Match Discussion: Round 1 vs Newcastle @ Campbelltown Sports Stadium, Leumeah / Dharawal

[League Unlimited News]

NRL 2025 - Round 1
Wests Tigers v Newcastle Knights
Campbelltown Sports Stadium, Leumeah / Dharawal (TICKETS)

Friday 7 March 2025
Kickoff 6:00pm AEDT
Live on Fox, Kayo

1. Heath Mason 2. Sunia Turuva 3. Adam Doueihi 4. Solomona Faataape 5. Jeral Skelton 6. Lachlan Galvin 7. Jarome Luai 8. Terrell May 9. Tallyn Da Silva 10. Fonua Pole 11. Samuela Fainu 12. Alex Seyfarth 13. Alex Twal
14. Tristan Hope 15. Royce Hunt 16. Jack Bird 17. Sione Fainu
18. Latu Fainu 19. Charlie Staines 20. Kit Laulilii 21. Tony Sukkar 22. Reuben Porter

1. Kalyn Ponga 2. James Schiller 3. Dane Gagai 4. Bradman Best 5. Greg Marzhew 6. Fletcher Sharpe 7. Jack Cogger 8. Jacob Saifiti 9. Phoenix Crossland 10. Leo Thompson 11. Dylan Lucas 12. Kai Pearce-Paul 13. Tyson Frizell
14. Jayden Brailey 15. Jack Hetherington 16. Brodie Jones 17. Mathew Croker
18. Thomas Cant 19. Will Pryce 20. Logan Aoake 21. Jackson Hastings 22. Adam Elliott

Referee: Liam Kennedy​ Sideline Officials: Ziggy Przeklasa-Adamski, Jon Stone​ Video Referee: Kasey Badger​

HEAD TO HEAD - 2000 - 2024​

	TOTAL	WST	NEW	DRAWN
ALL MATCHES	38	17	21	0
C'TOWN	10	6	4	0

LAST FIVE MEETINGS​

YEAR	ROUND	RESULT	VENUE	CROWD
2022	Round 21	NEW 14-10	Campbelltown	9621
2023	Round 2	NEW 14-12	Leichhardt	13214
2023	Round 20	NEW 34-18	McD. Jones	18470
2024	Round 10	NEW 20-14	Scully	10107
2024	Round 23	NEW 34-18	McD. Jones	22183

BIGGEST WINS​

YEAR	ROUND	RESULT	VENUE	CROWD
2001	Round 10	NEW 56-6	Marathon	15105
2019	Round 23	WST 46-4	Campbelltown	11107

NEXT FOUR MATCHES​

	Round 2	Round 3	Round 4	Round 5
WESTS TIGERS	PAR (A)	DOL (A)	WAR (H)	BRI (A)
NEWCASTLE	DOL (H)	GLD (A)	BYE	CBY (A)

 

[Tigerm]

It's been a while (from memory) since we've had a good showing here.
Time to change this.
Us by 10.

 

[Pezz70]

Smashed the Raiders at Leumeah last year and beat South late in the piece, only to get annihilated by Parra in the last round, to be fair we haven’t performed consistently well in what, 12-13 seasons, need to turn it around. We have Newcastle, Parra, Dolphins, Warriors first 4 rounds and we need to win all of those if we are to have any hope of making the 8 this year. Really crucial to get off to a good start, or it’ll be another bloody long season. I think if we can win more than half the games it will be a fantastic season, 10+ games will be a fair season, to break the three in a row hoodoo will be amazing

 

[Tiger Ted]

Smashed the Raiders at Leumeah last year and beat South late in the piece, only to get annihilated by Parra in the last round, to be fair we haven’t performed consistently well in what, 12-13 seasons, need to turn it around. We have Newcastle, Parra, Dolphins, Warriors first 4 rounds and we need to win all of those if we are to have any hope of making the 8 this year. Really crucial to get off to a good start, or it’ll be another bloody long season. I think if we can win more than half the games it will be a fantastic season, 10+ games will be a fair season, to break the three in a row hoodoo will be amazing

We’ve got buckleys of winning all 4.U can’t under estimate any of those teams & anywhere near full strength they will be tough contests especially dolphins & warriors.Im expecting us to win 2 & possibly 3.Its a long season & we certainly won’t need to win all 4 to make the 8.

