eagles2win
Bencher
990
SUPERCOACH 2011 GENeral Chat thread
- Thread starter Berkeley_Eagle
- Start date
-
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eagles2win
Bencher
950-odd.
A few injuries and I think it may be time to hook a few Raiders. They have been god awful
A few injuries and I think it may be time to hook a few Raiders. They have been god awful
Berkeley_Eagle
Current Status: 24/7 Manly Fan
beat me I only got 950
but 686 in rd 1
and 790 in rd 2
so I am improving
but 686 in rd 1
and 790 in rd 2
so I am improving
Berkeley_Eagle
Current Status: 24/7 Manly Fan
NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS v GOLD COAST TITANS at Dairy Farmers Stadium, 7.30pm
COWBOYS: Matthew Bowen, Ashley Graham, Will Tupou, Willie Tonga, Kalifa Fai Fai Loa, Ray Thompson, Johnathan Thurston, Matt Scott, Aaron Payne, James Tamou, Gavin Cooper, Glenn Hall, Dallas Johnson. Interchange: James Segeyaro, Leeson Ah Mau, Ashton Sims, Tariq Sims, Scott Bolton, Antonio Winterstein (two to be omitted).
Ins: Scott Bolton, Antonio Winterstein
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Brent Tate (knee, round 15)
Comment: The possible returns of Scott Bolton (calf) and Antonio Winterstein (broken jaw) pose some serious SuperCoach issues. The most pressing is whether Tariq Sims will drop off the bench in the place of Bolton. Winterstein’s possible comeback may cause a backline reshuffle. The worst outcome SuperCoach-wise would be Will Tupou losing his spot.
TITANS: William Zillman, Steve Michaels, Esi Tonga, Bodene Thompson, David Mead, Luke Capewell, Scott Prince, Luke Bailey, Nathan Friend, Matthew White, Anthony Laffranchi, Mark Minichiello, Ben Ridge. Interchange: Michael Henderson, Sam Tagaetese, Ryan James, Riley Brown, Luke O’Dwyer (one to be omitted).
Ins: Nathan Friend, Luke Capewell, Luke O’Dwyer, Scott Prince
Outs: Brad Meyers (wrist, indefinite), Greg Bird (suspension, round 6), Preston Campbell (knee, round 9)
Other unavailables: Ashley Harrison (hamstring, round 7), Kevin Gordon (knee, season)
Comment: Brad Meyers (wrist, indefinite), Greg Bird (suspension, round 6) and Preston Campbell (knee, round 9) are out. Scott Prince (hamstring) is in considerable doubt. But offsetting these injuries somewhat is the return of Nathan Friend, who will play his first game of 2011. Ashley Harrison (hamstring, round 7) may yet come into calculations. Anthony Laffranchi should continue to score well if Harrison doesn’t play. Esi Tonga’s price will rise after this week.
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WESTS TIGERS v SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS at Sydney Football Stadium, 7.30pm
TIGERS: Wade McKinnon, Mitch Brown, Blake Ayshford, Geoff Daniela, Matt Utai, Benji Marshall, Tim Moltzen, Bryce Gibbs, Robbie Farah, Keith Galloway, Simon Dwyer, Alan Schirnack, Chris Heighington. Interchange: Jacob Miller, Andrew Fifita, Aaron Woods, Todd Payten.
Ins: None
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Lote Tuqiri (broken arm, round 12), Chris Lawrence (dislocated hip, indefinite), Robert Lui (ankle, indefinite), Gareth Ellis (ankle, round 7), Liam Fulton (shoulder, round 7), Junior Moors (foot, round 6), Ben Murdoch-Masila (shoulder, round 8), Beau Ryan (groin, indefinite), Nathan Waters (foot, round 7)
Comment: No changes. Robbie Farah is suffering osteitis pubis, which explains his below par showings over the first few rounds. He requires surgery, but is determined to keep playing – for now at least. Tim Moltzen will again play halfback, with Jacob Miller to come off the bench. The Tigers say Gareth Ellis is no chance of a return.
RABBITOHS: Rhys Wesser, Nathan Merritt, Dylan Farrell, Greg Inglis, Fetuli Talanoa, John Sutton, Chris Sandow, Luke Stuart, Issac Luke, Roy Asotasi (capt), Sam Burgess, David Taylor, Dave Tyrrell. Interchange: Ben Ross, Shannan McPherson, Michael Crocker, Chris McQueen.
Ins: Rhys Wesser, Sam Burgess
Outs: Nathan Peats, Kane Morgan
Other unavailables: Eddy Pettybourne (suspension, round 7), Scott Geddes (Achilles, season), Ben Lowe (foot, round 10), Jason Clark (hamstring, indefinite)
Comment: Rhys Wesser (hamstring) and Sam Burgess (shoulder) will have to pass fitness tests later in the week. Burgess’s price should drop dramatically after his third game due to his injury-affected 21 in round one.
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SATURDAY
NZ WARRIORS v SYDNEY ROOSTERS at Mt Smart Stadium, 7.30pm
WARRIORS: Glen Fisiiahi, Bill Tupou, Shaun Berrigan, Simon Mannering (capt), Krisnan Inu, Feleti Mateo, James Maloney, Sam Rapira, Aaron Heremaia, Jacob Lillyman, Lewis Brown, Ukuma Ta’ai, Micheal Luck. Interchange: Kevin Locke, Jeremy Latimore, Ben Matulino, Elijah Taylor, Matt Robinson (one to be omitted).
Ins: Jeremy Latimore, Matt Robinson
Outs: Russell Packer (dropped)
Other unavailables: Jerome Ropati (knee, season), Isaac John (ankle, indefinite), Manu Vatuvei (knee, round 10)
Comment: Glen Fisiiahi retains his fullback spot following his breathtaking display on Sunday. He will see a price rise after this week. Russell Packer has been dropped for Jeremy Latimore, while backrower Matt Robinson has been named 18th man. Packer will join such stars as Brett Seymour, Joel Moon and Lance Hohaia in NSW Cup. Simon Mannering’s move to the centres appears to be at least semi-permanent after the Warriors scored their first win of the season with him there last weekend. Ditto for Feleti Mateo’s move to five-eighth. And while on Mateo, his price looks juicy this week.
ROOSTERS: Anthony Minichiello, Justin Carney, Mitchell Aubusson, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Joseph ‘BJ’ Leilua, Todd Carney, Mitchell Pearce, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Jake Friend, Martin Kennedy, Braith Anasta, Tom Symonds, Nate Myles. Interchange: Jason Ryles, Mose Masoe, Mark Riddell, Frank Paul Nuuausala, Daniel Conn, Tinirau Arona, Phil Graham (three to be omitted).
Ins: Jason Ryles, Frank-Paul Nuuausala, Phil Graham
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Sam Perrett (broken ankle, round 13), Anthony Cherrington (knee, season), Anthony Watts (knee, round 11)
Comment: Jason Ryles and Frank-Paul Nuuausala return after late withdrawals against the Tigers. Phil Graham has been named on an extended bench after recovering from a torn pectoral. He may put potential cheapie Justin Carney’s spot in jeopardy. Tom Symonds has again been named in the starting side and will see a massive price rise after this week.
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PENRITH PANTHERS v CANBERRA RAIDERS at Centrebet Stadium, 7.30pm
PANTHERS: Michael Gordon, Sandor Earl, Michael Jennings, Brad Tighe, David Simmons, Travis Burns, Luke Walsh, Tim Grant, Kevin Kingston, Petero Civoniceva, Trent Waterhouse, Nigel Plum, Sarafu Fatiaki. Interchange: Dayne Weston, Matthew Bell, Timana Tahu, Nafe Seluini, Masada Iosefa, Adrian Purtell (two to be omitted).
Ins: Sandor Earl, Luke Walsh, Sarafu Fatiaki, Dayne Weston,
Outs: Lachlan Coote (groin, round 7), Luke Lewis (wrist, round 11)
Other unavailables: Nathan Smith (groin, round 7), Sam McKendry (hip, indefinite), Dane Laurie (knee, indefinite)
Comment: Lachlan Coote (groin, round 7) and Luke Lewis (wrist, round 11) are massive losses. But the plus side is that Michael Gordon takes Coote’s fullback position, where he scores MASSIVE. Sarafu Fatiaki scores Lewis’s starting lock spot, but would be hard to pick given his current average of 18. Will Trent Waterhouse step up in Lewis’s absence?
RAIDERS: Blake Ferguson, Reece Robinson, Jarrod Croker, Joel Thompson, Daniel Vidot, Josh McCrone, Matt Orford, Tom Learoyd-Lahrs, Travis Waddell, David Shillington (capt), Trevor Thurling, Bronson Harris (capt) Shaun Fensom. Interchange: Glen Buttriss, Josh Miller, Danny Galea, Brett White, David Milne, James Stuart (two to be omitted).
Ins: Reece Robinson, Danny Galea, David Milne, James Stuart
Outs: Josh Dugan (calf, round 8), Dane Tilse (hamstring, round 6)
Other unavailables: Joe Picker (ankle, round 6), Alan Tongue (shoulder, round 9), Terry Campese (knee, round 13)
Comment: Josh Dugan (calf, round 8) has been diagnosed with nerve damage. Blake Ferguson moves to fullback, where he should get more runs. Matt Orford has been retained, which, going on current form, may again see low SuperCoach scores for the Raiders. Dane Tilse (hamstring, round 6) should be back next week. Shaun Fensom produced a below par round four after playing from the bench. However, the big positive is that he still got 57 minutes.
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CRONULLA SHARKS v MANLY SEA EAGLES at Toyota Stadium, 7.30pm
SHARKS: Nathan Gardner, Matthew Wright, Ben Pomeroy, Colin Best, John Williams, Albert Kelly, Wade Graham, Kade Snowden, John Morris, Luke Douglas, Jeremy Smith, Anthony Tupou, Paul Gallen. Interchange: Josh Cordoba, Broderick Wright, Paul Aiton, Dean Collis, Johnny Mannah, Taulima Tautai (two to be omitted).
Ins: Dean Collis, Taulima Tautai
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Scott Porter (knee, round 6)
Comment: No changes. Paul Gallen has a break even of 88 following his below par display on the weekend.
SEA EAGLES: Brett Stewart, Michael Robertson, Jamie Lyo (capt), Steve Matai, Will Hopoate, Kieran Foran, Daly Cherry-Evans, Jason King (capt), Matt Ballin, Brent Kite, Jamie Buhrer, Joe Galuvao, Glenn Stewart. Interchange: Tim Robinson, Daniel Harrison, George Rose, Vic Mauro, Tony Williams (one to be omitted).
Ins: Brett Stewart, Steve Matai, George Rose, Tony Williams
Outs: Anthony Watmough (club suspension, round 6), Terence Seuseu (club suspension, round 6), Michael Oldfield (dropped)
Other unavailables: Shane Rodney (shoulder, indefinite), David Williams (knee, round 8)
Comment: Anthony Watmough and Terence Seuseu have been suspended for one week for urinating in public. The big winner out of this is Jamie Buhrer, who takes Watmough’s starting spot and may even fill in at hooker at some stage for Seuseu. Steve Matai returns from suspension. Boom cheapie Will Hopoate remains in the team on the wing, but is this only due to the injury to David Williams (knee, round 8)? Brett Stewart (hamstring) and George Rose (cork) have been named to make their returns, while Tony Williams (ankle) has been named on an extended bench. Brent Kite (ribs) and Kieran Foran (eye) are expected to play.
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SUNDAY
MELBOURNE STORM v PARRAMATTA EELS at AAMI Park, 2pm
STORM: Billy Slater, Justin O’Neill, Dane Nielsen, Beau Champion, Matt Duffie, Gareth Widdop, Cooper Cronk, Troy Thompson, Cameron Smith, Bryan Norrie, Adam Blair, Kevin Proctor, Todd Lowrie. Interchange: Ryan Hinchcliffe, Atelea Vea, Adam Woolnough, Jesse Bromwich, Anthony Quinn, Jaiman Lowe (two to be omitted).
Ins: Anthony Quinn, Jaiman Lowe
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Sika Manu (ankle, indefinite), Chase Stanley (knee, season), Rory Kostjasyn (ankle, round 6)
Comment: No changes to the starting 17. Cameron Smith is in brilliant form and must surely be considered by those who are not worried about Origin (and even by those who are). Jesse Bromwich pulled out an enormous 90 last week.
EELS: Jarryd Hayne, Luke Burt, Joel Reddy, Ben Smith, Etu Uaisele, Daniel Mortimer, Jeff Robson, Tim Mannah, Casey McGuire, Shane Shackleton, Nathan Hindmarsh (capt), Taniela Lasalo, Justin Horo. Interchange: Anthony Mitchell, Mitchell Allgood, Carl Webb, Fuifui Moimoi.
Ins: Casey McGuire, Fuifui Moimoi
Outs: Ryan Morgan (ankle, indefinite), Matt Keating (hand, round 11)
Other unavailables: Chris Walker (hip, indefinite), Justin Poore (knee, indefinite)
Comment: Ben Smith moves to centre, replacing Ryan Morgan (ankle, indefinite). Parramatta will start the game with five props – Tim Mannah, Shane Shackleton, Mitchell Allgood, Carl Webb and Fuifui Moimoi. This doesn’t spell well for front-row game time, although starting backrowers Nathan Hindmarsh, Taniela Lasalo and Justin Horo may benefit. A player like Shane Shackleton may also spend time in the back row, which will increase his minutes. Casey McGuire (calf) has been named but is in doubt, while Moimoi returns from suspension.
