NRL Preview - Rd 15
June 18th 2008 08:03
Nathan Hindmarsh and co. must dominate upfront against a ruthless Sharks pack this Sunday
This shapes as a crucial round of NRL competition as teams try to build momentum and others try to save a faltering season. Expect a lot of close games this week.
Brisbane Broncos Vs Wests Tigers
The Broncos have fallen away somewhat this season and look to be heading down the direction that has cost them so dearly during the Origin campaign. The Tigers were outmuscled, outplayed and outwitted by an Eels side hitting form. Still, the Tigers have a big advantage in terms of playmakers and players in key positions compared to the Broncos. The likes of Marshall, Farah and Hodgson should yield enough points to see the Tigers home. The loss of Wallace and Lockyer has hurt Brisbane big time.
St George Illawarra Dragons Vs Penrith Panthers
The Dragons have strung four wins together and look a side full of belief. At home they should have too much resolve for a Penrith side that will be missing inspirational hooker Luke Priddis. Panthers key men Luke Lewis and Petero Civoncieva will keep Penrith honest, but the Dragons would be silly to let this one slip infront of home fans. You just never know with the Dragons though.
Canterbury Bulldogs Vs Canberra Raiders
The Raiders produced their best performance under Neil Henry to thrash the Broncos in a display full of motion and creativity. Unfortunetly for Raiders fans, that game was played in Canberra. The Bulldogs had the bye last week but were down right awful against the Knights, albeit there was controversy surrounding Andrew Ryan's possible try. ANZ stadium could hold the key to this one. If the surface is wet and slippery, favour the Dogs in a low scoring game. If the surface is dry, The Raiders, through Todd Carney look to have the more points.
Melbourne Storm Vs Nth Qld Cowboys
Oh dear. This could be anything but a Cowboys victory. The recent news of Matt Bowen being out for the rest of 2008 will send the Cowboys faithful into tears of hurt and sorrow. Bowen and Thurston held the key on what promised to be an eventful 2008 for the Cowboys. Now the key is lost and the Cowboys stand on the edge of oblivion. The Origin period has not been nice to the Storm, so anticipate the Melbourne boys to show the meaning of a thrashing. That is if they click into gear. One thing is certain. The Storm will win.
New Zealand Warriors Vs Manly Warringah Sea Eagles
Back at home, the Warriors will give Manly a tough test. Despite their poor form of late, players such as Steve Price and Brent Tate really give this side the belief and attitude it needs to stay in games. The loss of Michael Witt to injury has been huge for the Warriors and it looks likely to cost them against Manly. The Sea Eagles are looking ruthless, judging by their performance against the Roosters two weeks ago. Their forwards are rolling forward and Matt Orford is steering the ship. With that type of control,expect a close win for Manly.
Newcastle Knights Vs Sydney Roosters
The Knights were impressive and gutsy as per usual against the Cowboys. They scored the points when needed and never looked headed against Nth Qld. At home, the likes of Buderus, Mullen and Gidley will be playing for NSW jersey's and this should spark a very close contest. The Knights will believe they can win this. The Roosters bounced back well by disposing of injury- riddled Penrith by 20 last Friday. If their forwards dominate upfront, Anasta and Pearce should guide the chooks to their fifth consecutive victory in Newcastle.
Cronulla Sharks Vs Parramatta Eels
A fascinating encounter. Both sides have the forwards to cause eachother great grief in this game. The Sharks have the defence and the Eels have the attack. It will all come down to the battle of halves Brett Kimmorley and Brett Finch. If there respective forwards can dominate, look for Finch or Kimmorley to play a leading hand in what should be a very close encounter. A golden point victory to the Sharks perhaps, but i tossed a coin.
South Sydney Rabbitohs vs Gold Coast Titans
The Rabbitohs are coming off a bye and a win over the Warriors at Mt Smart stadium. Impressive don't you think? The Titans really must show character and skill on the road if they are to make the finals this year. Their away record is not good but that should not serve as an excuse against the Bunnies. Although the game will be close for one reason or another, Scott Prince should really look to take control of this game big time. The Titans by 1-12.
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