I cannot stress enough how just important Round 11 is.

This is the completion of the "first third" of the NRL season.

With the Origin period starting from Round 12 onward, and seemingly lasting for three months, the competition is completely different moving forward.

Of course a win or a loss this weekend won't decide a season ... except it might.

In the case of the Knights vs the Eels, the loser is all but done for the year. I'd argue the winner faces an uphill battle to play finals, but a much easier task than their opponent.

Each and every round presents its own round of questions, but this weekend just seems that little bit more special.

Here are the five big questions to be answered in Round 11:

3. Can Zac Lomax retain his Origin spot?

Zac Lomax was absolutely magnificent for the Blues last year. He scored tries, he kicked goals from everywhere and he played a huge part in overturning a 1-0 deficit in the series.

Although he had moved back into the centres, the general feeling was if he's fit, he's there for Origin One.

Well, that has been complicated by an injury that will see him return one game prior to Origin selection.

I still believe he will shade the likes of Jacob Kiraz and Tom Trbojevic but that hinges on getting through the game and performing well.

Lomax is absolutely in the Blues best 17. He will start on the wing if he can return, play 80 and play well.

Unless of course Jacob Kiraz has another monster game against the Roosters.

Both play Friday evening/night so we'll likely have a feel for which winger is likely to join Brian To'o for the series opener.

1 COMMENT

  1. Dan – I have cheated and I’m reading /replying on Sunday night:

    Sharks the real deal ? Based on the first half – losing two players to injury and going in comfortably in front – then I’d say “Yes”. Based on the second half, “No”.

    Wests – false dawn ? Yes. They are better than previous years, but fringe-eight only.

    Zac to keep his spot ? Yes: he’s good and he’s enthusiastic. (Compare to DCE)

    DCE a spent force ? Not washed up, but not putting in 100%. I suspect he’ll get motoring only at the end of the season, to help get a new deal.

    Warriors bubble to burst ? Well, didn’t happen at the weekend, but they never give me any confidence that they are going to keep on keeping on.