Roosters (1st) v Cowboys (5th)
The Roosters were surprised last week by the Panthers, missing a golden opportunity to secure themselves a week off. Their execution was present during the match, although the inconsistencies at various stages lead to their downfall. Towards the end of the match, it was evident that the pressure was growing. At several stages, they had poor 6th tackle options, while at other points their halves were dominating. They are boosted by the return of key players this week and appear to be too talented and experienced to lose consecutive matches at this point of the season. Then again, they are facing a team that is high in confidence and proving their capabilities with their form. The Cowboys overcame the Broncos last week with a score line that somewhat flattered their opponents. The halftime lead of 24-points was a true indication of how well they were playing. They would be disappointed with how they concluded the match, but will put that behind them as they progress another week in the competition. They are up against a difficult opponent here and one that will pose further questions compared with the Broncos.
Team News
Roosters = Jake Friend returns at hooker, forcing Mitchell Aubusson back to the bench. Frank-Paul Nuuausala, who is relegated to accommodate the return of Aidan Guerra at lock, will join him. Sam Moa is named to start and Kane Evans is named as 18th man.
Cowboys = Glenn Hall comes into the starting side for Tariq Sims (suspension) and Ethan Lowe is the new face on the bench.
History
Overall = Roosters 21 Cowboys 9
Last 5 matches = Roosters 2 Cowboys 3
At Allianz Stadium = Roosters 8 Cowboys 3
Verdict
Undoubtedly, the Cowboys struggles on the road this season are going to have an impact on their performance in this match. Do not overlook the fact that they have only won in Sydney 3 times this season, albeit against the Sharks, an out of form Bulldogs and the Rabbitohs. The last was certainly their best effort, but this match will be completely different altogether. Their form will count for something, but the Roosters are a team that possesses several attacking threats at numerous positions. On top of that, their resolute defense should be able to handle the pressure that the Cowboys will build. JT is the Cowboys spark, but too often they will depend upon his contribution. Other players need to take responsibility and put the defensive line in two minds. Throughout the season there has been a clear divide between the Top 4 teams and the rest of the competition and with the Roosters back to full strength, they should be too strong here, albeit by a smaller margin due to the intensity of Finals football.
Suggested Bet
Roosters 1-12 @ $2.70
Jet boots = Michael Jennings FTS and/or LTS @ $8 – He will be facing a former Rooster in Tautau Moga, a player who can be caught out by the speed of his opponents. He was kept quiet last week but will be aiming to find the line here for his team. This match up is too good to overlook and will be one that the Roosters aim to expose.
Sea Eagles (2nd) v Bulldogs (7th)
The Sea Eagles are battered and bruised at the moment, even more so after the Rabbitohs humiliated them in the first 60 minutes of their match. It was looking grim for the team that lost the Minor Premiership in Round 26, with the score line at the end of the match flattering their efforts. They are down on players and with lacklustre performances on the field; discontent continues to grow within the playing ground. The Bulldogs are the opposite of that, running into form at the right time of the year after a disappointing end to the season. Last weeks win against the Storm in Melbourne highlighted just what they are capable of when their players are working together. They are still capable of switching off, but Des Hasler is a great coach who knows how to bring the most out of his players when it matters. They will sense the opportunity that has been offered to them this week, a match against a weakened opponent with the chance to move within one game of the Grand Final.
Team News
Sea Eagles = Tom Symonds comes into the second row to replace Anthony Watmough (suspension), while Dunamis Lui starts at lock. James Hasson comes onto the bench.
Bulldogs = Unchanged, aside from the fact that Reni Maitua, Moses Mbye and Harlan Alaalatoa are added to the bench. Two of those players will have to miss out.
History
Overall = Sea Eagles 63 Draw 5 Bulldogs 52
Last 5 matches = Sea Eagles 2 Bulldogs 3
At Allianz Stadium = Sea Eagles 0 Bulldogs 1
Verdict
If the two sides were at full strength, the Sea Eagles would be hard to overlook. Fact is though, they aren’t and this Manly side is remarkably different without several key players taking the field. Keeping them together is their halves, who would’ve had a boost to their confidence at the end of last weeks match. However when you compare the two teams, the only area apart from this where the Sea Eagles have an advantage would be in the backs. The Bulldogs have a monstrous forward pack that would be difficult for any team to handle. If Manly were to use their advantage, they would first have to dominate this area of the match. That seems beyond them and the Bulldogs are bringing a high level of confidence to this match after they jagged their third win of the season over the Storm.
Suggested Bet
Bulldogs 1-12 @ $2.75
Good luck!
Scooby
Please Note:
All of the above are the opinions of the author and are not recommendations or advice. The author may not be taking every bet listed above. Bet at your own risk.
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