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ST GEORGE ILLAWARRA DRAGONS v CANTERBURY BULLDOGS at Sydney Cricket Ground, 3pm
DRAGONS: Darius Boyd, Brett Morris, Mark Gasnier, Matt Cooper, Jason Nightingale, Jamie Soward, Ben Hornby, Dan Hunt, Nathan Fien, Trent Merrin, Beau Scott, Ben Creagh, Matt Prior. Interchange: Dean Young, Jon Green, David Gower, Kyle Stanley, Michael Greenfield, Adam Cuthbertson, Mitch Rein (three to be omitted).
Ins: Michael Greenfield, Adam Cuthbertson, Mitch Rein
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Michael Weyman (groin, round 8), Cameron King (shoulder, round 16)
Comment: No changes to the starting 17. It will be interesting to see how the return of Dean Young, who came back from a knee injury last week, will affect forward game time. Dan Hunt (as well as Luke Bailey) must surely come into consideration as replacements for Robbie Farah. David Gower probably dropped out of cheapie calculations following his 15 on the weekend.
BULLDOGS: Ben Barba, Steve Turner, Timoteo Lafai, Jamal Idris, Bryson Goodwin, Kris Keating, Trent Hodkinson, Aiden Tolman, Michael Ennis, Mickey Paea, Frank Pritchard, Andrew Ryan, David Stagg. Interchange: Sam Kasiano, Jake Foster, Corey Payne, Dene Halatau, Chris Armit (one to be omitted).
Ins: Mickey Paea
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Josh Morris (knee, round 8), Ryan Tandy (sacked), Greg Eastwood (wrist, round 9)
Comment: Mickey Paea returns in the only change. He is expected to be fit after he was a late withdrawal on Monday night. Greg Eastwood’s comeback has been pushed back until round nine, which is good news for Aiden Tolman (and to a lesser extent Sam Kasiano and Jake Foster). The Bulldogs say Josh Morris won’t be sighted until round eight, which is good news for Tim Lafai.
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MONDAY
BRISBANE BRONCOS v NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS at Suncorp Stadium, 7pm
BRONCOS: Gerard Beale, Dale Copley, Jack Reed, Justin Hodges, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (capt), Peter Wallace, Sam Thaiday, Andrew McCullough, Ben Hannant, Alex Glenn, Matt Gillett, Corey Parker. Interchange: Mitchell Dodds, Ben Te’o, Josh McGuire, Shane Tronc, Dane Carlaw, Nick Kenny, Corey Norman (three to be omitted).
Ins: Mitchell Dodds, Nick Kenny, Dane Carlaw, Corey Norman
Outs: Ben Hunt (knee, round 7)
Other unavailables: Josh Hoffman (shin, round 6), Scott Anderson (calf, round 8)
Comment: Ben Hunt (knee, round 7) is out. The Broncos have picked an enormous bench, which could spell danger in terms of late withdrawals. Mitchell Dodds has been named for his first game of the season after breaking his hand in the trials. Dane Carlaw could play his first game for the Broncos since 2007. Nick Kenny finally returns to first grade after biding his time in Queensland Cup due to an injury-disrupted off-season. Corey Norman gets a recall following some brilliant Toyota Cup form. There’s still no sign of Dane Gagai, who played centre in Toyota Cup last week.
KNIGHTS: Wes Naiqama, James McManus, Tafeaga Junior Sa’u, Adam MacDougall, Akuila Uate, Kurt Gidley, Jarrod Mullen, Antonio Kaufusi, Matt Hilder, Evarn Tuimavave, Zeb Taia, Chris Houston, Joel Edwards. Interchange: Marvin Karawana, Cory Paterson, Lisiate Richie Fa’aoso, Dan Tolar.
Ins: None
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Beau Henry (ankle, round 10), Cameron Ciraldo (torn pectoral, indefinite), Ben Rogers (dislocated shoulder, indefinite), Isaac De Gois (thumb, round 6), Neville Costigan (broken arm, round 13), Mark Taufua (finger, round 6)
Comment: No changes. Matt Hilder continues to dominate. But will he post huge scores when Isaac De Gois (thumb, round 6) returns.
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Silvertails Cup (League invite code: 256124)
Results and Fixtures - Round 4
The Stevos 1,053 def by 1,063 WAMF's Eagles
BeRks_eAgLEs 997 def 926 Splinters
Kano's Eagles 951 def 702 Gilly's Gorillas
Wombats 1,015 def by 1,022 Bogans
Kavstars 806 drew 806 Raucous Curly
Lloyds legends 964 def by 1,001 Sydney Dugongs
2 Smokin Hotties 942 def by 1,061 Axis of Ignorance
shakamaker 981 def 920 The Fluffers
The Stevos vs Kano's Eagles
BeRks_eAgLEs vs Wombats
Splinters vs Bogans
WAMF's Eagles vs Gilly's Gorillas
Kavstars vs 2 Smokin Hotties
Lloyds legends vs shakamaker
Sydney Dugongs vs The Fluffers
Raucous Curly vs Axis of Ignorance
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Silvertails Cup #2 (League invite code: 224391)
Results and Fixtures - Round 4
kaza 1,029 def 997 BeRks_eAgLEs
tractorboy 963 def 840 Gazza'sEagleRock
The Wolf Pack 1,085 def 1,066 Lockys Legends
Kiwigurlz 897 def by 1,000 Screamin' Eagles
Riley's Eagles 909 def by 1,050 Mudslingers
EagleBombers 959 def by 1,184 40_nil
St Bobs Boys 829 def by 985 The Short & Curlys
Mosman Possums 1,081 def 932 Brewskis Best
kaza vs The Wolf Pack
tractorboy vs Kiwigurlz
Gazza'sEagleRock vs Screamin' Eagles
BeRks_eAgLEs vs Lockys Legends
Riley's Eagles vs St Bobs Boys
EagleBombers vs Mosman Possums
40_nil vs Brewskis Best
Mudslingers vs The Short & Curlys
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Battle Of Brookie (League invite code: 464428)
Results and Fixtures - Round 4
Bones 1,048 def by 1,062 R
tractorboy 963 def 825 Razzas_Dazzlers
Big Guns 1,095 def 1,019 Clowns of Cabarita
The 4020's 837 def by 985 The Short & Curlys
4 No Caters 860 def by 1,061 Axis of Ignorance
mackayeagles 997 def by 1,082 Mattyk Seaeagles
Wombats 1,015 def 874 Venom
Kiwigurlz 897 def by 997 BeRks_eAgLEs
Bones vs Big Guns
tractorboy vs The 4020's
Razzas_Dazzlers vs The Short & Curlys
R vs Clowns of Cabarita
4 No Caters vs Wombats
mackayeagles vs Kiwigurlz
Mattyk Seaeagles vs BeRks_eAgLEs
Axis of Ignorance vs Venom
COWBOYS: Matthew Bowen, Ashley Graham, Will Tupou, Willie Tonga, Kalifa Fai Fai Loa, Ray Thompson, Johnathan Thurston, Matt Scott, Aaron Payne, James Tamou, Gavin Cooper, Glenn Hall, Dallas Johnson. Interchange: James Segeyaro, Leeson Ah Mau, Ashton Sims, Tariq Sims, Scott Bolton, Antonio Winterstein (two to be omitted).
Ins: Scott Bolton, Antonio Winterstein
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Brent Tate (knee, round 15)
Comment: The possible returns of Scott Bolton (calf) and Antonio Winterstein (broken jaw) pose some serious SuperCoach issues. The most pressing is whether Tariq Sims will drop off the bench in the place of Bolton. Winterstein’s possible comeback may cause a backline reshuffle. The worst outcome SuperCoach-wise would be Will Tupou losing his spot.
TITANS: William Zillman, Steve Michaels, Esi Tonga, Bodene Thompson, David Mead, Luke Capewell, Scott Prince, Luke Bailey, Nathan Friend, Matthew White, Anthony Laffranchi, Mark Minichiello, Ben Ridge. Interchange: Michael Henderson, Sam Tagaetese, Ryan James, Riley Brown, Luke O’Dwyer (one to be omitted).
Ins: Nathan Friend, Luke Capewell, Luke O’Dwyer, Scott Prince
Outs: Brad Meyers (wrist, indefinite), Greg Bird (suspension, round 6), Preston Campbell (knee, round 9)
Other unavailables: Ashley Harrison (hamstring, round 7), Kevin Gordon (knee, season)
Comment: Brad Meyers (wrist, indefinite), Greg Bird (suspension, round 6) and Preston Campbell (knee, round 9) are out. Scott Prince (hamstring) is in considerable doubt. But offsetting these injuries somewhat is the return of Nathan Friend, who will play his first game of 2011. Ashley Harrison (hamstring, round 7) may yet come into calculations. Anthony Laffranchi should continue to score well if Harrison doesn’t play. Esi Tonga’s price will rise after this week.
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WESTS TIGERS v SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS at Sydney Football Stadium, 7.30pm
TIGERS: Wade McKinnon, Mitch Brown, Blake Ayshford, Geoff Daniela, Matt Utai, Benji Marshall, Tim Moltzen, Bryce Gibbs, Robbie Farah, Keith Galloway, Simon Dwyer, Alan Schirnack, Chris Heighington. Interchange: Jacob Miller, Andrew Fifita, Aaron Woods, Todd Payten.
Ins: None
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Lote Tuqiri (broken arm, round 12), Chris Lawrence (dislocated hip, indefinite), Robert Lui (ankle, indefinite), Gareth Ellis (ankle, round 7), Liam Fulton (shoulder, round 7), Junior Moors (foot, round 6), Ben Murdoch-Masila (shoulder, round 8), Beau Ryan (groin, indefinite), Nathan Waters (foot, round 7)
Comment: No changes. Robbie Farah is suffering osteitis pubis, which explains his below par showings over the first few rounds. He requires surgery, but is determined to keep playing – for now at least. Tim Moltzen will again play halfback, with Jacob Miller to come off the bench. The Tigers say Gareth Ellis is no chance of a return.
RABBITOHS: Rhys Wesser, Nathan Merritt, Dylan Farrell, Greg Inglis, Fetuli Talanoa, John Sutton, Chris Sandow, Luke Stuart, Issac Luke, Roy Asotasi (capt), Sam Burgess, David Taylor, Dave Tyrrell. Interchange: Ben Ross, Shannan McPherson, Michael Crocker, Chris McQueen.
Ins: Rhys Wesser, Sam Burgess
Outs: Nathan Peats, Kane Morgan
Other unavailables: Eddy Pettybourne (suspension, round 7), Scott Geddes (Achilles, season), Ben Lowe (foot, round 10), Jason Clark (hamstring, indefinite)
Comment: Rhys Wesser (hamstring) and Sam Burgess (shoulder) will have to pass fitness tests later in the week. Burgess’s price should drop dramatically after his third game due to his injury-affected 21 in round one.
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SATURDAY
NZ WARRIORS v SYDNEY ROOSTERS at Mt Smart Stadium, 7.30pm
WARRIORS: Glen Fisiiahi, Bill Tupou, Shaun Berrigan, Simon Mannering (capt), Krisnan Inu, Feleti Mateo, James Maloney, Sam Rapira, Aaron Heremaia, Jacob Lillyman, Lewis Brown, Ukuma Ta’ai, Micheal Luck. Interchange: Kevin Locke, Jeremy Latimore, Ben Matulino, Elijah Taylor, Matt Robinson (one to be omitted).
Ins: Jeremy Latimore, Matt Robinson
Outs: Russell Packer (dropped)
Other unavailables: Jerome Ropati (knee, season), Isaac John (ankle, indefinite), Manu Vatuvei (knee, round 10)
Comment: Glen Fisiiahi retains his fullback spot following his breathtaking display on Sunday. He will see a price rise after this week. Russell Packer has been dropped for Jeremy Latimore, while backrower Matt Robinson has been named 18th man. Packer will join such stars as Brett Seymour, Joel Moon and Lance Hohaia in NSW Cup. Simon Mannering’s move to the centres appears to be at least semi-permanent after the Warriors scored their first win of the season with him there last weekend. Ditto for Feleti Mateo’s move to five-eighth. And while on Mateo, his price looks juicy this week.
ROOSTERS: Anthony Minichiello, Justin Carney, Mitchell Aubusson, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Joseph ‘BJ’ Leilua, Todd Carney, Mitchell Pearce, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Jake Friend, Martin Kennedy, Braith Anasta, Tom Symonds, Nate Myles. Interchange: Jason Ryles, Mose Masoe, Mark Riddell, Frank Paul Nuuausala, Daniel Conn, Tinirau Arona, Phil Graham (three to be omitted).
Ins: Jason Ryles, Frank-Paul Nuuausala, Phil Graham
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Sam Perrett (broken ankle, round 13), Anthony Cherrington (knee, season), Anthony Watts (knee, round 11)
Comment: Jason Ryles and Frank-Paul Nuuausala return after late withdrawals against the Tigers. Phil Graham has been named on an extended bench after recovering from a torn pectoral. He may put potential cheapie Justin Carney’s spot in jeopardy. Tom Symonds has again been named in the starting side and will see a massive price rise after this week.
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PENRITH PANTHERS v CANBERRA RAIDERS at Centrebet Stadium, 7.30pm
PANTHERS: Michael Gordon, Sandor Earl, Michael Jennings, Brad Tighe, David Simmons, Travis Burns, Luke Walsh, Tim Grant, Kevin Kingston, Petero Civoniceva, Trent Waterhouse, Nigel Plum, Sarafu Fatiaki. Interchange: Dayne Weston, Matthew Bell, Timana Tahu, Nafe Seluini, Masada Iosefa, Adrian Purtell (two to be omitted).
