NRL, ROUND 14, JUNE 2nd, 2023 WEST TIGERS v CANBERRA RAIDERS
CAMPBELLTOWN STADIUM,SYDNEY
In a highly anticipated showdown, the stage is set for a thrilling encounter between the West Tigers and the Canberra Raiders in NRL Round 14. As the two teams prepare to face off at Campbelltown Stadium, the Tigers find themselves faced with the daunting task of overcoming the Raiders’ dominance, aiming to end their six-match losing streak against their formidable opponents.
Recent history heavily favors the Raiders, who have emerged victorious in nine of their last ten encounters against the Tigers. Notably, the Tigers last tasted victory over the Raiders at Campbelltown Stadium back in 2014, a statistic that only amplifies the challenge facing the home team.
Under the leadership of coach Ricky Stuart, the Raiders have experienced a resurgence after a challenging start to the season. Winning six of their last seven matches, Canberra has shown commendable form and looks poised to climb the ladder. Currently in seventh place, they sit just two points behind the top four teams, making this clash a pivotal opportunity for the Raiders to make a decisive push towards the summit.
On the other hand, the West Tigers have undergone a commendable revival of their own. Following a string of seven consecutive losses to kick off the season, the Tigers have turned their fortunes around with three wins in their last four matches. A record-breaking victory against the Cowboys in Round 12 showcased their offensive firepower, while nail-biting triumphs over the Panthers and Dragons solidified their resolve.
However, the Tigers will face the Raiders without the services of star hooker Api Koroisau, who will be busy representing his state in the Ampol State of Origin series. Furthermore, the absence of the influential Hudson Young, representing NSW, adds another layer of difficulty for the Raiders. This creates an opportunity for the Tigers to exploit any weaknesses in their opponents’ lineup and strive for their fourth win of the season, which would further propel them up the ladder.
In the quest for victory, both teams will heavily rely on their key players. The Raiders’ Jordan Rapana has been in scintillating form, scoring tries in four of his last five encounters against the Tigers. On the other side, David Nofoaluma has been a consistent threat, finding the try line in his last four games. The performances of these players will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the match.
The Raiders, buoyed by their recent win against the Rabbitohs in Round 13, have proven their resilience in the face of adversity. Despite the absence of key forwards Elliot Whitehead and Hudson Young, Corey Horsburgh has admirably stepped up to provide a solid foundation for the team. Sitting seventh on the ladder, the Raiders are determined to solidify their position in the top eight before facing the Warriors at home, setting the stage for an exciting clash against the Tigers.
With their eyes firmly set on victory, the Raiders aim to extend their winning streak against the Tigers. The visitors have displayed an undeniable dominance in their head-to-head encounters, winning the last six matches between the teams and maintaining an unbeaten record at Campbelltown Stadium since 2014.
In conclusion, as the West Tigers prepare to take on the Canberra Raiders, the stage is set for an enthralling battle. Both teams carry a mix of recent successes and challenges, adding intrigue to the match. The Tigers will be eager to upset the Raiders’ winning streak and continue their upward trajectory, while the Green Machine aims to extend their dominance and solidify their position among the top contenders. The outcome of this clash will undoubtedly have significant implications for both teams as they seek to make their mark in the NRL.
Remember to watch the West Tigers vs. Canberra Raiders NRL Round 14 clash at Campbelltown Stadium, Sydney, on June 2nd, 2023.
Tigers team: 1. Jahream Bula 2. David Nofoaluma 3. Starford To’a 4. Tommy Talau 5. Junior Tupou 6. Brandon Wakeham 7. Luke Brooks 8. Stefano Utoikamanu 9. Apisai Koroisau 10. David Klemmer 11. Isaiah Papali’i 12. John Bateman 13. Fonua Pole 14. Jake Simpkin 15. Alex Seyfarth 16. Alex Twal 17. Asu Kepaoa 18. Brent Naden 19. Aistasi James 20. Daine Laurie 21. Justin Matamua 22. Tallyn Da Silva
Raiders team: 1. Sebastian Kris 2. Nick Cotric 3. Albert Hopoate 4. Matthew Timoko 5. Jordan Rapana 6. Jack Wighton 7. Jamal Fogarty 8. Josh Papali’i 9. Zac Woolford 10. Pasami Saulo 11. Hudson Young 12. Corey Horsburgh 13. Joseph Tapine 14. Tom Starling 15. Emre Guler 16. Matt Frawley 17. Ata Mariota 18. Hohepa Puru 19. Danny Levi 20. Harley Smith-Shields 21. Xavier Savage 22. Peter Hola
PREDICTION.
Wests Tigers: Just one change to the 17 which put 66 points on the Cowboys in Round 12, and it’s to replace Joe Ofahengaue who has since transferred to the Eels. Fonua Pole is the new lock, with Alex Seyfarth coming into the side on the bench. Api Koroisau has been named to play, despite this game being played just 48 hours after the Origin opener in Adelaide. Back-up hooker Jake Simpkin is on the bench, while coach Tim Sheens has Daine Laurie and Brent Naden in his reserves for now.
Raiders: The backline has been reshuffled to cover for the absence of skipper Jarrod Croker, who is being rested so he can play his 300th game at home in Round 15. Nick Cotric moves back to the wing after coming off the bench last week, with Albert Hopoate shifting to centre. Jordan Rapana has been named after leaving the field for a HIA in the closing stages of last week’s win over the Rabbitohs, while Seb Kris is set to play despite picking up a knee issue in Round 13. Hudson Young is named to back up from the Origin opener in the second row, taking the place of Corey Harawira-Naera who is recovering after suffering a seizure on the field last week. Matt Frawley is the new face on the bench.
No doubt the Raiders will start as favorite but as always I like value and I think the Tigers can get up here in a cold night in Campbelltown which will be slippery I believe. With a 5.5 points start @ $1.68 looks tasty. I still think Raiders can win but not by a lot.
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