SATURDAY, MAY 4th, 2024 ACCOR STADIUM, SYDNEY
NRL Round 9: Bulldogs vs Tigers – Situation and Prediction May 4th Saturday Game: What to Expect?
In Form Bulldogs
The Bulldogs, who showed a strong performance in their last game, seem fully refreshed and ready for their match against the Wests Tigers on Saturday. Under the leadership of Cameron Ciraldo, the team secured a significant victory of 36-12 against the Knights in Round 8 before enjoying their Bye week. Bulldogs have notably improved this season and have become a threat to top teams, thanks to standout performances from players like Viliame Kikau, Stephen Crichton, and Matt Burton.
After their Bye week, Bulldogs are gearing up for the next match. Kurt Mann has recovered from a hand injury during the Bye week and has been named in the starting lineup at lock. Additionally, Jacob Preston, who has been out since Round 4 due to a jaw injury, is included in the reserves. Connor Tracey will again start at fullback, with Blake Taaffe on the bench.
Expectations are high for another strong performance from the team, especially with the return of injured players.
Struggling Tigers
On the other hand, the Wests Tigers have shown glimpses of promise this year, but the wounds from their 34-10 loss to the Broncos last week may still be fresh. Benji Marshall had intended to maintain the same 17 who lost to the Broncos in Round 8, but Skipper Api Koroisau will miss this game due to a back injury sustained last week. This could be a significant blow to the team, with Jake Simpkin set to start as hooker.
Players to Watch for Tigers
Solomon Alaimalo made his NRL debut against the Broncos last week and retains his position for this game. Before 2024, the 28-year-old only played one amateur game in his hometown of Christchurch, despite having Super Rugby experience with the Chiefs and Highlanders.
Starford To’a has been named in the extended squad and could return for his first game since suffering an ankle injury in Round 2.
How Will Tigers Approach the Game?
Overall, the Tigers seem to be struggling this year, especially in their offensive game. They have been stifled by defensive powerhouses like the Panthers and Broncos in the past two weeks. It seems like they’re gasping for breath. In this game, Bulldogs won’t be an easy opponent, and this year’s Bulldogs are significantly improved. Tigers need to capitalize on better attacking opportunities to stay competitive.
Last week, Samuela Fainu started in the second row and looked impactful with some touches alongside Lachlan Galvin. It’s expected that the Tigers will seek to replicate that combination.
Both Teams’ Line-ups and Referees
Bulldogs:
- Connor Tracey
- Jacob Kiraz
- Bronson Xerri
- Stephen Crichton
- Josh Addo-Carr
- Matt Burton
- Drew Hutchison
- Max King
- Reed Mahoney
- Josh Curran
- Viliame Kikau
- Jaeman Salmon
- Kurt Mann
- Bailey Hayward
- Samuel Hughes
- Kurtis Morrin
- Blake Taaffe
- Blake Wilson
- Poasa Faamausili
- Toby Sexton
- Jacob Preston
- Jake Turpin
Tigers:
- Jahream Bula
- Charlie Staines
- Brent Naden
- Justin Olam
- Solomon Alaimalo
- Lachlan Galvin
- Aidan Sezer
- Stefano Utoikamanu
- Apisai Koroisau
- David Klemmer
- Isaiah Papali’i
- Samuela Fainu
- John Bateman
- Latu Fainu
- Alex Twal
- Alex Seyfarth
- Fonua Pole
- Jake Simpkin
- Starford To’a
- Asu Kepaoa
- Alexander Lobb
- Solomona Faataape
Referees:
Referee: Kasey Badger
Touch Judge: Drew Oultram
Touch Judge: Jon Stone
Bunker: Gerard Sutton
Past Highlights of Both Teams
Bulldogs have won three of their last four games against Wests Tigers.
Wests Tigers have lost their last nine games at Accor Stadium.
Bulldogs winger, Josh Addo-Carr, has scored 22 tries in his last 22 games at Accor Stadium.
Wests Tigers have not defeated the Bulldogs at Accor Stadium since 2018.
Bulldogs have scored 66 points in their last two games at Accor Stadium.
Prediction
Considering these factors, I believe this game will tilt in favor of the Bulldogs. Addo-Carr is a prolific scorer who can find the try line at any time. With Bulldogs’ current form, it might be a tough challenge for the Tigers.
By the way, if you enjoy betting, Tigers with a 14.5 point start at $1.40 seems intriguing, don’t you think?
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