NRL, ROUND 21, JULY 23rd, 2023 CRONULLA SHARKS v MANLY SEA EAGLES
POINTSBET STADIUM,CRONULLA
On July 23rd, 2023, a highly anticipated NRL battle awaits as the Cronulla Sharks host the Manly Sea Eagles at PointsBet Stadium in Cronulla. After a humbling defeat in the previous week, the Sharks are eager to regain their winning form and secure a much-needed victory in front of their home fans.
Cronulla has gained a reputation as flat track bullies, dominating teams outside the top eight, but facing challenges against the league’s elite sides. With Manly currently positioned in 11th place, the Sharks are confident of a favorable outcome. However, they must improve significantly from their lackluster performance last week to secure a victory against the Sea Eagles.
Head Coach Craig Fitzgibbon has made critical changes to the Sharks’ lineup. Matt Moylan has been dropped, and Braydon Trindall will join forces with Nicho Hynes in the halves. Additionally, Sia Talakai has been demoted to the bench, aiming to bring a new dynamic to the team.
The Sea Eagles displayed courage in their recent match against the in-form Cowboys, scoring the first try before eventually falling 19-8. Despite their resilience, the absence of the injured Tom Trbojevic continues to pose challenges for Manly, diminishing their hopes of making it to the finals. Furthermore, the Sea Eagles have struggled on the road, losing nine of their last 11 away fixtures dating back to the previous season.
In the team lineups, the Sharks boast impressive stats, winning four of the last five meetings against the Sea Eagles and covering the -8.5 line in three of those victories. Moreover, Cronulla has secured nine out of their last 10 games against teams outside the top eight, a testament to their strength against lower-ranked opponents. On the other hand, Manly faces an uphill battle, having lost nine of their last 11 games.
Key players to watch in this thrilling encounter include Ronaldo Mulitalo, who has scored a try in seven of his last eight home games, and Jesse Ramien, with five tries in his last six games in Sydney. Meanwhile, Jason Saab has impressed with four tries in his last five away games.
Both teams face significant challenges and have their strengths and weaknesses. The Sharks are still in search of a victory against a top-eight side in 2023, while the Sea Eagles are battling to maintain their position in the finals race.
In terms of team updates, the Sharks will miss back-rower Teig Wilton due to a knee injury, making way for Jesse Colquhoun. Skipper Dale Finucane’s return from suspension sees Cameron McInnes shifting to the interchange. Connor Tracey returns as a starting centre, and Braydon Trindall takes on the role of five-eighth. Additionally, Siosifa Talakai moves to the bench, with Matt Moylan omitted and Wade Graham rested.
For the Sea Eagles, former Rooster Matt Lodge will make his debut off the bench, having joined the club on a train and trial contract. Lodge showcased an impressive performance in the NSW Cup, running for 198 meters from 22 runs. Sean Keppie will also join the bench, while Toafofoa Sipley and Ethan Bullemor make way. The injured duo, Ben Trbojevic and Karl Lawton, are still a few rounds away from returning.
As the Sharks and Sea Eagles prepare for their encounter, excitement is building among fans and punters alike. The match promises to deliver intense action, breathtaking moments, and surprises. The Sharks have a chance to consolidate their position in the Top 8, but they face a tough run home. On the other hand, the Sea Eagles are determined to cause headaches for their opponents and keep their hopes alive for the finals.
In conclusion, get ready for a thrilling NRL showdown between the Cronulla Sharks and Manly Sea Eagles at PointsBet Stadium. Stay tuned for all the action, stats, and highlights from this high-stakes clash on July 23rd, 2023!
Sharks team: 1. William Kennedy 2. Sione Katoa 3. Jesse Ramien 4. Connor Tracey 5. Ronaldo Mulitalo 6. Braydon Trindall 7. Nicho Hynes 8. Oregon Kaufusi 9. Blayke Brailey 10. Toby Rudolf 11. Briton Nikora 12. Jesse Colquhoun 13. Dale Finucane 14. Cameron McInnes 15. Siosifa Talakai 16. Jack Williams 17. Thomas Hazelton 18. Kayal Iro 19. Mawene Hiroti 20. Royce Hunt 21. Daniel Atkinson 22. Tuku Hau Tapuha
Sea Eagles team: 1. Reuben Garrick 2. Jason Saab 3. Brad Parker 4. Tolutau Koula 5. Christian Tuipulotu 6. Josh Schuster 7. Daly Cherry-Evans 8. Taniela Paseka 9. Lachlan Croker 10. Josh Aloiai 11. Haumole Olakau’atu 12. Kelma Tuilagi 13. Jake Trbojevic 14. Dean Matterson 15. Aaron Woods 16. Sean Keppie 17. Matthew Lodge 18. Ethan Bullemor 19. Jakob Arthur 20. Toafofoa Sipley 21. Ray Tuaimalo-Vaega 22. Gordon Chan Kum Tong
Referee: Peter Gough
Touch Judge: Drew Oultram
Touch Judge: Belinda Sharpe
Senior Review Official: Grant Atkins
PREDICTION
Now I think the Sharks will win this at home in front of their fans, but here is some though for you that are betting.
Sharks minus 6.5 points @ $1.70, OR, Manly plus 11.5 points @ $1.70. In the past on games like this I have taken both sides and been successful. Food for thought?
Read this too
Comments