NRL, ROUND 19, JULY, 8th, 2023 PARRAMATTA EELS v NZ WARRIORS
COMMBANK STADIUM,SYDNEY
Get ready for an exhilarating NRL showdown as the Parramatta Eels and NZ Warriors prepare to clash in a highly anticipated Round 19 match at the iconic Commbank Stadium in Sydney. Both teams are set to unleash their full potential in a battle that promises to captivate rugby fans worldwide.
The Warriors, hailed as this season’s surprise packets, unfortunately fell short in their recent encounter against the Rabbitohs. Despite making an impressive start and drawing first blood on a wet track at Go Media Stadium, the Rabbitohs showcased their resilience and fought back to secure the win. The Warriors faced additional setbacks when Addin Fonua-Blake was sin-binned, allowing the Rabbitohs to capitalize on the numerical advantage.
A significant turning point in the match came when Dallin Watene-Zeleniak appeared to score a try, potentially narrowing the 10-point difference. However, the Bunker ruled it as a knock-on, denying the Warriors the crucial points they needed. As they reflect on the match, the Warriors aim to learn from their experiences and refine their game plan to ensure victory in winnable home games.
Fortunately, the Warriors have a chance to redeem themselves as they go head-to-head against the Eels, who will be without key players such as Mitchell Moses, Regan Campbell-Gillard, and Clint Gutherson. The absence of these influential figures presents an opportunity for the Warriors to exploit any potential vulnerabilities in the Eels’ lineup. Additionally, the return of Shaun Johnson, who was initially expected to miss the game due to his wife’s impending childbirth, injects further excitement and firepower into the Warriors’ arsenal. Johnson has been in exceptional form this season and will be eager to make his mark on the game.
Meanwhile, the Eels come into the match well-rested after their bye week. They previously showcased their prowess with an impressive victory over the Dolphins in Round 17. Scoring from all areas of the field, the Eels built a substantial 38-point lead by halftime. While the second half may not have been as spectacular, they displayed their ability to control the game and secure a well-deserved win.
As anticipation builds for the upcoming match, all eyes are on the halves pairing of Daejarn Asi and Ryan Matterson. If Matterson can strike the right balance and avoid overplaying his hand, the Eels stand a strong chance of securing victory. Coach Brad Arthur’s guidance will likely emphasize Matterson’s strengths, encouraging him to make decisive runs and allow the rest of the team to follow suit.
The team lineups for the match showcase the talent and depth of both squads. The Eels feature players such as Sean Russell, Maika Sivo, and Will Penisini, who have consistently made significant contributions throughout the season. On the other side, the Warriors, led by Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, have a formidable lineup that includes Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, Rocco Berry, and Adam Pompey. This clash of titans promises an intense battle between two determined teams eager to assert their dominance on the NRL stage.
Notably, the match holds special significance for Shaun Johnson, who is set to make his 200th appearance for the Warriors. This milestone achievement adds an extra layer of motivation and pride for Johnson, who will be joined by his teammates Dylan Walker, Addin Fonua-Blake, and Wayde Egan as they celebrate their respective career milestones.
The NRL community eagerly awaits the Round 19 encounter between the Parramatta Eels and the NZ Warriors. As the teams step onto the hallowed grounds of Commbank Stadium, rugby fans can expect a pulsating clash filled with electrifying plays, strategic brilliance, and an unwavering display of determination. Don’t miss this exhilarating match that is sure to leave a lasting impact on the NRL season.
Warriors: 1. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 3. Rocco Berry 4. Adam Pompey 5. Marcelo Montoya 6. Luke Metcalf 7. Shaun Johnson 8. Addin Fonua-Blake 9. Wayde Egan 10. Bunty Afoa 11. Jackson Ford 12. Mitchell Barnett 13. Tohu Harris 14. Dylan Walker 15. Bayley Sironen 16. Tom Ale 17. Freddy Lussick 18. Brayden Wiliame 20. Ronald Volkman 21. Kalani Going 22. Zyon Maiu’u 23. Taine Tuaupiki
Eels: 1. Sean Russell 2. Maika Sivo 3. Will Penisini 4. Bailey Simonsson 5. Isaac Lumelume 6. Ryan Matterson 7. Daejarn Asi 8. Ofahiki Ogden 9. Brendan Hands 10. Junior Paulo 11. Bryce Cartwright 12. Andrew Davey 13. J’maine Hopgood 14. Luca Moretti 15. Joe Ofahengaue 16. Shaun Lane 17. Makahesi Makatoa 18. Haze Dunster 19. Waqa Blake 20. Ky Rodwell 21. Matt Doorey 22. Jack Murchie
Eels have won the last four meetings between the teams
Eels are on a five-game winning streak
Warriors have lost four of their last five games vs top eight teams
Warriors lost to a Broncos side missing five Origin players earlier this season
Warriors have lost all three games they’ve played at CommBank Stadium
Six of the last seven meetings have been decided by a 1-12 margin
Maika Sivo has scored 46 tries in his last 53 games & is the equal-leading try scorer in 2023
Bailey Simonsson has scored a try in five of his last six games
Dallin Watene-Zelezniak has scored 12 tries in 10 games this season
PREDICTION.
The Warriors are yet to taste victory at CommBank Stadium in their three prior trips, while it’s been over five years since they last beat the Eels.
It was a poor performance from the Warriors and a concerning defeat. There’s been a lot of talk on how much the Warriors have improved, but in my opinion, they haven’t been convincing at all, with those three wins coming against the Dolphins, Raiders and Dragons.
The previous week, the Warriors lost to an understrength Broncos side who were missing five Origin players. The Kiwi club are now tasked with a similar scenario here. I picked the Warriors last week as I thought they had changed their old habits, but for me nothing has changed. I always have had trouble betting on them in the past, giving in last week ,but this was a mistake I will not make again. So for me even with the Origin players out for NSW, I am taking the Eels 1-12 points @ $3.60
Read this too
Comments