Your weekly guide to the NRL season, including the entire Final Series, the souvenir Grand Final program and our bumper Season Review. Every week Big League will feature stories on the big names, preview the big games and continue our popular Little League section for the young rugby league fans. With official team-lists, extensive statistics and up-to-date news, Big League provides everything you need to follow the NRL.
Keary plays on through the pain
KICKING OFF
No blame game for Green Machine
Rookie Roos face challenging Test
NRLW growth a matter of time
Verrills cherishing Friendly relation
Big League Weekly Edition
Locker Room
The dream team • Even in a line-up stacked with representative talent, it took a full-team effort, a master coach and a never-say-die attitude for the Roosters to claim their place in history.
Wighton numb but worthy winner • It was a bittersweet moment, but few could argue against Jack Wighton’s selection after a dominant display in a beaten side.
The man himself
Gaining perspective • The on-field result may not have gone Canberra’s way, but giant Raider Sia Soliola knows that ultimately, there’s much more to footy than hoisting the trophy.
THE PREMIERS
THE RUNNERS-UP
Grand Final Pictorial
MINUTE BY MINUTE
Lessons learned • All the little things the Roosters have become masters in were on show in an epic decider.
ROOSTERS v RAIDERS
Red-hot Roosters • The Tri-colours have secured their place as one of the most dominant teams of the decade.
Billy and the Jets stun at the death • The Jets pulled off another late miracle to stun Burleigh in the most thrilling State Championship in years.
JETS v BEARS
Premiers pummel stuttering Dragons • The Red V ran out of puff as the Broncos turned the screws in the grand final.
BRONCOS v DRAGONS
Jets outgun Magpies in unexpected final
Young Bunnies break 41-year drought
Wenty make it three in a row
Brilliant Bears save the best for last
Giant-killing Falcons fly high
YEAR THAT WAS • 2019 has been both memorable and forgettable for a number of reasons, and Big League has pored over this year’s headlines to remind you how it all went down.
SEASON 2019 IN REVIEW
Impenetrable Bondi Wall makes history • After 26 years, the recipe for repeated success in rugby league seemed all-but lost, but at long last, all-star attack and defensive prowess have combined for an historic accomplishment.
AT A GLANCE
New philosophy reaps reward • While the Raiders still pack plenty of punch in attack, some astute purchases and a new defensive mindset were key in their long-awaited return to the top.
AT A GLANCE
Close to perfection • It was another remarkable year for the Storm as they romped to the minor premiership, and a disappointing finals series shouldn’t take the gloss off all they’ve achieved.
AT A GLANCE
ROSTER CHANGES
The more things change • It was hoped the arrival of a master coach and the development of some future stars would take the Rabbitohs all the way. Instead they finished in the exact same spot they started.
AT A GLANCE
ROSTER CHANGES
Heading back upstream • The Eels were always bound to improve their fortunes in 2019, but few could have predicted the impact an attacking focus, a motivated half, a gun rookie and a new home would make.
AT A GLANCE
Flying over expectations • Few people gave Manly a chance at making the finals this year – but with a familiar face at the helm and a palpable team spirit, they soared far higher than anyone expected.
AT A GLANCE
Sink or swim • Injuries,...
