FRIDAY, JULY 18th, 2025
Sharks v Roosters
Shark Park, Sydney,6.00pm
Ronaldo Mulitalo Knows the Threat Is Real—and Personal
Ronaldo Mulitalo’s face breaks into a grin the moment Mark Nawaqanitawase’s name is mentioned. It’s not just admiration—it’s anticipation.
The Cronulla flyer has been watching closely as the former Wallaby sensation has made a seamless and stunning transition into the NRL. In his first full year of rugby league, Nawaqanitawase has done more than just adapt—he’s exploded onto the scene.
His jaw-dropping solo try against the Bulldogs in Round 11—a blistering, sideline-dancing effort—has gone viral in the truest sense, racking up over 70 million views across social media. It’s already being hailed as the frontrunner for 2025’s Try of the Year.
For Mulitalo, himself no stranger to highlight-reel finishes, the respect is real. But when the whistle blows on Friday night, respect turns to rivalry.
This will be the first time the two strike wingers go head-to-head, with Nawaqanitawase having played in the centres the last time the Roosters met the Sharks earlier in the year. Now, the stage is set for a thrilling one-on-one showdown—two powerful, athletic wingers with a nose for the tryline and something to prove.
Mulitalo has built his reputation on outplaying his opposite number, and he won’t be deviating from that blueprint when Cronulla host the Roosters under the Friday night lights.
The Sharks will roll out the same starting 13 that outmuscled the Dolphins last week, with powerhouse prop Addin Fonua-Blake set to celebrate his 200th NRL appearance. Siosifa Talakai holds firm in the centres, while Daniel Atkinson joins the interchange bench in the only tweak to the 17. Billy Burns drops back to 18th man, and Sam Stonestreet has been named in the extended squad—potentially marking a return to top-grade footy after a strong comeback via NSW Cup from an ankle injury.
All eyes may be on the milestone man Fonua-Blake—but come kick-off, it’s the wing duel between Mulitalo and Nawaqanitawase that promises to steal the show.
Sharks
1. William Kennedy 2. Sione Katoa 3. Jesse Ramien 4. Siosifa Talakai, 5. Ronaldo Mulitalo 6. Braydon Trindall 7. Nicho Hynes 8. Addin Fonua-Blake , 9. Blayke Brailey 10. Oregon Kaufusi 11. Briton Nikora 12. Teig Wilton, 13. Cameron McInnes 14. Daniel Atkinson 15. Jesse Colquhoun 16. Toby Rudolf , 17. Braden Hamlin-Uele 18. Billy Burns 19. Chris Veaila 20. Niwhai Puru, 21. Samuel Stonestreet 22. Jayden Berrell
Out: Billy Burns (bench to reserve)
In: Daniel Atkinson (bench)
Back in the Game: Townsend Returns as Roosters Tweak Winning Formula
Experience meets opportunity this week as coach Trent Robinson makes a calculated call to steady the ship.
With young five-eighth Hugo Savala sidelined through injury, Robinson has turned to a familiar face—Chad Townsend. The seasoned playmaker is set to make his first NRL appearance since Round 5, bringing composure and leadership to a Roosters side building momentum at the right time of the season.
Townsend’s return isn’t just about filling a gap—it’s about guiding a finals-bound team with a steady hand and veteran vision. While the 33-year-old has spent much of the year on the fringes, his recall signals Robinson’s intent to double down on control and experience as the pressure mounts.
Sandon Smith, another versatile option, has been named in the extended squad—suggesting the Roosters aren’t closing any doors just yet.
The only other change to the team that convincingly downed the Dragons last week sees Lindsay Collins promoted to the starting side, with explosive forward Spencer Leniu reverting to the bench—a tactical switch that adds serious punch to the middle rotation.
With Townsend back pulling the strings and a forward pack humming with intent, the Roosters look ready to keep their charge alive.
