Newcastle will take Daniel Abraham to Auckland as emergency reserve today, while Ben Kennedy and Bill Peden leave tomorrow because of personal commitments. Warriors skipper Stacey Jones has been unable to train because of his ankle injury but is expected to be fit. The beat the Knights 42-0 here in '99. Canberra need to start giving their fans and new coach cause for optimism regarding 2002. The last time these sides played in the national capital, it snowed.
Outright second is up for grabs in an intriguing battle.
Justin Hodges' sacking may have some effect on the Broncos morale. Broncos winger Wendell Sailor plays his 200th first-grade game, including all competitions while Bulldogs benchman Barry Ward makes his 200th for the club. Brisbane centre Michael De Vere needs four points to reach 500. LeagueHQ's online tipping competition . Check out Phil Gould's 2001 NRL guide .