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Roosters and Tigers bring up 600 games at SFS

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Sydney Roosters and Wests Tigers are set for another epic battle at Allianz Stadium

Sydney Roosters and Wests Tigers are set for another epic battle at Allianz Stadium

Friday night sees the 600th first grade rugby league match held at the Sydney Football Stadium, now known as Allianz Stadium, as Sydney Roosters host Wests Tigers. With the Tigers showing improved form in 2014 and the Roosters as defending Premiers, this clash is perhaps the most eagerly anticipated between the two since their epic Qualifying Final in 2010.

The Roosters have named James Maloney in their squad despite him suffering from a shoulder injury. Maloney will be looking to cement his place as the NSW five eighth for the upcoming State of Origin series.

With two consecutive wins under their belts coming into this game the Roosters are looking strong again after suffering three consecutive defeats – albeit narrow ones. The ANZAC day victory over the Dragons contained flashes of the form that swept them to the Premiership in 2013.

With Braith Anasta absent, Blake Austin will join fellow rookie Luke Brooks in the halves for the Tigers. Anasta’s absence – along with regular skipper Robbie Farah – means that Liam Fulton will lead out the side at Allianz Stadium.

Farah had been rumoured to be making an early return from a dislocated elbow, but this has been dismissed by the Tigers. On top of their mounting injuries, the Tigers have also lost Tim Simona and Mitchell Moses through suspensions.

 

Friday 9th May, Allianz Stadium Moore Park 19:40

Sydney Roosters v Wests Tigers

Click here for ticket details

 

NRL season opens with Souths Roosters clash

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The 2014 NRL season opens with the clash between historic rivals South Sydney Rabbitohs and Sydney Roosters

The 2014 NRL season opens with the clash between historic rivals South Sydney Rabbitohs and Sydney Roosters

 

The 2014 NRL season kicks off tonight at ANZ Stadium with the now traditional clash between historic rivals South Sydney Rabbitohs and Sydney Roosters. Another large crowd is expected after just under 60,000 fans attended the final regular season game in 2013 as the Roosters came out on top in a shootout for the minor premiership.

Souths coach Michael Maguire is already facing a dilemma over team selection. He had originally planned to pair Adam Reynolds and Luke Keary in the halves this season, moving regular five eighth John Sutton to lock. However Keary is out with a long term injury so Maguire has to decide whether to bring Sutton back to his usual spot, or play Dylan Walker alongside Reynolds.

It places a lot of pressure on 19 year old Walker if he gets the nod, but his inclusion in the halves will bring extra pace to Souths’ attack. If Keary’s absence was only for a couple of games then it would be an easy choice for Maguire to stick to his original plan, but as it will be at least half of the season he may well be tempted to go back to what has been a successful pairing of Reynolds and Sutton in the last two seasons.

Souths are looking to bounce back after the crushing blows of losing one game short of the Grand Final in each of the past two seasons. With Tom Burgess also out of a few weeks with a foot injury, they have some early season hurdles to overcome as they take on both of last season’s grand finalists in the opening two rounds.

While there is the potential for a disrupted start to the season for the Rabbitohs, things could not look much more different for the Roosters. They are set to go into the opening round missing only one player from their victorious Grand Final squad – the retired Luke O’Donnell. They will also be on a high following their win in the World Club Challenge against Wigan.

As with all NRL fixtures at ANZ Stadium this season, travel via train to and from the stadium is included with all advanced ticket purchases. Fans attending the game will also be among the first to try out the new free Wi-Fi network at the stadium.

 

Thursday 6th March, ANZ Stadium Homebush 20:05

South Sydney Rabbitohs v Sydney Roosters

Click here for ticket details

 

 

World Club Challenge back in Sydney after 20 year gap

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Sydney Roosters and Wigan Warriors will battle it out in the World Club Challenge at Allianz stadium on Saturday night

Sydney Roosters and Wigan Warriors will battle it out in the World Club Challenge at Allianz stadium on Saturday night

 

 

For the first time in 20 years Rugby League’s World Club Challenge match will be played in Sydney tonight as Sydney Roosters host Wigan Warriors at Allianz Stadium. While English clubs have enjoyed overall dominance of this fixture over its history, the Roosters will hope to make the most of home ground advantage.

Coach Trent Robinson has named a full strength side, having prioritised this game over last weekend’s Auckland Nines tournament. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck is the only noticeable absentee as he misses out through injury. Captain Anthony Minichiello will lead out his team having been a member of the last Roosters side to play in this event back in 2003.

The Roosters will need to get their game up to speed very quickly having only played one trial so far, after 16 of their players were involved in the World Cup. Their preparations for the match have very thorough, including training sessions with Super League side Warrington.

Wigan coach Shaun Wane will be hoping to lead his side to a repeat of their famous upset win over Brisbane in the early 90’s. Local fans will recognise former Cowboys fullback Matt Bowen – a boyhood Roosters fan incidentally – who makes his debut following his departure from Townsville at the end of last year.