Roosters
1. James Tedesco 2. Daniel Tupou 3. Billy Smith 4. Robert Toia, 5. Mark Nawaqanitawase 6. Chad Townsend 7. Sam Walker 8. Naufahu Whyte , 9. Connor Watson 10. Lindsay Collins 11. Angus Crichton 12. Salesi Foketi, 13. Victor Radley 14. Zach Dockar-Clay 15. Blake Steep 16. Egan Butcher, 17. Spencer Leniu 18. Ethan King 19. Taylor Losalu 20. Sandon Smith 21. Benaiah Ioelu, 22. Tom Rodwell
Out: Hugo Savala (five-eighth)
In: Chad Townsend (five-eighth)
Changes: Spencer Leniu (front row to bench), Lindsay Collins (bench to front row)
Home Advantage or History Repeating? Sharks Favoured, but Doubts Linger
Last week, the Sharks flexed their attacking muscles and left no doubt about their form, dismantling the Dolphins in style. Nicho Hynes was in vintage touch—controlling the tempo, creating space, and reminding everyone why he’s one of the game’s premier playmakers.
Across the field, the Roosters had to do it the hard way. Their win over the Dragons wasn’t pretty, but it was tough—a gritty arm wrestle that demanded every ounce of composure and steel. And with their Origin-weary forwards now rested and recharged, the Tricolours will run out with renewed fire.
On paper, the Sharks look the safer bet—especially at home, where they’ve built a fortress and rarely miss. But there’s a shadow that lingers: Cronulla’s mixed record against top-tier opposition. It’s a narrative that’s haunted them in recent years—impressive wins against mid-table teams, yet stumbles when the stakes rise.
The Sharks have lost their last four games against top eight opposition.
The Roosters have won nine of their past 11 games against the Sharks.
Sharks winger Ronaldo Mulitalo is on a five-game tryscoring streak against the Roosters.
Roosters winger Daniel Tupou requires two tries to move to equal fifth on the all-time premiership tryscoring list.
Sharks prop Addin Fonua-Blake will make his 200th NRL appearance.
So while the conditions, the crowd, and the form lines might all point towards a Sharks victory, something about this matchup makes tipping them feel uneasy. There’s just enough doubt—just enough Roosters resilience—to give pause.
Match Officials
Referees, Todd Smith, Touch Judges, Phil Henderson, Chris Sutton, Bunker, Adam Gee,
Another hopeless Bunker person.
Panthers v Souths
Commbank Stadium, Sydney, 8pm.
Cleary Out, Fresh Faces In: Panthers Tinker Ahead of Friday Night Test
The Panthers will take the field on Friday night without their general.
Star playmaker Nathan Cleary has been given the week off following his Origin efforts, leaving rising talent Blaize Talagi to step into the spotlight alongside Brad Schneider in the halves. It’s a bold move from Penrith, trusting youth and depth as they navigate a crucial stretch of the season.
Captain and Blues workhorse Isaah Yeo has also earned a well-deserved rest, part of Ivan Cleary’s strategy to manage his Origin stars. But not all reinforcements are missing—Dylan Edwards and Brian To’o return to the fold, their inclusion a welcome boost of class and stability.
Still, not every Panther is available. Hard-hitting second-rower Liam Martin remains out with the wrist injury he picked up in the Origin decider, and Izack Tago’s suspension opens the door for Paul Alamoti to reclaim a centre spot. Meanwhile, the return of enforcer Scott Sorensen from suspension adds much-needed grunt to the back row.
With Edwards reclaiming the No.1 jersey, Daine Laurie shifts back to the bench—a reminder of just how much depth this Penrith side continues to boast.
It’s a side missing some big names, but still brimming with quality. And come Friday night, all eyes will be on how the next generation steps up in Cleary’s absence.
Panthers
1. Dylan Edwards 2. Thomas Jenkins 3. Paul Alamoti 4. Casey McLean , 5. Brian To’o 6. Blaize Talagi 7. Brad Schneider 8. Moses Leota 9. Mitch Kenny, 10. Lindsay Smith 11. Scott Sorensen 12. Luke Garner 13. Isaiah Papali’i, 14. Daine Laurie 15. Liam Henry 16. Luron Patea 17. Matt Eisenhuth 18. Jack Cole , 19. Luke Sommerton 20. Mavrik Geyer 21. Harrison Hassett 22. Preston Riki
Out: Izack Tago (centre), Isaah Yeo (lock), Nathan Cleary (bench)
In: Dylan Edwards (fullback), Brian To’o (wing), Scott Sorensen (second row)
Changes: Daine Laurie (fullback to bench), Paul Alamoti (wing to centre), Isaiah Papali’i (second row to lock)
Shuffled but Steeled: Souths Turn to Depth as Injuries Bite
The Rabbitohs may be limping, but they’re not backing down.
