The challenge ahead

[ibeme]

This weekend we come up against the Rabbitohs. It's a crucial match, and the bye the following week couldn't come at a better time. If we can beat the Bunnies, we should still be in touch with the top eight come round 15, at which point we should definitely have SBW back on deck. The road ahead looks like this (barring further injuries):

We're currently on 10 points.
Round 13 vs Souths (possible return of SBW) - 12 points (fingers crossed)
Round 14 vs Bye - 14 points
Round 15 vs Raiders \
Round 16 vs Manly - Need at least one win here - 16 points
Round 17 vs Melbourne /
Round 18 vs Warriors (Possible return of Mason) - 18 points
Round 19 vs Panthers - (Should win if Penrith don't improve) - 20 points
Round 20 vs Broncos - (Willie night still be rusty for this one) - 20 points
Round 21 vs Souths - (Should win) - 22 points
Round 22 vs Knights - (Possible return of Maitua) - 24 points
Round 23 vs Parra - (Possible return of a rusty Shrek) - 24 points
Round 24 vs Tigers - (We should be strong by now) - 26 points
Round 25 vs Panthers - (Should win) - 28 points
Round 26 vs Roosters - (50/50) - 28 points

I think 26 points is what most reckon gets you in the top eight at the end of 26 rounds. Given the level comp this year, this might be a bit lower, but based on the return of injured players, I think 28 points is what we're realistically looking at come semis. Then, of course, we're as much chance as anyone.

 

[Dogs Of War]

Seems highly probable. Don't underestamate some of the junior players really stepping up once more guys like sonny bill and mason start playing alongside them. They won't have as much attention anymore and will be able to take advantage of that.