Josh Charnley will provide the main attacking threat for the Warriors, boasting a try scoring rate of better than one per game. The Warriors looked impressive in their warm-up in New Zealand two weeks ago, but face an uphill task to stop the Roosters being crowned champions on their home turf.

 

Saturday 22nd February, Allianz Stadium Moore Park 20:00

Sydney Roosters v Wigan Warriors

Click here for ticket details

 

 

NRL Grand Final a battle of the toughest

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After six months of blood, sweat and tears, the NRL season concludes with tonight’s Grand Final between Sydney Roosters and Manly Sea Eagles at ANZ Stadium. This will be the fourth encounter between these two sides in 2013, the Roosters leading the head to head 3-0. Each of those victories has been set up by incredible defensive performances – the Sea Eagles have not scored a point in the first half of any of the three matches this season.

Manly have the experience of being in their fourth Grand Final in seven years to draw upon, and they have six players in tonight’s squad who have played in the previous three. The Sea Eagles have had a tough month of finals football and the question will be asked about whether they can lift themselves again. Those who doubt their ability to do that should go back and watch last week’s Preliminary Final against Souths and see how they responded to falling 14-0 behind.

Richie Fa’aoso has been ruled out of the Manly side after he fractured vertebrae in his neck in last week’s Preliminary Final. After a rest period of three months a decision will then be made on his playing future. David Gower is the beneficiary of an unexpected call up to the Grand Final bench.

The Roosters have also had a fairly settled week, with the only notable concern being illness affecting Mitchell Pearce on Monday. Sonny Bill Williams was ill in the lead up to the Preliminary Final, yet he still walked away with the man of the match honours. A fitter and stronger Williams is a daunting prospect for the Sea Eagles to face. The Roosters are also hoping to welcome back Luke O’Donnell and Boyd Cordner from injury, although newly crowned Dally M Coach of the Year Trent Robinson may be hesitant to include multiple players who are not at full fitness.

Looking at the two teams it is hard to pick a clear winner. The Roosters look to have a stronger frontline, whereas Manly probably have the best collection of backs in the competition. However, those weapons have not been enough for the Sea Eagles to do enough on the scoreboard in those three previous matches this year.

A quick check around the media coverage shows many pundits tipping the Roosters by six points or less. All things considered that is probably a fair assessment, but when a tip is made based on just a single try it shows how evenly matched these two sides are. This has all the makings of another war of attrition.

 

NRL Grand Final

Sunday 6th October, ANZ Stadium Homebush 19:15

Sydney Roosters v Manly Sea Eagles

Tickets

NRL finals double header promises big night of action

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Saturday night sees the first ever NRL finals double header at the same venue. Allianz Stadium plays host tonight to the Elimination Final between Cronulla Sharks and North Queensland Cowboys, and this is followed immediately by the Qualifying Final between Sydney Roosters and Manly Sea Eagles. Ultimately the NRL had no choice but to do this after the AFL pre-booked ANZ Stadium a long time ago for a potential final involving the Swans. However, there is some talk that this double header was always under consideration as the Roosters, Sea Eagles and Sharks were all due to play home finals at the venue.

While the double header provides undoubted value and excitement for fans, there are some logistical issues for the clubs. Cronulla and the North Queensland Cowboys will have to use the changing rooms across the road at the SCG as they prepare for the first of the two matches, while the Sea Eagles and Roosters will not get full use of the main rooms until half time.

The Sharks will be hoping Todd Carney overcomes a niggling hamstring problem and is able to play at his best. Their finals campaign derailed last year when he suffered a torn Achilles tendon against the Raiders. Paul Gallen and Wade Graham are among a group of other high profile players to return this week. Gallen has only played 14 games for Cronulla in 2013. This has had a positive effect on the team as others have had to step up, while Gallen has been fitter and fresher when he has played. It is clear that this Sharks team is full of effort and desire – they have won six games in 2013 by four points or less.

Cowboys captain Matt Scott is hoping to make an earlier than expected return from finger surgery. His team have won six in a row to sneak in to the finals at the death, and some have recalled a similar run that took the Eels all the way to the Grand Final in 2009. The Cowboys have effectively been playing finals football for six weeks already, each week knowing a loss would end their season.

Historically the Cowboys struggle in Sydney, but this year they have won on three of their five visits. They have also already beaten the Sharks twice in 2013. They will be hoping to avoid exiting the finals tonight at Allianz Stadium, the same venue that has brought the curtain down on their finals campaigns in the past two seasons.

The main concern for the Roosters this week has been the loss of Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, who received a one game ban for a raised forearm to Souths forward Chris McQueen in last week’s Minor Premiership decider. Having opted not to take the early guilty plea and losing the appeal at the judiciary, there are now extra carryover points that Waerea-Hargreaves has to be mindful of in the remaining games. Luke O’Donnell returns from suspension to cover the loss, and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and Mitchell Aubusson are also available again.

