SATURDAY, MAY 4th, 2024 CBUS SUPER STADIUM,GOLD COAST
The Gold Coast Titans and the Melbourne Storm, two teams in contrasting situations, will face off on Saturday, the 4th. The Titans finally escaped the bottom last week with their first win of the season. Now, let’s take a look at how this game might unfold, considering the current circumstances!
The dismal start to the season for the Titans
The Titans’ start to this season can be described as nothing short of disastrous. Losing all six games was undoubtedly a tough time for the team, as well as the players and fans. However, they managed to secure their first victory in the annual ANZAC Day match. Many predictions before the game didn’t favour their chances against the Warriors, but they defied expectations and secured a 27-24 victory. It was a game where we saw the Titans’ improved attack and, most importantly, their stellar defence.
Changes for the Titans thereafter
Without much time to bask in the glory of their first win of the 2024 season, the Titans seem to have made several changes for the match on the 4th. Alofiana Khan-Pereira and Aaron Schoupp are out, with Phillip Sami and Harley Smith-Shields respectively taking their places. Additionally, Mo Fotuaika will be absent due to concussion, with Joe Stimson filling in. David Fifita is named in the starting line up, but based on recent trends, there’s a possibility he might move to the bench later on. Let’s hope these changes work out well for them…
The Storm’s journey so far
Until last week, the Storm had won six out of seven matches, which is an impressive record. However, all these wins had a margin of eight points or less, with four of them securing victory in the final ten minutes of the match. While a win is a win, one might argue that consistently winning by such narrow margins indicates a close call each time.
The Storm’s game against the Rabbitohs
However, a significant shift was observed in last week’s game against the Rabbitohs. While this year’s Rabbitohs might not be in top form, the Storm played with a newfound freedom, piling on the points and finishing the game with an impressive 54-20 result.
Changes for the Storm in this game
Xavier Coates, who sustained a hamstring injury in last week’s game, will miss this match. Tyran Wishart will take his place on the wing, with Bronson Garlick filling his spot on the bench. Despite concerns about a hamstring injury during the ANZAC match, Nelson Asofa-Solomona has been named to play. Injuries are common in rugby, but as fans, we hope he plays safely and avoids pushing himself too hard.
Who is playing ? Line-ups for each team and the referee
Titans
1. AJ Brimson 2. Phillip Sami 3. Brian Kelly 4. Harley Smith-Shields 5. Jojo Fifita 6. Tanah Boyd 7. Kieran Foran 8. Joe Stimson 9. Chris Randall 10. Jaimin Jolliffe 11. David Fifita 12. Beau Fermor 13. Isaac Liu, 14. Sam Verrills 15. Erin Clark 16. Klese Haas 17. Josiah Pahulu, 18. Alofiana Khan-Pereira 19. Keenan Palasia 20. Jacob Alick-wiencke 21. Keano Kini 22. Aaron Schoupp
Storm
1. Ryan Papenhuyzen 2. William Warbrick 3. Reimis Smith 4. Nick Meaney 5. Tyran Wishart 6. Cameron Munster 7. Jahrome Hughes 8. Christian Welch 9. Harry Grant 10. Josh King 11. Shawn Blore 12. Eliesa Katoa 13. Trent Loiero , 14. Bronson Garlick 15. Joe Chan 16. Nelson Asofa-Solomona 17. Alec MacDonald, 18. Jack Howarth 19. Sualauvi Faalogo 20. Grant Anderson 21. Dean Ieremia 22. Tristan Powell
Referee: Belinda Sharpe, Touch Judges: Michael Wise, Nick Morel, Bunker: Chris Butler
Prediction for this game
Based on the performances of each team so far, I predict a victory for the Storm. While the Titans undoubtedly want to win, especially at home, the Storm are relentless. They will strive for victory regardless of where they play, applying relentless pressure and displaying unwavering determination. Unfortunately, I think it will be difficult for the current Titans to secure a victory here.
In conclusion
Finally, while it’s generally not preferable to comment on referees, I can’t help but feel that this referee might need a bit more training. From what I’ve seen, her refereeing has been lacking in consistency over the past few weeks.
Anyway, let’s hope for a safe and exciting game!
What are your predictions?
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