The Wrap - All Set for Upsets

NRL Upsets. No one more upset than Anthony Seibold setting an NRL record in being dumped so quickly after three rounds as Manly coach. One loss in golden point and some flat displays, but there will be heaps of nervous coaches if that is the new standard! Private ownership has never really worked in sport. Incredible. As a previous dumped Manly coach one said “there’s gotta be an investigation into this. Someone has to be held accountable for this”.

Not only did the Panthers upset Parra (Lol!), but the Cowboys beat the Storm, the Knights beat the Bulldogs, the Wigers beat the Warriors. Even the Sharks beating Canberra felt like an upset.

AFL. The misery of Essendon continues, but the West Coast Eagles beat the might of Port Adelaide! First proper season win forever, but two in a row! The capitulation of Carlton from a 40-1 lead to lose to Melbourne was staggering. That has happened twice this year already. The Siebold effect could be close there too! 

Sheffield Shield Final. Victoria were looking good chasing 187 to win. Alex Carey 103no put SA in a better position, with Nathan McAndrew hitting 60. SA have no bowling, but Scott Boland, Will Sutherland and Fergus O’Neill shared the wickets for Victoria. This O’Neill is a handy cricketer. Scored 64no too with critical first innings runs! 

The final is now evenly poised with Victoria 5/102 at stumps, chasing 187 for the win. Gotta love cricket! 

IPL. It all got underway this weekend too and the ever wasteful Travis Head fell for 11. He needs to concentrate and lock in. He is so talented, but gives it all away time and time again. Reports are that Cummins and Hazelwood will be fit to play soon (of course!). Cameron Green is under immense pressure let it be said. Tim David back in form coming in at number 6 (NOT number four Ronnie McD!). 

Waratahs. A victory over the Brumbies is an upset for the ages! Incredible turnaround. Still mid table, but there is hope. Leading the Blues last week and throwing it away was troubling, but a win there would have them right in the hunt. The good news? They are now on the same number of points as the Crusaders! Anything is possible.

Japanese F1. Oscar had his chances.., but a great drive really. His first track appearance funnily enough this year. Mercedes are absolutely dominating and look unbeatable. Antonelli leads as the youngest man ever to do so. The sport is unbelievably fast. Looks like a few were left napping in the prep for this season, especially McLaren. Is the safety car rule needing revision? Should distances be maintained upon resumption? 

Sydney Kings. Bounced back with a strong Game 3 on their home court after a shock loss to the 36ers in their backyard in Game 2. Yet another upset!

A 2-1 series lead is always handy in a best of five series. The Championship is within sight. 

The Kings (5-3) and the 36ers (4-4) have played in eight Championship series each. A win here will take the Sydney Kings to six Championship wins... equal to the Melbourne United, but four behind the Perth Wildcats who lead with the most on 10! For the 36ers with the great Bryce Cotton on deck, a series win will see them draw equal with the Kings on 5 championship wins.