Manly have recalled Anthony Watmough after injury, while Jorge Taufua returns from a club imposed suspension. Brett Stewart was named in the side earlier in the week, but has since been ruled out with a hamstring injury. The Sea Eagles are appearing in their ninth consecutive finals campaign, the longest current streak in the NRL. Not too much should be read into last weekend’s loss to Penrith. The Sea Eagles had clearly taken their foot off the pedal knowing they were secure in the top four, and prior to that game they had only lost once in the previous nine.

 

Saturday 14th September, Allianz Stadium Moore Park from 16:00

Cronulla Sharks v North Queensland Cowboys, followed by Sydney Roosters v Manly Sea Eagles

Tickets

Also includes Panthers v Roosters Holden Cup Qualifying final kick off 13.30.

Minor Premiership decider brings NRL season to end

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Last week we reviewed what was left to play for in the remaining two rounds of fixtures for all of Sydney’s NRL clubs. With the final round of games now upon us we take a look at what is at stake for them this week. You can find links to tickets for all three matches taking place at Sydney stadiums at the bottom of this post.

 

South Sydney Rabbitohs v Sydney Roosters

Friday 6th September, ANZ Stadium Homebush 19:45

Rugby League’s two foundation clubs face off for the Minor Premiership for the first time in 45 years. With a two point lead in their pocket a draw will also win the JJ Giltinan Shield for Souths, but it’s the Roosters superior differential that makes this game effectively a mini Grand Final. Both clubs are secure in the top two, so whatever the outcome they will host either Manly or Melbourne in the opening round of the finals.

Three weeks ago it looked certain to be the Roosters who would claim the shield, but two losses in a row have dented their confidence. Souths on the other hand have built up momentum with wins in big matches against the Bulldogs and Manly, and last week’s come from behind effort against Wests Tigers. It is now the Bunnies who have been installed as favourites for the big prize, but their concentration for now is securing the Minor Premiership for the first time since 1989.

A crowd in excess of 40,000 is expected, and rail transport is included with all match tickets. Souths have again named a 19-man squad and are unchanged from last week, so the four Burgess brothers could well be on the field at the same time again this week. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck has been ruled out of the Roosters side due to an ankle injury sustained on Sunday against the Titans.

 

Best Case Scenario (both clubs): Minor Premiers
Worst Case Scenario (both clubs): 2nd place

 

Manly Sea Eagles v Penrith Panthers

Sunday 8th September, Brookvale Oval 14:00

Manly finally notched a victory over a top four side last week with a win against bitter rivals Melbourne Storm. The win secured a top four spot, but came too late to mount a challenge for the top two so they will have an away fixture against Souths or the Roosters next weekend. Seeing as they already knew that they would have to move any home finals matches away from Brookvale Oval, it actually changes very little for the Sea Eagles. A win over Penrith at Brookvale on Sunday will see them finish above Melbourne in third place.

Geoff Toovey has not named Brett Stewart, Jamie Buhrer or Anthony Watmough in the squad, with a strong likelihood that the Sea Eagles will have to back up just 5 days later in the opening game of the finals series. Although Penrith can catch eigth placed North Queensland on 26 points, the Panthers need to win by 50 points and hope that the Cowboys lose by 50 to have any hope of a miracle. Before they take to the field the Panthers will already have seen two other rivals – the Warriors and Gold Coast – play their matches earlier in the weekend, so their fate may already have been sealed.

 

Best case scenario: Manly 3rd place, Penrith 8th Place
Worst case scenario: Manly 4th place, Penrith 13th Place

 

Cronulla Sharks

The Sharks travel to Canberra for what is effectively a dead rubber against the Raiders. The Sharks will finish fifth or sixth and will play a home final next week regardless, while the Raiders need a swing of some 200 points relative to the Cowboys to overtake the Queenslanders. Expect both sides to rest a few weary legs and give run outs to those needing minutes.

Best case scenario: 5th place
Worst case scenario: 6th place

 

Canterbury Bulldogs

As with Cronulla, the Bulldogs are secure with either fifth or sixth place and face a side – in this case the Broncos – who are out of finals contention. The big interest leading into this game has been the inclusion of Ben Barba to face the team he is due to transfer to when the season ends. Putting aside the off field controversies and politics surrounding Barba, we may get to see if he is in any kind of condition after his ankle injury to give the Bulldogs that bit of spark that propelled them to the Grand Final in 2012 but has been noticeabley absent this time around.

Best case scenario: 5th place
Worst case scenario: 6th place

 

Wests Tigers

If the Tigers had played with the level of intensity and quality that they came up with in the opening stages against Souths last week then 2013 would not have been the dissapointment it has turned out to be. It was all too little too late of course – and with so much still on the line for Bunnies they ran down the Tigers in any case. This week the Tigers travel up to Townsville to face the team on the hottest streak in the NRL. With the Cowboys needing a win to virtually guarantee eighth spot, it could be a similar tale for the Tigers in Benji Marshall’s final NRL game.

Best case scenario: 14th place
Worst case scenario: 15th place

 

St George Illawarra Dragons (v New Zealand Warriors)

Saturday 7th September, WIN Stadium Wollongong 15:00

The Dragons are now on a club record losing streak, and frustration has turned to anger in the wake of Monday night’s defeat to bottom side Parramatta. The Dragons were reduced to posting an update on their website on Tuesday acknowledging the ‘feedback’ they had received from fans regarding their 2013 season and promising a review of the clubs operations at all levels.

