NRL, ROUND 19, JULY 9th, 2023 SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS v CANTERBURY BULLDOGS
ACCOR STADIUM,SYDNEY
After a series of disappointing performances, questions arose about the South Sydney Rabbitohs’ status as genuine contenders. However, their convincing win against the in-form Warriors in terrible conditions provided some reassurance to the concerned Souths fans. With a similar record to last year, the Rabbitohs now have an opportunity to climb into the top four and secure a spot in the finals. Their run home presents favorable matchups against bottom-eight sides, plus the Broncos and Sharks, whom they have already defeated this season. With the potential return of Latrell Mitchell and several key players finding their best form, the Rabbitohs’ ceiling is sky high. However, they first need to overcome a series of outs in their upcoming clash against the struggling Bulldogs.
The Bulldogs’ struggles this season have been far from anticipated. Despite expectations of improvement under a new coach, their recent 66-point defeat against the Knights was an embarrassment. Their defense has been porous for quite some time, causing concern among fans and raising questions about the team’s overall competitiveness. However, the unavailability of several Souths stars presents a glimmer of hope for the Bulldogs to put up a more competitive fight.
As the excitement builds for the upcoming State of Origin Game III, rugby enthusiasts will witness an intense battle between the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs at Accor Stadium on Saturday night.
The Bulldogs’ coach, Cameron Ciraldo, was expected to bring defensive expertise to the team. However, their recent performances have raised concerns about their ability to compete at a first-grade level. Despite the Bulldogs’ struggles, their improved chances against an understrength Rabbitohs lineup provide an opportunity to regain confidence and demonstrate their winning culture.
Both teams have made notable changes to their lineups. The Bulldogs welcome Toby Sexton as their new halfback, and recent recruit Matt Burton moves to the five-eighth position. Jake Averillo transitions to fullback, and Jackson Topine and Braidon Burns have been named in the centers. While the Bulldogs will miss the services of Josh Addo-Carr, Blake Wilson brings an impressive set of statistics to the backline.
The Rabbitohs, on the other hand, have reshuffled their lineup due to Origin duties, injuries, and suspension. Despite the absence of key players like Cody Walker, Cameron Murray, Damian Cook, and Keaon Kolomatangi, the Rabbitohs remain a formidable force. Dean Hawkins steps in to fill Cody Walker’s shoes, joining the backline alongside Blake Taaffe, Isaiah Tass, Tyronne Munro, and Alex Johnston.
Alex Johnston, in particular, boasts remarkable statistics, having scored 11 tries in the last seven games against the Bulldogs. He recently became the first player in the history of the game to score 30 tries in consecutive seasons, highlighting his exceptional speed and attacking prowess. Furthermore, the absence of captain Cameron Murray is compensated by the presence of Shaquai Mitchell, who brings impressive physicality and defensive capabilities to the Rabbitohs’ forward pack.
The Rabbitohs enter the match on the back of a commanding victory over the Warriors in Auckland, where they displayed their winning potential with a final score of 28-6. Despite the reshuffle in their lineup, the Rabbitohs have previously shown their ability to win games without Cody Walker, winning three out of 11 matches in his absence since his debut in 2016. Dean Hawkins, who has only played one game this season, will play a crucial role alongside the talented backline consisting of Blake Taaffe, Isaiah Tass, Tyronne Munro, and Alex Johnston.
Speaking of Alex Johnston, his remarkable achievements continue to amaze fans and pundits alike. With an impressive tally of 14 tries, 24 line breaks, 42 tackle breaks, and an average of 112 running meters this season, Johnston has proven to be a formidable force on the field.
The Rabbitohs and the Bulldogs have both played seven games at Accor Stadium this year, with the Rabbitohs securing four wins compared to the Bulldogs’ two. This home advantage, combined with the Bulldogs’ recent woeful performance, further tilts the scale in favor of the Rabbitohs.
History has not been on the Bulldogs’ side in recent encounters against the Rabbitohs, with the Bulldogs losing their last five meetings since 2020. However, the Bulldogs, under the guidance of coach Cameron Ciraldo, aim to rebuild their team connection and reestablish their winning culture.
In preparation for the match, the Bulldogs have made significant changes to their lineup, aiming to fill the void left by the absent players. The inclusion of Toby Sexton at halfback, fresh from joining the club from the Titans, adds a new dimension to their gameplay. Matt Burton’s shift to the five-eighth position, alongside the versatility of Jake Averillo and the additions of Jackson Topine and Braidon Burns, presents a promising opportunity for the Bulldogs to reinvigorate their backline.
The upcoming clash between the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs is crucial for both teams. While the Rabbitohs strive to maintain their winning momentum and secure a spot in the finals, the Bulldogs desperately seek an opportunity to restore confidence and competitiveness.
As the NRL fans eagerly await this Round 21 encounter, all eyes will be on Accor Stadium to witness the intensity, skill, and determination displayed by these two teams. Don’t miss this thrilling NRL showdown that is sure to captivate rugby enthusiasts and provide an intriguing chapter in the league’s unfolding narrative.
Rabbitohs: 1. Blake Taaffe 2. Alex Johnston 3. Isaiah Tass 4. Taane Milne 5. Tyrone Munro 6. Dean Hawkins 7. Lachlan Ilias 8. Tevita Tatola 9. Siliva Havili 10. Thomas Burgess 11. Ben Lovett 12. Michael Chee Kam 13. Shaq Mitchell 14. Peter Mamouzelos 15. Tallis Duncan 16. Davvy Moale 17. Hame Sele 18. Richard Kennar 19. Josiah Karapani 20. Daniel Suluka-Fifita 21. Liam Knight 22. Jacob Gaga
Bulldogs: 1. Jake Averillo 2. Jacob Kiraz 3. Braidon Burns 4. Jackson Topine 5. Blake Wilson 6. Matt Burton 7. Toby Sexton 8. Max King 9. Reed Mahoney 10. Ryan Sutton 11. Jayden Okunbor 12. Jacob Preston 13. Raymond Faitala-Mariner 14. Kyle Flanagan 15. Kurtis Morrin 16. Tevita Pangai Junior 17. Harrison Edwards 19. Reece Hoffman 20. Karl Oloapu 21. Jeral Skelton 22. Ethan Quai-Ward 23. Chris Patolo
Referees: Liam Kennedy; Sideline Officials: Jon Stone, Matt Noyen; Video Referees: Chris Butler;
PREDICTION.
With both teams missing key players and being heavily reshuffled, who will be the victor on Saturday night? For me it’s the Rabbitohs with minus 6.5 points @$2.10
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