Parker defends Madge after continued criticism

Corey Parker has come to the defence of Michael Maguire following renewed criticism surrounding the two-time NRL premiership coach after the Broncos’ poor start to 2026.

Following losses to Hull KR in the World Club Challenge and NRL season opener to the Penrith Panthers, the pressure has been on Maguire to turn the tide despite winning the Broncos’ first NRL premiership in 19 years just last October.

Much of that pressure has come from the former South Sydney coach and his training methods, with constant reports suggesting they can be too hard on players.

But despite the criticism, it does seem to be having a positive effect as explained by Penrith superstar Nathan Cleary during the Broncos' come-from-behind win in the preliminary final.

“It was the first time in the four or five-year period where I felt like another team were fitter than us and coming home stronger,” Cleary told the Hello Sport podcast.

“I can honestly say, we look at that game and there were periods in that game where we would love to have it back, and the game could have completely changed.

“But it doesn’t matter, the better team is the won that one.”

And as 347-game former Bronco Parker noted, that is quite the achievement.

“Do you know what that feeling is like?” Parker said on SENQ Breakfast.

“When you’re playing a game, and the other team is coming, and you can’t hold it, you can feel them coming, and they end up running over the top of you like Brisbane did?

“For Nathan Cleary to say that off five Grand Finals and four wins in a row, that is saying something.”

The Broncos will be hopeful of securing their first win of 2026 when they take on the Parramatta Eels on Thursday at Suncorp Stadium.

Kick off takes place at 8pm AEDT with SEN having two commentary calls for the match with Broncos Radio and our neutral SEN League call.

Both will be available on SEN’s radio network and on the SEN app from 6pm, with kick-off taking place at 8pm.