Saturday afternoon’s match at WIN Stadium represents the final game for the retiring Nathan Fien, who fittingly ends his career with a match against his former club the Warriors. The Dragons have not lost at home to the Warriors since becoming a joint venture club. The Warriors can still make the finals but are dependent on other results going their way. As this match takes place before those involving their rivals for the remaining spots in the top eight, expect the Warriors to come out all guns blazing to make sure they take care of what they can control. Unless there are some radical score lines involving the bottom sides this week, the Dragons are set to finish in 15th place.

Best case scenario: 14th place (unlikely due to relative for/against)
Worst case scenario: 16th place (unlikely due to relative for/against)

 

Parramatta Eels

The Eels shook off the prospect of one unwanted statistic last week – a share of the record low number of wins in a season. This week they have one final chance to avoid another – a full season without a victory away from home. Up against an in form Newcastle Knights side who will guarantee finals football with a victory, the Eels may have to take this one on the chin.

Best case scenario: 15th place (unlikely due to relative for/against)
Worst case scenario: 16th place (wooden spoon)

 

TICKET LINKS

 

Friday 6th September, ANZ Stadium Homebush 19:35

South Sydney Rabbitohs v Sydney Roosters

Tickets

 

Saturday 7th September, WIN Stadium Wollongong 15:00

St George Illawarra Dragons v New Zealand Warriors

Tickets

 

Sunday 8th September, Brookvale Oval

Manly Sea Eagles v Penrith Panthers

Tickets

Sydney NRL sides have plenty to play for in final rounds

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With the penultimate round of the NRL season bringing six matches to Sydney this coming weekend, we assess each Sydney based club’s position on the ladder and what is at stake for them this week. You can find links to tickets for all six matches at the bottom of this post, and remember to check here later in the week for full previews of all matches across the weekend.

 

Sydney Roosters

Officially the Roosters cannot secure the Minor Premiership this weekend, but a win over the Gold Coast Titans on Sunday will secure a top two finish – and a South Sydney loss against Wests Tigers will surely be enough for the tri-colours to finish top. Should this outcome eventuate, the Rabbitohs would have to beat the Roosters by 50-60 points in the final round next week to snatch the crown. Any other combination of results leaves next Friday night at ANZ Stadium as a straight shootout between the Roosters and Souths for the Minor Premiership.

Best Case Scenario: Minor Premiers
Worst Case Scenario: 3rd place

 

South Sydney Rabbitohs

After leading the competition for so long in 2013 the post Origin period looked like robbing Souths of a first Minor Premiership for over 20 years. The return of big players such as Greg Inglis and John Sutton have put them back on track, and victories in their final two games will see the bunnies finish top. Victory over Wests Tigers on Friday night secures a top two finish and a home final in week one (likely to be against the Storm).

Best case scenario: Minor Premiers
Worst case scenario: 3rd place

 

Manly Sea Eagles

If Manly come up short in their quest for glory it is quite straight forward to pinpoint where they lost ground in 2013. They have yet to beat any of their fellow title contenders, although they do have a chance to rectify that particular statistic on Saturday night against the Storm. Victory secures a top four finish and a second bite at the cherry should they lose in week one of the finals series. A defeat leaves them open to attack from below by the Sharks.

Best case scenario: 3rd place
Worst case scenario: 5th place

 

Cronulla Sharks

Perhaps the greatest threat to Cronulla’s hopes of glory in 2013 remains what has been lurking in the background since the start of the season – the ASADA investigation. With the heavy penalties dished out by the AFL to Essendon this week, Sharks fans can be forgiven for feeling nervous. On the pitch things are looking stronger than ever. Monday night’s dominant performance against the Roosters showed again that the Sharks have one of the strongest playing rosters in the NRL – when everyone is fit. One win from their two remaining games confirms fifth spot on the ladder, but a place in the top four is dependent on two defeats for Manly.

Best case scenario: 4th place
Worst case scenario: 6th place

 

Canterbury Bulldogs

The 2013 season has never quite hit the heights of last year’s Minor Premiership winning campaign for the Bulldogs, although a couple of solid winning streaks have hinted that their best is not too far away. Defeat last weekend against South Sydney ended any chance of a top four finish for the Bulldogs, but one win from their final two games will secure a home final in week one.

Best case scenario: 5th place
Worst case scenario: 12th place

 

Penrith Panthers

Without doubt the surprise package of 2013, the Panthers would not have been on many peoples list of finals contenders at the start of the season. They currently sit in 10th spot, bang in the middle of a group of teams covered by just two points. With so many different outcomes possible the Panthers just need to concentrate on what they can control – two wins from two will surely see them sneak into the top eight. However it is a big ask to get those wins in away games against the Bulldogs and Manly.

Best case scenario: 6th place
Worst case scenario: 13th place

 

Wests Tigers

Victory over the Dragons last weekend ended any lingering danger of the wooden spoon heading to Concord. With the pressure now off the Tigers will look to put in a couple of good performances and send off departing stars such as Benji Marshall in style.

