The Brisbane Broncos and Parramatta Eels faced harsh defeats in the opening round of the NRL, and they fully earned the criticism that followed.
In their match against Penrith, Brisbane's handling was atrocious due to the humid and slippery conditions, resulting in a mere 61 percent completion rate. This dismal performance translated into only 42 percent possession for the team.
Similarly, Parramatta's statistics during their loss to Melbourne were strikingly alike; they managed a completion rate of just 63 percent, which allowed them only 41 percent of the ball.
Vince Lombardi's insightful quote, "Fatigue makes cowards of us all," borrowed from General George S. Patton, perfectly encapsulates the lackluster performances displayed by both teams in round one.