Benji Marshall's resurgence has continued as the Broncos downed South Sydney in front of 30,578 fans at Suncorp Stadium Friday night after star five-eighth Anthony Milford came from the field in the 72nd minute suffering a dislocated shoulder.
Broncos coach Wayne Bennett was highly criticised for signing Marshall last year with many saying that Marshall is well past it. It now appears that Marshall has silenced his critics and repaid the faith of the master coach.
Marshall, who started from the bench, had already been subbed on before the injury to Milford, coming on for halfback Kodi Nikormia. Marshall's first touch had him stepping past two players and throwing a dummy before making 15 meters.
Marshall then came up big in a few clutch moments after South Sydney made a late comeback. It was a grubber kick in the 76th minute that summed up Marshalls form of late, the kick was placed to perfection exactly when the Broncos needed it.
Marshall has played the last three games for the Broncos and it must be said he's been putting the pressure on all starting halves during that time. With Milford set to miss at least six weeks and Ben Hunt dropped to reserve grade, it certainly looks as though Marshall will steer the ship for a least the next month or so.
Many are claiming Brisbane’s season is in tatters with no Milford and the out of favour Hunt. But a rejuvenated Marshall brings a different feature set than the injured five-eighth Milford and he proved it in the win over the Rabbitohs. His ability to put the pressure on the opposing teams in the clutch moments, kicking and fifth tackle options have been Brisbane’s biggest downfall so far this year.
Marshall also brings composure, he's been there and played in the big games before. I’m sure if Wayne Bennet chooses Marshall to take the reins from Milford, for however long that might be, Brisbane won’t miss a beat.
A timely return to form for Marshall now sees him get his chance to impress Bennett and push for a contract extension, with the veteran believing he still has another year or more left in him.
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