NRL, ROUND 23, AUGUST 5th, 2023 SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS v CRONULLA SHARKS
PERTH OPTUS STADIUM,PERTH,WA
As NRL Round 23 rolls in, fans are in for a treat with a thrilling encounter between the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Cronulla Sharks at Perth Stadium. The excitement is palpable as these two rugby league powerhouses lock horns in what promises to be an action-packed showdown.
The Rabbitohs, currently placed sixth on the ladder, are coming off a resounding 32-18 victory against the bottom-ranked Tigers in Tamworth. Their recent form is bolstered by key players, and they have an impressive record against the Sharks, having won five of their last seven encounters. With Latrell Mitchell, Isaiah Tass, and Campbell Graham forming a formidable attacking combination, the Rabbitohs are poised to create trouble for the Sharks’ defense.
On the other hand, the Sharks are in a precarious position, having suffered three consecutive defeats and conceding a staggering 102 points in the process. Their recent match against the table-topping Panthers ended in a demoralizing 28-0 loss. They will need to regroup and find their defensive composure if they wish to turn their season around. The return of Ronaldo Mulitalo and Jesse Colquhoun to the lineup brings hope for an offensive resurgence.
History favors the Rabbitohs in this matchup, with the Sharks managing only two victories in their last seven encounters. However, past records can only offer so much insight into the outcome of what is sure to be a closely contested match.
The Rabbitohs have been a force to reckon with in the attacking department, leading the competition with 89 tries and 79 try assists. Their ability to break through defensive lines with 118 line breaks, tying with the Sharks, gives them an edge in scoring potential.
As the teams prepare to face off at Perth Stadium, the Sharks will be without Will Kennedy due to a hamstring injury. Connor Tracey takes on the fullback role, while Ronaldo Mulitalo’s try-scoring prowess and Jesse Colquhoun’s presence provide a boost.
Fans can expect a game of contrasts, with the Rabbitohs’ potent attack pitted against the Sharks’ determination to reclaim their defensive strength. Both teams are well aware of the stakes, with a top-eight position hanging in the balance.
Rabbitohs: 1. Latrell Mitchell 2. Alex Johnston 3. Isaiah Tass 4. Campbell Graham 5. Taane Milne 6. Cody Walker 7. Lachlan Ilias 8. Jai Arrow 9. Damien Cook 10. Thomas Burgess 11. Keaon Koloamatangi 12. Michael Chee Kam 13. Cameron Murray 14. Davvy Moale 15. Siliva Havili 16. Jed Cartwright 17. Tallis Duncan 18. Tyrone Munro 19. Jacob Host 20. Shaquai Mitchell 21. Peter Mamouzelos 22. Dean Hawkins
Sharks: 1. Connor Tracey 2. Sione Katoa 3. Jesse Ramien 4. Siosifa Talakai 5. Ronaldo Mulitalo 6. Braydon Trindall 7. Nicho Hynes 8. Braden Hamlin-Uele 9. Blayke Brailey 10. Toby Rudolf 11. Briton Nikora 12. Wade Graham 13. Cameron McInnes 14. Jack Williams 15. Thomas Hazelton 16. Royce Hunt 17. Jesse Colquhoun 18. Matt Moylan 19. Kayal Iro 20. Mawene Hiroti 21. Tuku Hau Tapuha 22. Daniel Atkinson
Referee: Todd Smith
Prediction:
In this highly anticipated NRL Round 23 clash, the Rabbitohs appear to have the upper hand with their full-strength side and a dynamic attacking force. With the Sharks struggling defensively, they face a formidable challenge in containing the Rabbitohs’ potent offense.
While the Sharks possess the ability to fight back and have a history of surprises, the Rabbitohs’ recent form and impressive track record against their opponents make them the favorites in this showdown.
Fans can expect a hard-fought battle from start to finish, with the Rabbitohs likely to come out on top and secure a vital victory on their journey towards the finals. The stage is set for a thrilling encounter, and rugby league enthusiasts are in for a treat as they witness the drama unfold at Perth Stadium.
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