NRL, ROUND 20, JULY 14th, 2023 NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS v WESTS TIGERS
McDONALD JONES STADIUM,NEWCASTLE
The anticipation builds as NRL Round 20 approaches, and the spotlight shines on the McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle, where the nib Newcastle Knights are gearing up for a Friday night spectacle against the Wests Tigers.
Stepping onto the field for his 100th game in Knights colors, Captain Kalyn Ponga leads the team as they embark on their final stretch of matches with a glimmer of hope for the finals.
With another crucial two points on the line, the Knights find themselves in a must-win situation against the last-placed Wests Tigers. The Knights have had a solid season overall, but their dreams of securing a top-eight spot have been dampened by several close losses, leaving them three points adrift.
However, as they face off against the Tigers, Bulldogs, and Dragons in the coming matches, the Knights have a golden opportunity to position themselves favorably in the competition. Their recent record-breaking victory over the Bulldogs, with Kalyn Ponga and Bradman Best delivering a sensational performance, has injected confidence into the team.
Adding to the Knights’ advantage, Dane Gagai makes his return, bolstering their lineup. History also works in their favor, as they have triumphed in their last four home games against teams on a losing streak. With these factors aligning, the Knights set their sights on another resounding win.
Meanwhile, the Wests Tigers have endured a torrid season, winning only three of their 16 games and currently enduring a five-game losing streak. The road ahead looks grueling for the Tigers, who have conceded a staggering 166 points in their last four matches, struggling to find their own rhythm with Luke Brooks sidelined.
Although the return of chief playmaker Luke Brooks brings a glimmer of hope, the Tigers face an uphill battle to remain competitive away from home. The specter of claiming their first-ever wooden spoon looms larger with each passing week, and they have a challenging task ahead to climb out of the cellar and avoid an unwanted piece of club history.
As the Knights sit just three points outside the top eight, they rally behind the leadership of inspirational skipper Kalyn Ponga and the newly minted Blue, Bradman Best. With a combination of matches against the struggling Tigers, Bulldogs, and Dragons, as well as formidable opponents like the Storm, Sharks, and Raiders, the Knights know that earning a return to the finals will be a well-deserved achievement.
It’s worth noting that the Knights have yet to secure consecutive wins this season, making the upcoming clash all the more crucial. On a positive note, they have emerged victorious in their past three encounters against the Wests Tigers, adding an extra layer of confidence to their preparations.
For the Tigers, breaking their away game slump is imperative, having managed only one win out of seven in 2023. Their hopes of turning the tide rest on the shoulders of their team, featuring Jahream Bula, Asu Kepaoa, and the talented Starford To’a.
With Knights winger Dominic Young’s impressive track record of scoring 16 tries in his last 14 games, he remains a key player to watch as the battle unfolds. The Knights’ lineup, featuring an array of talented athletes, including Kalyn Ponga, Dane Gagai, and Bradman Best, showcases the team’s depth and determination.
As the clash between the Knights and the Tigers draws near, fans can expect a thrilling contest filled with passion, skill, and determination. Stay tuned to witness whether the Knights can keep their finals hopes alive or if the Tigers will stage a dramatic upset. It’s a game you won’t want to miss!
Knights team: 1. Kalyn Ponga 2. Dominic Young 3. Dane Gagai 4. Bradman Best 5. Greg Marzhew 6. Tyson Gamble 7. Jackson Hastings 8. Daniel Saifiti 9. Phoenix Crossland 10. Leo Thompson 11. Tyson Frizell 12. Lachlan Fitzgibbon 13. Adam Elliott 14. Kurt Mann 15. Jacob Saifiti 16. Jack Hetherington 17. Mathew Croker 18. Dylan Lucas 19. Enari Tuala 20. Brodie Jones 21. Hymel Hunt 22. Adam Clune
Tigers team: 1. Jahream Bula 2. Asu Kepaoa 3. Starford To’a 4. Tommy Talau 5. Junior Tupou 6. Will Smith 7. Brandon Wakeham 8. Stefano Utoikamanu 9. Apisai Koroisau 10. David Klemmer 11. Isaiah Papali’i 12. John Bateman 13. Fonua Pole 14. Jake Simpkin 15. Shawn Blore 16. Alex Twal 17. Alex Seyfarth 18. Daine Laurie 19. Aistasi James 20. Tallyn Da Silva 21. Justin Matamua 22. Brent Naden
Referee: Peter Gough
Touch Judge: Kasey Badger
Senior Review Official: Gerard Sutton
PREDICTION
The Tigers try very hard to win games and at times look good, then it all falls apart. So I have to take Newcastle here, and I’m going to get a bit greedy here ,for betting purposes, and back the Knights to win by plus 13 points. This game may be tighter than this ,but I am reasonably confident the Knights will get it done. Knights are currently $2.12 for 13 plus win.
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