Ins: Sandor Earl, Luke Walsh, Sarafu Fatiaki, Dayne Weston,
Outs: Lachlan Coote (groin, round 7), Luke Lewis (wrist, round 11)
Other unavailables: Nathan Smith (groin, round 7), Sam McKendry (hip, indefinite), Dane Laurie (knee, indefinite)
Comment: Lachlan Coote (groin, round 7) and Luke Lewis (wrist, round 11) are massive losses. But the plus side is that Michael Gordon takes Coote’s fullback position, where he scores MASSIVE. Sarafu Fatiaki scores Lewis’s starting lock spot, but would be hard to pick given his current average of 18. Will Trent Waterhouse step up in Lewis’s absence?
RAIDERS: Blake Ferguson, Reece Robinson, Jarrod Croker, Joel Thompson, Daniel Vidot, Josh McCrone, Matt Orford, Tom Learoyd-Lahrs, Travis Waddell, David Shillington (capt), Trevor Thurling, Bronson Harris (capt) Shaun Fensom. Interchange: Glen Buttriss, Josh Miller, Danny Galea, Brett White, David Milne, James Stuart (two to be omitted).
Ins: Reece Robinson, Danny Galea, David Milne, James Stuart
Outs: Josh Dugan (calf, round 8), Dane Tilse (hamstring, round 6)
Other unavailables: Joe Picker (ankle, round 6), Alan Tongue (shoulder, round 9), Terry Campese (knee, round 13)
Comment: Josh Dugan (calf, round 8) has been diagnosed with nerve damage. Blake Ferguson moves to fullback, where he should get more runs. Matt Orford has been retained, which, going on current form, may again see low SuperCoach scores for the Raiders. Dane Tilse (hamstring, round 6) should be back next week. Shaun Fensom produced a below par round four after playing from the bench. However, the big positive is that he still got 57 minutes.
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CRONULLA SHARKS v MANLY SEA EAGLES at Toyota Stadium, 7.30pm
SHARKS: Nathan Gardner, Matthew Wright, Ben Pomeroy, Colin Best, John Williams, Albert Kelly, Wade Graham, Kade Snowden, John Morris, Luke Douglas, Jeremy Smith, Anthony Tupou, Paul Gallen. Interchange: Josh Cordoba, Broderick Wright, Paul Aiton, Dean Collis, Johnny Mannah, Taulima Tautai (two to be omitted).
Ins: Dean Collis, Taulima Tautai
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Scott Porter (knee, round 6)
Comment: No changes. Paul Gallen has a break even of 88 following his below par display on the weekend.
SEA EAGLES: Brett Stewart, Michael Robertson, Jamie Lyo (capt), Steve Matai, Will Hopoate, Kieran Foran, Daly Cherry-Evans, Jason King (capt), Matt Ballin, Brent Kite, Jamie Buhrer, Joe Galuvao, Glenn Stewart. Interchange: Tim Robinson, Daniel Harrison, George Rose, Vic Mauro, Tony Williams (one to be omitted).
Ins: Brett Stewart, Steve Matai, George Rose, Tony Williams
Outs: Anthony Watmough (club suspension, round 6), Terence Seuseu (club suspension, round 6), Michael Oldfield (dropped)
Other unavailables: Shane Rodney (shoulder, indefinite), David Williams (knee, round 8)
Comment: Anthony Watmough and Terence Seuseu have been suspended for one week for urinating in public. The big winner out of this is Jamie Buhrer, who takes Watmough’s starting spot and may even fill in at hooker at some stage for Seuseu. Steve Matai returns from suspension. Boom cheapie Will Hopoate remains in the team on the wing, but is this only due to the injury to David Williams (knee, round 8)? Brett Stewart (hamstring) and George Rose (cork) have been named to make their returns, while Tony Williams (ankle) has been named on an extended bench. Brent Kite (ribs) and Kieran Foran (eye) are expected to play.
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SUNDAY
MELBOURNE STORM v PARRAMATTA EELS at AAMI Park, 2pm
STORM: Billy Slater, Justin O’Neill, Dane Nielsen, Beau Champion, Matt Duffie, Gareth Widdop, Cooper Cronk, Troy Thompson, Cameron Smith, Bryan Norrie, Adam Blair, Kevin Proctor, Todd Lowrie. Interchange: Ryan Hinchcliffe, Atelea Vea, Adam Woolnough, Jesse Bromwich, Anthony Quinn, Jaiman Lowe (two to be omitted).
Ins: Anthony Quinn, Jaiman Lowe
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Sika Manu (ankle, indefinite), Chase Stanley (knee, season), Rory Kostjasyn (ankle, round 6)
Comment: No changes to the starting 17. Cameron Smith is in brilliant form and must surely be considered by those who are not worried about Origin (and even by those who are). Jesse Bromwich pulled out an enormous 90 last week.
EELS: Jarryd Hayne, Luke Burt, Joel Reddy, Ben Smith, Etu Uaisele, Daniel Mortimer, Jeff Robson, Tim Mannah, Casey McGuire, Shane Shackleton, Nathan Hindmarsh (capt), Taniela Lasalo, Justin Horo. Interchange: Anthony Mitchell, Mitchell Allgood, Carl Webb, Fuifui Moimoi.
Ins: Casey McGuire, Fuifui Moimoi
Outs: Ryan Morgan (ankle, indefinite), Matt Keating (hand, round 11)
Other unavailables: Chris Walker (hip, indefinite), Justin Poore (knee, indefinite)
Comment: Ben Smith moves to centre, replacing Ryan Morgan (ankle, indefinite). Parramatta will start the game with five props – Tim Mannah, Shane Shackleton, Mitchell Allgood, Carl Webb and Fuifui Moimoi. This doesn’t spell well for front-row game time, although starting backrowers Nathan Hindmarsh, Taniela Lasalo and Justin Horo may benefit. A player like Shane Shackleton may also spend time in the back row, which will increase his minutes. Casey McGuire (calf) has been named but is in doubt, while Moimoi returns from suspension.
****************
ST GEORGE ILLAWARRA DRAGONS v CANTERBURY BULLDOGS at Sydney Cricket Ground, 3pm
DRAGONS: Darius Boyd, Brett Morris, Mark Gasnier, Matt Cooper, Jason Nightingale, Jamie Soward, Ben Hornby, Dan Hunt, Nathan Fien, Trent Merrin, Beau Scott, Ben Creagh, Matt Prior. Interchange: Dean Young, Jon Green, David Gower, Kyle Stanley, Michael Greenfield, Adam Cuthbertson, Mitch Rein (three to be omitted).
Ins: Michael Greenfield, Adam Cuthbertson, Mitch Rein
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Michael Weyman (groin, round 8), Cameron King (shoulder, round 16)
Comment: No changes to the starting 17. It will be interesting to see how the return of Dean Young, who came back from a knee injury last week, will affect forward game time. Dan Hunt (as well as Luke Bailey) must surely come into consideration as replacements for Robbie Farah. David Gower probably dropped out of cheapie calculations following his 15 on the weekend.
BULLDOGS: Ben Barba, Steve Turner, Timoteo Lafai, Jamal Idris, Bryson Goodwin, Kris Keating, Trent Hodkinson, Aiden Tolman, Michael Ennis, Mickey Paea, Frank Pritchard, Andrew Ryan, David Stagg. Interchange: Sam Kasiano, Jake Foster, Corey Payne, Dene Halatau, Chris Armit (one to be omitted).
Ins: Mickey Paea
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Josh Morris (knee, round 8), Ryan Tandy (sacked), Greg Eastwood (wrist, round 9)
Comment: Mickey Paea returns in the only change. He is expected to be fit after he was a late withdrawal on Monday night. Greg Eastwood’s comeback has been pushed back until round nine, which is good news for Aiden Tolman (and to a lesser extent Sam Kasiano and Jake Foster). The Bulldogs say Josh Morris won’t be sighted until round eight, which is good news for Tim Lafai.
***************
MONDAY
BRISBANE BRONCOS v NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS at Suncorp Stadium, 7pm
BRONCOS: Gerard Beale, Dale Copley, Jack Reed, Justin Hodges, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (capt), Peter Wallace, Sam Thaiday, Andrew McCullough, Ben Hannant, Alex Glenn, Matt Gillett, Corey Parker. Interchange: Mitchell Dodds, Ben Te’o, Josh McGuire, Shane Tronc, Dane Carlaw, Nick Kenny, Corey Norman (three to be omitted).
Ins: Mitchell Dodds, Nick Kenny, Dane Carlaw, Corey Norman
Outs: Ben Hunt (knee, round 7)
Other unavailables: Josh Hoffman (shin, round 6), Scott Anderson (calf, round 8)
Comment: Ben Hunt (knee, round 7) is out. The Broncos have picked an enormous bench, which could spell danger in terms of late withdrawals. Mitchell Dodds has been named for his first game of the season after breaking his hand in the trials. Dane Carlaw could play his first game for the Broncos since 2007. Nick Kenny finally returns to first grade after biding his time in Queensland Cup due to an injury-disrupted off-season. Corey Norman gets a recall following some brilliant Toyota Cup form. There’s still no sign of Dane Gagai, who played centre in Toyota Cup last week.
KNIGHTS: Wes Naiqama, James McManus, Tafeaga Junior Sa’u, Adam MacDougall, Akuila Uate, Kurt Gidley, Jarrod Mullen, Antonio Kaufusi, Matt Hilder, Evarn Tuimavave, Zeb Taia, Chris Houston, Joel Edwards. Interchange: Marvin Karawana, Cory Paterson, Lisiate Richie Fa’aoso, Dan Tolar.
Ins: None
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Beau Henry (ankle, round 10), Cameron Ciraldo (torn pectoral, indefinite), Ben Rogers (dislocated shoulder, indefinite), Isaac De Gois (thumb, round 6), Neville Costigan (broken arm, round 13), Mark Taufua (finger, round 6)
Comment: No changes. Matt Hilder continues to dominate. But will he post huge scores when Isaac De Gois (thumb, round 6) returns.
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Silvertails Cup (League invite code: 256124)
Results and Fixtures - Round 4
The Stevos 1,053 def by 1,063 WAMF's Eagles
BeRks_eAgLEs 997 def 926 Splinters
Kano's Eagles 951 def 702 Gilly's Gorillas
Wombats 1,015 def by 1,022 Bogans
Kavstars 806 drew 806 Raucous Curly
Lloyds legends 964 def by 1,001 Sydney Dugongs
2 Smokin Hotties 942 def by 1,061 Axis of Ignorance
shakamaker 981 def 920 The Fluffers
The Stevos vs Kano's Eagles
BeRks_eAgLEs vs Wombats
Splinters vs Bogans
WAMF's Eagles vs Gilly's Gorillas
Kavstars vs 2 Smokin Hotties
Lloyds legends vs shakamaker
Sydney Dugongs vs The Fluffers
Raucous Curly vs Axis of Ignorance
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
Silvertails Cup #2 (League invite code: 224391)
Results and Fixtures - Round 4
kaza 1,029 def 997 BeRks_eAgLEs
tractorboy 963 def 840 Gazza'sEagleRock
The Wolf Pack 1,085 def 1,066 Lockys Legends
Kiwigurlz 897 def by 1,000 Screamin' Eagles
Riley's Eagles 909 def by 1,050 Mudslingers
EagleBombers 959 def by 1,184 40_nil
St Bobs Boys 829 def by 985 The Short & Curlys
Mosman Possums 1,081 def 932 Brewskis Best
kaza vs The Wolf Pack
tractorboy vs Kiwigurlz
Gazza'sEagleRock vs Screamin' Eagles
BeRks_eAgLEs vs Lockys Legends
Riley's Eagles vs St Bobs Boys
EagleBombers vs Mosman Possums
40_nil vs Brewskis Best
Mudslingers vs The Short & Curlys
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
Battle Of Brookie (League invite code: 464428)
Results and Fixtures - Round 4
Bones 1,048 def by 1,062 R
tractorboy 963 def 825 Razzas_Dazzlers
Big Guns 1,095 def 1,019 Clowns of Cabarita
The 4020's 837 def by 985 The Short & Curlys
4 No Caters 860 def by 1,061 Axis of Ignorance
mackayeagles 997 def by 1,082 Mattyk Seaeagles
Wombats 1,015 def 874 Venom
Kiwigurlz 897 def by 997 BeRks_eAgLEs
Bones vs Big Guns
tractorboy vs The 4020's
Razzas_Dazzlers vs The Short & Curlys
R vs Clowns of Cabarita
4 No Caters vs Wombats
mackayeagles vs Kiwigurlz
Mattyk Seaeagles vs BeRks_eAgLEs
Axis of Ignorance vs Venom
clontaago
First Grader
2 Smokin Hotties a win in all 3 comps this week. $260k now in the bank, team value increased 400k +. Its all coming together nicely. Hope you guys are planning for the long term.
Dan, hope you didnt end up buying Parker and Luke at the start of the year. They have both dropped in value like I said.
Dan, hope you didnt end up buying Parker and Luke at the start of the year. They have both dropped in value like I said.
