JUNE 30th, 2023 NZ WARRIORS v SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS
GO MEDIA STADIUM,AUCKLAND. Formerly Mt. Smart Stadium
In what promises to be a thrilling NRL encounter, the stage is set for a colossal clash between the NZ Warriors and the South Sydney Rabbitohs on June 30th, 2023. The Go Media Stadium in Auckland will be the battleground where these two powerhouses collide in a fight for dominance.
The Warriors are on an impressive streak, aiming for four consecutive victories for the first time since early-2018. Their recent performances have been nothing short of exceptional, with standout players like Shaun Johnson, Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, Addin Fonua-Blake, and Tohu Harris leading the charge. However, it is winger Dallin Watene-Zelezniak who has stolen the spotlight with his incredible form, scoring an astounding 12 tries in his last eight games.
While the Warriors have been riding high, the South Sydney Rabbitohs have hit a rough patch in recent weeks. After a string of six consecutive victories, injuries have taken their toll on the Rabbitohs, causing a significant dip in their performance. Last week’s devastating 31-6 loss to North Queensland was a bitter blow, marking their worst defeat of 2023.
The Rabbitohs’ defense, once considered impenetrable, has crumbled, conceding 28-plus points in each of their past matches. The absence of key player Latrell Mitchell has dealt a severe blow to their confidence, and Cody Walker’s return from injury hasn’t yielded the expected results. It’s a critical moment for the Rabbitohs to regroup and find their winning formula again.
When these two teams meet, it’s often a lopsided affair in favor of the Rabbitohs. They have emerged victorious in 13 out of their last 14 encounters, including the last seven consecutive matches. However, the Warriors are determined to turn the tide this time around. Last season, despite a narrow 32-30 loss in Magic Round, the Warriors showcased their potential in an otherwise dominating 48-10 defeat on the Sunshine Coast.
The Warriors have proven themselves as a genuine top-four contender this season. Their attacking potency now matches their strong defensive capabilities, making them a formidable force on the field. With a home-ground advantage, having won three out of four matches in Auckland this year, the Warriors are poised to capitalize on the electric atmosphere at the sold-out Mt Smart Stadium.
In terms of team news, the Warriors make just one change with Mitch Barnett returning from suspension in place of Marata Niukore. On the other hand, the Rabbitohs bring Siliva Havili and Shaquai Mitchell back on the bench, replacing Jacob Host and Jed Cartwright.
As anticipation builds for this colossal NRL showdown, fans can expect fireworks on the field. The clash between the surging Warriors and the struggling Rabbitohs promises to be an intense battle of strength, skill, and determination. Will the Warriors continue their winning streak and solidify their place as a top-four contender? Or will the Rabbitohs rise above their recent slump and reclaim their winning form? Mark your calendars and be prepared for a spectacle of NRL greatness.
Warriors team: 1. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 3. Rocco Berry 4. Adam Pompey 5. Marcelo Montoya 6. Luke Metcalf 7. Shaun Johnson 8. Addin Fonua-Blake 9. Wayde Egan 10. Bunty Afoa 11. Jackson Ford 12. Josh Curran 13. Tohu Harris 14. Dylan Walker 15. Mitchell Barnett 16. Bayley Sironen 17. Tom Ale 18. Freddy Lussick 20. Brayden Wiliame 21. Ronald Volkman 22. Kalani Going 23. Zyon Maiuu
Rabbitohs team: 1. Blake Taaffe 2. Alex Johnston 3. Isaiah Tass 4. Campbell Graham 5. Richard Kennar 6. Cody Walker 7. Lachlan Ilias 8. Tevita Tatola 9. Damien Cook 10. Hame Sele 11. Keaon Koloamatangi 12. Michael Chee Kam 13. Cameron Murray 14. Siliva Havili 15. Shaq Mitchell 16. Davvy Moale 17. Thomas Burgess 18. Tyrone Munro 19. Taane Milne 20. Dean Hawkins 21. Peter Mamouzelos 22. Jacob Gagai
PREDICTION
This will be a tight game in Auckland, but maybe at home in front of a sold out crowd with the home side fans will give the Warriors a small advantage. They look better this year but still a little shaky in some area’s. They can not afford to give the Rabbits even a little sniff, otherwise they will run away with the game.
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