NRL: Broncos say they can do repeat
Broncos say they can do repeat
By James Phelps
January 25, 2007 12:00
AFTER a record-breaking season 2006, Brisbane skipper Darren Lockyer has declared the Broncos are capable of breaking a 14-year hoodoo by winning consecutive premierships.
With no side winning consecutive titles in a unified competition since the Broncos in 1992 and 1993, the Australian captain yesterday said Brisbane could achieve the feat in 2007.
The Broncos also won consecutive titles in 1997 and 1998 but the first of the premierships was in the breakaway Super League competition.
In a remarkable season 2006, Lockyer led the Broncos, Queensland and Australia to victory, while being voted the world's best player.
Speaking at a film shoot for Bundaberg Monday night Football yesterday, Lockyer told The Daily Telegraph the Broncos had been slogging it out in preparation for another premiership assault.
"We are working harder than this time last year," he said.
"We are aware of what has happened in the past with the premiers failing the next year.
"We have to make sure we have a good attitude and keep it throughout the entire season.
"I think injuries will be the key to success this year. We have to hope we don't get too many but you can't do too much about them."
The 29-year-old golden boot winner said the Broncos were adjusting to life without Shane Webcke after the inspirational prop retired after last year's grand final in a fairytale finale.
Lockyer said his role would not change in Webcke's absence with other senior members of the team ready to step up.
"I won't be changing anything," he said.
"Petero Civoniceva and Brad Thorn will step up and take over Shane's duties. Petero is one of the guys that doesn't say a lot but when he does it carries a long way. He had an outstanding season last year and he is one of the senior blokes in the team that gives everyone else confidence.
"I have only been back two weeks but if anything the competition for spots is greater than it has ever been. Everyone one is competing for Webcke's spot and it is a good thing. Everyone has a really good attitude."
Parramatta star Nathan Hindmarsh and Manly back Jamie Lyon joined Lockyer on set at the Monday night football commercial shoot yesterday to promote the return of Monday night football in 48 days with Sydney Roosters taking on Souths.
Lockyer is hoping the concept will be a success but said clubs would struggle to attract crowds to the Monday extravaganza.
The Daily Telegraph