I only have 100k in the bank but I am 2 from 2 and 1st in one league 6th in another. I am going to do a sharks and retire on that success. 3 puppies born yesterday and my own kid around the corner I won't be watching my team very closely from here on out
Berkeley_Eagle
Current Status: 24/7 Manly Fan
5 comps 5 wins
improving nicely I reckon
686 $4,910,400
790 $4,720,000
915 $4,894,100
997 $5,072,000
1,013 $5,235,400
improving nicely I reckon
686 $4,910,400
790 $4,720,000
915 $4,894,100
997 $5,072,000
1,013 $5,235,400
Berkeley_Eagle
Current Status: 24/7 Manly Fan
******************
FRIDAY
PARRAMATTA EELS v CANTERBURY BULLDOGS at ANZ Stadium, 7.35pm
EELS: Jarryd Hayne, Luke Burt, Joel Reddy, Jacob Loko, Jordan Atkins, Daniel Mortimer, Jeff Robson, Tim Mannah, Casey McGuire, Fuifui Moimoi, Nathan Hindmarsh (capt), Taniela Lasalo, Justin Horo. Interchange: Billy Rogers, Shane Shackleton, Mitchell Allgood, Carl Webb, Ben Smith (one to omitted).
Ins: Casey McGuire, Carl Webb
Outs: Anthony Mitchell (dropped)
Other unavailables: Ryan Morgan (ankle, indefinite), Matt Keating (hand, round 11), Justin Poore (knee, indefinite)
Comment: Casey McGuire (calf) returns from injury in the place of Anthony Mitchell (dropped). This could mean 80 minutes for McGuire. Carl Webb has been added to an extended bench. Potential cheapie Jacob Loko was promising on debut and will play his second game. Jordan Atkins retains his spot at the expense of Etu Uaisele. Chris Walker has recovered from a hip injury, but will likely play for Wentworthville.
BULLDOGS: Ben Barba, Steve Turner, Tim Lafai, Jamal Idris, Bryson Goodwin, Kris Keating, Trent Hodkinson, Aiden Tolman, Michael Ennis, Mickey Paea, Frank Pritchard, Andrew Ryan (capt). David Stagg. Interchange: Chris Armit, Grant Millington, Corey Payne, Dene Halatau, Michael Hodgson (one to be omitted).
Ins: Grant Millington
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Josh Morris (knee, round 7), Ryan Tandy (sacked), Greg Eastwood (wrist, round 9)
Comment: Sam Kasiano and Jake Foster will again play NSW Cup after being late withdrawals against the Dragons. Josh Morris (knee) is confident he will be back in round seven. The coming week could therefore be Tim Lafai’s final game in the top grade – for now.
***************
GOLD COAST TITANS v WESTS TIGERS at Skilled Park, 7.35pm
TITANS: Luke Capewell, Steve Michaels, Esi Tonga, Bodene Thompson, David Mead, William Zillman, Scott Prince, Luke Bailey, Nathan Friend, Matthew White, Greg Bird, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Michael Henderson, Sam Tagaetese, Ryan James, Ben Ridge, Luke O’Dwyer (one to be omitted).
Ins: Greg Bird, Ashley Harrison
Outs: Anthony Laffranchi (ankle, round 12)
Other unavailables: Brad Meyers (wrist, indefinite), Preston Campbell (knee, round 9)
Kevin Gordon (knee, season)
Comment: Anthony Laffranchi (ankle, round 12) is a massive loss, but his absence is offset by the returns of Ashley Harrison (hamstring) and Greg Bird (suspension). Nathan Friend seems to be cutting into Gold Coast tackle counts, which could be bad news for guys like Luke Bailey and Harrison (although Harrison may in turn benefit from the absence of Laffranchi).
TIGERS: Wade McKinnon, Beau Ryan, Blake Ayshford, Mitch Brown, Matt Utai, Benji Marshall, Tim Moltzen, Bryce Gibbs, Robbie Farah (capt), Todd Payten, Simon Dwyer, Gareth Ellis, Chris Heighington. Interchange: Jacob Miller, Andrew Fifita, Alan Schirnack, Aaron Woods.
Ins: Aaron Woods, Beau Ryan
Outs: Geoff Daniela (torn pectoral, indefinite), Keith Galloway (groin, round 7)
Other unavailables: Lote Tuqiri (broken arm, round 12), Chris Lawrence (dislocated hip, indefinite), Robert Lui (ankle, round 10), Liam Fulton (shoulder, round 7), Ben Murdoch-Masila (shoulder, round 8)
Comment: Popular cheapie Matt Utai retains his spot despite the return of Beau Ryan (groin). Plenty of SuperCoaches will also be happy to see Aaron Woods back in the team. He replaces Keith Galloway (groin, round 7). Chris Heighington’s scores may continue to drop, with both Gareth Ellis and Simon Dwyer commanding plenty of play (and Liam Fulton due back next week). Robbie Farah looked great on the weekend despite a bout of osteitis pubis.
****************
SATURDAY
MANLY SEA EAGLES v NZ WARRIORS at Brookvale Oval, 5.30pm
SEA EAGLES: Brett Stewart, Michael Robertson, Jamie Lyon (capt), Steve Matai, Will Hopoate, Kieran Foran, Daly Cherry-Evans, Jason King (capt), Matt Ballin, Brent Kite, Anthony Watmough, Joe Galuvao, Glenn Stewart. Interchange: Terence Seu Seu, Jamie Buhrer, George Rose, Vic Mauro, Tim Robinson, Michael Oldfield, Tony Williams (three to be omitted).
Ins: Brett Stewart, Anthony Watmough, Terence Seu Seu, Tim Robinson
Outs: Daniel Harrison (dropped)
Other unavailables: Shane Rodney (shoulder, indefinite), David Williams (knee, round 8)
Comment: Anthony Watmough returns from club suspension, which pushes Jamie Buhrer to the bench and Daniel Harrison back to NSW Cup. Will Hopoate will shift to the wing to make way for Brett Stewart (hamstring). Des Hasler’s massive bench could spell danger in terms of late withdrawals. Stewart, Joe Galuvao (thigh) and George Rose (calf) are particular concerns.
WARRIORS: Lance Hohaia, Bill Tupou, Shaun Berrigan, Simon Mannering (capt), Krisnan Inu, Feleti Mateo, James Maloney, Sam Rapira, Aaron Heremaia, Jacob Lillyman, Lewis Brown, Elijah Taylor, Micheal Luck. Interchange: Jeremy Latimore, Ben Matulino, Ukuma Ta’ai, Russell Packer, Sione Lousi (one to be omitted).
Ins: Russell Packer, Sione Lousi
Outs: Glen Fisiiahi (ankle, round 12)
Other unavailables: Jerome Ropati (knee, season), Manu Vatuvei (knee, round 10)
Comment: Glen Fisiiahi (ankle, round 12) is a massive loss SuperCoach-wise. Elijah Taylor will start in the back row and see a price rise after this week. He is available at centre/wing and five-eighth for SuperCoach. His big issue in terms of job security would be if Simon Mannering moved back into the pack. Russell Packer has been recalled after a man-of-the-match performance in NSW Cup. Feleti Mateo is in slight doubt with a knee injury.
****************
NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS v CANBERRA RAIDERS at Dairy Farmers Stadium, 7.30pm
COWBOYS: Matthew Bowen, Ashley Graham, Antonio Winterstein, Willie Tonga, Kalifa Faifai Loa, Ray Thompson, Johnathan Thurston, Matthew Scott, Aaron Payne, Ashton Sims, Scott Bolton, Glenn Hall, Dallas Johnson. Interchange: James Segeyaro, Leeson Ah Mau, Tariq Sims, Ricky Thorby, Isaak Ah Mau (one to be omitted).
Ins: Leeson Ah Mau, Ricky Thorby, Isaak Ah Mau
Outs: James Tamou (disciplinary suspension, round 7), Gavin Cooper (suspension, round 7)
Other unavailables: Brent Tate (knee, round 15)
Comment: James Tamou (disciplinary suspension, round 7) and Gavin Cooper (suspension, round 7) are both out, which could increase the game time of Tariq Sims. And while on Tariq, he showed he is in coach Neil Henry’s best 17 by keeping his spot in a full-strength pack last week at the expense of Leeson Ah Mau. Scott Bolton will see enormous price drops over the next few weeks and could be a bargain buy later on. Antonio Winterstein notched a very impressive 54 last week at centre despite producing only one high-end attacking stat – a linebreak.
RAIDERS: Blake Ferguson, Reece Robinson, Jarrod Croker, Joel Thompson, Daniel Vidot, Josh McCrone, Sam Williams, Tom Learoyd-Lahrs, Glen Buttriss, David Shillington (capt), Trevor Thurling, Bronson Harrison (capt), Shaun Fensom. Interchange: Travis Waddell, Josh Miller, Danny Galea, Brett White, David Milne (one to be omitted).
Ins: Joel Thompson, Sam Williams
Outs: Matt Orford (back, round 7), James Stuart (dropped)
Other unavailables: Josh Dugan (calf, round 8), Dane Tilse (hamstring, round 6), Joe Picker (ankle, round 6), Alan Tongue (shoulder, round 9), Terry Campese (knee, round 13)
Comment: The big news is the injury to Matt Orford (back, round 7), which brings young gun Sam Williams into the team. Will the Raiders rediscover their attacking spark under the teenage livewire? Joel Thompson is a bargain for either this week or next.
****************
SYDNEY ROOSTERS v BRISBANE BRONCOS at Bluetongue Stadium, 7.30pm
ROOSTERS: Anthony Minichiello, Justin Carney, Mitchell Aubusson, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Joseph Leilua, Todd Carney, Mitchell Pearce, Jason Ryles, Jake Friend, Martin Kennedy, Braith Anasta, Frank Paul Nuuausala, Nate Myles. Interchange: Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Mose Masoe, Mark Riddell, Daniel Conn, Tom Symonds (one to be omitted).
Ins: Mark Riddell, Tom Symonds
Outs: Phil Graham (dropped)
Other unavailables: Sam Perrett (broken ankle, round 13), Anthony Cherrington (knee, season), Anthony Watts (knee, round 11)
Comment: Coach Brian Smith is playing musical chairs with his centres. First he had Kane Linnett, who was dropped for Mitchell Aubusson, who was benched for Phil Graham, who has been dropped this week for Aubusson. However, the upshot is that Justin Carney retains his wing spot. He will see his first price rise this week, albeit not a huge one. Tom Symonds hurt many SuperCoaches last weekend after missing the final cut. And he seems set to miss out again this round after being named 18th man.
BRONCOS: Gerard Beale, Jack Reed, Ben Te’o, Justin Hodges, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer, Peter Wallace, Ben Hannant, Andrew McCullough, Sam Thaiday, Alex Glenn, Matt Gillett, Corey Parker. Interchange: Mitchell Dodds, Dane Carlaw, Nick Kenny, Corey Norman.
Ins: None
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Ben Hunt (knee, round 7), Josh Hoffman (shin, round 6), Scott Anderson (calf, round 8)
Comment: No changes. Early-season performers Shane Tronc and Josh McGuire will again play Queensland Cup after being dropped after lockout last week. Josh Hoffman (shin, round 6) is a slight chance to play. Ben Te’o retains his centre spot, which does not spell well for Dane Gagai, who has plummeted down the backline pecking order after being named for the opening two rounds. Dane Carlaw is free to play after accepting an early guilty plea at the judiciary.
****************
SUNDAY
NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS v CRONULLA SHARKS at Ausgrid Stadium, 2pm
KNIGHTS: Wes Naiqama, James McManus, Junior Sa’u, Adam MacDougall, Akuila Uate, Kurt Gidley (capt), Jarrod Mullen, Antonio Kaufusi, Matt Hilder, Evarn Tuimavave, Cory Paterson, Chris Houston, Joel Edwards. Interchange: Isaac De Gois, Constantine Mika, Richie Fa’aoso, Dan Tolar, Marvin Karawana (one to be omitted).
Ins: Marvin Karawana
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Beau Henry (ankle, round 10), Cameron Ciraldo (torn pectoral, round 10), Ben Rogers (dislocated shoulder, indefinite), Neville Costigan (broken arm, round 13), Siuatonga Likiliki (knee, round 8), Kyle O’Donnell (elbow, round 8)
Comment: No changes to the 17. Isaac Do Gois is in severe doubt with a bicep injury. There are also worries over Dan Tolar (neck) and Wes Naiqama (ankle). Cory Paterson has been named despite a one week suspension. Marvin Karawana will presumably move into the 17 as his replacement. Kurt Gidley will see huge price drops over the next few weeks.
SHARKS: Nathan Gardner, Matthew Wright, Ben Pomeroy, Colin Best, John Williams, Albert Kelly, Wade Graham, Kade Snowden, Paul Aiton, Luke Douglas, Jeremy Smith, Anthony Tupou, Paul Gallen (capt). Interchange: Josh Cordoba, Broderick Wright, Stuart Flanagan, Dean Collis, Johnny Mannah (one to be omitted).
Ins: Dean Collis
Outs: None
Other unavailables: John Morris (knee, round 10)
Comment: No changes to the 17. As you can probably gather from his stats, coach Shane Flanagan has ordered Paul Gallen to limit his defence. Johnny Mannah continues to be a lottery due to fluctuating minutes.
*****************
PENRITH PANTHERS v MELBOURNE STORM at Centrebet Stadium, 3pm
PANTHERS: Michael Gordon, Sandor Earl, Michael Jennings, Brad Tighe, David Simmons, Travis Burns, Luke Walsh, Tim Grant, Kevin Kingston, Petero Civoniceva, Trent Waterhouse, Nigel Plum, Sarafu Fatiaki. Interchange: Nafe Seluini, Matthew Bell, Timana Tahu, Sam McKendry.
Ins: None
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Lachlan Coote (groin, round 7), Luke Lewis (wrist, round 11), Nathan Smith (groin, round 7), Dane Laurie (knee, indefinite)
Comment: No changes. Michael Gordon retains his fullback spot, where he scores MASSIVE. He is quite cheap at the moment. Trent Waterhouse has averaged 67 in the past three rounds.
