As the semi-finals loom, Benji Marshall from the Wests Tigers is on top form and has maybe put the “fear of death” into other teams and especially their captains.
A pole this week was conducted of the eight semi-finals skippers on who shapes as the main dangerman. Marshall and Dragons fullback Darius Boyd polled the most votes.
Marshall has not played a semi-final match since his famous flick pass helped Wests Tigers win the 2005 grand final against North Queensland.
“He just has that ability to change a game,” Roosters skipper Braith Anasta said.
“Benji is a class act and he has been there before. He has won a premiership.”
Panthers captain Petero Civoniceva added: “It’s scary what he can do. Benji is coming into some great form. He creates so many opportunities.”
Wests Tigers skipper Robbie Farah spoke glowingly of his Tigers teammate.
“Benji is a player that can win you a game. He has shown consistency this year,” Farah said. “He can produce that moment of brilliance.
“And he can create something out of nothing. I have played with some great players but he can do things not many players can do.”
Boyd, a potential Dally M Medal winner tonight, was also well supported.
“He gains so many back-field metres,” said Canberra skipper Alan Tongue. “He has been in outstanding form. He really gets the Dragons on the front foot.”
And Saints captain Ben Hornby added: “Darius has created so many tries this year. He has made a heap of line breaks. His involvement is a key for us.”
Buford Balony says: Benji is the man. Of course the other teams are fretting, even he doesn’t know what he’s going to do, so how could anyone else. I’m tipping Tigers vs Panthers for Grand Final with the Dragons choking after beating Manly this week. Who do think will win?
