NRL, ROUND 22, JULY 30tH, 2023 GOLD COAST TITANS v QUEENSLAND COWBOYS
CBUS SUPER STADIUM, ROBINA, GOLD COAST
In Round 22 of the NRL Telstra Premiership, fans are in for an exhilarating showdown as the Gold Coast Titans take on the North Queensland Cowboys at the vibrant Cbus Super Stadium in Robina, Gold Coast. With both teams eyeing a spot in the finals, this encounter promises to be a fierce battle between two determined sides.
The North Queensland Cowboys have been in stellar form, riding a remarkable six-match winning streak, making them one of the standout teams in the NRL. Their defensive prowess has been exceptional, conceding a mere average of 7.5 points in their last four victories. Victories against top contenders like the Panthers, Rabbitohs, Storm, and Eels, as well as a record-breaking 74-0 win against the Tigers, illustrate their dominance.
On the other hand, the Gold Coast Titans are facing an uphill struggle to keep their finals hopes alive. A disappointing performance in their last outing against the Roosters, where they trailed 30-0 at halftime, has put their playoff chances in jeopardy. Consistency has been a persistent issue for the Titans, and they are aware that rectifying it is essential for their progress, especially with Des Hasler set to take charge from 2024.
Key to the Titans’ success against the Cowboys will be an 80-minute display of their potential, something they have struggled with in recent seasons. Overcoming the Cowboys’ improved form during the Origin period demands an all-around performance, including containing the energetic threat posed by Tom Dearden.
Scott Drinkwater, the Cowboys’ dynamic fullback, has been a standout player this season, causing havoc for opposing teams with his electrifying runs and attacking flair.
The return of Jason Taumalolo has been a game-changer for the Cowboys, bringing renewed focus and energy to the team. However, the Cowboys will miss Jeremiah Nanai, who is sidelined due to a high-grade AC joint injury. Emerging forward Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, who has shown promise in limited appearances, is set to step up in Nanai’s absence.
As the teams prepare for this crucial clash, the Titans must rally their forward pack and make necessary adjustments to unleash their attacking potential. On the other hand, the Cowboys will be eager to maintain their momentum and capitalize on their newfound form.
With the Cowboys winning 13 of the last 16 meetings between the teams, the Titans face a daunting task, but they can take inspiration from Alofiana Khan-Pereira’s impressive try-scoring record as underdogs.
Valentine Holmes, the Cowboys’ try-scoring machine at Cbus Super Stadium, will be eager to add to his tally against the Titans. However, the Titans have a chance to turn the tables and challenge the Cowboys’ dominance on their home turf.
The NRL Round 22 encounter between the Gold Coast Titans and the North Queensland Cowboys promises to be a high-stakes clash. As the Titans aim to keep their finals hopes alive and the Cowboys strive to solidify their spot in the top four, the battle of the Titans awaits fans in a thrilling contest at Cbus Super Stadium. With stars like Scott Drinkwater and Tom Dearden in the spotlight, and key players returning for both teams, this game will surely deliver nail-biting action and captivating moments for NRL enthusiasts.
Titans: 1. AJ Brimson 2. Alofiana Khan-Pereira 3. Brian Kelly 4. Jojo Fifita 5. Phillip Sami 6. Kieran Foran 7. Tanah Boyd 8. Moeaki Fotuaika 9. Sam Verrills 10. Isaac Liu 11. David Fifita 12. Joe Stimson 13. Erin Clark 14. Jayden Campbell 15. Chris Randall 16. Klese Haas 17. Iszac Fa’asumaleaui 18. Aaron Schoupp 19. Jacob Alick 20. Ken Maumalo 21. Kruise Leeming 22. Thomas Mikaele
Cowboys: 1. Scott Drinkwater 2. Semi Valemei 3. Valentine Holmes 4. Peta Hiku 5. Murray Taulagi 6. Tom Dearden 7. Chad Townsend 8. Jordan McLean 9. Reece Robson 10. Coen Hess 11. Luciano Leilua 12. Kulikefu Finefeuiaki 13. Reuben Cotter 14. Jake Granville 15. Jamayne Taunoa-Brown 16. Jason Taumalolo 17. Sam McIntyre 18. Zac Laybutt 19. Kyle Feldt 20. Riley Price 21. Brendan Elliot 22. Mitchell Dunn
Referees: Todd Smith; Side-line Officials: Michael Wise, Wyatt Raymond; Video Referees: Chris Butler;
TIP. I think the Cowboys will be too good in this one. The Titans look a better team with Jayden Campbell playing, but how can you drop the Qld Origin fullback in AJ Brimson. With Tino Fa’asumaleaui out ,David Fafita will carry a heavy load, but the Cowboys have some big guns as well. Cowboys 13 plus
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