Sydney Roosters v Cronulla Sharks (Allianz Stadium, 7pm Monday 18 July)
Roosters 2.52
Sharks 1.54
- This will be Mitch Pearce’s third consecutive game in what’s been a disruptive year for the former Origin halfback. He has been close to their best player on the park in the last two outings but needs the support of his teammates if they’re to spring an upset tonight.
- Cronulla Blues. The Sharks should welcome back four of their five Origin contingent with only Andrew Fifita to miss the clash due to suspension. They’ve handled the Origin period superbly considering the personnel they have involved in this year’s Origin series. Their fringe players have stepped up and it leaves them in a great opportunity to win the first premiership in the club’s history.
- Leaky Roosters. The Chooks have held teams to less than 20 on only 4 occasions this year. Gone are the days where teams had to work hard for their tries against the Bondi boys, these days there are more holes in their defence than a block of Swiss cheese. The stats are even more concerning when they face top 4 teams where they have leaked an average of 35 points.
- Riding the wave. The Shire boys are sitting pretty having won their last 13 matches on the trot. They’re playing with great confidence and their performances this year have been nothing short of brilliant. With this in mind, one must ask if they have peaked too soon or if they will be able to ride the wave of confidence all the way.
- Barba running hot. The Mackay product as well and truly recaptured the form which saw him take out the 2012 Dally M Player of the Year award. At the beginning of the season he was in a three-way tussle to wear the number 1 jersey at the club but he has silence that debate and has well and truly made the jersey his own. He has regained his confidence and just as important, his blinding speed. The way he loomed up in support of Nu Brown and pulled away from the cover defence was wonderful sight.
