Matty Johns' 250/1 miracle pick for the 'sensational' Knights star as Fox League selects Vegas MVPs
Matty Johns believes Canterbury skipper Stephen Crichton is the NRL superstar best suited to introduce rugby league to Americans, while also suggesting that the conditions inside Allegiant Stadium this Saturday could lead to Kalyn Ponga playing one of his greatest games.
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Round 1
The declaration comes as Johns also endorsed Knights No. 6, Fletcher Sharpe, as his dark horse pick for Las Vegas MVP, following his successful 250/1 Magic Round bet last year.
On the eve of the NRL season opener, Fox Sports Australia asked Johns, Gorden Tallis, and Cooper Cronk to identify the NRL superstar most likely to captivate American audiences in Las Vegas.
Prior to Thursday night's highly anticipated Fremont Street experience, Johns recommended Crichton as rugby league's top salesman, while Tallis favored a Cowboys backrower resembling a character from 'Swamp People'.
Meanwhile, Cronk expressed support for Canterbury backrower Viliame Kikau.
When asked for his own perspective, Johns began: 'Kalyn Ponga is the obvious choice, but for me, I look at the Bulldogs and see Stephen Crichton. He possesses immense charisma and is a true professional. I believe there's something truly special about him.'
Regarding Ponga, Johns predicted: 'A dry track inside Allegiant Stadium would suit him best. Kalyn will roam freely and could have one of his best games. Another player to consider is Tommy Dearden. I envision Americans watching him and thinking, 'This guy is all heart.''
'Pressure is a privilege' | 01:09
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After a brief pause, the Fox Sports analyst mentioned another player.
'I'll tell you what,' he said, 'there's another guy, and that's Fletcher Sharpe. Wearing the six, he's relentless. While he may not be the most charismatic, I believe he could be the best player. He's sensational. Last year at Magic Round, I made a bet with my son Jack, predicting a dry track. South Sydney was struggling, so I backed the Knights to win and Fletcher to score three tries or more. We won, and he scored two tries in the first 10 minutes. It was incredible!'
Paid well then? 'Ah, 250/1,' Johns smiled.
Meanwhile, fellow Fox Sports analyst Tallis also predicted North Queensland's Dearden to captivate American audiences, pairing him with fellow Cowboy Reuben Cotter in a Las Vegas quinella. 'Reuben Cotter is a force to be reckoned with,' Tallis joked, 'and he looks like he's from Alabama. His southern haircut is straight out of 'Swamp People'. His performance with the Kangaroos was incredible. Just like he did, I gained new respect for the way he plays the game.'
Tallis continued, explaining why his picks are ideal for promoting rugby league in America: 'Our sport lacks helmets and pads. However, what can truly sell rugby league here is its inclusivity. Reuben Cotter and Tommy Dearden can make a significant impact because Americans already know they're in for a tough game. Dearden's red hair and small stature make him relatable to the American audience.'
Cronk, on the other hand, favored Kikau, stating, 'He has a wild haircut to go with his powerful hits and scoring ability.'
Tallis also expressed interest in watching Ponga and Bulldogs young gun Lachie Galvin. 'Galvin generated more buzz last year than any other player,' Tallis noted. 'While some of the attention was justified, some wasn't. But that's the nature of the game. I'm eager to see his playing style. Last year, he was thrown into the deep end, so everyone will be watching.'
Regarding Ponga, Tallis remarked, 'Newcastle, like our sport's heartbeat, needs a strong season. Kalyn Ponga is the key player, and Dylan Brown can provide support. Until now, Ponga has carried the burden, but if he can get others involved, it will help. Dylan has a great running game, and he can open up the field for Kalyn.'
