NRL, ROUND 14, JUNE 4th, 2023 QLD COUNTRY BANK STADIUM,TOWNSVILLE
In a highly anticipated clash, the North Queensland Cowboys are set to lock horns with the formidable Melbourne Storm in Round 14 of the NRL. The stage is Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville, where these two teams will battle it out for supremacy on June 4th.
The Storm, known for their dominance, are aiming to extend their impressive record over the Cowboys. Having emerged victorious in 12 of their last 13 encounters, they have established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the competition. However, it’s worth noting that the Cowboys did manage to secure a resounding 36-6 victory in their last meeting back in 2022, providing a glimmer of hope for the home team.
While the Storm currently share the top spot on the ladder, they are yet to hit their stride this season. With six wins from their last eight games, including hard-fought battles against the Warriors, Broncos, and Dolphins, they have consistently displayed their resilience and ability to come out on top. Coach Craig Bellamy’s squad is eager to make a statement and further solidify their position as one of the league’s powerhouses.
On the other hand, the North Queensland Cowboys have endured a challenging season compared to their impressive run to the preliminary finals last year. With only five wins out of their thirteen matches, they find themselves languishing in 16th place on the ladder with a negative points differential of -90. Despite their struggles, they showcased their fighting spirit with a commendable performance against Parramatta, losing by a close margin of 24-16 while missing key players due to State of Origin commitments.
The Cowboys’ journey has been marked by both disappointment and glimpses of promise. Their recent embarrassing 66-18 defeat to the Tigers exposed their vulnerability, but they bounced back with a spirited display against Parramatta. Scott Drinkwater’s exceptional performance served as a testament to the team’s resilience and determination to compete at the highest level.
Heading into this clash, both teams have made crucial lineup adjustments. For the Cowboys, Tom Dearden will start, while the presence of Valentine Holmes, Murray Taulagi, and Reuben Cotter in the reserves adds an element of anticipation. Meanwhile, the Storm remain a force to be reckoned with, boasting a roster of talented players who have consistently delivered under pressure.
As the game unfolds, fans can expect an intense battle characterized by strategic plays, powerful tackles, and skillful execution. With the Cowboys aiming to turn their season around and the Storm seeking to maintain their dominant form, this clash promises to be a spectacle that rugby league enthusiasts won’t want to miss.
In conclusion, prepare yourself for a riveting showdown as the North Queensland Cowboys square off against the mighty Melbourne Storm in Round 14 of the NRL. Stay tuned for updates, thrilling moments, and the clash of talent as these two teams go head-to-head in their quest for victory.
Cowboys team: 1. Scott Drinkwater 2. Kyle Feldt 3. Zac Laybutt 4. Peta Hiku 5. Semi Valemei 6. Tom Dearden 7. Chad Townsend 8. Jordan McLean 9. Reece Robson 10. Coen Hess 11. Luciano Leilua 12. Heilum Luki 13. Jake Granville 14. Jack Gosiewski 15. Jeremiah Nanai 16. Jamayne Taunoa-Brown 17. Griffin Neame 18. Kulikefu Finefeuiaki 19. Brendan Elliot 20. Jason Taumalolo 21. Ben Hampton 22. Valentine Holmes 23. Reuben Cotter 24. Murray Taulagi
Storm team: 1. Nick Meaney 2. William Warbrick 3. Reimis Smith 4. Justin Olam 5. Xavier Coates 6. Cameron Munster 7. Jahrome Hughes 8. Nelson Asofa-Solomona 9. Harry Grant 10. Christian Welch 11. Trent Loiero 12. Eliesa Katoa 13. Josh King 14. Bronson Garlick 15. Aaron Pene 16. Tui Kamikamica 17. Grant Anderson 18. Tyran Wishart 19. Marion Seve 20. Tom Eisenhuth 21. Tariq Sims 22. Kane Bradley
Referees: Peter Gough; Sideline Officials: Belinda Sharpe, Michael Wise; Video Referees: Adam Gee;
PREDICTION
Melbourne continue to fly under the radar, sharing the competition lead after consecutive 24-16 wins over Brisbane at AAMI Park and the Dolphins at Suncorp Stadium before the Round 13 bye.
The Storm were more dominant than the scoreboard suggested against the Dolphins, with Eli Katoa enjoying a breakout game and Jahrome Hughes and Nick Meaney in great tough.
The Storm have named Cameron Munster and Harry Grant in an unchanged 17.
North Queensland carved out a stunning 36-6 win over Melbourne in Round 11 last year to snap a 12-match losing streak in the rivalry.
Expect normal transmission to resume in Townsville – even if the Storm’s Origin stars don’t back up and the Cowboys’ do. I expect the Storm to win this one. Storm minus 6.5 points @ $1.85
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