NRL, ROUND 14, JUNE 4th, 2023 INDUSTREE GROUP STADIUM, GOSFORD, NSW
In a highly anticipated NRL clash, the stage is set for an electrifying battle between the Sydney Roosters and the Canterbury Bulldogs. Taking place on June 4th, 2023, at the Industree Group Stadium in Gosford, NSW, this encounter promises to be a riveting showdown between these two formidable teams.
Both the Roosters and the Bulldogs are eager to make a statement after their recent bye week. The Roosters, coming off a challenging stretch with only two wins in their last seven matches, will be banking on their dominant record against the Bulldogs. Under the tenure of coach Trent Robinson, the Roosters have emerged victorious in 14 out of 18 clashes against their long-standing rivals, instilling confidence in their ability to conquer on Sunday afternoon.
However, the Roosters have been dealt a blow with key players Brandon Smith and Victor Radley unavailable due to injury and suspension. Furthermore, James Tedesco and Lindsay Collins, who are expected to feature in the opening State of Origin fixture, must navigate the game unscathed to secure their spots in the final team. With Jake Turpin stepping in at hooker and the return of Kiwi duo Joseph Manu and Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, the Roosters aim to bolster their lineup. Additionally, Junior Pauga, a former Tigers outside back, will make his club debut, replacing Jaxson Paulo on the wing.
In a surprising turn of events, the Roosters find themselves in unfamiliar territory, currently occupying the 10th spot. As they prepare for this crucial clash, they face the challenge of a resurgent Bulldogs team, fresh off a morale-boosting win against the Titans.
Despite possessing attacking weapons like James Tedesco, Joey Manu, and Joseph Suaalii, the Roosters have struggled to find their scoring touch, averaging a mere 16 points per game in their 11 matches. This figure is a far cry from the impressive 26.4 points per game they achieved in the 2022 season, which led them to a commendable sixth-place finish. On the other hand, the Bulldogs have also faced difficulties in their offensive play, averaging only 17 points per game. They will be relying on the developing combination of Matt Burton and Karl Oloapu, while hoping for ample opportunities for Josh Addo-Carr to showcase his talent.
For the Roosters to regain their winning form, they will heavily depend on the leadership and performance of James Tedesco, who has consistently risen to the occasion in previous encounters against the Bulldogs. Furthermore, their forward pack must lay a solid platform for Luke Keary to orchestrate the team’s attacking plays.
Looking back at their recent head-to-head history, the Bulldogs put an end to a six-game losing streak by clinching a surprising 16-12 victory at Accor Stadium in their sole meeting last year. This victory was fueled by an impressive double from Josh Addo-Carr.
As the teams gear up for this highly anticipated clash, the Roosters have won eight of their last nine games against the Bulldogs. However, the Bulldogs aim to achieve consecutive wins against their rivals for the first time since 2016. With James Tedesco’s remarkable record of scoring five tries in his last four encounters against the Bulldogs and Josh Addo-Carr’s impressive tally of 10 tries in his past 12 games against the Roosters, all eyes will be on these dynamic players.
Notably, the Roosters have had a strong record on the Central Coast, winning four out of their last five games in the region.
With the stage set and anticipation running high, NRL fans are eagerly awaiting the clash between these two powerhouses. Don’t miss out on what promises to be an enthralling encounter between the Sydney Roosters and the Canterbury Bulldogs.
Roosters:
1. James Tedesco 2. Corey Allan 3. Joseph Suaalii 4. Billy Smith 5. Junior Pauga 6. Joseph Manu 7. Luke Keary 8. Jared Waerea-Hargreaves 9. Jake Turpin 10. Lindsay Collins 11. Egan Butcher 12. Nat Butcher 13. Sitili Tupouniua 14. Drew Hutchison 15. Nathan Brown 16. Angus Crichton 17. Matthew Lodge 18. Daniel Tupou 19. Sandon Smith 20. Jaxson Paulo 21. Terrell May 22. Naufahu Whyte
Bulldogs:
1. Hayze Perham 2. Jacob Kiraz 3. Jake Averillo 4. Paul Alamoti 5. Blake Wilson 6. Karl Oloapu 7. Matt Burton 8. Max King 9. Reed Mahoney 10. Ryan Sutton 11. Jayden Okunbor 12. Jacob Preston 13. Corey Waddell 14. Josh Reynolds 15. Kurtis Morrin 16. Samuel Hughes 17. Harrison Edwards 19. Khaled Rajab 20. Jackson Topine 21. Josh Addo-Carr 22. Kyle Flanagan 23. Tevita Pangai Junior 24. Jeral Skelton
Referees: Ashley Klein; Sideline Officials: Drew Oultram, Damian Brady; Video Referees: Matt Noyen;
PREDICTION.
I think the Roosters will be too hot here. They need to regain some form as they have been only average so far this season. Roosters to win minus, 10.5 points @ $1.93 looks lovely.
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