Panthers should win because every team worth it's salt should win this time of year at home. Back line is as good as anyone's if the old Coote re-emerges so all depends if Walsh can stitch front and back into one. Shame Mose is moving on, he's looking interested lately, matter of fact this game will be won or lost by those moving on, Prince or pauper another key element.
Dogs' only chance is to get to Hasler's 2nd stanza plan leading by double digits, could happen if the monolith we know as Madge's mob wet the bed like they did against Manly. More and more like Melbourne, the only way to beat Souths is browbeat them early and confuse them late. If CB get within a converted try either way it will be a gargantuan performance.
From here on in Dragons/Tigers players need only concentrate on establishing their worthiness for '14, which in itself means we should see a good game, worthy of rocking up with the kids. Imo Marshall shouldn't be playing since a win alone proves sfa, a close loss without him if the team showed cohesian would be a far better outcome.
First of 3 big games will be intriguing, a rare full strength spine of the Titans against the whimsical Warriors. I envisage that Kelly will show Johnson how to give his team confidence. Albert, like Shaun, doesn't possess a fabulous passing game, but he certainly knows how to use his other similar talents much more effectively. The prospect of both these blokes in broken play makes the game a must see and I know Albert won't die wondering.
Main interest for me in the 2nd big one is Kyle Feldt, great to see new kids on the block. Sims is more trouble than he's worth so the Cowboys are improved and at home, everything to play for and Thurston must be coaching the side . . . how else could they be winning. Problem is the Knights know they deserve a shot at the Cup and NQ don't, Benny will use the fact that Newcastle have played their heart out all year to stimulate his mob against usurpers.
Last of the big games will see poor old Tooves again under a bunsen burner, Canberra Stadium is becoming a science lab. Not only are Manly expected to win in a place few win, they are up against ingredients that may have been revitalised mixed with players in the rightful positions . . . almost. Would have been better for all concerned had Ferguson broke a leg instead of Wighton but this game may see an intensity the Seagles will have to do their best to match. No more injuries please.
A lot of people say Melbourne should rest players, but they don't understand the Storm think more of their supporters than anyone else, home games are not to be taken lightly. Unlike the Eels supporters who are accustomed to mediocracy Melbourne supporters are surrounded by aliens and need all the encouragement they can get. That's a bit soppy I know but how else could I write more than one line
Crikey, almost forgot the biggest game of all, more important for the Roosters than the Sharks funnily enough. This is a badly needed opportunity for the Roosters to regain momentum, just a win would be enough if the Sharks play their best. Fifita is easily the best big minute prop in the game and he's starting, mongrel man Graham is back to inspire and De Gois is an enigma when he starts ferreting. Will be a good test for the team to beat.
