NRL Season Previews - Roosters, Warriors, Tigers, Titans

LeagueUnlimited's Paul Zines reflects on 2008 and looks ahead to 2009.

Season previews and teams of NRL clubs: Roosters, Warriors, Tigers and Titans.

Sydney Roosters

2008 Position: 4th - knocked out in Semi Finals by the New Zealand Warriors

Was 2008 a successful season for the Roosters? Under the guidance of debutant coach Brad Fittler, the boys from the Eastern Suburbs managed to book a home match in week one of the final series, yet were extremely disappointing against the Broncos and then the Warriors. However it is hard to criticise them as they definitely exceeded public expectations. Their squad had enough quality to make the final series and the experience to really push for a premiership; however, it is the way they were knocked out that would disappoint most of their supporters. In both finals matches, they were unable to score any second half points while leading both at half time. This is simply unacceptable in relation to how strong their side was. Going into 2009, the Roosters have lost some quality personnel and will rely a lot on the more experienced players to help the younger ones who will be called upon. This could be captain Craig Fitzgibbon