With several key players sidelined, coach Jason Demetriou has shuffled his deck ahead of this week’s clash—leaning on returning stars, fresh energy, and seasoned resilience to keep South Sydney’s finals hopes alive.
English halfback Lewis Dodd has earned an NRL recall and will wear the No.17 jersey off the bench, a nod to his persistence and potential. In the halves, Jack Wighton continues his partnership with Jamie Humphreys as Cody Walker remains sidelined, leaving Wighton to steer the ship in a leadership-heavy role.
The return of Latrell Mitchell from Origin duties sparks a backline reshuffle. The marquee fullback’s presence forces Alex Johnston out wide to his familiar wing, while Isaiah Tass shifts into the centres to cover for the injured Campbell Graham, who remains out with a troubling back issue.
There’s good news in the forward pack with Euan Aitken returning from injury to slot into the back row, but the Rabbitohs face another blow with Brandon Smith ruled out due to a knee injury. Siliva Havili will take over at hooker, while Peter Mamouzelos reclaims a bench spot.
The casualty ward continues to grow, with Davvy Moale joining Smith and Graham on the sidelines. In response, Sean Keppie has been handed an NRL lifeline, recalled to add some grunt up front.
It’s a lineup held together by belief and adaptability—and if South Sydney are to stay in the hunt, it will be their depth that carries them through.
Souths
1. Latrell Mitchell 2. Alex Johnston 3. Isaiah Tass 4. Tallis Duncan, 5. Tyrone Munro 6. Jack Wighton 7. Jamie Humphreys 8. Tevita Tatola 9. Siliva Havili , 10. Keaon Koloamatangi 11. Euan Aitken 12. Jacob Host 13. Jai Arrow, 14. Peter Mamouzelos 15. Lachlan Hubner 16. Sean Keppie 17. Lewis Dodd , 18. Liam Le Blanc 19. Thomas Fletcher 20. Ryan Gray 21. Shaquai Mitchell, 22. Ammaron Gudgeon
Out: Campbell Graham (centre), Brandon Smith (hooker), Davvy Moale (bench), Liam Le Blanc (bench to reserve)
In: Latrell Mitchell (fullback), Euan Aitken (second row), Peter Mamouzelos (bench), Sean Keppie (bench), Lewis Dodd (bench)
Changes: Alex Johnston (fullback to wing), Isaiah Tass (wing to centre), Jai Arrow (second row to lock), Lachlan Hubner (lock to bench), Siliva Havili (bench to hooker), Ryan Gray (bench to reserve)
Latrell Returns, But Panthers Loom Large in Crucial Clash
Last week, it took the Panthers a little while to warm up—but once they did, there was no stopping them. After a sluggish opening against the Eels, they shifted gears and stormed home, flexing the kind of muscle that has defined their dynasty in recent years.
The Rabbitohs, on the other hand, spent the week licking their wounds after a deflating loss to Manly in Round 18. It was a performance that raised more questions than answers—and with their season now teetering, every match feels like sudden death.
Thankfully for South Sydney, Latrell Mitchell is expected to return at fullback, bringing with him not only firepower but hope. If the Bunnies are to launch a late-season revival, it starts with Latrell—and it has to start now.
But standing in their way is a Penrith side nearing full strength and brimming with confidence. With stars returning and combinations clicking, the Panthers are once again looking like the juggernaut no one wants to face.
The Panthers have won 12 of their past 15 games against the Rabbitohs.
The Rabbitohs have not defeated the Panthers twice in a season since 2017.
The Panthers have won their last four games at CommBank Stadium.
Rabbitohs utility Tallis Duncan has scored five tries in his last four games.
The Panthers have conceded only 58 points in their last five games.
The Rabbitohs need something special. The Panthers just need to keep doing what they do.
Match Officials
Referees, Gerard Sutton, Touch Judges, Ziggy Przeklasa-Adamski, Kasey Badger, Bunker, Chris Butler.
Can the Badge remember to put the flag up .Her and Gee are below average.
Comments