Best case scenario: 14th place
Worst case scenario: 15th place

 

St George Illawarra Dragons

Just five weeks ago the Dragons were celebrating an upset win over Souths that suggested a late run to the finals could be on the cards. That was as good as things got and five straight defeats have left the Red V in second last on the ladder. Their only saving grace has been the equally woeful form of Parramatta saving them from the wooden spoon. The bottom two sides face off at Parramatta Stadium on Monday night – a win for the Dragons will condemn the Eels to last place.

Best case scenario: 14th place
Worst case scenario: 16th place (unlikely due to relative for/against)

 

Parramatta Eels

With incoming coach Ricky Stuart lifting spirits among players and fans alike, the Eels came into 2013 as many people’s dark horses for finals football. The reality could not have been any more different, with record losing streaks and regular thrashings leaving the Eels almost certain to collect a second successive wooden spoon. Even the coaching of Stuart has begun to be called into question, although he has bought himself time with his radical overhaul of the playing roster already in motion. There can be no excuse in 2014.

Best case scenario: 15th place (unlikely due to relative for/against)
Worst case scenario: 16th place (wooden spoon)

 

TICKET LINKS

Friday 30th August, Allianz Stadium Moore Park 19:35

Wests Tigers v South Sydney Rabbitohs

Tickets

 

Saturday 31st August, ANZ Stadium Homebush 17:30

Canterbury Bulldogs v Penrith Panthers

Tickets

 

Saturday 31st August, Brookvale Oval 19:30

Manly Sea Eagles v Melbourne Storm

Tickets

 

Sunday 1st September, Remondis Stadium Cronulla 14:00

Cronulla Sharks v North Queensland Cowboys

Tickets

 

Sunday 1st September, Allianz Stadium Moore Park 15:00

Sydney Roosters v Gold Coast Titans

Tickets

 

Monday 2nd September, Parramatta Stadium 19:00

Parramatta Eels v St George Illawarra Dragons

Tickets

Sydney football fans in for bumper weekend of games

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With seasons end now only a few weeks away Sydney football fans have the pick of six key matches across the codes this weekend affecting teams at the top and bottom of the ladders. Round 22 in the NRL gets underway on Friday night and sees Parramatta Eels hosting their final home game of the 2013 season. It’s a battle of the bottom two as they face fellow strugglers Wests Tigers at Parramatta Stadium. The Eels find themselves on the verge of successive wooden spoons, and are currently on course to match the NRL record for the worst season having only notched three wins.

The big news for Eels fans going into this one is that Jarryd Hayne has been named to play. We speculated last week that Ricky Stuart may be tempted to bring his star man back into the side to reverse their awful run of losses – despite publicly stating just over a week ago that Hayne’s season could actually be over.

The Tigers look certain to be missing many of their big names as they also look to snap a losing streak. There are strong rumours that Benji Marshall will be dropped for the second time this season, while Chris Lawrence and Aaron Woods will this week undergo season ending surgeries. They join the likes of Tim Moltzen and Joel Reddy on the list of players not returning in 2013. Robbie Farah will also have to wait to become the Tigers’ most capped player after he dislocated a thumb against the Titans. Joel Luani makes his debut as the replacement hooker, while young playmaker Luke Brooks could also debut after the Tigers sought a second tier salary cap exemption – and it is he who may well come in for Marshall.

On a better note for the Tigers there are some long term absentees who are making returns this weekend. Marika Koroibete returns to the first grade side, while Lote Tuqiri and Matt Bell will return to action in the NSW Cup this Saturday at Leichardt Oval against top of the table Cronulla Sharks. Incredibly the Tigers are fielding a NSW Cup side with nearly 500 NRL appearances between them. Tickets for that match are $10.00 on the door and kick off is at 1.10pm.

 

There were vastly contrasting fortunes last week for the Sydney Roosters and Canberra Raiders ahead of their clash this Saturday at Allianz Stadium. While the Roosters made it a perfect set of six wins in a row by putting 40 points on the Panthers, the Raiders lost by 60 at home against the Storm. The fine form of the Roosters – and a few wobbles from those around them – sees them now rated as favourites for the Premiership.

Anthony Minichiello hyperextended his knee in the Panthers game and will miss at least two weeks, forcing a number of Roosters players to move around the park. The headline switch is Roger Tuivasa-Sheck going to fullback. Tuivasa-Sheck has already gained a reputation as one of the most exciting attackers in the NRL and this move may give him the opportunity to use his ability to even greater effect. Be sure to arrive early for this one as the first 5000 fans through the gates receive a free 1911 Premiership Pennant.

 

With the race for finals football heating up there is a vital match at Remondis Stadium on Saturday night as sixth placed Cronulla Sharks face the Newcastle Knights. The Sharks have responded incredibly well in the last few weeks in the face of mounting pressure from the ASADA investigation. They currently have a four point lead over ninth placed Gold Coast Titans, so a win at Remondis Stadium on Saturday will leave them looking very strong for a finals berth.