STORM: Billy Slater, Matt Duffie, Dane Nielsen, Beau Champion, Anthony Quinn, Gareth Widdop, Cooper Cronk, Jesse Bromwich, Cameron Smith, Bryan Norrie, Adam Blair, Kevin Proctor, Todd Lowrie. Interchange: Adam Woolnough, Atelea Vea, Ryan Hinchcliffe, Jaiman Lowe, Justin O’Neill (one to be omitted).
Ins: Jaiman Lowe, Justin O’Neill
Outs: Troy Thompson (knee, round 9),
Other unavailables: Sika Manu (ankle, round 11), Chase Stanley (knee, season)
Comment: Troy Thompson (knee, round 9) has been ruled out, which brings Jesse Bromwich into the starting side and Jaiman Lowe onto the bench. Justin O’Neill has been named on an extended bench after being replaced at the last-minute by Anthony Quinn on Sunday. How good is Cameron Smith going?
*****************
MONDAY
SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS v ST GEORGE ILLAWARRA DRAGONS at ANZ Stadium, 7pm
RABBITOHS: Rhys Wesser, Nathan Merritt, Dylan Farrell, Greg Inglis, Fetuli Talanoa, John Sutton, Chris Sandow, Sam Burgess, Isaac Luke, Roy Asotasi (capt), David Tyrrell, Dave Taylor, Michael Crocker. Interchange: Ben Ross, Shannan McPherson, Chris McQueen, Nathan Peats.
Ins: Nathan Peats
Outs: Luke Stuart (knee, season)
Other unavailables: Eddy Pettybourne (suspension, round 7), Scott Geddes (Achilles, season), Ben Lowe (foot, round 10)
Comment: Sam Burgess’s move to the front row to replace Luke Stuart (knee, season) may mean less minutes. Issac Luke’s price seems to have bottomed out (break even 49), but is he worth the cash without regular kicking duties? Nathan Peats get another crack in the top grade.
DRAGONS: Darius Boyd, Brett Morris, Mark Gasnier, Matt Cooper, Jason Nightingale, Jamie Soward, Ben Hornby, Dan Hunt, Nathan Fien, Trent Merrin, Beau Scott, Ben Creagh, Matt Prior. Interchange: Jon Green, Dean Young, Adam Cuthbertson, Kyle Stanley.
Ins: None
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Michael Weyman (groin, round 8), Cameron King (shoulder, round 16)
Comment: No changes. Nathan Fien’s price has peaked. Dean Young is playing solely back row, while Kyle Stanley is filling in at hooker. Stanley will be an awesome buy if any of the Dragons starting backline go down.
FRIDAY
PARRAMATTA EELS v CANTERBURY BULLDOGS at ANZ Stadium, 7.35pm
EELS: Jarryd Hayne, Luke Burt, Joel Reddy, Jacob Loko, Jordan Atkins, Daniel Mortimer, Jeff Robson, Tim Mannah, Casey McGuire, Fuifui Moimoi, Nathan Hindmarsh (capt), Taniela Lasalo, Justin Horo. Interchange: Billy Rogers, Shane Shackleton, Mitchell Allgood, Carl Webb, Ben Smith (one to omitted).
Ins: Casey McGuire, Carl Webb
Outs: Anthony Mitchell (dropped)
Other unavailables: Ryan Morgan (ankle, indefinite), Matt Keating (hand, round 11), Justin Poore (knee, indefinite)
Comment: Casey McGuire (calf) returns from injury in the place of Anthony Mitchell (dropped). This could mean 80 minutes for McGuire. Carl Webb has been added to an extended bench. Potential cheapie Jacob Loko was promising on debut and will play his second game. Jordan Atkins retains his spot at the expense of Etu Uaisele. Chris Walker has recovered from a hip injury, but will likely play for Wentworthville.
BULLDOGS: Ben Barba, Steve Turner, Tim Lafai, Jamal Idris, Bryson Goodwin, Kris Keating, Trent Hodkinson, Aiden Tolman, Michael Ennis, Mickey Paea, Frank Pritchard, Andrew Ryan (capt). David Stagg. Interchange: Chris Armit, Grant Millington, Corey Payne, Dene Halatau, Michael Hodgson (one to be omitted).
Ins: Grant Millington
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Josh Morris (knee, round 7), Ryan Tandy (sacked), Greg Eastwood (wrist, round 9)
Comment: Sam Kasiano and Jake Foster will again play NSW Cup after being late withdrawals against the Dragons. Josh Morris (knee) is confident he will be back in round seven. The coming week could therefore be Tim Lafai’s final game in the top grade – for now.
***************
GOLD COAST TITANS v WESTS TIGERS at Skilled Park, 7.35pm
TITANS: Luke Capewell, Steve Michaels, Esi Tonga, Bodene Thompson, David Mead, William Zillman, Scott Prince, Luke Bailey, Nathan Friend, Matthew White, Greg Bird, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Michael Henderson, Sam Tagaetese, Ryan James, Ben Ridge, Luke O’Dwyer (one to be omitted).
Ins: Greg Bird, Ashley Harrison
Outs: Anthony Laffranchi (ankle, round 12)
Other unavailables: Brad Meyers (wrist, indefinite), Preston Campbell (knee, round 9)
Kevin Gordon (knee, season)
Comment: Anthony Laffranchi (ankle, round 12) is a massive loss, but his absence is offset by the returns of Ashley Harrison (hamstring) and Greg Bird (suspension). Nathan Friend seems to be cutting into Gold Coast tackle counts, which could be bad news for guys like Luke Bailey and Harrison (although Harrison may in turn benefit from the absence of Laffranchi).
TIGERS: Wade McKinnon, Beau Ryan, Blake Ayshford, Mitch Brown, Matt Utai, Benji Marshall, Tim Moltzen, Bryce Gibbs, Robbie Farah (capt), Todd Payten, Simon Dwyer, Gareth Ellis, Chris Heighington. Interchange: Jacob Miller, Andrew Fifita, Alan Schirnack, Aaron Woods.
Ins: Aaron Woods, Beau Ryan
Outs: Geoff Daniela (torn pectoral, indefinite), Keith Galloway (groin, round 7)
Other unavailables: Lote Tuqiri (broken arm, round 12), Chris Lawrence (dislocated hip, indefinite), Robert Lui (ankle, round 10), Liam Fulton (shoulder, round 7), Ben Murdoch-Masila (shoulder, round 8)
Comment: Popular cheapie Matt Utai retains his spot despite the return of Beau Ryan (groin). Plenty of SuperCoaches will also be happy to see Aaron Woods back in the team. He replaces Keith Galloway (groin, round 7). Chris Heighington’s scores may continue to drop, with both Gareth Ellis and Simon Dwyer commanding plenty of play (and Liam Fulton due back next week). Robbie Farah looked great on the weekend despite a bout of osteitis pubis.
****************
SATURDAY
MANLY SEA EAGLES v NZ WARRIORS at Brookvale Oval, 5.30pm
SEA EAGLES: Brett Stewart, Michael Robertson, Jamie Lyon (capt), Steve Matai, Will Hopoate, Kieran Foran, Daly Cherry-Evans, Jason King (capt), Matt Ballin, Brent Kite, Anthony Watmough, Joe Galuvao, Glenn Stewart. Interchange: Terence Seu Seu, Jamie Buhrer, George Rose, Vic Mauro, Tim Robinson, Michael Oldfield, Tony Williams (three to be omitted).
Ins: Brett Stewart, Anthony Watmough, Terence Seu Seu, Tim Robinson
Outs: Daniel Harrison (dropped)
Other unavailables: Shane Rodney (shoulder, indefinite), David Williams (knee, round 8)
Comment: Anthony Watmough returns from club suspension, which pushes Jamie Buhrer to the bench and Daniel Harrison back to NSW Cup. Will Hopoate will shift to the wing to make way for Brett Stewart (hamstring). Des Hasler’s massive bench could spell danger in terms of late withdrawals. Stewart, Joe Galuvao (thigh) and George Rose (calf) are particular concerns.
WARRIORS: Lance Hohaia, Bill Tupou, Shaun Berrigan, Simon Mannering (capt), Krisnan Inu, Feleti Mateo, James Maloney, Sam Rapira, Aaron Heremaia, Jacob Lillyman, Lewis Brown, Elijah Taylor, Micheal Luck. Interchange: Jeremy Latimore, Ben Matulino, Ukuma Ta’ai, Russell Packer, Sione Lousi (one to be omitted).
Ins: Russell Packer, Sione Lousi
Outs: Glen Fisiiahi (ankle, round 12)
Other unavailables: Jerome Ropati (knee, season), Manu Vatuvei (knee, round 10)
Comment: Glen Fisiiahi (ankle, round 12) is a massive loss SuperCoach-wise. Elijah Taylor will start in the back row and see a price rise after this week. He is available at centre/wing and five-eighth for SuperCoach. His big issue in terms of job security would be if Simon Mannering moved back into the pack. Russell Packer has been recalled after a man-of-the-match performance in NSW Cup. Feleti Mateo is in slight doubt with a knee injury.
****************
NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS v CANBERRA RAIDERS at Dairy Farmers Stadium, 7.30pm
COWBOYS: Matthew Bowen, Ashley Graham, Antonio Winterstein, Willie Tonga, Kalifa Faifai Loa, Ray Thompson, Johnathan Thurston, Matthew Scott, Aaron Payne, Ashton Sims, Scott Bolton, Glenn Hall, Dallas Johnson. Interchange: James Segeyaro, Leeson Ah Mau, Tariq Sims, Ricky Thorby, Isaak Ah Mau (one to be omitted).
Ins: Leeson Ah Mau, Ricky Thorby, Isaak Ah Mau
Outs: James Tamou (disciplinary suspension, round 7), Gavin Cooper (suspension, round 7)
Other unavailables: Brent Tate (knee, round 15)
Comment: James Tamou (disciplinary suspension, round 7) and Gavin Cooper (suspension, round 7) are both out, which could increase the game time of Tariq Sims. And while on Tariq, he showed he is in coach Neil Henry’s best 17 by keeping his spot in a full-strength pack last week at the expense of Leeson Ah Mau. Scott Bolton will see enormous price drops over the next few weeks and could be a bargain buy later on. Antonio Winterstein notched a very impressive 54 last week at centre despite producing only one high-end attacking stat – a linebreak.
RAIDERS: Blake Ferguson, Reece Robinson, Jarrod Croker, Joel Thompson, Daniel Vidot, Josh McCrone, Sam Williams, Tom Learoyd-Lahrs, Glen Buttriss, David Shillington (capt), Trevor Thurling, Bronson Harrison (capt), Shaun Fensom. Interchange: Travis Waddell, Josh Miller, Danny Galea, Brett White, David Milne (one to be omitted).
Ins: Joel Thompson, Sam Williams
Outs: Matt Orford (back, round 7), James Stuart (dropped)
Other unavailables: Josh Dugan (calf, round 8), Dane Tilse (hamstring, round 6), Joe Picker (ankle, round 6), Alan Tongue (shoulder, round 9), Terry Campese (knee, round 13)
Comment: The big news is the injury to Matt Orford (back, round 7), which brings young gun Sam Williams into the team. Will the Raiders rediscover their attacking spark under the teenage livewire? Joel Thompson is a bargain for either this week or next.
****************
SYDNEY ROOSTERS v BRISBANE BRONCOS at Bluetongue Stadium, 7.30pm
ROOSTERS: Anthony Minichiello, Justin Carney, Mitchell Aubusson, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Joseph Leilua, Todd Carney, Mitchell Pearce, Jason Ryles, Jake Friend, Martin Kennedy, Braith Anasta, Frank Paul Nuuausala, Nate Myles. Interchange: Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Mose Masoe, Mark Riddell, Daniel Conn, Tom Symonds (one to be omitted).
Ins: Mark Riddell, Tom Symonds
Outs: Phil Graham (dropped)
Other unavailables: Sam Perrett (broken ankle, round 13), Anthony Cherrington (knee, season), Anthony Watts (knee, round 11)
Comment: Coach Brian Smith is playing musical chairs with his centres. First he had Kane Linnett, who was dropped for Mitchell Aubusson, who was benched for Phil Graham, who has been dropped this week for Aubusson. However, the upshot is that Justin Carney retains his wing spot. He will see his first price rise this week, albeit not a huge one. Tom Symonds hurt many SuperCoaches last weekend after missing the final cut. And he seems set to miss out again this round after being named 18th man.
BRONCOS: Gerard Beale, Jack Reed, Ben Te’o, Justin Hodges, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer, Peter Wallace, Ben Hannant, Andrew McCullough, Sam Thaiday, Alex Glenn, Matt Gillett, Corey Parker. Interchange: Mitchell Dodds, Dane Carlaw, Nick Kenny, Corey Norman.
Ins: None
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Ben Hunt (knee, round 7), Josh Hoffman (shin, round 6), Scott Anderson (calf, round 8)
Comment: No changes. Early-season performers Shane Tronc and Josh McGuire will again play Queensland Cup after being dropped after lockout last week. Josh Hoffman (shin, round 6) is a slight chance to play. Ben Te’o retains his centre spot, which does not spell well for Dane Gagai, who has plummeted down the backline pecking order after being named for the opening two rounds. Dane Carlaw is free to play after accepting an early guilty plea at the judiciary.
