The Panthers are expected to unleash a defensive master plan to limit Reece Walsh’s impact in Sunday’s blockbuster preliminary final.
Brisbane will host the reigning premiers at Suncorp Stadium in a rematch of the 2023 grand final.
Adam Reynolds returns at halfback after five weeks out, but the Broncos remain without Billy Walters and Pat Carrigan.
That puts the spotlight squarely on Walsh, who shapes as Brisbane’s X-factor against Nathan Cleary’s Panthers.
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Cooper Cronk: Don’t let Walsh get the ball
Speaking on Fox League, Cooper Cronk outlined the Panthers’ likely strategy to cut down Walsh’s involvement.
“There’s an argument they should not let Reece Walsh get the ball,” Cronk said.
“Outside-in defence, often, so Reece doesn’t get the ball.”
Cronk also noted Walsh’s defensive positioning could be a weakness Penrith might exploit.
“Reece Walsh can be found out on the last play (of a set),” he said.
“He can be found out of position with kicks or running the ball. I know Nathan will be doing his homework to come up with a play to find Reece Walsh out.”
Walsh still a major threat
While Penrith may look to deny Walsh possession, Cronk stressed the Broncos fullback can cause major headaches if he gets space.
“If you go back to the 2023 grand final, there’s one guy that’s caused Nathan heartache defensively — it’s the footwork of someone like Reece Walsh,” he said.
“If he gets the ball a couple of passes wide, I think Reece Walsh could carve up the Penrith Panthers. It’s a game of chess.”
Walters backs Broncos
Former Brisbane coach Kevin Walters also weighed in on the matchup, tipping Reynolds’ return to be pivotal.
“Adam Reynolds will come back into the No. 7 jumper. He’s the captain of that club and he’s been a very good player for them over several years now,” Walters told news.com.au.
“He’ll be a great asset to them, coming back into the side. He’s got great experience and his kicking game is equal of anyone’s in the competition.”
Walters admitted you can’t fully shut Walsh out, but Penrith will aim to limit his space.
“You can’t really eliminate Reece Walsh out of the game but you can minimise his effect, just by limiting his time and space,” he said.
“There will be some damage from Reece and the way he plays, he’s always in the game.”
Four teams remain
The Storm face Cronulla in the other preliminary final, with Walters believing all four sides can win the premiership.
“I think the home teams have a little bit of an advantage,” he said.
“Certainly the Storm and maybe the Broncos can upset the Panthers, but I wouldn’t be too confident either way.”