The Storm are strong favourites but if they lose, it would likely be the result that costs them a top-four finish with Brisbane and Parramatta close behind them. If they can earn field position then the Storm’s inexperienced backs can be beaten as Canberra showed in their recent win in Melbourne. The Titans have talent despite their lowly record led by forwards Tino Fa’asuamaleaui and David Fifita.
Melbourne have much to work on after losing their four previous games before last round’s win in New Zealand and losing fullback Nick Meaney to injury has dealt their embattled outside backs yet another blow although loan signing David Nofoaluma is listed to make his Storm debut on the wing. Melbourne Storm v Gold Coast Titans, 6pm Friday, AAMI Park The Storm are back home and looking to make a statement about their intentions for the finals when the bottom-placed Gold Coast Titans arrive at AAMI Park. There’s top quality match-ups all over the shop in this one – Sam Walker v Adam Reynolds, Kotoni Staggs v Joey Manu and four frequent flying wingers just to name a few. No Pat Carrigan for the Broncos ups Payne Haas’s workload, and I’m tipping Jared Waerea-Hargreaves and Matt Lodge will go hunting for him given both already play right on the edge of the aggro line and can well win themselves an advantage in the middle. Sydney Roosters v Brisbane Broncos, 7.50pm Thursday, Sydney Cricket Ground Fascinating clash to kick off the round – the Roosters are looking good for the finals but are by no means home and hosed with a rough draw, while the Broncos’ top-four hopes needed that upset loss to the Tigers like a hole in the head.
0 kommentar(er)
