Season Over?’ Maguire Fires Back as Tedesco’s Heartwarming Gesture Steals the Show
The Brisbane Broncos may have fallen to a seventh consecutive defeat, but coach Michael Maguire insists his side’s season is far from over.
The Broncos’ 24-18 loss to the Sydney Roosters at Lang Park has intensified scrutiny on the reigning premiers, who have now gone winless since their Round 8 victory over Canterbury on April 24. Sitting 13th on the ladder and six competition points outside the top eight, many believe their premiership defence is hanging by a thread.
Former Queensland Origin enforcer Billy Moore didn’t mince his words during ABC Sport’s commentary, declaring the Broncos’ title hopes finished.
“We’ve been saying for weeks their season was on life support. I think it’s over now. They’re not able to dig themselves out of this hole,” Moore said.
Maguire, however, refused to accept that narrative. While acknowledging the disappointing run, the Broncos coach pointed to the commitment and resilience his players displayed against the Roosters.
“People can say whatever they like. I know this group, and I believe in what they’re capable of. If we keep fighting like that, we’ll let our football do the talking,” Maguire said after the match.
His optimism has divided opinion. Some fans questioned whether the coach was in denial, noting that the Roosters were backing up for their third match in just nine days, while Brisbane entered the contest significantly fresher. Yet others believed the Broncos showed encouraging signs after heavy defeats to the Dragons, Titans and Rabbitohs in recent weeks.
One supporter, Stephen T, summed up the performance from an opposition perspective.
“As an Easts supporter, I thought the Broncos were outstanding in patches. Their forwards really aimed up, Walsh looked dangerous every time he touched the ball, and his kicking game was excellent. A few costly penalties and mistakes in the second half gave the Roosters the momentum they needed.”
Captain Payne Haas, who wore the armband with Adam Reynolds and Pat Carrigan sidelined, also dismissed speculation linking him with a move to South Sydney.
“It’s BS. There’s no way I’d ever let that happen. I’m fully committed to the Broncos,” Haas said.
Despite the defeat, one post-match moment captured the hearts of fans. A video shared across social media showed Roosters skipper James Tedesco embracing and consoling Haas after the final siren. In a night defined by fierce competition, Tedesco’s gesture of sportsmanship and respect reminded everyone that some of rugby league’s most powerful moments happen after the game is over.
