sentences:  Despite being without key forward Glenn Lazarus and hampered by a troublesome groin injury, Allan Langer led his side to victory 26–8 for their third premiership in front of almost 60,000 home fans.Following the premiership win, the Broncos also won the 1997 World Club Championship which involved clubs from the Super League as well.In the pre-season of 1998 the National Rugby League (NRL) was formed, after a merger deal was struck between the Australian Rugby League and Super League organisations.