-match criticism from Maguire after the Dragons loss as intense. “As you could imagine, he wasn’t real happy after that one,” Hunt said. “Deservingly, he ripped into us, he really did.”
Hunt added, “We need to have a look at ourselves and sort it out or the season’s going to disappear pretty quickly. I’m sure Madge (Maguire) is going to do some searching and there’ll probably be some changes to the team because enough is enough.”
Mam, who trained with the Broncos on Tuesday and showed no signs of injury, is the player feeling the brunt of Maguire’s decisions.
Duffy has been working on refining his skills and feels comfortable in the halves alongside captain Adam Reynolds. Their strong bond has been beneficial for both players.
“He’s a great fella and you can just sit down and have a coffee and talk footy or even just away from footy, talk about life with him, so he’s been really good,” Duffy said recently. “Just watching him and training with him and Dozer (Hunt) just going about their work, you just learn stuff being so close to them that you otherwise wouldn’t.”
Duffy also noted the value of the guidance from experienced players. “Then if there’s something you need to ask about, they’re not withholding any information. They’re at the age where they want to give on what they’ve learned, and I’m really grateful for that. They have been unreal.”
