AUGUST 6th, 2023 CANBERRA RAIDERS v WEST TIGERS
GIO STADIUM, CANBERRA
NRL Round 23 Preview: Canberra Raiders vs. Wests Tigers
In a thrilling encounter scheduled for August 6th, 2023, the Canberra Raiders are set to take on the Wests Tigers at GIO Stadium, Canberra. Both teams have their own pressing objectives as they prepare for this Sunday showdown.
Canberra Raiders’ Quest for Redemption:
Following two consecutive losses, the Raiders are eager to regain their winning form and prove their worth as serious premiership contenders. Despite their recent 28-6 defeat to Newcastle, Ricky Stuart’s men currently hold the fifth position in the standings.
Acknowledging the uncharacteristic performance, Stuart is focused on restoring discipline within the team, as their missed tackles (42) and errors (16) were not up to NRL standards. The Green Machine’s passionate fans will be expecting nothing less than a spirited display of pride and determination.
Canberra Raiders Lineup:
- Jordan Rapana
- Albert Hopoate
- Sebastian Kris
- Matthew Timoko
- Nick Cotric
- Jack Wighton
- Jamal Fogarty
- Josh Papali’i
- Zac Woolford
- Joseph Tapine
- Hudson Young
- Elliott Whitehead
- Corey Horsburgh
- Adrian Trevilyan
- Emre Guler
- Pasami Saulo
- Ata Mariota
Additional squad members include Utuloa Asouma, Matt Frawley, Tom Starling, Trey Mooney, and Ethan Strange.
Wests Tigers’ Fight for Survival:
The Wests Tigers approach this crucial encounter with the aim to overturn their fortunes and escape the dreaded wooden spoon. Despite facing a challenging season, they displayed promise in recent matches, particularly in their close contest against the Rabbitohs (18-32) and the narrow loss to the Dragons.
With Luke Brooks and Api Koroisau back in the lineup, the Tigers’ spine gains strength, and Jahream Bula’s exceptional performance at fullback adds to their attacking capabilities. Tim Sheens’ side is determined to give the Raiders a tough challenge as they endeavor to avoid the wooden spoon for a second consecutive year.
Wests Tigers Lineup:
- Jahream Bula
- David Nofoaluma
- Starford To’a
- Junior Tupou
- Charlie Staines
- Daine Laurie
- Luke Brooks
- Alex Twal
- Apisai Koroisau
- David Klemmer
- Isaiah Papali’i
- John Bateman
- Fonua Pole
- Jake Simpkin
- Justin Matamua
- Aitasi James
- Asu Kepaoa
The extended bench includes Tallyn Da Silva, Alex Seyfarth, Will Smith, Kit Laulilii, and Josh Feledy.
Key Player Milestones:
Wests Tigers winger David Nofoaluma needs just one try to reach a historic milestone of scoring 100 tries for the joint venture club. On the other hand, Raiders forward Elliott Whitehead stands on the verge of achieving his 100th victory in the NRL.
Head-to-Head History:
The Canberra Raiders hold a significant advantage in their past encounters with Wests Tigers, having secured victory in their last six meetings. Additionally, the Tigers’ last win in Canberra dates back to 2018.
Match Prediction:
Expect an exhilarating contest as both teams strive to achieve their respective goals. The Raiders, despite their recent setbacks, hold the edge in this match. However, the determined Tigers, fueled by the potential of their spine and forward pack, are expected to put up a strong fight.
Sunday’s game promises to be a captivating display of rugby league at its finest, as the Raiders seek redemption and the Tigers fight to avoid the wooden spoon.
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