NRL, ROUND 23, AUGUST 3rd, 2023 MANLY SEA EAGLES v SYDNEY ROOSTERS
SCG, SYDNEY
On August 3rd, 2023, the National Rugby League (NRL) will witness a monumental clash between two historic clubs, the Manly Sea Eagles and the Sydney Roosters, at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in Round 23.
Both teams find themselves on a knife’s edge, desperately fighting to keep their top-eight hopes alive following rollercoaster 2023 campaigns. This pivotal encounter will determine whether they can secure a coveted spot in the finals.
The Roosters currently stand four points outside the top eight, and with just five rounds remaining, they must muster the strength to win at least four of their final matches to sustain their impressive six-year finals streak. However, after a tough loss to the Broncos in their last outing, Trent Robinson’s side faces an uphill battle to regain momentum and keep their playoff dreams alive.
The Sea Eagles, on the other hand, have experienced a resurgence in form lately, clinching victory in three of their last four games. They come off the back of an emotional win in Daly Cherry-Evans’ 300th NRL match, where the inspirational captain led his team to triumph.
Notably, the two teams faced off just a month ago, with the Sea Eagles securing a nail-biting 18-16 victory against the Roosters at 4 Pines Park. Another repeat result would all but extinguish the Roosters’ hopes of making it to the finals, making this a critical showdown for both sides.
The Sea Eagles are eager to be the team that inflicts further pain on the struggling Roosters, while the Roosters aim to prove their mettle and halt the Sea Eagles’ recent surge of success. The emotional stakes are raised even higher as the Roosters pay homage to their 2013 premiership-winning side, with the likes of Tupou and Jared Waerea-Hargreaves still actively playing in the NRL, and Cordner, Friend, and Aubusson now occupying coaching roles at the club.
The Roosters’ situation is dire, and every remaining game holds immense significance for them. The game against the Broncos was touted as the biggest of their season, but that sentiment holds true for every subsequent match, given their precarious position on the ladder.
Luke Keary and Sandon Smith continue to form a promising combination in the halves, with Keary set to play his 199th NRL game this week. The responsibility on their shoulders is immense, as they must spearhead the Roosters’ attack and navigate their team through the tight competition.
In the forward pack, the Roosters boast a formidable lineup with the likes of Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Brandon Smith, and Lindsay Collins in the front row, providing much-needed power and experience. In the back row, Wong, Nat Butcher, and Victor Radley will be keen to showcase their talents and contribute significantly to the team’s fortunes.
Conversely, Daly Cherry-Evans, the heart and soul of the Sea Eagles, enters the clash with immense confidence following an outstanding individual performance in their last meeting with the Roosters.
Having recently achieved his 300th NRL game milestone, Cherry-Evans is brimming with determination to lead his side to victory and keep their finals aspirations burning brightly.
Raymond Tuaimalo Vaega, coming in for the injured Christian Tuipolotu, will be eager to make an impact from the wing, while Ben Trbojevic’s inclusion in the bench strengthens the Sea Eagles’ depth and versatility.
The Sea Eagles are well aware of the significance of securing maximum points from this fixture, as they face formidable challenges in the form of matches against the Panthers and Warriors in the following rounds.
Home and away wins against the Roosters for the first time since 2017 would serve as a confidence booster for the Sea Eagles and enhance their chances of making a strong playoff push.
Lachlan Croker, the Sea Eagles’ experienced hooker, reaches an impressive milestone by playing his 100th game for the club, adding further motivation to his team to perform at their best.
The clash between Manly Sea Eagles and Sydney Roosters at the SCG is more than just a regular NRL fixture; it is a crucial encounter that will shape the destiny of both teams. The high stakes, historical milestones, and intense competition guarantee an enthralling spectacle for NRL fans and a thrilling showdown that will leave a lasting impact on the 2023 season. As the countdown begins, fans eagerly anticipate the drama and excitement that awaits them at the iconic SCG on August 3rd. This match will not only define the top-eight race but also showcase the passion and dedication of these two proud clubs vying for glory in one of rugby league’s most anticipated battles.
Roosters: 1. James Tedesco 2. Daniel Tupou 3. Billy Smith 4. Joseph Manu 5. Joseph Suaalii 6. Luke Keary 7. Sandon Smith 8. Jared Waerea-Hargreaves 9. Brandon Smith 10. Lindsay Collins 11. Siua Wong 12. Nat Butcher 13. Victor Radley 14. Drew Hutchison 15. Nathan Brown 16. Terrell May 17. Fletcher Baker 18. Corey Allan 19. Elie El Zakhem 20. Jake Turpin 21. Fetalaiga Pauga 22. Dylan Napa
Sea Eagles: 1. Reuben Garrick 2. Jason Saab 3. Brad Parker 4. Tolutau Koula 5. Ray Tuaimalo-Vaega 6. Josh Schuster 7. Daly Cherry-Evans 8. Toafofoa Sipley 9. Lachlan Croker 10. Matthew Lodge 11. Haumole Olakau’atu 12. Kelma Tuilagi 13. Jake Trbojevic 14. Ben Trbojevic 15. Aaron Woods 16. Dean Matterson 17. Ethan Bullemor 18. Ben Condon 19. Jakob Arthur 20. Kaeo Weekes 21. Morgan Harper 22. Gordon Chan Kum Tong
Referee: Ashley Klein
Touch Judge: Kasey Badger
Touch Judge: Ziggy Przeklasa-Adamski
Senior Review Official: Grant Atkins
I hope Kasey Badger can hold a flag the right way, because as a referee she is bad, example recent NRLW game, and last week as a video ref she was worse. I realise the NRL likes women involved in the game, as do I, but this women needs some training on the basics of the game.
The Roosters have won six of their past nine games against the Sea Eagles.
Daly Cherry-Evans has scored four tries in his last four games against the Roosters.
The Roosters have won three of their past four games at the SCG.
The Sea Eagles are aiming for home and away wins against the Roosters for the first time since 2017.
Sea Eagles hooker Lachlan Croker will play his 100th game for the club.
Roosters winger Daniel Tupou has scored five tries in his past three games at the SCG
PREDICTION
Both sides are desperate for the win in this game and while the Sea Eagles won last time earlier this year, the Roosters will start favourite. Ex Rooster Matt Lodge ,now playing for Manly on a train and trial basis, will be out to show the Roosters forwards of Hargreaves and Collins who is the boss. I have never had any time for the Roosters, and handed in my membership some years ago so I would never back them, even if I knew the result prior to kick off. They are a club low on values. So I will take Manly with an 8.5 points start.
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