Sunday footy action kicks off at Brookvale Oval as a battle of the beaches when the Sea Eagles take on the Rooster boys from Bondi. Many fans will openly admit that they couldn't care less for this game as more often than not, they are the most hated teams by NRL fan! But it is not up to me to pass judgement on this and I am simply going to look at the great rugby league that is on offer. Both teams do have some players missing to SOO (as is the whole theme of the weekend). Needless to say, it is still bound to be a great game of football.
Manly Warringah Sea Eagles - WWLLLWLWWW (Streak - 3 wins)
Manly are missing 4 players to SOO duty. The main being the two Stewart brothers, as well as Tony Williams and Jamie Buhrer. They do offset these losses with the return of Kieran Foran to the starting lineup after a few weeks out with a hamstring injury. His brother Liam, who has been filling the 5/8 role in his absence moves back to an extended bench. Other changes include Dean Whare moving to fullback, Daniel Harrison and Joe Galuvao coming into the back row. Many people considered Anthony Watmough very hard done by in missing out on SOO selection, but he will definitely be out to prove a point and especially at a time when many have considered his ability to offload in the tackle. Although the Eagles have 4 players away to selection, they are still strong in all areas of the field.
Sydney Roosters - WLWLWWLLWL (Streak - 1 loss)
Most notably missing from the Roosters lineup is their halfback Mitchell Pearce. Daniel Mortimer comes into the starting side to fill in for Pearce and he has been chomping at the bit to gain a full time NRL position since leaving the Parramatta Eels when his form was questioned for several months. Many believe that it was a very bold move and are willing him to succeed as he has taken the harder road in establishing himself as a worthy first grader. Apart from that, the Roosters have named Tautau Moga in the starting side after he gained a shock (but most overdue) selection from NSW Cup. There are many who believe that this kid will be bigger than Ben Hur once he gets going, but until then, we wait in anticipation. The Roosters are also travelling back from a bruising encounter with the Warriors in NZ last week. It was a tough game and many thought that they were unlucky as a result of certain refereeing blunders. So they will have added motivation going into this one.
Recent History
Last 5 Games - Manly 4 Roosters 1
At Brookvale Oval - Manly 33 Roosters 11
Odds
TAB Sportsbet - Manly $1.45 Roosters $2.85
Centrebet - Manly $1.46 Roosters $2.80
Sportsbet - Manly $1.46 Roosters $2.80
Verdict
I believe that the Roosters present a lot of value starting the match at $2.80, but when you look at facts around this game, perhaps this price is well represented. They certainly will make Manly work for their 2 points in this one and they are a young team brimming with confidence. But what has been missing form this Manly team in recent weeks is stability in the halves. Now they get this back this week. Foran joins Cherry-Evans and they will provide direction around the back and will work well with Matt Ballin at hooker. Manly should be too strong in this one, with greater experience getting them over the line.
Suggested Bet
Manly -5.5 @ $1.75
or
Manly 1-12 @ $3.00
Good luck!
Scooby
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