The Bulldogs are about to be crowned Minor Premiers for season 2012 but first they must get through this tricky encounter against the Roosters. Last week saw their first loss in 13 matches and it was at the hands of the Raiders in the nations capital. The most disappointing aspect of the loss though was the fashion in which it occurred. They were diabolical at times and some players would have been left looking for some very deep holes in the ground following their performances. They were outplayed and outclassed by a side that would've been left in their shadow if it was their best day. Problem was though, it wasn't. A lot of people have also been very forgiving of that performance and suggested that it was "the loss that they had to have". A loss is never something you want, but it could be a positive that they got such a poor performance out of their system now, rather than in a game which means far more. The Roosters also produced a "shocking" performance (of the good kind) by ambushing the Tigers on a milestone day for their club. It was Anthony Minichiello's 250th game for the club and captain Braith Anasta's last home game before switching to the Tigers. So the motivation was high for them in that game and you cannot be sure of what it will be in this game. They are only playing for pride and there will be a collective sigh of relief when the fulltime whistle goes in this game as it concludes a very disappointing year for the club. There is still a lot of speculation about the future of Brian Smith as well and it isn't good to see a change room full of unhappy, young players. It would be some feat if they could beat the Bulldogs here and if they are, they'll require a far better effort from last week. The Bulldogs are assured a home semi final but their motivation will lie within the opportunity to lift the Minor Premiership shield in front of their loyal home fans. No doubt coach Des Hasler will have his comments ready to ensure that the Bulldogs do not get caught up in their own hype.
Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs
It is a confidence builder within this side to have players named again after a disappointing performance. It sends a message that their coach has faith in them but no doubt some players needed to be told that another performance like that would not be tolerated. As hooker Michael Ennis was rested in that clash, he is immediately slotted straight back into this weeks side at hooker and replacement Joel Romelo is dropped from the side altogether. That is the only change but their is an extended bench of 5 named and it appears as though Martin Taupau will be the player that misses out again. Then again, you can never be sure with Hasler's approach. They will obviously be looking to put that performance behind them as quick as possible as it was definitely out of character for them. They need to go back to their impressive forward play that has them promoting the ball to the halves with a lot of room to move.
Sydney Roosters
The Roosters were very happy with their performance on the weekend and no doubt a lot of Roosters fans walked away from that game pleased, but also frustrated. They have every right to be and it is puzzling as to why it has taken so long for them to produce a performance like this one. As a reward for their performance, Brian Smith has named an unchanged lineup for their last game of the season. Amazingly though, Smith has been reluctant to change their forward pack this year and continued to press on with a very young, but imposing forward pack. As the season has gone on though, they have certainly learnt what it takes to be a winner each week of the NRL. It has been a disappointing season for them but a win would go a long way to motivating them for 2013.
Recent History
Overall = Bulldogs 76 - Draw 5 - Roosters 78
Last 5 games = Bulldogs 3 - Roosters 2
At ANZ Stadium = Bulldogs 9 - Roosters 2
Odds
TAB Sportsbet = Bulldogs $1.18 Roosters $5.00
Centrebet = Bulldogs $1.16 Roosters $5.50
Sportsbet = Bulldogs $1.18 Roosters $5.10
Betfair = Bulldogs $1.21 Roosters $5.00
Verdict
The Bulldogs are one of the sides to beat in the semi finals and for good reason. Forget their last game against the Raiders, a loss like that can refocus the side now on bigger and better things. They will want to get through this match with relative ease and gain back some of the scintillating momentum that has seem them attack without fear. The Roosters are just hanging out for the end of the season and the last thing that the Bulldogs want here is a tough game. It will be a good test of their forwards early on though. Regardless, the Bulldogs should win by a comfortable margin here.
Suggested Bet
Bulldogs 13+ @ $1.65
Large line = Bulldogs -16.5 @ $2.10 - The Bulldogs are giving a lot of points away here and punters have taken the Roosters with the start here. They are probably expecting to see an improved performance by their side but they only beat the Tigers remember. You will soon be reminded what a class side the Bulldogs are.
Bounce back from hell = Jonathan Wright @ $13 - This bloke had an absolute shocker last week against the Raiders and nothing will boost his confidence more than landing the first try in this game. He isn't one of my favorite players to pick but you can imagine how Des would've broken into his psyche.
Good luck!
Scooby
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