2023, JUNE 17th McDONALD JONES STADIUM NEWCASTLE
Newcastle Knights vs. Sydney Roosters NRL Round 16 Preview: Clash of Titans at McDonald Jones Stadium
In an eagerly awaited NRL encounter, the Newcastle Knights are gearing up to face off against the Sydney Roosters in Round 16 at the iconic McDonald Jones Stadium. Both teams are set to bring their A-game as they battle it out for supremacy on Saturday.
The Knights head into this clash as the favorites, backed by their steady improvement throughout the season. Under the guidance of coach Adam O’Brien, they have shown promising signs and are eager to put on a stellar performance in front of their passionate home fans. This match presents a golden opportunity for the Knights to showcase their ability and further cement their position in the league standings.
However, the Knights will have to make do without Tyson Frizell, who is absent due to his Origin duties. Nevertheless, the return of back-rower Lachlan Fitzgibbon from a calf injury couldn’t have come at a better time. Fitzgibbon’s inclusion provides a timely boost to the team, compensating for Frizell’s absence. Additionally, Enari Tuala steps in on the wing, replacing Greg Marzhew, who didn’t meet team standards after missing the team bus following their recent loss to the Broncos.
On the other side of the field, the Sydney Roosters are facing a confidence crisis. They find themselves struggling to regain their winning form, and the absence of star fullback James Tedesco due to Origin commitments only adds to their challenges. In Tedesco’s absence, Joey Manu assumes the role of fullback, while Luke Keary shifts to five-eighth and young talent Sandon Smith takes up the halfback position. The return of centre Billy Smith, who was a late withdrawal from the Panthers game, strengthens the Roosters’ lineup, with Drew Hutchison moving to the bench.
Last week, the Knights started strong against the Broncos but couldn’t maintain their momentum till the end. However, they have learned from that experience and are determined not to repeat their mistakes. We predict that they will seize an early lead against the Roosters and emerge victorious in this thrilling contest.
Don’t miss this clash of titans as the Knights go head-to-head with the Roosters in a battle that promises electrifying rugby league action. Tune in to witness the passion, skill, and determination on display at McDonald Jones Stadium this Saturday.
1. Kalyn Ponga 2. Dominic Young 3. Dane Gagai 4. Bradman Best 5. Enari Tuala 6. Tyson Gamble 7. Jackson Hastings 8. Daniel Saifiti 9. Phoenix Crossland 10. Leo Thompson 11. Dylan Lucas 12. Lachlan Fitzgibbon 13. Adam Elliott 14. Kurt Mann 15. Jacob Saifiti 16. Jack Hetherington 17. Mathew Croker 18. Jack Johns 19. Simi Sasagi 20. Brodie Jones 21. Lachlan Miller 22. Adam Clune
Out: Greg Marzhew (wing), Tyson Frizell (second row)
In: Enari Tuala (wing), Lachlan Fitzgibbon (second row)
1. Joseph Manu 2. Daniel Tupou 3. Corey Allan 4. Billy Smith 5. Junior Pauga 6. Luke Keary 7. Sandon Smith 8. Jared Waerea-Hargreaves 9. Jake Turpin 10. Nat Butcher 11. Egan Butcher 12. Sitili Tupouniua 13. Naufahu Whyte 14. Drew Hutchison 15. Nathan Brown 16. Terrell May 17. Angus Crichton 18. Siua Wong 19. Zach Dockar-Clay 20. Jaxson Paulo 21. Tuipulotu Katoa 22. Elie El Zakhem
Out: James Tedesco (fullback), Lindsay Collins (front row), Matt Lodge (bench)
In: Billy Smith (centre), Naufahu Whyte (lock), Terrell May (bench)
Changes: Drew Hutchison (centre to bench), Joseph Manu (five-eighth to fullback), Luke Keary (halfback to five-eighth), Nat Butcher (second row to front row), Sitili Tupouniua (lock to second row), Sandon Smith (bench to halfback)
Match Officials
Referees: Grant Atkins; Sideline Officials: Belinda Sharpe, Todd Smith; Video Referees: Matt Noyen;
PREDICTION
I think the Knights can get the chocolates here in Newcastle in front of their fans. The Roosters will not be easy but are terrible this year so far. They are lacking in confidence, making huge mistakes, and can not put combinations together. There is still time to turn their season around and this game would be a good start. However the Knights should not let this opportunity slip by. Knights by 2 points.
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