Captain Paul Gallen returned against the Warriors last weekend for his first match since suffering a foot injury in State of Origin game two. Coach Shane Flanagan has been able to name the same seventeen man squad.

 

Also unchanged are the Manly Sea Eagles, who are taking their home game against the Warriors this Sunday up to Gosford. For those who fancy taking the scenic route to the Central Coast there is a great day trip on offer that includes a return ferry trip to Gosford and reserved seating tickets.

Geoff Toovey will hope to see his team carry on in the manner that destroyed the Eels last week, but the Warriors will surely pose a stiffer challenge. The Sea Eagles will be looking to put on a good show and take the attention away from some unwanted attention they have received this week regarding the ASADA investigation.

 

There was more injury woe for Penrith Panthers this week with Sika Manu and Adam Docker the latest casualties ahead of Sunday’s match with North Queensland Cowboys. It’s going to be a very young side that Ivan Cleary now relies upon to drag his team to the finals. Both sides have slipped down the ladder in recent weeks, but the Cowboys responded to the announcement of Neil Henry’s departure in stunning fashion with a big win over Souths. Finals hopes are now looking very precarious for both teams – the loser here will be almost certain to miss out.

 

It’s a second consecutive Monday night match for Canterbury Bulldogs this week as they host the Gold Coast Titans at ANZ Stadium. The Bulldogs have named the same seventeen who ran riot in the second half against the Dragons last week, while the Titans will be looking to build upon their streak breaking win over the Tigers. There is a great “Bring a Mate” ticket offer worth taking up for this one, pre-purchase two tickets for just $20.00.

 

This week’s AFL action in Sydney sees a repeat of last year’s preliminary final between Sydney Swans and Collingwood at ANZ Stadium on Saturday night. After 6 wins in a row this marks the first of a tough run of fixtures leading into the finals for the Swans, culminating in a final round showdown with ladder leaders Hawthorn. The Magpies bounced back into form with last week’s thumping win over Essendon.

Recent matches between these two sides have gone the way of the Swans.  They were particularly impressive in the reverse fixture earlier in the year at the MCG, although this was somewhat overlooked thanks to the dual racism incidents surrounding that game. Tickets for this one are selling fast – only Silver, Gold and Platinum seats are still available.

 

Enjoy the action wherever you are this weekend.

 

NRL

Friday 9th August, Parramatta Stadium 19:35

Parramatta Eels v Wests Tigers

Tickets

The Eels host their final home game of the 2013 NRL season in a battle of the bottom two. Jarryd Hayne has been named to play despite coach Ricky Stuart publicly stating just over a week ago that his season could actually be over. The Tigers are missing many of their big names, including Chris Lawrence, Aaron Woods and Robbie Farah.

Our tip – There will be no better chance for Parramatta to score one more win in this most forgettable of seasons.

 

Saturday 10th August, Allianz Stadium 17:30

Sydney Roosters v Canberra Raiders

Tickets

Combine the Roosters’ winning margin and the Raiders’ losing margin from last week and there was a difference of nearly 100 points. The Roosters are now favourites for the Premiership, but have lost skipper Anthony Minichiello for a few weeks thanks to a hyperextended knee. A number of Roosters players move around the park to cover his loss, with Roger Tuivasa-Sheck going to fullback. Be sure to arrive early for this one as the first 5000 fans through the gates receive a free 1911 Premiership Pennant.

Our tip – Seven up for the Roosters.

 

Saturday 10th August, Remondis Stadium 19:30

Cronulla Sharks v Newcastle Knights

Tickets

The Sharks have responded incredibly well in the last few weeks in the face of mounting external pressure and currently have a four point lead over ninth placed Gold Coast Titans. A win over the Knights at Remondis will leave them looking very strong for a finals berth. Paul Gallen plays his first home match for nearly two months as Shane Flanagan has named the same 17 man squad that defeated the Warriors.

Our tip – More good times for the Sharks in the rollercoaster of a season that is 2013.

 

Sunday 11th August, Bluetongue Stadium (Gosford) 14:00

Manly Sea Eagles v New Zealand Warriors

Tickets

The Sea Eagles are taking their home game against the Warriors this Sunday up to Gosford. For those who fancy taking the scenic route there is a great day trip on offer that includes a return Ferry trip to Gosford. Geoff Toovey has named the same seventeen who destroyed the Eels last week, but the Warriors will surely pose a stiffer challenge.

Our tip – Manly to firm their grip on a top four spot.

 

Sunday 11th August, Centrebet Stadium 18:30

Penrith Panthers v North Queensland Cowboys

Tickets

The Panthers added Sika Manu and Adam Docker the injury list this week, and are now pinning their finals hopes on a very young team.  Both sides have slipped down the ladder in recent weeks, but the Cowboys responded to the announcement of Neil Henry’s departure in stunning fashion with a big win over Souths. The loser here will be almost certain to miss out on finals football.

Our tip – The slip in form for the Panthers is a concern coming up against the rejuvenated Cowboys.

