NRL, ROUND 14, JUNE 4th, 2023 BLUEBET STADIUM,PENRITH
In a highly anticipated NRL encounter, get ready for a battle of epic proportions as the Penrith Panthers take on the St George Dragons. Set to unfold on June 4th, 2023, at the iconic BlueBet Stadium in Penrith, this clash promises to deliver exhilarating rugby league action.
The Panthers, fresh off their bye week, are looking to build on their recent stellar form, which has catapulted them to the top of the NRL ladder. Meanwhile, the Dragons aim to prove that their impressive victory over the Roosters was not just a one-off triumph.
Unfortunately for the Dragons, their hopes for continued success were dampened by a disappointing defeat to the Dolphins in their previous outing, albeit without their skipper Ben Hunt. Nevertheless, Hunt is expected to make a comeback after backing up from Wednesday’s Origin game, resulting in Jayden Sullivan shifting back to the bench.
The Dragons sorely missed Hunt’s leadership and attacking direction in their last match. While Sullivan, Talatau Amone, and Tyrell Sloan show promise, they still lack consistency at the top level, often drifting in and out of games. These young talents have faced the challenge of developing at a tender age, compounded by the constant back-and-forth between first grade and lower levels. Patience is crucial in their growth, even if desired results haven’t always materialized on the field.
On the team news front, Jaydn Su’A’s return from a knee injury is a timely boost for the Dragons, particularly with Jack Bird set to be rested on Sunday afternoon.
As for the Panthers, they capitalized on their bye week, securing another two points without breaking a sweat. They now enter the contest with a hunger for their fourth consecutive victory. Coach Ivan Cleary has opted to back up all of his Origin players, sticking with the same 17 who triumphed in a defensive battle against the Broncos at Suncorp Stadium two weeks ago, emerging with a 15-4 win.
While Spencer Leniu, Matt Eisenhuth, and Izack Tago are listed among the reserves and have a chance of playing, their inclusion would be contingent on the availability of Penrith’s Origin players. If all Origin stars back up, Tago would replace Tyrone Peachey, Leniu would join the bench in place of Lindsay Smith, and Eisenhuth might miss out on a spot in the 17 entirely.
Notably, the Panthers possess ample alternatives in case some of their Origin players are rested. Jack Cogger can step in as an option in the halves, Tom Jenkins provides cover in the outside backs, and Luke Garner becomes a strong contender to give Liam Martin a well-deserved rest.
With the stage set for this highly anticipated clash, the Panthers have firmly established their dominance with a top-of-the-ladder position. However, the Dragons are determined to prove themselves and build upon their recent triumph. Don’t miss out on the thrilling showdown between the Penrith Panthers and the St George Dragons.
PENRITH. 1. Dylan Edwards 2. Sunia Turuva 3. Tyrone Peachey 4. Stephen Crichton 5. Brian To’o 6. Jarome Luai 7. Nathan Cleary 8. Moses Leota 9. Mitch Kenny 10. James Fisher-Harris 11. Scott Sorensen 12. Zac Hosking 13. Isaah Yeo 14. Soni Luke 15. Lindsay Smith 16. Liam Martin 17. Jaeman Salmon 18. Jack Cogger 19. Luke Garner 20. Thomas Jenkins 21. Matt Eisenhuth 22. Liam Henry 23. Izack Tago 24. Spencer Leniu
ST GEORGE. 1. Tyrell Sloan 2. Mathew Feagai 3. Moses Suli 4. Zac Lomax 5. Mikaele Ravalawa 6. Talatau Amone 7. Ben Hunt 8. Francis Molo 9. Jacob Liddle 10. Michael Molo 11. Billy Burns 12. Jaydn Su’A 13. Jack de Belin 14. Jayden Sullivan 15. Ben Murdoch-Masila 16. Jaiyden Hunt 17. Josh Kerr 18. Moses Mbye 19. Toby Couchman 20. Zane Musgrove 21. Max Feagai 22. Tautau Moga
Referees: Chris Sutton; Sideline Officials: Wyatt Raymond, Phil Henderson; Video Referees: Chris Butler;
PREDICTION.
First v Last here. This result will come down to how many Penrith players are rested after Origin, but who ever plays the Panthers will still win. Penrith 13 plus points @ $1.68.
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