NRL, ROUND 21, JULY 22nd, 2023 GOLD COAST TITANS v SYDNEY ROOSTERS
CBUS STADIUM.ROBINA,GOLD COAST
The NRL action intensifies as the Gold Coast Titans gear up to face the Sydney Roosters in Round 21 at CBUS Stadium, Robina, Gold Coast. Despite the bookies’ favor, the Roosters must not underestimate Trent Robinson’s men, who are determined to reclaim their position in the top eight.
In Round 20, the Titans displayed an impressive performance against the Eels, narrowly missing out on victory due to some controversial referee decisions. Now, they are back on home turf and more determined than ever to secure a win. On the other hand, the Roosters’ season hasn’t panned out as expected, finding themselves at 14th place on the ladder after a disappointing loss against the Melbourne Storm.
This match holds significant importance for both teams as they aim to reignite their finals campaign. With only seven games remaining, the loser will face an uphill battle to secure a spot in the top eight.
The Titans boast a formidable backline with the return of captain AJ Brimson, who partners with the electric duo of Alofiana Khan-Pereira and Phillip Sami. Sami, with a record-breaking 90 tackle breaks and an average of 170 running meters this season, remains a standout performer for the Titans.
The forward pack will play a crucial role in determining the outcome of this clash. Titans’ powerhouse David Fifita, with an astonishing 405 defensive tackles and an average of 153 running meters, is set to make his 100th NRL game an unforgettable one. Isaac Liu, known for his fierce playing style, brings his 14 tackle breaks, 451 post-contact meters, and 428 defensive tackles to bolster the Titans’ chances of victory.
While the Roosters have a history of dominating the Titans, having won the last nine meetings between the teams, the Titans are determined to turn the tide in their favor this time around. The Roosters’ defense faces scrutiny after their defeat against the Storm, and their sets must be finished more effectively to avoid falling prey to the Titans’ potent attack.
In this thrilling encounter, keep an eye on Alofiana Khan-Pereira, who has been a try-scoring machine with 17 tries in just 16 games this season. Additionally, Daniel Tupou is one try away from becoming the all-time leader for the Roosters, and Joey Manu remains a player to watch with his consistent try-scoring form.
As the countdown begins to the NRL Round 21 showdown between the Titans and the Roosters, fans can expect a gripping battle for supremacy. The Titans seek redemption, while the Roosters aim to maintain their dominance over their opponents at CBUS Super Stadium, where the Titans haven’t secured a victory since 2016.
Titans team: 1. AJ Brimson 2. Alofiana Khan-Pereira 3. Brian Kelly 4. Jojo Fifita 5. Phillip Sami 6. Kieran Foran 7. Tanah Boyd 8. Moeaki Fotuaika 9. Sam Verrills 10. Isaac Liu 11. David Fifita 12. Klese Haas 13. Erin Clark 14. Jayden Campbell 15. Chris Randall 16. Joe Stimson 17. Jacob Alick 18. Iszac Fa’asumaleaui 19. Aaron Schoupp 20. Ken Maumalo 21. Kruise Leeming 22. Thomas Mikaele
Roosters team: 1. James Tedesco 2. Daniel Tupou 3. Billy Smith 4. Joseph Manu 5. Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii 6. Luke Keary 7. Sandon Smith 8. Jared Waerea-Hargreaves 9. Jake Turpin 10. Lindsay Collins 11. Victor Radley 12. Nat Butcher 13. Nathan Brown 14. Brandon Smith 15. Egan Butcher 16. Siua Wong 17. Terrell May 18. Corey Allan 19. Dylan Napa 20. Drew Hutchison 21. Fetalaiga Pauga 22. Fletcher Baker
Referees: Adam Gee; Sideline Officials: Michael Wise, David Munro; Video Referees: Ashley Klein;
PREDICTION
Sitting 12th and 14th on the ladder the Titans and Roosters are fast running out of time to start a charge towards the finals.
We’ve been burned on the Roosters a lot this season, but I’m willing to give them one last chance here. They should win, but due to the fact I hate the Roosters, I would never back them, and instead will go for the Titans with a 5.5 points start @ $1.72
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