 

Monday 12th August, ANZ Stadium 19:00

Canterbury Bulldogs v Gold Coast Titans

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The Bulldogs have named the same seventeen who ran riot in the second half against the dragons last week, while the Titans will be looking to build upon their streak breaking win over the Tigers. There is a great “Bring a Mate” ticket offer worth taking up for this one, pre-purchase two tickets for just $20.00.

Our tip – The timing of the Bulldogs’ current form is almost perfect, expect the momentum to continue all the way to September.

 

Other Sydney teams – South Sydney Rabbitohs head south to Melbourne, while St George Illawarra Dragons face the Broncos in Brisbane. The timing of Souths visit to the Storm could not be worse with their injuries to key players coinciding with two losses in three games. The Dragons season is now clearly over after last week’s loss to the Bulldogs, and a Broncos side with much more to play for should prove too strong.

 

AFL

Saturday 10th August, ANZ Stadium 19:40

Sydney Swans v Collingwood

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A repeat of last year’s preliminary final as the Swans look to build upon their current run of six wins.  The Magpies bounced back into form with last week’s thumping win over Essendon, although recent matches between these two sides have gone the way of the Swans.  Tickets for this one are selling fast – only Silver, Gold and Platinum seats are still available.

Our tip – The Swans to continue the push for what had looked like an unlikely spot in the top two.

 

As confidently predicted here last week, the GWS Giants finally shook of the prospect of a winless season. It will be tough to back that up this week however, as they face the long trip to face Freemantle.

 

Horse Racing

Saturday 10th August, Royal Randwick from 12:00

McGrath Missile Stakes

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Rugby League Grand Final anniversaries marked while Giants look to make their point

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There are three Sydney derbies in the NRL this weekend, and two of them mark anniversaries of classic Grand Final matches. Penrith Panthers will be looking to replicate their 2003 decider victory over the Sydney Roosters when the two sides meet at Centrebet Stadium on Friday night. The Roosters will be without Sonny Bill Williams as he serves the first of a two game suspension after taking the early guilty plea for a grade 3 careless high tackle on Willie Mason last weekend. Mitchell Aubusson moves into the starting side from the bench to replace him.

Despite the absence of Williams it still looks like a tough night is in store for the Panthers, up against the best defence in the NRL. Disappointing defeats in recent games have left the Panthers needing to get wins on the board to remain in contention for a finals place. As always they will look to the kicking game of Luke Walsh to create the best try scoring opportunities.

Michael Jennings returns to Centrebet Stadium for the first time since moving across to the east, and he is expecting a hot reception. There will be Panthers fans who have noticed his excellent form since joining the Roosters, and left wondering where that form was during his last couple of seasons for their club.

There is a ticket offer worth taking advantage of for those looking to book early. Book online via Ticketek before midnight on Thursday and you can get $18.00 tickets for adults, $6.00 for children and $50.00 for a family of four. Use the promotional code 2003GFSpecial at checkout to receive the discounted rates.  Get there early on Friday as the first 5,000 through the gates receive a 2003 Grand Final commemorative pennant.

 

Its 80’s night at Parramatta Stadium on Saturday as the Eels mark 30 years since beating Manly in the 1983 Grand Final. There are a number of activities planned for the night, including 1000 80’s style sweatbands for the first fans thorough the door, and a lap of honour by legends from both of the 1983 sides. All special edition match worn Eels jerseys from Saturdays match will be put up for auction immediately after the game, and fans also have a chance to run around on the pitch shortly after full time. As always with Eels home games make sure you pre purchase tickets to avoid a minimum $5.00 surcharge on all tickets sold on the day.

Jarryd Hayne is now rated as unlikely to play again for the Eels in 2013. Coach Ricky Stuart has hinted that his hamstring injury will be carefully protected with the World Cup at seasons end in mind. With little to play for this season it seems like a sensible choice by Stuart, although if their current losing run continues he may be tempted to reintroduce his star man.

On paper – and based on his reported $500,000 salary – Chris Sandow should be a star man for the Eels, but yet again he will turn out for Wentworthville in the NSW Cup. This is despite an injury this week that has ruled out Luke Kelly. Ben Roberts has been named in Kelly’s place, despite being told earlier in the year that he is not required next season.

Mitchell Allgood will play from the bench for the Eels and will come face to face with Steve Matai just over a month after landing a few punches on the Manly centre. Were it not for the NRL’s new strict stance on punches and fighting, you would expect Matai to be seeking revenge at the first opportunity. However, at this stage of the season there is too much at stake to risk suspensions, so expect Matai to try and land his blows on the scoreboard instead.

The Sea Eagles are expecting to go with an unchanged starting side, provided everyone pulls up well after Monday night’s win over the Tigers. Justin Horo is in great form for Manly, and is clearly fired up by his release from Parramatta at the end of 2012. A repeat of his brace of tries against the Tigers could well be on the cards.

 

Monday Night Football returns to Kogarah this week as the St George Illawarra Dragons face off against the Canterbury Bulldogs. The Dragons are on a poor run of form at WIN Jubilee Stadium – a loss on Monday will be their fourth in a row at the venue and it will be only the second time in their history that this has occurred.

