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The Broncos There are chances and certainties in the final not to win the wooden spoon, says fiery hooker Jake Turpin.
Under the guidance of new coach and club icon Kevin Walters, the shameful Broncos are recovering from the bottom-last spot in Brisbane history.
Turpin, who due to injury has only played six games in a dismal 2020, was optimistic about the powerful club’s buyout campaign. Few will tip the Broncos to play in the Finals, but the players have other ideas.
“We won’t win the wooden spoon, I’ll tell you right now,” Turpin told reporters in Brisbane.
“We’re very confident at the moment and we’re really excited to go out and show everyone on Friday night that we’re definitely going to be a team that can easily make the top eight this year.”
Turpin said he intends to play a key role in the revival.
“It was very frustrating for me last year,” said Turpin.
“I broke my leg in the third round, spent a little time outside, then came back and only made three more games and broke my hand.
“It was definitely a tough year for me last year, but I’m really excited to start the year over and do all I can to make this team a top eight this year.”
Turpin will be alongside Jamayne Isaako, Anthony Milford and Brodie Croft in the Broncos’ spine for their season opener clash against Parramatta on Friday. Croft won a somewhat controversial selection call on young Tom Dearden for the half-back place, with Immortal Andrew Johns calling the move “surprising”.
“He’s a very good organizer, he has a lot of experience in organizing teams and he’s been in big games throughout his career,” Turpin said of Croft, who has had some tough times. struggles in his first season in Brisbane last year.
“He hasn’t had a very long career so far, but he’s played in some really big semi-finals, so he’s been there, done that and has a lot of experience to bring to our side.”
Turpin is also hoping to benefit from the departure of accessory Tevita Pangai Jr, still at the club after a bizarre 2020 in which he was sacked and then reinstated after breaking biosecurity rules by attending a barber shop opening.
“Tevita looks in good shape, as in good shape as I’ve seen her since I’ve been at the club,” said Turpin.
“He’s ready to go and he’s really excited to turn around this year as well.”
The Broncos side for their first round clash against the Eels is: 1. Jamayne Isaako 2. Xavier coates 3. Herbie farnworth 4. Tesi Niu 5. David Mead 6. Anthony milford 7. Brodie Croft 8. Tevita Pangai Junior 9. Jake turpin ten. Matthew Lodge 11. Alex glenn 12. Jordan riki 13. Patrick carrigan 14. John Asiata 15. Thomas flegler 16. Ethan Bullemor 17. I am Te’o 18. Tom dearden 19. Rhys kennedy 20. Richard kennar 21. Cory Peace. Coach: Kevin Walters.
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