****************
SUNDAY
NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS v CRONULLA SHARKS at Ausgrid Stadium, 2pm
KNIGHTS: Wes Naiqama, James McManus, Junior Sa’u, Adam MacDougall, Akuila Uate, Kurt Gidley (capt), Jarrod Mullen, Antonio Kaufusi, Matt Hilder, Evarn Tuimavave, Cory Paterson, Chris Houston, Joel Edwards. Interchange: Isaac De Gois, Constantine Mika, Richie Fa’aoso, Dan Tolar, Marvin Karawana (one to be omitted).
Ins: Marvin Karawana
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Beau Henry (ankle, round 10), Cameron Ciraldo (torn pectoral, round 10), Ben Rogers (dislocated shoulder, indefinite), Neville Costigan (broken arm, round 13), Siuatonga Likiliki (knee, round 8), Kyle O’Donnell (elbow, round 8)
Comment: No changes to the 17. Isaac Do Gois is in severe doubt with a bicep injury. There are also worries over Dan Tolar (neck) and Wes Naiqama (ankle). Cory Paterson has been named despite a one week suspension. Marvin Karawana will presumably move into the 17 as his replacement. Kurt Gidley will see huge price drops over the next few weeks.
SHARKS: Nathan Gardner, Matthew Wright, Ben Pomeroy, Colin Best, John Williams, Albert Kelly, Wade Graham, Kade Snowden, Paul Aiton, Luke Douglas, Jeremy Smith, Anthony Tupou, Paul Gallen (capt). Interchange: Josh Cordoba, Broderick Wright, Stuart Flanagan, Dean Collis, Johnny Mannah (one to be omitted).
Ins: Dean Collis
Outs: None
Other unavailables: John Morris (knee, round 10)
Comment: No changes to the 17. As you can probably gather from his stats, coach Shane Flanagan has ordered Paul Gallen to limit his defence. Johnny Mannah continues to be a lottery due to fluctuating minutes.
*****************
PENRITH PANTHERS v MELBOURNE STORM at Centrebet Stadium, 3pm
PANTHERS: Michael Gordon, Sandor Earl, Michael Jennings, Brad Tighe, David Simmons, Travis Burns, Luke Walsh, Tim Grant, Kevin Kingston, Petero Civoniceva, Trent Waterhouse, Nigel Plum, Sarafu Fatiaki. Interchange: Nafe Seluini, Matthew Bell, Timana Tahu, Sam McKendry.
Ins: None
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Lachlan Coote (groin, round 7), Luke Lewis (wrist, round 11), Nathan Smith (groin, round 7), Dane Laurie (knee, indefinite)
Comment: No changes. Michael Gordon retains his fullback spot, where he scores MASSIVE. He is quite cheap at the moment. Trent Waterhouse has averaged 67 in the past three rounds.
STORM: Billy Slater, Matt Duffie, Dane Nielsen, Beau Champion, Anthony Quinn, Gareth Widdop, Cooper Cronk, Jesse Bromwich, Cameron Smith, Bryan Norrie, Adam Blair, Kevin Proctor, Todd Lowrie. Interchange: Adam Woolnough, Atelea Vea, Ryan Hinchcliffe, Jaiman Lowe, Justin O’Neill (one to be omitted).
Ins: Jaiman Lowe, Justin O’Neill
Outs: Troy Thompson (knee, round 9),
Other unavailables: Sika Manu (ankle, round 11), Chase Stanley (knee, season)
Comment: Troy Thompson (knee, round 9) has been ruled out, which brings Jesse Bromwich into the starting side and Jaiman Lowe onto the bench. Justin O’Neill has been named on an extended bench after being replaced at the last-minute by Anthony Quinn on Sunday. How good is Cameron Smith going?
*****************
MONDAY
SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS v ST GEORGE ILLAWARRA DRAGONS at ANZ Stadium, 7pm
RABBITOHS: Rhys Wesser, Nathan Merritt, Dylan Farrell, Greg Inglis, Fetuli Talanoa, John Sutton, Chris Sandow, Sam Burgess, Isaac Luke, Roy Asotasi (capt), David Tyrrell, Dave Taylor, Michael Crocker. Interchange: Ben Ross, Shannan McPherson, Chris McQueen, Nathan Peats.
Ins: Nathan Peats
Outs: Luke Stuart (knee, season)
Other unavailables: Eddy Pettybourne (suspension, round 7), Scott Geddes (Achilles, season), Ben Lowe (foot, round 10)
Comment: Sam Burgess’s move to the front row to replace Luke Stuart (knee, season) may mean less minutes. Issac Luke’s price seems to have bottomed out (break even 49), but is he worth the cash without regular kicking duties? Nathan Peats get another crack in the top grade.
DRAGONS: Darius Boyd, Brett Morris, Mark Gasnier, Matt Cooper, Jason Nightingale, Jamie Soward, Ben Hornby, Dan Hunt, Nathan Fien, Trent Merrin, Beau Scott, Ben Creagh, Matt Prior. Interchange: Jon Green, Dean Young, Adam Cuthbertson, Kyle Stanley.
Ins: None
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Michael Weyman (groin, round 8), Cameron King (shoulder, round 16)
Comment: No changes. Nathan Fien’s price has peaked. Dean Young is playing solely back row, while Kyle Stanley is filling in at hooker. Stanley will be an awesome buy if any of the Dragons starting backline go down.
Berkeley_Eagle
Current Status: 24/7 Manly Fan
got me, all goes down to who you pick as reserves I think
Lucky didn't play bones this week his team fired
Lucky didn't play bones this week his team fired
Berkeley_Eagle
Current Status: 24/7 Manly Fan
FRIDAY
MANLY SEA EAGLES v PENRITH PANTHERS at Brookvale Oval, 7.35pm.
SEA EAGLES: Brett Stewart, Michael Robertson, Jamie Lyon (capt), Steve Matai, Will Hopoate, Kieran Foran, Daly Cherry-Evans, Jason King (capt), Matt Ballin, Brent Kite, Anthony Watmough, Joe Galuvao, Glenn Stewart. Interchange: Tim Robinson, Jamie Buhrer, George Rose, Vic Mauro, Michael Oldfield, Tony Williams (two to be omitted).
Ins: Brett Stewart, Tim Robinson
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Shane Rodney (shoulder, indefinite), David Williams (knee, round 8)
Comment: Brett Stewart (hamstring) has been named, but will be monitored during the week. Des Hasler is taking no risks with his star player. Michael Oldfield is on stand by. Joe Galuvao (foot) and Jason King (concussion) are also in doubt. David Williams (knee) is considered some chance of an early return.
PANTHERS: Michael Gordon, David Simmons, Michael Jennings, Brad Tighe, Sandor Earl, Travis Burns, Luke Walsh, Tim Grant, Kevin Kingston, Petero Civoniceva, Trent Waterhouse, Nigel Plum, Sarafu Fatiaki. Interchange: Nafe Seluini, Sam McKendry, Timana Tahu, Matthew Bell, Yileen Gordon (one to be omitted).
Ins: Yileen Gordon
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Lachlan Coote (groin, indefinite), Luke Lewis (wrist, round 11), Nathan Smith (groin, indefinite), Dane Laurie (knee, indefinite)
Comment: Yileen Gordon has been added to an extended bench in the only change. Michael Gordon retains his fullback spot, with Lachlan Coote’s groin injury still a lottery.
*******************
WESTS TIGERS v BRISBANE BRONCOS at Sydney Football Stadium, 7.35pm
TIGERS: Wade McKinnon, Beau Ryan, Blake Ayshford, Mitch Brown, Matt Utai, Benji Marshall, Tim Moltzen, Andrew Fifita, Robbie Farah, Keith Galloway, Simon Dwyer, Gareth Ellis, Chris Heighington. Interchange: Sean Meaney, Liam Fulton, Bryce Gibbs, Aaron Woods.
Ins: Wade McKinnon, Beau Ryan, Keith Galloway, Liam Fulton, Aaron Woods
Outs: Sam Latu (dropped), Jacob Miller (dropped), Todd Payten (ankle, round 10), Alan Schirnack (shoulder, round 10), Mark Flanagan (dropped)
Other unavailables: Geoff Daniela (torn pectoral, indefinite), Lote Tuqiri (broken arm, round 12), Chris Lawrence (dislocated hip, indefinite), Robert Lui (ankle, round 8), Ben Murdoch-Masila (shoulder, round 8)
Comment: Some huge changes here – mostly forced by injury and returns from injury. The biggest change SuperCoach-wise is the comeback of Liam Fulton (shoulder). The Tigers now have four top-class backrowers competing for game time – Gareth Ellis, Simon Dwyer, Chris Heighington and Fulton. Wade McKinnon (hamstring), Beau Ryan (groin) and Keith Galloway (groin) return from injury. Popular cheapie Aaron Woods earns a recall as a replacement for Todd Payten (ankle, round 10). Wests Tigers have accepted the careless high tackle charge against lock Chris Heighington but will fight the grading tonight in a bid to avoid a one match suspension.
BRONCOS: Gerard Beale, Dale Copley, Jack Reed, Justin Hodges, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (capt), Peter Wallace, Ben Hannant, Andrew McCullough, Sam Thaiday, Alex Glenn, Matt Gillett, Corey Parker. Interchange: Mitchell Dodds, Dane Carlaw, Nick Kenny, Ben Hunt.
Ins: Ben Hunt
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Josh Hoffman (shin, round 8), Scott Anderson (calf, round 8), Ben Te’o (broken arm, indefinite)
Comment: Ben Hunt, who has missed a fortnight with a knee injury, replaces Corey Norman on the bench in the only change. Matt Gillett is in doubt with a foot injury. Dale Copley, who scored two tries on the weekend, retains his wing spot ahead of Dane Gagai. Josh Hoffman (shin, round 8) remains on the sidelines. Shane Tronc and Josh McGuire, who was cleared of a striking charge at the Queensland Rugby League judiciary last week, will continue their stints in Queensland Cup. Corey Parker was back to his best last week, and with a break even of 117, should be ripe for the picking next round.
****************
SATURDAY
CRONULLA SHARKS v NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS at Toyota Stadium, 5.30pm
SHARKS: Nathan Gardner, Matthew Wright, Ben Pomeroy, Colin Best, John Williams, Albert Kelly, Wade Graham, Kade Snowden, Paul Aiton, Luke Douglas, Jeremy Smith, Anthony Tupou, Paul Gallen. Interchange: Josh Cordoba, Broderick Wright, Stuart Flanagan, Dean Collis, Johnny Mannah (one to be omitted).
Ins: Dean Collis
Outs: None
Other unavailables: John Morris (knee, round 10)
Comment: No changes. Paul Gallen silenced the SuperCoach doubters with a brilliant 94 on the weekend. With a break even of 96, he can be bought quite cheap this week or next. Gallen is free to play after taking an early guilty plea at the judiciary.
COWBOYS: Matthew Bowen, Ashley Graham, Antonio Winterstein, Willie Tonga, Kalifa Faifai Loa, Ray Thompson, Johnathan Thurston, Matt Scott, Aaron Payne, Ashton Sims, Scott Bolton, Glenn Hall, Dallas Johnson. Interchange: James Segeyaro, Leeson Ah Mau, Tariq Sims, Gavin Cooper, James Tamou, Will Tupou (two to be omitted).
Ins: Gavin Cooper, James Tamou
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Brent Tate (knee, round 15)
Comment: Gavin Cooper and James Tamou return from suspension. Scott Bolton’s price has bottomed out despite scoring 86 last week, but is he still an 80 minute player? He is yet to play a full game this year, although injury has played its part. SuperCoaches who didn’t pick Johnathan Thurston at the start of the year will be kicking themselves.
*****************
CANTERBURY BULLDOGS v SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS at ANZ Stadium, 7.30pm
BULLDOGS: Ben Barba, Steve Turner, Josh Morris, Jamal Idris, Bryson Goodwin, Kris Keating, Trent Hodkinson, Aiden Tolman, Michael Ennis, Mickey Paea, Frank Pritchard, Andrew Ryan, David Stagg. Interchange: Jake Foster, Grant Millington, Michael Hodgson, Dene Halatau.
Ins: Josh Morris, Jake Foster
Outs: Tim Lafai (dropped), Corey Payne (suspension, round 8)
Other unavailables: Ryan Tandy (sacked), Greg Eastwood (wrist, round 9)
Comment: Awesome cheapie Tim Lafai drops back to Toyota Cup to make way for Josh Morris (knee). Is it time to sell? Or will he get another crack if Jamal Idris makes Origin? Jake Foster replaces Corey Payne, who has copped a one week ban for his swinging arm on Jarryd Hayne. Jamal Idris is in slight doubt with a cork.
RABBITOHS: James Roberts, Nathan Merritt, Dylan Farrell, Greg Inglis, Chris McQueen, John Sutton, Chris Sandow, Sam Burgess, Issac Luke, Roy Asotasi (capt), Dave Tyrrell, David Taylor, Michael Crocker. Interchange: Ben Ross, Shannan McPherson, Nathan Peats, Eddy Pettybourne.
Ins: James Roberts, Eddy Pettybourne
Outs: Rhys Wesser (dropped), Fetuli Talanoa (dropped).
Other unavailables: Luke Stuart (knee, season), Scott Geddes (Achilles, season), Ben Lowe (foot, round 13)
Comment: Rhys Wesser and Fetuli Talanoa have been given the heave-ho, with Toyota Cup young gun James Roberts to play fullback and Chris McQueen moving from the bench onto the wing. Michael Crocker is free to play after taking an early guilty plea at the judiciary. Eddy Pettybourne returns from suspension.
