NRL Preview- Rd 9
May 7th 2008 10:59
Australia and New Zealand captains Cam Smith and Roy Asotasi help launch the centenary test
The Centenary test will highlight what will be a desperate round for many teams in the NRL. State of Origin teams will be named next Tuesday and all players will be eager to impress respective selectors to fight in Rugby League's pinnacle event.
Australia Vs New Zealand
Many will predict an Australian victory due to the fire power in their backs and the versatility of their forwards. The Kangaroos have won 10 of the last 11 one-off tests against their Trans-tasman rivals and at the SCG, they will be hard to beat. In saying that, New Zealand have a different look about them this time round with Wayne Bennett and Stephen Kearney in the helm providing much needed direction and belief in the Kiwi camp. On paper the Kiwis have the side to worry Australia. If Australia get on top early, the score could be anything but if the Kiwis stay in touch until the 50 minute mark, they will fancy their chances.
Sydney Roosters Vs Canberra Raiders
The Raiders have always been a side capable of scoring points and will go for broke in this game. Their away record however is shocking. The Roosters have looked flat in recent weeks and the Bye could not have come at a better time for the tri-colours. They will be fresh and at home hence they will primed for a dominant performance. This is a danger game for the Chooks but if they are fair dinkum of challenging for the title, They must defeat the Raiders comfortably.
Canterbury Bulldogs Vs Penrith Panthers
The Bulldogs welcome back Reni Maitua after a six week layoff with a rib injury. His addition will add much more mongrel and skill in a Bulldogs pack that still contains heavy artillery with the likes of Andrew Ryan and Sonny Bill Williams. The Panthers were hard done by against the Eels last week and will be primed for a huge performance against their bitter rivals. Clashes between these two clubs have generally gone the distance and this looks set to be the case once again. The Panthers have a good record against the Dogs, winning three of the past four encounters including both games last year. This game could come down to the backs with Penrith boosting a superior advantage in terms of speed, skill and try-scoring prowess. That alone should have the Bulldogs worried.
Nth Qld Cowboys Vs Cronulla Sharks
This is a big game for both sides as both are coming off heartbreaking losses. The Cowboys kept their Sydney hoodoo intact with a lucklustre display against Souths and the Sharks have lost their first two games at home after starting so well away from home. The form guide for these two teams is all over the place but the Cowboys look the goods in Townsville. If Johnathon Thurston backs up from the test match, The Cowboys may just have enough firepower to give the Sharks their third consecutive loss. The Sharks defence is brilliant but their attack has been a real worry this season and this could cause big problems in humid Townsville.
Brisbane Broncos Vs Manly Sea Eagles
The match of the round pits two teams that are showing form at just the right time of the season. Brisbane have been the competition's best team with the likes of Wallace, Thaiday and Hannant having spectacular seasons. However, Lockyer's loss for an idefinite period could hurt them this season despite their terrific form. The Sea Eagles are one team that can hold out points with great aplomb and have become experts of holding on to a lead. Brisbane will be favourites at home but Manly will offer them their sternest test as they are at full strength. This game could come down to Orford's performance. If he has a blinder, The Sea Eagles will win.
Parramatta Vs St George Illawarra
The Eels were lucky to escape with a win over the Panthers last saturday. At least they took their good fortune with the likes of Finch and Mateo playing superbly. Jarred Hayne has at last struck form that will eagerly please coach Michael Hagan after such a lucklustre start to the season. The Eels will be primed for a huge performance against the Dragons who looked so good against the Roosters a fortnight ago. Despite that performance, The Dragons know that consistency will be the key for them resurrecting their season. If they are able to keep this contest close, the likes of Gasnier and Cooper will provide the necessary experience to guide them home. The Eels will know that this is a dangerous game and should act accordingly infront of their home fans.
Melbourne Storm Vs Newcastle Knights
The Storm at home look overwhelming favourites to take out this clash, despite Newcastle's terrific form of late. The knights have improved immeasurably in both defence and attack this season and the form of Kurt Gildley is also a bonus. If he fails to recover from the test on Friday night, The Storm will win this by plenty. They have a terrific record over the Novacastrians, having won the past 5 matches between the sides. Even With Gidley in the side, The Storm do not lose to many games at Olympic Park. Melbourne should win but it will not be a thrashing like past victories over their opponents on Monday Night.
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