NRL Round 13 Canberra Raiders v West Tigers Preview

To start Saturday footy, we take a trip down to a very chilly nations capital as the Canberra Raiders take on the West Tigers. This game has always made for great viewing over the years and this game is sure to be the same. The Raiders definitely looked good late in the first half against Souths as they levelled scores at halftime, whilst the Tigers held off the Cowboys out at Campbelltown. The pressure is growing at the Raiders for more consistent footy but some injuries to a few key positions has held back them from reaching their potential this year. The Tigers on the other hand have slowly been building more and more momentum as the season rolls on. As they do every year, they peak at the right time and it seems like they are doing the same again this year as the separation between the top half and the bottom half of the table begins to be seen. One thing is for sure, the Raiders are always hard to beat at home and playing in the cold air won't make it any easier for the Tigers.

Canberra Raiders

After going through their fair share of controversy in the last week or so surrounding a few key players, the Raiders have made a few changes to the team to do battle this week. Last week, both Josh Dugan and Blake Ferguson were stood down for breaching the club alcohol policy. Many suggested at the time that there was definitely an attitude problem at the Raiders amongst a few of the young players. But they have now welcomed back both players into their team for this week. I am not sure if it is further punishment (surely not), but both players are playing out of position this week. Josh Dugan moves to 5/8 and Blake Ferguson will play in the centres. Coach David Furner is definitely searching for the right mix between his players and maybe giving Dugan more responsibility is the answer. Reece Robinson stays at fullback and he has definitely been playing well at the back. Apart from that, the team remains relatively unchanged from the previous week. The forwards will definitely have to lift to another level because at times, they were embarrassed by the Rabbitohs forwards. I have no doubt they have it within them, but a good hooking performance would also go a long way to winning this one.

West Tigers

The Tigers are a team that have been building nicely. In recent weeks, I have tipped against them thinking that they would be unable to get over the line. It is not a matter of believing that they cannot win, I haven't been convinced of their performances to date. Yet, they have been getting the job done and grabbing the two points with both hands. Full credit must go to some of their players who are certainly playing better, in particular, Robbie Farrah and Aaron Woods. Farrah has been great in recent weeks (SOO included) and definitely lifts his team around the ruck. Coach Tim Sheens has named an unchanged lineup as well which is sure to boost some continuity within the squad. The return of Chris Heighington at lock definitely gives the perfect finish to their forward pack. What they will have to overcome in this game apart from the cold, will be a quick turn around from their previous game on Sunday. But with their confidence riding high and momentum on their side, it could just be enough to get them through this game.

Recent History

Overall = Raiders 10 - Tigers 14

Last 5 games = Raiders 1 - Tigers 4

At Canberra Stadium = Raiders 6 - Tigers 7

Odds
TAB Sportsbet = Raiders $2.65 Tigers $1.50
Centrebet = Raiders $2.67 Tigers $1.50
Sportsbet = Raiders $2.65 Tigers $1.50

Verdict
The Raiders were good for the last part of their game against the Rabbitohs and this all came of course, once they got some possession. The Tigers are coming into their own and again would like to see their streak continue. The record is pretty even at Canberra Stadium and I believe that this game will be pretty close. It'll be wet, windy and cold as well. The Raiders also have a few stars that are returning from a week on the sidelines for breaching the clubs rules so maybe they will have something to prove. I think a night game (early night anyway) will be very tough for the Tigers. All things considered, this is going to be a very ugly game and I think that it would be good to stay away from this game and save your money. Don't bet in this one. If you have to selection one team for your footy tips, they I would lean towards the Tigers as they have the form on the board. The Raiders have to earn their right for people to starting thinking that they can win before I will take them against a team like the Tigers. BUT, a Raiders win wouldn't shock me.

Suggested Bet
DO NOT BET! - Stay away!


If you have to... = can't help but have some interest on the game, throw on a few "pick-the-scores" to satisfy your cravings.


Good luck!
Scooby
@scoobytips