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SUNDAY
CANBERRA RAIDERS v NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS at Canberra Stadium, 2pm
RAIDERS: Blake Ferguson, Reece Robinson, Jarrod Croker, Joel Thompson, Daniel Vidot, Josh McCrone, Sam Williams, Dane Tilse, Glen Buttriss, David Shillington (capt), Joe Picker, Bronson Harrison (capt), Shaun Fensom. Interchange: Travis Waddell, Trevor Thurling, Tom Learoyd-Lahrs, Brett White, Josh Miller (one to be omitted).
Ins: Josh Miller
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Matt Orford (back, round 8), Josh Dugan (calf, round 8), Alan Tongue (shoulder, round 9), Terry Campese (knee, round 12)
Comment: No changes. Alan Tongue, Josh Dugan and Matt Orford trained with the rehab group today and will be assessed later in the week. However, at this stage, none of the trio will return to the team this weekend. Here’s what the Raiders said in a statement yesterday: “Raiders coach David Furner said the team would be put through their paces in a squad session on Thursday afternoon, when a decision would be made on the final makeup of the team. ‘We had a fairly solid session as a squad today, we have another session on Thursday and our Captain’s run this weekend is on Saturday so we still have time to decide on a final team for the weekend,’ Furner said. ‘We’ll make a decision on the injured guys tomorrow and if they come through ok we’ll give them a chance on Thursday. The team that trains on Thursday will be the team that plays on Sunday.’†Dugan’s possible return could spell bad news for Blake Ferguson, who would be relegated to the wing. Josh McCrone is free to play after taking an early guilty plea at the judiciary.
KNIGHTS: Shannon McDonnell, James McManus, Junior Sa’u, Wes Naiqama, Akuila Uate, Kurt Gidley (capt), Jarrod Mullen, Richie Fa’aoso, Matt Hilder, Evarn Tuimavave, Chris Houston, Cory Paterson, Joel Edwards. Intechange: Tyrone Roberts, Antonio Kaufusi, Marvin Karawana, Dan Tolar.
Ins: Cory Paterson, Marvin Karawana, Dan Tolar
Outs: Mark Taufua (dropped), Steve Southern (dropped), Con Mika (dropped)
Other unavailables: Beau Henry (ankle, round 10), Cameron Ciraldo (torn pectoral, round 10), Ben Rogers (dislocated shoulder, indefinite), Neville Costigan (broken arm, round 13), Siuatonga Likiliki (knee, round 8), Isaac De Gois (bicep, indefinite), Adam MacDougall (bicep, indefinite)
Comment: Cory Paterson returns from suspension, which may cut the game time of Chris Houston, who got 80 minutes on the weekend. Kyle O’Donnell (elbow) is set to return from injury in the NSW Cup. Mark Taufua, Steve Southern and Con Mika will also play for the Central Coast Centurions after making way for Paterson, Marvin Karawana and Dan Tolar.
******************
PARRAMATTA EELS v GOLD COAST TITANS at Parramatta Stadium, 3pm
EELS: Luke Burt, Etu Uaisele, Joel Reddy, Jacob Loko, Jordan Atkins, Daniel Mortimer, Jeff Robson, Tim Mannah, Casey McGuire, Fuifui Moimoi, Nathan Hindmarsh (capt), Taniela Lasalo, Justin Horo. Interchange: Billy Rogers, Shane Shackleton, Mitchell Allgood, Carl Webb, Ben Smith (one to be omitted).
Ins: Jordan Atkins, Carl Webb
Outs: Jarryd Hayne (suspended, round 10)
Other unavailables: Ryan Morgan (ankle, indefinite), Matt Keating (hand, round 11), Justin Poore (knee, indefinite), Chris Walker (toe, week-to-week), Chris Hicks (ankle, round 12)
Comment: Jarryd Hayne has copped a two week suspension and won’t play until round 10 (Eels have the bye in round 9). Luke Burt moves from the wing to fullback, with Jordan Atkins taking his spot on the flank. With Chris Walker (toe, week-to-week) and Ryan Morgan (ankle, indefinite) injured, Jacob Loko retains his centre spot. Shane Shackleton and Mitchell Allgood have reached their price peaks. Nathan Hindmarsh has a break even of 99 and should be cheap next week.
TITANS: Luke Capewell, Steve Michaels, Esikeli Tonga, Bodene Thompson, David Mead, William Zillman, Scott Prince, Luke Bailey, Nathan Friend, Matthew White, Greg Bird, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Michael Henderson, Ryan James, Ben Ridge, Luke O’Dwyer, Sam Tagataese (one to be omitted).
Ins: Sam Tagataese
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Anthony Laffranchi (ankle, round 12), Brad Meyers (wrist, indefinite), Preston Campbell (knee, round 9), Kevin Gordon (knee, season)
Comment: Sam Tagataese has been included as 18th man in the only change. Luke Bailey’s stats have dropped noticeably since the return of Nathan Friend. Ashley Harrison only played 60 minutes last week on his return from injury, but should get 80 minutes this week considering the absence of Laffranchi.
****************
MONDAY
SYDNEY ROOSTERS v ST GEORGE ILLAWARRA DRAGONS at Sydney Football Stadium, 4pm
ROOSTERS: Anthony Minichiello, Justin Carney, Mitchell Aubusson, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Joseph ‘BJ’ Leilua, Braith Anasta, Mitchell Pearce, Jason Ryles, Mark Riddell, Martin Kennedy, Tom Symonds, Frank Paul Nuuausala, Nate Myles. Interchange: Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Mose Masoe, Jake Friend, Daniel Conn, Tinirau Arona, Phil Graham (two to be omitted).
Ins: Phil Graham, Tinirau Arona
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Todd Carney (suspension, indefinite), Sam Perrett (broken ankle, round 13), Anthony Cherrington (knee, season), Anthony Watts (suspension, indefinite)
Comment: The indefinite suspension of Todd Carney could be catastrophic for the Roosters’ attack. However, the plus from Carney’s absence is that Tom Symonds seems to have nailed down a back row spot, with Braith Anasta moving to five-eighth. That said, Symonds is in slight doubt with an ankle injury. Another big unknown is the presence of Phil Graham on an extended bench. The last time this happened, coach Brian Smith decided to play game-day silly buggers and start Graham in the centres, push Aubusson to the bench and drop Symonds out of the side.
DRAGONS: Darius Boyd, Brett Morris, Mark Gasnier, Matt Cooper, Jason Nightingale, Jamie Soward, Ben Hornby, Dan Hunt, Nathan Fien, Michael Weyman, Beau Scott, Ben Creagh, Matt Prior. Interchange: Jon Green, Dean Young, Trent Merrin, Kyle Stanley, Adam Cuthbertson, Mitch Rein (two to be omitted).
Ins: Nathan Fien, Kyle Stanley
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Cameron King (shoulder, round 16), Nick Emmett (foot, round 10)
Comment: Nathan Fien returns after a late withdrawal on Monday night. Trent Merrin has been relegated to the bench to make way for Michael Weyman. For those not concerned with Origin, Brett Morris is extremely cheap at the moment.
****************
MELBOURNE STORM v NZ WARRIORS at AAMI Park, 7pm
STORM: Billy Slater, Anthony Quinn, Dane Nielsen, Beau Champion, Matt Duffie, Gareth Widdop, Cooper Cronk, Jesse Bromwich, Cameron Smith, Bryan Norrie, Adam Blair, Kevin Proctor, Todd Lowrie. Interchange: Ryan Hinchcliffe, Atelea Vea, Adam Woolnough, Jaiman Lowe.
Ins: None
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Troy Thompson (knee, round 12), Sika Manu (ankle, round 11), Chase Stanley (knee, season), Sione Kite (shoulder, round 10)
Comment: No changes. Jesse Bromwich retains his starting spot. The Storm are on fire following a run of home games. But will they be as potent later in the year when they get a string of away games?
WARRIORS: Lance Hohaia, Bill Tupou, Lewis Brown, Simon Mannering (capt), Krisnan Inu, James Maloney, Brett Seymour, Sam Rapira, Aaron Heremaia, Jacob Lillyman, Feleti Mateo, Elijah Taylor, Michael Luck. Interchange: Alehana Mara, Jeremy Latimore, Ben Matulino, Ukuma Ta’al, Russell Packer (one to be omitted).
Ins: Brett Seymour, Jacob Lillyman, Ukuma Ta’ai
Outs: Shaun Berrigan (broken hand, round 13), Sione Lousi (dropped)
Other unavailables: Glen Fisiiahi (ankle, round 12), Jerome Ropati (knee, season), Manu Vatuvei (knee, round 10)
Comment: The injury to Shaun Berrigan (broken hand, round 13) has caused a serious reshuffle. Lewis Brown’s work could be cut after moving to centre to replace Berrigan. Feleti Mateo’s minutes could be cut due to his move from five-eighth to fill the back row vacancy left by Brown. Cheap sensation Elijah Taylor retains his starting spot. Brett Seymour, who has been carving up in the NSW Cup, has been recalled at halfback, moving James Maloney to five-eighth. Jacob Lillyman and Ukuma Ta’ai return from injury.
MANLY SEA EAGLES v PENRITH PANTHERS at Brookvale Oval, 7.35pm.
SEA EAGLES: Brett Stewart, Michael Robertson, Jamie Lyon (capt), Steve Matai, Will Hopoate, Kieran Foran, Daly Cherry-Evans, Jason King (capt), Matt Ballin, Brent Kite, Anthony Watmough, Joe Galuvao, Glenn Stewart. Interchange: Tim Robinson, Jamie Buhrer, George Rose, Vic Mauro, Michael Oldfield, Tony Williams (two to be omitted).
Ins: Brett Stewart, Tim Robinson
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Shane Rodney (shoulder, indefinite), David Williams (knee, round 8)
Comment: Brett Stewart (hamstring) has been named, but will be monitored during the week. Des Hasler is taking no risks with his star player. Michael Oldfield is on stand by. Joe Galuvao (foot) and Jason King (concussion) are also in doubt. David Williams (knee) is considered some chance of an early return.
PANTHERS: Michael Gordon, David Simmons, Michael Jennings, Brad Tighe, Sandor Earl, Travis Burns, Luke Walsh, Tim Grant, Kevin Kingston, Petero Civoniceva, Trent Waterhouse, Nigel Plum, Sarafu Fatiaki. Interchange: Nafe Seluini, Sam McKendry, Timana Tahu, Matthew Bell, Yileen Gordon (one to be omitted).
Ins: Yileen Gordon
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Lachlan Coote (groin, indefinite), Luke Lewis (wrist, round 11), Nathan Smith (groin, indefinite), Dane Laurie (knee, indefinite)
Comment: Yileen Gordon has been added to an extended bench in the only change. Michael Gordon retains his fullback spot, with Lachlan Coote’s groin injury still a lottery.
*******************
WESTS TIGERS v BRISBANE BRONCOS at Sydney Football Stadium, 7.35pm
TIGERS: Wade McKinnon, Beau Ryan, Blake Ayshford, Mitch Brown, Matt Utai, Benji Marshall, Tim Moltzen, Andrew Fifita, Robbie Farah, Keith Galloway, Simon Dwyer, Gareth Ellis, Chris Heighington. Interchange: Sean Meaney, Liam Fulton, Bryce Gibbs, Aaron Woods.
Ins: Wade McKinnon, Beau Ryan, Keith Galloway, Liam Fulton, Aaron Woods
Outs: Sam Latu (dropped), Jacob Miller (dropped), Todd Payten (ankle, round 10), Alan Schirnack (shoulder, round 10), Mark Flanagan (dropped)
Other unavailables: Geoff Daniela (torn pectoral, indefinite), Lote Tuqiri (broken arm, round 12), Chris Lawrence (dislocated hip, indefinite), Robert Lui (ankle, round 8), Ben Murdoch-Masila (shoulder, round 8)
Comment: Some huge changes here – mostly forced by injury and returns from injury. The biggest change SuperCoach-wise is the comeback of Liam Fulton (shoulder). The Tigers now have four top-class backrowers competing for game time – Gareth Ellis, Simon Dwyer, Chris Heighington and Fulton. Wade McKinnon (hamstring), Beau Ryan (groin) and Keith Galloway (groin) return from injury. Popular cheapie Aaron Woods earns a recall as a replacement for Todd Payten (ankle, round 10). Wests Tigers have accepted the careless high tackle charge against lock Chris Heighington but will fight the grading tonight in a bid to avoid a one match suspension.
BRONCOS: Gerard Beale, Dale Copley, Jack Reed, Justin Hodges, Jharal Yow Yeh, Darren Lockyer (capt), Peter Wallace, Ben Hannant, Andrew McCullough, Sam Thaiday, Alex Glenn, Matt Gillett, Corey Parker. Interchange: Mitchell Dodds, Dane Carlaw, Nick Kenny, Ben Hunt.
Ins: Ben Hunt
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Josh Hoffman (shin, round 8), Scott Anderson (calf, round 8), Ben Te’o (broken arm, indefinite)
Comment: Ben Hunt, who has missed a fortnight with a knee injury, replaces Corey Norman on the bench in the only change. Matt Gillett is in doubt with a foot injury. Dale Copley, who scored two tries on the weekend, retains his wing spot ahead of Dane Gagai. Josh Hoffman (shin, round 8) remains on the sidelines. Shane Tronc and Josh McGuire, who was cleared of a striking charge at the Queensland Rugby League judiciary last week, will continue their stints in Queensland Cup. Corey Parker was back to his best last week, and with a break even of 117, should be ripe for the picking next round.
