* Quote of the Round: “We need to make sure that the standard of the surface is consistent across all NRL teams. It’s not that hard, we’re a professional sport now.” – Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson wasn’t happy with the Brookvale surface, believing it contributed to recruit Brett Morris’s knee injury against Manly.
* Man of the Round: Tevita Pangai. Absolutely bullied North Queensland in a fearsome display that included massive shots on Jason Taumalolo and Josh McGuire. Scored a try, picked up 115 metres and made five tackle busts as the Broncos smashed the Cowboys.
* Stat that Matters: Jai Arrow ran for 299m in a losing Gold Coast side. Since records started being kept in 1999, only three forwards, including Jason Taumalolo the round prior, have run for 300 metres.
* Magic Moment: James Maloney’s defensive frailties were nowhere to be seen when the 32-year-old completed a one-on-one strip on Edrick Lee to deny the Newcastle winger a certain try in Penrith’s narrow win over the Knights.
* Talking Point: The NRL’s ambition to expand or even relocate teams continues to rumble on. Cronulla captain Paul Gallen joined the debate on Sunday saying Queenslanders wouldn’t get on board if a Sydney team was move to the Sunshine State.
* Judiciary Watch: South Sydney – Liam Knight (dangerous contact).
* Casualty Ward: Roosters – Brett Morris (knee), Lindsay Collins (concussion); Canberra – Joe Tapine (broken thumb); North Queensland – Jason Taumalolo (knee), Nene MacDonald (concussion); Cronulla – Jayden Brailey (concussion); South Sydney – John Sutton (chest); Manly – Curtis Sironen (concussion).
* Under Pressure: It’s only round two but Gold Coast coach Garth Brennan and Canterbury’s Dean Pay are feeling the heat after back-to-back defeats to start their campaigns.