NRL, ROUND 27, SEPT 3rd, 2023 CANBERRA RAIDERS v CRONULLA SHARKS
POINTSBET STADIUM, SYDNEY
The NRL regular season concludes with a resounding crescendo as the Cronulla Sharks and Canberra Raiders prepare for a clash that carries significant playoff implications. For the Sharks, it’s a chance to secure a coveted top-six finish, while the Raiders aim to snatch a home final with a victory. However, a loss could potentially see them slip out of the top eight altogether.
The Raiders’ journey in 2023 has been far from typical. Since their round 20 bye, they have struggled, managing only two victories in six matches, both against lower-ranked teams, the Tigers and Bulldogs. This form deviation from the Raiders’ usual dominance has raised questions about their prospects.
Adding to their woes, they suffered a major blow when Josh Papali’i was ruled out for the season, and Corey Horsburgh remains suspended, with his return contingent on a Grand Final appearance. These absences are significant, particularly Horsburgh, who had a breakout season as one of the standout middle forwards in the competition.
What’s more, the Raiders’ away record has been far from impressive. Their last away win dates back to round 9, and even then, it was on a neutral ground for both teams. With just three away wins this season, securing a victory at Cronulla on Sunday appears to be an uphill battle.
Coach Ricky Stuart has made interesting changes, moving Jack Wighton to the centres and opting for the halves combination of Frawley and Fogarty. Facing a Sharks team that scored 26 or more points for three consecutive weeks, the Raiders must find a way to enhance their attacking prowess.
On the Sharks’ side, they missed an opportunity to stay in contention for a top-four finish with a loss to the Knights last week. Now, their focus is on ending the regular season with a win to lock in a home elimination final.
Nicho Hynes, a key player for the Sharks, returns after missing the previous week. The Sharks’ home crowd will be expecting a stellar performance from Nicho. Given the Raiders’ defensive struggles, particularly away from Canberra, the Sharks’ backline is poised for an offensive showcase.
Furthermore, the Sharks are confident about taking on a Raiders forward pack that has weakened compared to previous seasons, missing the imposing figures of Horsburgh and Papali’i. The Sharks’ forwards have been on the rise, making significant meters and delivering resolute defense over the past month.
Despite the Sharks’ recent form and a seemingly advantageous matchup, it’s worth noting that the Raiders have secured victories in their last nine encounters against the Sharks, a remarkable statistic. Additionally, there’s an intangible element at play—the desperation to extend their season and make a playoff push. This kind of determination has fueled legendary rugby league matches, and fans may be in for another classic in the final game before the finals kick off.
In this intriguing clash, expect sparks to fly as both teams vie for a memorable conclusion to their regular season campaigns.
Sharks: 1. Connor Tracey 2. Sione Katoa 3. Jesse Ramien 4. Siosifa Talakai 5. Ronaldo Mulitalo 6. Braydon Trindall 7. Nicho Hynes 8. Toby Rudolf 9. Blayke Brailey 10. Braden Hamlin-Uele 11. Briton Nikora 12. Wade Graham 13. Cameron McInnes 14. Jack Williams 15. Royce Hunt 16. Thomas Hazelton 17. Matt Moylan 18. Kayal Iro 19. Mawene Hiroti 20. Oregon Kaufusi 21. Jesse Colquhoun 22. Daniel Atkinson
Raiders: 1. Jordan Rapana 2. Sebastian Kris 3. Jack Wighton 4. Matthew Timoko 5. Nick Cotric 6. Matt Frawley 7. Jamal Fogarty 8. Emre Guler9. Zac Woolford 10. Joseph Tapine 11. Hudson Young 12. Elliott Whitehead 13. Corey Horsburgh 14. Tom Starling 15. Ata Mariota 16. Jarrod Croker 17. Hohepa Puru 18. Pasami Saulo 19. Albert Hopoate 20. Trey Mooney 21. Danny Levi 22. James Schiller
Raiders have lost four of their last six games
Raiders haven’t beaten a team currently above them on the ladder since April 8
Raiders have lost their last five games vs top eight teams
Sharks have won five of their last seven home games
Ronaldo Mulitalo has scored 11 tries in his last eight games at PointsBet Stadium
Jesse Ramien has scored a try in his last four games at PointsBet Stadium
Nick Cotric has scored a try in his last three games vs Sharks in Sydney
PREDICTION
With the loss of Corey Horsburgh and Josh Papilii for the Raiders, I think the Sharks will be to good at home trying to secure a spot in the final eight.
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