Find out who will emerge victorious at CommBank Stadium, Sydney, as the Cronulla Sharks and Wests Tigers face off in a highly anticipated NRL showdown on July 6th, 2023.
In what has been a rollercoaster season for the Wests Tigers, their recent devastating 74-0 loss to the Cowboys has left them with a daunting task as they aim to pick up the pieces against the formidable Sharks.
The Tigers experienced a glimmer of hope during a mini-revival, securing three wins in four games against strong opponents like the Panthers, Dragons, and Cowboys. However, that surge now seems like a distant memory, with the Tigers losing four consecutive matches and conceding a whopping 150 points in the process.
Meanwhile, the Sharks have rebounded impressively after a Round 15 horror show against the Storm. They have dominated their recent clashes against the Bulldogs and Dragons, securing big scores and currently holding a commendable third position on the ladder with nine games left to play.
With six of their upcoming matches against teams currently outside the top eight, the Sharks have a golden opportunity to secure a coveted top-four finish and earn a double chance in the finals. Coach Tim Sheens, well aware of the challenge ahead, remembers the Sharks’ dominant performances last year, where they accumulated a combined score of 66-16 against the Tigers in two meetings.
As the teams gear up for this crucial clash, both sides have made notable changes to their lineups. The Tigers will have Aitasi James stepping onto the bench due to prop Alex Twal’s ban for a dangerous contact offense. Furthermore, veterans David Nofoaluma and Brent Naden will be sidelined due to shoulder injuries, making way for Tommy Talau and Asu Kepaoa to showcase their skills.
The Sharks, on the other hand, have made strategic adjustments, with Cameron McInnes moving into the starting side at lock in place of the suspended Dale Finucane. Additionally, Toby Rudolf, returning from a foot injury, is set to make an impact after an impressive performance in the NSW Cup for Newtown, replacing the injured Braden Hamlin-Uele.
Key players to watch in this matchup include Ronaldo Mulitalo and Will Kennedy, who have already amassed a remarkable 28 tries between them after 18 rounds. In fact, their combined tally of 24 tries in the entire 2022 season highlights their prowess and impact on the field.
Statistical analysis also sheds light on the teams’ strengths, with the Sharks leading the NRL in line breaks with an impressive count of 98, while the Tigers find themselves in the 14th position with 63 line breaks.
The Tigers’ recent form has been less than stellar, having only scored six points and conceded a staggering 102 in their last two games. In contrast, the Sharks have displayed consistency, winning nine out of their past ten encounters against the Wests Tigers.
Moreover, history does not favor the Tigers at CommBank Stadium, where they have managed to secure victory in only seven out of 22 games played. On the other hand, the Sharks boast a strong record against teams in the bottom half of the ladder, winning eight out of nine such encounters.
Tigers winger David Nofoaluma has been a standout performer, impressing with seven tries in his past five games at CommBank Stadium. His contributions will be crucial as the Tigers seek to turn their fortunes around in this critical match.
Referee Todd Smith, along with touch judges Belinda Sharpe and Darian Furner, will ensure a fair and smooth contest. Grant Atkins, serving as the Senior Review Official, will be entrusted with reviewing any contentious decisions.
Tigers: 1. Jahream Bula 2. Asu Kepaoa 3. Starford To’a 4. Tommy Talau 5. Junior Tupou 6. Daine Laurie7. Brandon Wakeham 8. Stefano Utoikamanu 9. Jake Simpkin 10. David Klemmer 11. Isaiah Papali’i 12. John Bateman 13. Fonua Pole 14. Tallyn Da Silva 15. Shawn Blore 16. Alex Seyfarth 17. Aistasi James 18. Justin Matamua 19. Will Smith 20. Triston Reilly 21. Brandon Tumeth 22. Josh Feledy
Sharks: 1. William Kennedy 2. Sione Katoa 3. Jesse Ramien 4. Siosifa Talakai 5. Ronaldo Mulitalo 6. Matt Moylan 7. Nicho Hynes 8. Oregon Kaufusi 9. Blayke Brailey 10. Toby Rudolf 11. Briton Nikora 12. Teig Wilton 13. Cameron McInnes 14. Jack Williams 15. Wade Graham 16. Jesse Colquhoun 17. Thomas Hazelton 18. Connor Tracey 19. Braydon Trindall 20. Tuku Hau Tapuha 21. Mawene Hiroti 22. Jayden Berrell
Referee: Todd Smith
Touch Judge: Belinda Sharpe
Touch Judge: Darian Furner
Senior Review Official: Grant Atkins
PREDICTION
Well it would be a brave person to put money on the Tigers this week after a shocker last weekend against the Cowboys. The Sharks however have their eyes set on the finals and should take this game easily. Sharks by 16 points, maybe more, with Mulitalo to score anytime, William Kennedy to score anytime, and if you like a multi total points over 41.5.
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