NRL TODAY : ROUND 18 SYDNEY ROOSTERS v ST GEORGE DRAGONS

Rugby League

ALLIANZ STADIUM, SYDNEY

JWH Set to Make History at Allianz Stadium

JWH. This Sunday the 35-year-old enforcer plays his 307th game for the Tricolours, eclipsing Mitchell Aubusson’s record to become the most capped Rooster in their 117-year history.

Roosters’ Surge Towards Top Four Continues

It’s a remarkable feat for a man who not only plays the toughest position on the field but arguably plays it tougher than anyone else in this era.

His beloved Roosters have propelled themselves into the top four in recent weeks with three consecutive wins and are eager to consolidate that position with the bye coming next week. Given their typical late-season surge, the Chooks could be well-positioned for an assault on the top two as they enter the final part of the season.

Dragons’ Resurgence and Playoff Aspirations

Meanwhile, the Dragons are coming off an extremely impressive home win against the high-flying Dolphins last week. Nestled just inside the top eight, the Dragons have surpassed everyone’s expectations this year. The importance of securing every possible two points won’t be lost on them as the race for the finals heats up.

Dragons and Roosters: Recent Form and Expectations

In NRL news, the Dragons suffered a resounding 60-18 defeat in their Round 8 clash, a setback following their promising start to the year. Since then, Shane Flanagan’s side has maintained a steady presence around the middle of the ladder, securing four wins from their last seven games and currently holding eighth position heading into their next match.

Meanwhile, the Roosters have been a force to reckon with, enhancing their attacking prowess since their Anzac Day victory. They’ve outscored every other team in the competition by 80 points this season. Trent Robinson’s squad enters their upcoming fixture against the Dragons on a high note, having secured a commanding 40-6 win over the Wests Tigers. Halfback Sam Walker has been instrumental in setting the stage for their dynamic offensive play.

Record-Breaking Moment for JWH

Adding to the Roosters’ momentum is Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, who is poised to make his 307th NRL appearance, surpassing Mitchell Aubusson as the club’s most capped player in its 116-year history. However, the team will be without centre Joseph Manu for the Dragons clash due to a hand fracture sustained in their recent victory.

I am not sure if you can bet on a player getting a sin bin and on report in one match. If you can you can bet on Jared for sure.

Line-Ups for Roosters and Dragons

Roosters

1. James Tedesco 2. Daniel Tupou 3. Michael Jennings 4. Sitili Tupouniua 5. Dominic Young 6. Luke Keary 7. Sam Walker 8. Jared Waerea-Hargreaves 9. Brandon Smith 10. Lindsay Collins 11. Angus Crichton 12. Victor Radley 13. Connor Watson 14. Naufahu Whyte 15. Terrell May 16. Nat Butcher 17. Spencer Leniu 18. Ethan King 19. Siua Wong 20. Sandon Smith 21. Blake Steep 22. Salesi Foketi

Dragons

 1. Tyrell Sloan 2. Zac Lomax 3. Moses Suli 4. Max Feagai 5. Christian Tuipulotu , 6. Kyle Flanagan 7. Ben Hunt 8. Francis Molo 9. Jacob Liddle 10. Jack de Belin 11. Raymond Faitala-Mariner 12. Jaydn Su’A 13. Tom Eisenhuth 14. Blake Lawrie 15. Ben Murdoch-Masila 16. Toby Couchman 17. Luciano Leilua 18. Michael Molo 19. Fa’amanu Brown 20. Ryan Couchman 21. Savelio Tamale 22. Jack Bird

Referee. Ashley Klein, Touch Judges. Ziggy Przeklasa-Adamski. Wyatt Raymond. Bunker Grant Atkins

Key Statistics and Player Performances

  • The Roosters have emerged victorious in 10 of their last 12 encounters against the Dragons.
  • The Dragons have allowed 87 points across two matches at the new Allianz Stadium.
  • Roosters winger Dominic Young has found the try line 10 times in his last eight games.
  • Dragons winger Zac Lomax has scored five tries in his past four appearances.
  • Roosters prop Jared Waerea-Hargreaves is set to surpass the club’s all-time appearance record.

Prediction.

I have to go with the Chooks here.

Knights vs Raiders

Comments