NRL Round 13 Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs v South Sydney Rabbitohs Preview

How unfair is it that those fans who only have Foxtel or can make their way to a pub can watch this match live? This "game of the round" will unfortunately go unwatched by plenty of people who would love to watch this clash live. But there is also a bumper crowd tipped out at ANZ Stadium as the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs take on the South Sydney Rabbitohs. It is also worth noting that although this game is listed as a home game for the Bulldogs, Rabbitohs season ticket holders are able to scan their way into the ground rather than purchasing a ticket. It is something that both teams offer during their home fixtures for the other each year so well done. It would be great to see a big crowd on hand for this clash. The Rabbits have looked very good in recent weeks after grounding out a tough golden point victory over the Dragons and then handing it to the Raiders after being quite close at halftime. But a key area in games for them throughout this season is that they have rarely failed to play out the full 80 minutes. Coaching staff and players will both tell you this, they must play for the entire game if they want to press their claims at the end of the season. The Dogs on the other hand have put in some great performances but have also played poorly at times, namely against the Titans. Coach Des Hasler is proving his worth this season as he is getting the best out of an adequate squad and players such as Sam Kasiano and Dean Halatau are really playing some quality football in and around the middle of the field. The passing performance from their forwards has been exceptional and they are catching out teams three passes wide of the play the ball. And then you have Ben Barba. Words cannot describe how well he is playing this season and the worries about his performance under the high ball has seemed to faded quickly. But playing on the other side at fullback is a bloke by the name of Greg Inglis. No description needed, just type his name into youtube and watch the highlight reels of this season with the Bunnies. Nonetheless, it's going to be a great battle between the two teams and certainly the two fullbacks will be up for it.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs

The Bulldogs have to deal with MNF-itis after a game against the Rooster where they were tested early and eventually ran away with the match. As a result, Hasler has named an unchanged lineup from last game, and that includes late inclusion Kristian Inu from the Warriors. Inu certainly demonstrated just what he is capable of when he has his head in the game setting up a fantastic try and scoring another. Dogs fans will be hoping that this is the Kristian Inu that they see each week rather than the Kristian Inu that is prone to making simple mistakes. The forwards will also have their work cut out for them if they want to take this game to the Rabbitohs forward pack. They will have to make sure that they are very strong in defence in and around the ruck. Their halves will also be tested in their ability to create something if they get behind on the scoreboard.

South Sydney Rabbitohs

As mentioned above, the Rabbitohs have to play for the 80 minutes. They certainly have the forwards to get them through a tough contest and they also have superstar fullback Inglis to create something for them when they need him most. Another interesting point to note is that the halves, Adam Reynolds and John Sutton have been improving each week. Sutton certainly does have his critics and I am still not sold on his performances and ability to play consistent football. He has been found out several times this year in defence as well as attack but he is definitely playing better football than last season. Isaac Luke will again be dangerous around the ruck and have his team going forward. In terms of team news, Matt King comes back into the team and Justin Hunt moves back to an extended bench. Adam Reynolds did appear to be injured during the Raiders game but I am sure that he will get through a week of recovery and be ready for this game.

Recent History

Overall = Bulldogs 75 - Rabbitohs 64

Last 5 = Bulldogs 3 - Rabbitohs 2

At ANZ Stadium = Bulldogs 10 - Rabbitohs 3

Odds
TAB Sportsbet = Bulldogs $2.05 Rabbitohs $1.80
Centrebet = Bulldogs $2.05 Rabbitohs $1.80
Sportsbet = Bulldgs $2.00 Rabbitohs $1.85

Verdict
This would be a great game to just sit there and watch some great footy unfold. But I feel as if that would be a waste of a bet. I do see some value in and around the Rabbitohs. They are certainly coming into their own with each victory that they have and are full of confidence. Their whole team has to come out with a point to prove this week that the South Sydney Rabbitohs team of old is dead and burried. The Bulldogs will put up a good fight but I think that Souths will win this match on points!

Suggested Bet
Rabbitohs @$1.80


Value Bet = Souths 13+ @ $4 - If the Rabbitohs want to prove a point in this game, then they will have to beat the Bulldogs by 13+. They did beat them in a tough game by 10 points earlier in the season so one more try surely isn't beyond them.


Just a thought... = First scoring play Rabbitohs try @ $2.10 - The Bulldogs may be slow to begin the game after playing MNF against the Roosters.


Good luck!
Scooby
@scoobystips