Full back Josh Dugan has been cleared to play for the Dragons after suffering a mild concussion against the Raiders. His opposite number Ben Barba has been ruled out for five weeks with a high ankle sprain sustained while scoring a try against the Eels last weekend. He is expected to return in time for the Bulldogs’ likely finals campaign, and most of their remaining games look winnable in any case.

Des Hasler has shuffled his players around the field to compensate for the loss of Barba, with Sam Perrett moving to full back and Krisnan Inu to the wing. Josh Morris plays his 150th career game, and the Bulldogs centre comes up against his former club and also his brother Brett. 2013 has not been a convincing season by any means for the Bulldogs, yet they have remained in contention for a spot in the top four and will go into this encounter full of confidence after a dominant display against Parramatta last weekend.

 

Round 19 surely represents the best chance that GWS Giants will have to ensure that they do not end up winless in the 2013 AFL season. On Saturday afternoon they come up against the Melbourne Demons, the team just one step above them on the ladder. Jeremy Cameron a kicked club record seven goals last weekend against Collingwood at the MCG, in a game that the Giants will take a lot of encouragement out of. The Demons on the other hand were flogged by 122 points by North Melbourne. Midfielder Rhys Palmer has been ruled out of the Giants’ remaining games of the season with a foot injury that will require surgery. A number of players emerged from the Collingwood match with knocks and will require tests later in the week.

This fixture is the inaugural Many Cultures match celebrating cultural diversity in Western Sydney. As part of the celebrations the Gaelic Athletic Association have organised the curtain raiser – a match between New South Wales and Victoria kicking off at 11:30. The Giants have a special ‘two for the price of one ticket’ offer via this link http://www.ticketmaster.com.au/irishgiants.  Use the code STANDTALL to activate.

 

Wherever you go this weekend enjoy the action, and if you are going to either of the Grand Final anniversary matches make sure you get there early to pick up the giveaways.

 

NRL

Friday 2nd August, Centrebet Stadium 19:35

Penrith Panthers v Sydney Roosters

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SBW misses out for the Roosters through suspension, so Mitchell Aubusson moves into the starting side from the bench. The Panthers will have to find a way through the best defence in the NRL, and will also be hoping that old boy Michael Jennings is kept quiet. Book online at Ticketek before midnight on Thursday and get tickets for $18.00 for adults, $6.00 for children and $50.00 for a family of four. Use the code 2003GFSpecial at checkout, and make sure to be one of the first 5,000 through the gates to receive a 2003 Grand final commemorative pennant.

Our tip – Roosters defence to hold out the Panthers, even without SBW.

 

Saturday 3rd August, Parramatta Stadium 17:30

Parramatta Eels v Manly Sea Eagles

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It’s an 80’s themed night at Parramatta Stadium to mark 30 years since the Eels beat Manly in the 1983 Grand Final. The first 1000 fans through the gates will get 80’s style sweatbands, and look out for the lap of honour of legends from both of the 1983 sides. Pre purchase tickets to avoid a minimum $5.00 surcharge on tickets sold on the day.

Our tip – Eagles to condemn Eels to a 10th straight loss.

 

Monday 4th August, WIN Jubilee Oval Kogarah 19:00

St George Illawarra Dragons v Canterbury Bulldogs

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Josh Dugan has been cleared to play for the Dragons, while Ben Barba will miss about a month of football for the Bulldogs with a high ankle sprain. Des Hasler has shuffled his players around to compensate, with Sam Perrett moving to full back and Krisnan Inu to the wing. Josh Morris plays his 150th career game, against his former club and brother Brett.

Our tip – The Dragons season effectively ended with last week’s loss to Canberra, expect the Bulldogs to hammer home the point.

 

Other Sydney Teams – Cronulla Sharks have a tough trip across the ditch to face the Warriors, while South Sydney and Wests Tigers head up to Queensland to play the Cowboys and Titans respectively. Of the three, only the Rabbitohs look likely to come home with the points.

 

AFL

Saturday 3rd August, Skoda Stadium 13:45

GWS Giants V Melbourne

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The Giants will be hopeful of registering a first win in the 2013 season against the team one step above them on the ladder. Rhys Palmer has been ruled out for the remainder of the season with a foot injury that will require surgery, while a number of players emerged from last week’s loss to Collingwood at the MCG with knocks that will require tests later in the week. This fixture is the inaugural Many Cultures match celebrating cultural diversity in Western Sydney. As part of the celebrations the Gaelic Athletic Association have organised the curtain raiser this week, a match between New South Wales and Victoria kicking off at 11:30. The Giants have a special ‘two for the price of one’ ticket offer via this link http://www.ticketmaster.com.au/irishgiants.  Use the code STANDTALL to activate.

 

Sydney Swans are away to the Western Bulldogs this weekend, and are strong favourites to extend their current winning streak.

 

Horse Racing

Saturday 3rd August, Rosehill Gardens Racecourse from 11:00

Winter Challenge Race Day

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