LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Cooper Cronk has criticized the Brisbane Broncos for their lack of focus before their game against the Roosters, pointing to pre-match footage of players joking around in the dressing room.
This lack of seriousness may have contributed to their 26-16 loss, with James Tedesco leading the Roosters to victory with an impressive performance, running for 224 metres and making a line break, try assist, and six tackle breaks.
Tedesco's outstanding form has led to calls for him to be reinstated in the NSW State of Origin team, potentially displacing incumbent fullback Dylan Edwards, who has struggled with injuries and form in the 2025 season.
Edwards, who has been a standout for the Panthers and representative teams in recent years, appeared off the pace in the Panthers' recent loss to the Dolphins.
His shaky performance has raised questions about his ability to retain his position as the NSW fullback, especially with Tedesco's resurgence.
Despite the Panthers' loss and Edwards' struggles, coach Michael Maguire denied that complacency was a factor in their defeat.
Cronk's observation of the Broncos' attitude before the match suggests a potential lack of focus or preparation on their part, which may have contributed to their disappointing result.
The contrast between the Broncos' performance in Round 1, where they defeated the Roosters convincingly, and their loss in this game highlights the importance of mentality and readiness in professional sports.
The criticism of the Broncos and Edwards, as well as the praise for Tedesco, underscore the competitive nature of rugby league and the pressure on players to perform consistently at a high level.