In a thrilling display of skill and leadership, the Brisbane Broncos secured a decisive 34-14 victory over the Canterbury Bulldogs on April 22, 2022, at Lang Park. This win snapped a four-game losing streak for the Broncos and highlighted the exceptional performances of key players, notably captain Adam Reynolds and rising star Selwyn Cobbo.
The match began with the Bulldogs taking an early lead, as winger Josh Addo-Carr crossed the try line twice within the first 30 minutes. The Broncos managed to respond just before halftime, with Corey Oates scoring to narrow the deficit. Despite this effort, the Bulldogs extended their lead early in the second half through a try by fullback Matt Dufty, bringing the score to 14-6.
Facing an eight-point gap, the Broncos needed a catalyst to shift the momentum. This came in the form of Cory Paix, who, after replacing Billy Walters at hooker, powered over from dummy half in the 56th minute to bring the Broncos closer. From this point, Adam Reynolds took command of the game. In the 62nd minute, he executed a strategic chip over the defense, retrieving the ball to score and give Brisbane their first lead of the match. Shortly thereafter, Reynolds delivered a precise lofted pass to Selwyn Cobbo, who finished expertly in the corner. The duo combined again when Cobbo showcased his athleticism by collecting a Reynolds grubber kick to secure his second try. Cobbo then turned provider, breaking down the right wing and kicking in-field for Rhys Kennedy to score, sealing the match for the Broncos.
Adam Reynolds’ performance was instrumental, as he contributed significantly to the Broncos’ late surge. His leadership and playmaking abilities were evident, with coach Kevin Walters praising Reynolds’ influence on the team. Walters highlighted Reynolds’ composure and ability to guide the team under pressure, stating, “He’s a cool head but when it’s time to go, he knows when to put the foot down.”
Selwyn Cobbo’s impact was equally remarkable. The young winger not only scored two pivotal tries but also set up another, demonstrating his burgeoning talent and importance to the team. His combination of speed, agility, and game awareness posed a constant threat to the Bulldogs’ defense. Coach Walters commended Cobbo’s performance, noting the significant contribution he made to the team’s success.
This victory was crucial for the Broncos, lifting team morale and providing a platform to build upon for the remainder of the season. The combination of experienced leadership from Reynolds and the emerging talent of players like Cobbo offers a promising outlook for Brisbane’s future performances.
