Standard of footy this year

[Jacks Fur Coat]

For me, its probably the best start to the season for overall quality of footy played that I can recall. I'm even getting something from so called dud games.

Even the officials have improved (excepting for calling forward balls that aren't).

Credit to the coaching staff at the clubs.

[Rooster36]

Agree has been so entertaining. Thoroughly enjoyed it.

[Thirteen]

So many great games and some unpredictable results. It’s been the most exciting season I can remember. I’m watching way more than usual.

[Sentimentinel]

For me, its probably the best start to the season for overall quality of footy played that I can recall. I'm even getting something from so called dud games.

Even the officials have improved (excepting for calling forward balls that aren't).

Credit to the coaching staff at the clubs.

Definitely an improvement from the last few seasons.

[NorfolkStreetKid]

Great to see close games, and the improvement of the Warriors, Dogs and Titans....... yes and even the drongos whom I hate with a passion, is good for the game.
The skill level of the players is great.
still let down by the inconsitent officiating, and the imbecilic commentary.
I think the Flippers will struggle now, depth a major issue, but having Milford out is a plus for them.... the Milf is a worry.

[player 1]

Totally agree Big Jack - maybe I was wrong about Vlandys Ball - games are entertaining and the overall standard has gone up, even the refs as you mentioned. Except for Teddy the other night, that was a clear send off.

[Ray Stehr]

Great win by Canterbury. I'd love to see Burton in the Red, White and Blue.

[SamKerrSimp]

The last time the competition was this close and competitive the Roosters were minor premiers and grand final winners.

[Inflictor]

How good have the Dolphins been. Depth was always going to be their issue but the certainly surprised me and they play a very entertaining style game.

[Chook2]

Yes my take so far

close games, defence improved in many

on the ladder
broncos going well but test will be post Origen again and potential injuries
chooks, riff and storm should be up there unless injuries kill off campaigns
sharks and cowboys maybe the ladder has proven tough, last year had the easy draw and no one expected them to win - now they are challenged and expected to do well - not surprise if they get back up there but down atm

bunnies only 2 from 5 but have had tough draw
eels loosing a heap by not much

grest that warriors are up there and dogs going well

dophine fairytale now fading with injured impacting

[Serenader]

It’s been great. Particularly the officials! Help when the LOL are outta the 8 too!

[horrie hastings]

I dont see a lot of difference as in the last few years really, apart from having a new team in with Dolphins which have done well so far with no depth and yes there have been a few close games between some of higher teams apart from that , the Warriors and Canterbury have improved but i doubt whether they will keep up the momentum, Broncos have done well but will they fall sway towards the end like last year?
Tigers are actually worse than last year apart from so far having a 70pt scoreline put on them yet, Dragons no better alteady having 40 pts put on them twice already.
Refreshing to finally see a draw after golden point between Manly and Newcastle.
If the Roosters can stay mainly injury free this year I can see them deep in at the end.

[ism22]

Anal guy's really proud of the close games... makes me wonder if they had some strategic discussions about avoiding blow-outs (which he DEFINITELY caused in previous years by making too many stupid rule changes).

I like us winning but suspect the actual standard of footy amongst the top teams has dropped, as opposed to (for example) everybody catching up to the standard of Penrith/Melbourne. I love our team but don't personally think our form (or Brisbane/NZ/Manly's form) is up there with where the Riff was at this time the past 2-3 years. They were invincible and made pretty well no mistakes.

[Kelby]

The sharks v warriors game was great entertainment on Sunday.

Not a good game for defence, but totally enjoyable!

[SupermanSupportsEasts4Eva]

I've enjoyed the unexpected results.

IMO i think the closeness of the table has more to do with some of the top teams (Riff, Drizzle, Vermin) starting a bit slower than usual. I hate to say it but those three will start to climb over the next few weeks. Look how the riff put the faiders to the sword in the 2nd half over the weekend.