SEPT, 15th, 2023 MELBOURNE STORM v SYDNEY ROOSTERS
AAMI PARK, MELBOURNE.
Melbourne Storm vs. Sydney Roosters: NRL Semi-Final Battle at AAMI Park
In a highly anticipated NRL Semi-Final clash set for September 15, 2023, the Melbourne Storm and the Sydney Roosters are gearing up for a showdown at Melbourne’s iconic AAMI Park.
The Melbourne Storm, known for their consistency and exceptional performance under coach Craig Bellamy, had an uncharacteristically rough outing in their last match, suffering a humbling 26-0 defeat at the hands of the Brisbane Broncos. Their attack seemed out of sync, especially through the spine, and their usually staunch defense was lackluster. Bellamy is sure to have emphasized defensive improvements in the lead-up to this crucial encounter.
On the flip side, the Sydney Roosters displayed remarkable grit in their previous match at Shark Park, securing a narrow 13-12 victory. Despite losing key players like Joseph Sua’ali’I, Joseph Manu, and James Tedesco during the game, the Roosters defied the odds and emerged victorious. Brandon Smith had a standout performance, and he’ll be keen to maintain his form against his former team.
Unfortunately, the Storm will be without Ryan Papenhuyzen, who is sidelined with a lower leg fracture, and Xavier Coates and Young Tonumaipea, both nursing injuries. In their absence, Alec MacDonald, Reimis Smith, and Justin Olam will step into the lineup.
The Roosters also have their share of injuries, with Joseph Manu, their right-side duo, and Billy Smith all sidelined. Despite these setbacks, Paul Momirovski, Corey Allan, and Jaxson Paulo are set to join the Roosters’ revamped backline.
With both teams missing key players, the outcome of this do-or-die final could hinge on sheer determination. It’s hard to imagine a Craig Bellamy-coached side delivering two lackluster performances in a row, so expect a resurgent Storm. The Roosters, with a second-string backline, will rely on their forwards like Lindsay Collins, Brandon Smith, and Terrell May to maintain their winning form.
STORM. 1. Nick Meaney 2. William Warbrick 3. Marion Seve 4. Justin Olam 5. Reimis Smith 6. Cameron Munster 7. Jahrome Hughes 8. Tui Kamikamica 9. Harry Grant 10. Christian Welch 11. Trent Loiero 12. Eliesa Katoa 13. Josh King 14. Alec MacDonald 15. Tom Eisenhuth 16. Nelson Asofa-Solomona 17. Tariq Sims 18. Grant Anderson 19. Bronson Garlick 20. Tepai Moeroa 21. Tyran Wishart 22. Sualauvi Faalogo
Roosters. 1. James Tedesco 2. Fetalaiga Pauga 3. Paul Momirovski 4. Corey Allan 5. Jaxson Paulo 6. Luke Keary 7. Sam Walker 8. Fletcher Baker 9. Brandon Smith 10. Lindsay Collins 11. Siua Wong 12. Nat Butcher 13. Victor Radley 14. Sandon Smith 15. Egan Butcher 16. Terrell May 17. Angus Crichton 18. Drew Hutchison 19. Naufahu Whyte 20. Zach Dockar-Clay 21. Jake Turpin 22. Nathan Brown
Referees: Ashley Klein; Side line Officials: Drew Oultram, Chris Sutton; Video Referees: Chris Butler
Prediction:
As the Storm and Roosters regroup after a grueling first week of the finals, injuries have cast a shadow over this high-stakes battle. While both teams have lost some star players, it’s the Roosters who may feel the absence the most. Their lack of creativity in attack, compounded by the losses of Joseph Manu and Joseph Suaali’i, might prove too challenging to overcome. Although they displayed bravery against the Sharks last week, the Sharks showed signs of vulnerability, due to a lack of leadership. On the other hand, it’s unlikely that Craig Bellamy’s Storm will deliver another disappointing performance two weeks in a row. For these reasons, the prediction leans in favour of the Storm.
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