NRL

Michael Maguire has fronted a post-match media conference as the losing coach for the 14th time in 20 matches this season as his star-studded side now sits humbled, second-last on the NRL ladder.

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While the wheels fell off the Broncos’ title defence several weeks ago, the pain of being run down 40-32 by cross-town rivals the Dolphins was another blow for the 2025 premiers, particularly after leading 24-0 in the 22nd minute at a packed Suncorp Stadium.

“It hurts,” Maguire admitted after the poor defensive effort than conceded seven tries and was the third time this year the Broncos have score 30 points or more — and lost. 

“Obviously I’m frustrated… you can’t let in that many tries to put yourselves in a position to be able to really contend.”

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In an unwanted piece of history, the Round 23 loss was Brisbane’s seventh consecutive NRL defeat at Suncorp Stadium, the club’s worst losing streak at the ground.

The Broncos haven’t won at Suncorp since beating the Bulldogs 32-12 in Round 8, dropping games to the Warriors, Dragons, Titans, Roosters, Sharks, Knights and now the Dolphins.

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Asked why his team has struggled to get wins at its former fortress, Michael Maguire agreed Suncorp’s reputation as one of the best rugby league grounds in the world may have something to do with it.

“We are obviously pretty spoiled to be able to play at a great ground like this,” he said. 

“Everyone loves coming to play here.

“Everyone’s going to turn up and be at their best, so we need to be at our best… we’re currently not doing that for long enough.”

Things don’t get any easier, mind you.

Brisbane gets another chance to defend its home turf next weekend in Round 24 against the second-placed New Zealand Warriors.

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