****************
SATURDAY
CRONULLA SHARKS v NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS at Toyota Stadium, 5.30pm
SHARKS: Nathan Gardner, Matthew Wright, Ben Pomeroy, Colin Best, John Williams, Albert Kelly, Wade Graham, Kade Snowden, Paul Aiton, Luke Douglas, Jeremy Smith, Anthony Tupou, Paul Gallen. Interchange: Josh Cordoba, Broderick Wright, Stuart Flanagan, Dean Collis, Johnny Mannah (one to be omitted).
Ins: Dean Collis
Outs: None
Other unavailables: John Morris (knee, round 10)
Comment: No changes. Paul Gallen silenced the SuperCoach doubters with a brilliant 94 on the weekend. With a break even of 96, he can be bought quite cheap this week or next. Gallen is free to play after taking an early guilty plea at the judiciary.
COWBOYS: Matthew Bowen, Ashley Graham, Antonio Winterstein, Willie Tonga, Kalifa Faifai Loa, Ray Thompson, Johnathan Thurston, Matt Scott, Aaron Payne, Ashton Sims, Scott Bolton, Glenn Hall, Dallas Johnson. Interchange: James Segeyaro, Leeson Ah Mau, Tariq Sims, Gavin Cooper, James Tamou, Will Tupou (two to be omitted).
Ins: Gavin Cooper, James Tamou
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Brent Tate (knee, round 15)
Comment: Gavin Cooper and James Tamou return from suspension. Scott Bolton’s price has bottomed out despite scoring 86 last week, but is he still an 80 minute player? He is yet to play a full game this year, although injury has played its part. SuperCoaches who didn’t pick Johnathan Thurston at the start of the year will be kicking themselves.
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CANTERBURY BULLDOGS v SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS at ANZ Stadium, 7.30pm
BULLDOGS: Ben Barba, Steve Turner, Josh Morris, Jamal Idris, Bryson Goodwin, Kris Keating, Trent Hodkinson, Aiden Tolman, Michael Ennis, Mickey Paea, Frank Pritchard, Andrew Ryan, David Stagg. Interchange: Jake Foster, Grant Millington, Michael Hodgson, Dene Halatau.
Ins: Josh Morris, Jake Foster
Outs: Tim Lafai (dropped), Corey Payne (suspension, round 8)
Other unavailables: Ryan Tandy (sacked), Greg Eastwood (wrist, round 9)
Comment: Awesome cheapie Tim Lafai drops back to Toyota Cup to make way for Josh Morris (knee). Is it time to sell? Or will he get another crack if Jamal Idris makes Origin? Jake Foster replaces Corey Payne, who has copped a one week ban for his swinging arm on Jarryd Hayne. Jamal Idris is in slight doubt with a cork.
RABBITOHS: James Roberts, Nathan Merritt, Dylan Farrell, Greg Inglis, Chris McQueen, John Sutton, Chris Sandow, Sam Burgess, Issac Luke, Roy Asotasi (capt), Dave Tyrrell, David Taylor, Michael Crocker. Interchange: Ben Ross, Shannan McPherson, Nathan Peats, Eddy Pettybourne.
Ins: James Roberts, Eddy Pettybourne
Outs: Rhys Wesser (dropped), Fetuli Talanoa (dropped).
Other unavailables: Luke Stuart (knee, season), Scott Geddes (Achilles, season), Ben Lowe (foot, round 13)
Comment: Rhys Wesser and Fetuli Talanoa have been given the heave-ho, with Toyota Cup young gun James Roberts to play fullback and Chris McQueen moving from the bench onto the wing. Michael Crocker is free to play after taking an early guilty plea at the judiciary. Eddy Pettybourne returns from suspension.
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SUNDAY
CANBERRA RAIDERS v NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS at Canberra Stadium, 2pm
RAIDERS: Blake Ferguson, Reece Robinson, Jarrod Croker, Joel Thompson, Daniel Vidot, Josh McCrone, Sam Williams, Dane Tilse, Glen Buttriss, David Shillington (capt), Joe Picker, Bronson Harrison (capt), Shaun Fensom. Interchange: Travis Waddell, Trevor Thurling, Tom Learoyd-Lahrs, Brett White, Josh Miller (one to be omitted).
Ins: Josh Miller
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Matt Orford (back, round 8), Josh Dugan (calf, round 8), Alan Tongue (shoulder, round 9), Terry Campese (knee, round 12)
Comment: No changes. Alan Tongue, Josh Dugan and Matt Orford trained with the rehab group today and will be assessed later in the week. However, at this stage, none of the trio will return to the team this weekend. Here’s what the Raiders said in a statement yesterday: “Raiders coach David Furner said the team would be put through their paces in a squad session on Thursday afternoon, when a decision would be made on the final makeup of the team. ‘We had a fairly solid session as a squad today, we have another session on Thursday and our Captain’s run this weekend is on Saturday so we still have time to decide on a final team for the weekend,’ Furner said. ‘We’ll make a decision on the injured guys tomorrow and if they come through ok we’ll give them a chance on Thursday. The team that trains on Thursday will be the team that plays on Sunday.’†Dugan’s possible return could spell bad news for Blake Ferguson, who would be relegated to the wing. Josh McCrone is free to play after taking an early guilty plea at the judiciary.
KNIGHTS: Shannon McDonnell, James McManus, Junior Sa’u, Wes Naiqama, Akuila Uate, Kurt Gidley (capt), Jarrod Mullen, Richie Fa’aoso, Matt Hilder, Evarn Tuimavave, Chris Houston, Cory Paterson, Joel Edwards. Intechange: Tyrone Roberts, Antonio Kaufusi, Marvin Karawana, Dan Tolar.
Ins: Cory Paterson, Marvin Karawana, Dan Tolar
Outs: Mark Taufua (dropped), Steve Southern (dropped), Con Mika (dropped)
Other unavailables: Beau Henry (ankle, round 10), Cameron Ciraldo (torn pectoral, round 10), Ben Rogers (dislocated shoulder, indefinite), Neville Costigan (broken arm, round 13), Siuatonga Likiliki (knee, round 8), Isaac De Gois (bicep, indefinite), Adam MacDougall (bicep, indefinite)
Comment: Cory Paterson returns from suspension, which may cut the game time of Chris Houston, who got 80 minutes on the weekend. Kyle O’Donnell (elbow) is set to return from injury in the NSW Cup. Mark Taufua, Steve Southern and Con Mika will also play for the Central Coast Centurions after making way for Paterson, Marvin Karawana and Dan Tolar.
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PARRAMATTA EELS v GOLD COAST TITANS at Parramatta Stadium, 3pm
EELS: Luke Burt, Etu Uaisele, Joel Reddy, Jacob Loko, Jordan Atkins, Daniel Mortimer, Jeff Robson, Tim Mannah, Casey McGuire, Fuifui Moimoi, Nathan Hindmarsh (capt), Taniela Lasalo, Justin Horo. Interchange: Billy Rogers, Shane Shackleton, Mitchell Allgood, Carl Webb, Ben Smith (one to be omitted).
Ins: Jordan Atkins, Carl Webb
Outs: Jarryd Hayne (suspended, round 10)
Other unavailables: Ryan Morgan (ankle, indefinite), Matt Keating (hand, round 11), Justin Poore (knee, indefinite), Chris Walker (toe, week-to-week), Chris Hicks (ankle, round 12)
Comment: Jarryd Hayne has copped a two week suspension and won’t play until round 10 (Eels have the bye in round 9). Luke Burt moves from the wing to fullback, with Jordan Atkins taking his spot on the flank. With Chris Walker (toe, week-to-week) and Ryan Morgan (ankle, indefinite) injured, Jacob Loko retains his centre spot. Shane Shackleton and Mitchell Allgood have reached their price peaks. Nathan Hindmarsh has a break even of 99 and should be cheap next week.
TITANS: Luke Capewell, Steve Michaels, Esikeli Tonga, Bodene Thompson, David Mead, William Zillman, Scott Prince, Luke Bailey, Nathan Friend, Matthew White, Greg Bird, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Michael Henderson, Ryan James, Ben Ridge, Luke O’Dwyer, Sam Tagataese (one to be omitted).
Ins: Sam Tagataese
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Anthony Laffranchi (ankle, round 12), Brad Meyers (wrist, indefinite), Preston Campbell (knee, round 9), Kevin Gordon (knee, season)
Comment: Sam Tagataese has been included as 18th man in the only change. Luke Bailey’s stats have dropped noticeably since the return of Nathan Friend. Ashley Harrison only played 60 minutes last week on his return from injury, but should get 80 minutes this week considering the absence of Laffranchi.
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MONDAY
SYDNEY ROOSTERS v ST GEORGE ILLAWARRA DRAGONS at Sydney Football Stadium, 4pm
ROOSTERS: Anthony Minichiello, Justin Carney, Mitchell Aubusson, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Joseph ‘BJ’ Leilua, Braith Anasta, Mitchell Pearce, Jason Ryles, Mark Riddell, Martin Kennedy, Tom Symonds, Frank Paul Nuuausala, Nate Myles. Interchange: Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Mose Masoe, Jake Friend, Daniel Conn, Tinirau Arona, Phil Graham (two to be omitted).
Ins: Phil Graham, Tinirau Arona
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Todd Carney (suspension, indefinite), Sam Perrett (broken ankle, round 13), Anthony Cherrington (knee, season), Anthony Watts (suspension, indefinite)
Comment: The indefinite suspension of Todd Carney could be catastrophic for the Roosters’ attack. However, the plus from Carney’s absence is that Tom Symonds seems to have nailed down a back row spot, with Braith Anasta moving to five-eighth. That said, Symonds is in slight doubt with an ankle injury. Another big unknown is the presence of Phil Graham on an extended bench. The last time this happened, coach Brian Smith decided to play game-day silly buggers and start Graham in the centres, push Aubusson to the bench and drop Symonds out of the side.
DRAGONS: Darius Boyd, Brett Morris, Mark Gasnier, Matt Cooper, Jason Nightingale, Jamie Soward, Ben Hornby, Dan Hunt, Nathan Fien, Michael Weyman, Beau Scott, Ben Creagh, Matt Prior. Interchange: Jon Green, Dean Young, Trent Merrin, Kyle Stanley, Adam Cuthbertson, Mitch Rein (two to be omitted).
Ins: Nathan Fien, Kyle Stanley
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Cameron King (shoulder, round 16), Nick Emmett (foot, round 10)
Comment: Nathan Fien returns after a late withdrawal on Monday night. Trent Merrin has been relegated to the bench to make way for Michael Weyman. For those not concerned with Origin, Brett Morris is extremely cheap at the moment.
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MELBOURNE STORM v NZ WARRIORS at AAMI Park, 7pm
STORM: Billy Slater, Anthony Quinn, Dane Nielsen, Beau Champion, Matt Duffie, Gareth Widdop, Cooper Cronk, Jesse Bromwich, Cameron Smith, Bryan Norrie, Adam Blair, Kevin Proctor, Todd Lowrie. Interchange: Ryan Hinchcliffe, Atelea Vea, Adam Woolnough, Jaiman Lowe.
Ins: None
Outs: None
Other unavailables: Troy Thompson (knee, round 12), Sika Manu (ankle, round 11), Chase Stanley (knee, season), Sione Kite (shoulder, round 10)
Comment: No changes. Jesse Bromwich retains his starting spot. The Storm are on fire following a run of home games. But will they be as potent later in the year when they get a string of away games?
WARRIORS: Lance Hohaia, Bill Tupou, Lewis Brown, Simon Mannering (capt), Krisnan Inu, James Maloney, Brett Seymour, Sam Rapira, Aaron Heremaia, Jacob Lillyman, Feleti Mateo, Elijah Taylor, Michael Luck. Interchange: Alehana Mara, Jeremy Latimore, Ben Matulino, Ukuma Ta’al, Russell Packer (one to be omitted).
Ins: Brett Seymour, Jacob Lillyman, Ukuma Ta’ai
Outs: Shaun Berrigan (broken hand, round 13), Sione Lousi (dropped)
Other unavailables: Glen Fisiiahi (ankle, round 12), Jerome Ropati (knee, season), Manu Vatuvei (knee, round 10)
Comment: The injury to Shaun Berrigan (broken hand, round 13) has caused a serious reshuffle. Lewis Brown’s work could be cut after moving to centre to replace Berrigan. Feleti Mateo’s minutes could be cut due to his move from five-eighth to fill the back row vacancy left by Brown. Cheap sensation Elijah Taylor retains his starting spot. Brett Seymour, who has been carving up in the NSW Cup, has been recalled at halfback, moving James Maloney to five-eighth. Jacob Lillyman and Ukuma Ta’ai return from injury.
| Team | P | W | L | PD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
7 | 6 | 1 | 54 | 14 |
|
6 | 5 | 1 | 59 | 12 |
|
6 | 4 | 2 | 53 | 10 |
|
6 | 4 | 2 | 30 | 10 |
|
7 | 4 | 2 | 25 | 9 |
|
8 | 4 | 4 | 73 | 8 |
|
7 | 4 | 3 | 40 | 8 |
|
7 | 4 | 3 | 24 | 8 |
|
7 | 3 | 4 | 17 | 8 |
|
7 | 4 | 3 | -8 | 8 |
|
8 | 4 | 4 | -60 | 8 |
|
8 | 3 | 4 | 17 | 7 |
|
6 | 2 | 4 | -31 | 6 |
|
7 | 3 | 4 | -41 | 6 |
|
7 | 2 | 5 | -29 | 4 |
|
7 | 1 | 6 | -87 | 4 |
|
7 | 1 | 6 | -136 | 4 |