 

[TheDefinitionOfMadness]

to break the three in a row hoodoo will be amazing

I can see us doing this at the back end of the year Pezz. Cowboys, Raiders, and Titans in the last 3 rounds. I'm positive we'll break the hoodoo this year

 

[Tigerm]

FRIDAY MARCH 7

Wests Tigers vs. Newcastle Knights at Campbelltown Sports Stadium, 6.00pm AEDT



Predicted Tigers team: 1. Jahream Bula 2. Sunia Turuva 3. Solomona Faataape 4. Adam Doueihi 5. Jeral Skelton 6. Lachlan Galvin 7. Jarome Luai 8. Terrell May 9. Tallyn Da Silva 10. Terrell May 11. Jack Bird 12. Samuela Fainu 13. Fonua Pole 14. Latu Fainu 15. Alex Seyfarth 16. Sione Fainu 17. Alex Twal

Team Tips: With Justin Olam weighing up medical retirement, Solomona Faataape is likely to slot into the centres after impressing in the trials. It was thought that star fullback Jahream Bula would return from a shoulder injury in time to feature in a trial game, but he wasn’t able to following a training incident. Now he’s in doubt for Round 1 according to the SMH. “We’ll see about round one,” Bula said. “Everything went well with the surgery. I’ve been doing my rehab the past six months. I’m getting closer. I started full contact last week … I copped a knock last week; Samuela (Fainu) came flying in with his shoulders. He’s too strong.” Given Bula is imperative to the Tigers’ chances this season, they won’t rush him into the line up until he’s 100%. If Bula can’t go, Heath Mason is in line to wear the No. 1 jersey. Or, Benji Marshall could give Sunia Turuva an opportunity at the back. While one key spine member is in doubt, halfback Jarome Luai is a confirmed starter. Tallyn Da Silva is expected to start the season at hooker with Api Koroisau suspended for Round 1.

Sounds about right. Although they Terrell playing both FR positions hahaha

Undermanned Roosters’ back row puzzle; Eels rookie in frame for Rd 1 debut — NRL Team Tips

Undermanned Roosters’ back row puzzle; Eels rookie in frame for Rd 1 debut — NRL Team Tips

www.foxsports.com.au

 

[macnaz]

Its pretty sad we cant even start a season without having injury concerns in just round 1

 

[Tiger05]

8. Terrell May 10. Terrell May

That is a pretty awesome set of props to get us started. They play big minutes too.

Calling Faataape to start in the centres is a massive call as well. I don't think Faataape makes the first team but he has been good for us. That backline is pretty close to what I think they'll pick. We have injuries (Luke Laulilii, Olam and Naden) and assuming Turuva comes in only one of Staines, To’a and Faataape make the team.

I reckon the pack will be:-

8. Terrell May 9. Tallyn Da Silva 10. Fonua Pole 11. Alex Seyfarth 12. Samuela Fainu 13. Alex Twal 14. Latu Fainu 15. Jack Bird 16. Sione Fainu 17.Royce Hunt

I'd pick hope over TDS but I can't see it happening.

 

[Nutz]

8. Terrell May 10. Terrell May

That is a pretty awesome set of props to get us started. They play big minutes too.

Calling Faataape to start in the centres is a massive call as well. I don't think Faataape makes the first team but he has been good for us. That backline is pretty close to what I think they'll pick. We have injuries (Luke Laulilii, Olam and Naden) and assuming Turuva comes in only one of Staines, To’a and Faataape make the team.

I reckon the pack will be:-

8. Terrell May 9. Tallyn Da Silva 10. Fonua Pole 11. Alex Seyfarth 12. Samuela Fainu 13. Alex Twal 14. Latu Fainu 15. Jack Bird 16. Sione Fainu 17.Royce Hunt

I'd pick hope over TDS but I can't see it happening.

My understanding of the Train and Trial concept is that Hope will continue to train with the NRL squad and can play from rd 11 so he'll be a handy replacement for Api if on rep duties or if injuries occur.

 

[Nutz]

8. Terrell May 10. Terrell May

That is a pretty awesome set of props to get us started. They play big minutes too.

Calling Faataape to start in the centres is a massive call as well. I don't think Faataape makes the first team but he has been good for us. That backline is pretty close to what I think they'll pick. We have injuries (Luke Laulilii, Olam and Naden) and assuming Turuva comes in only one of Staines, To’a and Faataape make the team.

I reckon the pack will be:-

8. Terrell May 9. Tallyn Da Silva 10. Fonua Pole 11. Alex Seyfarth 12. Samuela Fainu 13. Alex Twal 14. Latu Fainu 15. Jack Bird 16. Sione Fainu 17.Royce Hunt

I'd pick hope over TDS but I can't see it happening.

The May Twins.

 

[Tiger Ted]

FRIDAY MARCH 7

Wests Tigers vs. Newcastle Knights at Campbelltown Sports Stadium, 6.00pm AEDT



Predicted Tigers team: 1. Jahream Bula 2. Sunia Turuva 3. Solomona Faataape 4. Adam Doueihi 5. Jeral Skelton 6. Lachlan Galvin 7. Jarome Luai 8. Terrell May 9. Tallyn Da Silva 10. Terrell May 11. Jack Bird 12. Samuela Fainu 13. Fonua Pole 14. Latu Fainu 15. Alex Seyfarth 16. Sione Fainu 17. Alex Twal

Team Tips: With Justin Olam weighing up medical retirement, Solomona Faataape is likely to slot into the centres after impressing in the trials. It was thought that star fullback Jahream Bula would return from a shoulder injury in time to feature in a trial game, but he wasn’t able to following a training incident. Now he’s in doubt for Round 1 according to the SMH. “We’ll see about round one,” Bula said. “Everything went well with the surgery. I’ve been doing my rehab the past six months. I’m getting closer. I started full contact last week … I copped a knock last week; Samuela (Fainu) came flying in with his shoulders. He’s too strong.” Given Bula is imperative to the Tigers’ chances this season, they won’t rush him into the line up until he’s 100%. If Bula can’t go, Heath Mason is in line to wear the No. 1 jersey. Or, Benji Marshall could give Sunia Turuva an opportunity at the back. While one key spine member is in doubt, halfback Jarome Luai is a confirmed starter. Tallyn Da Silva is expected to start the season at hooker with Api Koroisau suspended for Round 1.

