Brisbane Broncos vs. Dolphins: ‘We’re not rivals’ – Kevin Walters delivers backhander to Wayne Bennett and new franchise
Brisbane Broncos coach Kevin Walters insists the Dolphins are not their rivals as preparation for next week’s blockbuster Brisbane derby begins.
The Broncos continued their unbeaten start to the season with a 40-18 win over the Dragons Saturday night at Suncorp Stadium.
This means both Brisbane clubs will go into next week’s game at Suncorp as equal top of the ladder, with the game kicking off at 8pm (AEDT) on Friday night.
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Not keen to discuss the Dolphins’ upcoming game after the stunning win over St. George, Walters said the team would be concerned about that contest on Monday.
“I haven’t even thought about next week. We’re going to fix our defence, work hard and prepare for the team we’re playing next week,” said Walters.
“We’re going to enjoy tonight’s win and put him to bed (not) until tomorrow or Monday and then we’ll get ready for our game next week.
“I think that’s why the Dolphins were moved to Brisbane to create that rivalry, but we’re not Dolphins rivals – we’re the Broncos. This is our club, this is us and this is our way of thinking, we are the Broncos.”
Dolphins boss Wayne Bennett spoke a little more openly about the Brisbane derby after his team won their third straight game against Newcastle on Friday night.
The champion coach feels his team isn’t stressed as his players will be itching to play in one of the NRL’s biggest games.
“There is no pressure this week. It’s (the derby) the easiest game in the world to train for,” said Bennett.
“Everyone wants to play in it. If you are a soccer player, you want to be in the best stadium in Australia. I don’t think anyone needs to be motivated to be there.”
The Dolphins surprised critics early in the season, defeating the Roosters (28-18), Raiders (20-14), and Knights (36-20) in their first three games.
Skipper Jesse Bromwich was delighted with the team’s start to the season.
“Being able to win games, especially early in the season, is really important. I’m really happy with how the lads react to things that go wrong on the pitch,” said Bromwich.
“We’re a new team, we’ve only been together since January and obviously it will take some time for the chemistry to build. But what we have on our side is that we are a team full of workers. That’s working for us right now.”