Sounds about right. Although they Terrell playing both FR positions hahaha

Undermanned Roosters’ back row puzzle; Eels rookie in frame for Rd 1 debut — NRL Team Tips

Undermanned Roosters’ back row puzzle; Eels rookie in frame for Rd 1 debut — NRL Team Tips

www.foxsports.com.au

I’d love a clone of Terrell May as his front row partner.I wonder if the hideous rorters have someone who is disgruntled who would feel right at home at Concord.

Weve got a serious problem in the centres.Fataape & AD are reserve graders.

 

[Tiger Ted]

8. Terrell May 10. Terrell May

That is a pretty awesome set of props to get us started. They play big minutes too.

Calling Faataape to start in the centres is a massive call as well. I don't think Faataape makes the first team but he has been good for us. That backline is pretty close to what I think they'll pick. We have injuries (Luke Laulilii, Olam and Naden) and assuming Turuva comes in only one of Staines, To’a and Faataape make the team.

I reckon the pack will be:-

8. Terrell May 9. Tallyn Da Silva 10. Fonua Pole 11. Alex Seyfarth 12. Samuela Fainu 13. Alex Twal 14. Latu Fainu 15. Jack Bird 16. Sione Fainu 17.Royce Hunt

I'd pick hope over TDS but I can't see it happening.

Does anyone know what LL’s injury is ?

 

[Nutz]

Does anyone know what LL’s injury is ?

He keeps spewing up the letter i

 

[Tigerm]

I’d love a clone of Terrell May as his front row partner.I wonder if the hideous rorters have someone who is disgruntled who would feel right at home at Concord.

Weve got a serious problem in the centres.Fataape & AD are reserve graders.

I think we have good go forward for the most part now, with great halves & wingers.
Faataape and Doueihi can certainly find the line. And Makasini might be able to brought in early if Olam is retired.

 

[Tiger05]

I think we have good go forward for the most part now, with great halves & wingers.
Faataape and Doueihi can certainly find the line. And Makasini might be able to brought in early if Olam is retired.

We have heaps of options. Staines, To'a, AD, Faataape, Turuva, Skelton. LL, Naden and even Makasini could come into the team at some point.

I don't see glaring weaknesses. Doueihi can have crap defense at times. Will Samuela have another great year ? Will Seyfarth be able to handle the edge role ?

I saw Phil Gould stating we will make the 8.

We just have to start winning games.

 

[Tiger Ted]

I think we have good go forward for the most part now, with great halves & wingers.
Faataape and Doueihi can certainly find the line. And Makasini might be able to brought in early if Olam is retired.

Unlike previous yrs I’m certainly content with the roster we now have re attitude & potential output plus & goes without saying we have a fabulous spine.Where I’m concerned is lack of depth in back row & being devoid of quality centres.Its very unlikely Makasini will be ready for the NRL this season.

 

[Tiger Ted]

We have heaps of options. Staines, To'a, AD, Faataape, Turuva, Skelton. LL, Naden and even Makasini could come into the team at some point.

I don't see glaring weaknesses. Doueihi can have crap defense at times. Will Samuela have another great year ? Will Seyfarth be able to handle the edge role ?

I saw Phil Gould stating we will make the 8.

We just have to start winning games.

AD can have crap defense at times is an understatement.Ive got no faith in him anymore & I was a big fan of his when he came to grade.He has proven to be a dud in recent seasons.

 

[Tiger05]

AD can have crap defense at times is an understatement.Ive got no faith in him anymore & I was a big fan of his when he came to grade.He has proven to be a dud in recent seasons.

Same here. He has burned me too many times in the past. I think it's hard to judge the guy correctly because he is so inconsistent.

He was exceptionally good last week though.

 

[Das Hassler]

Douehi's injury free periods are what's been inconsistent...his layoffs would derail anybody and he deserves credit for his quick return to effective form. I suspect his leaner build and height lead to a lot of serious injuries as with Tommy T. He's confident and determined...that's a good start on sorting the deficiencies . In any case he's a versatile and skilled utility who will come in very handy come SOO and injury time.

 

[Tigerm]

AD can have crap defense at times is an understatement.Ive got no faith in him anymore & I was a big fan of his when he came to grade.He has proven to be a dud in recent seasons.

Agree, I was and still am keen to see him gone, but with Naden down, I'm hoping he steps up. We don't have a huge amount of options.