THE LONG HARD LOOK WITH MIKE WILSON
Sydney Roosters v Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs
Sydney Football Stadium, 5.30pm
Roosters $1.85, Bulldogs $1.98 (Luxbet)
Roosters: Anthony Minichiello, Sam Perrett, Kane Linnett, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Joseph ‘BJ’ Leilua, Todd Carney, Mitchell Pearce, Jason Ryles, Jake Friend, Nate Myles, Braith Anasta (c), Aidan Guerra, Frank Paul Nuuausala. Interchange (from): Anthony Mitchell, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Brad Takairangi, Tinirau Arona, Tom Symonds
Bulldogs: Ben Barba, Steve Turner, Timoteo Lafai, Jamal Idris, Jonathon Wright, Ben Roberts, Trent Hodkinson, Aiden Tolman, Joel Romelo, Sam Kasiano, Frank Pritchard, Andrew Ryan (c), Dene Halatau. Interchange: Greg Eastwood, Chris Armit, Corey Payne, Josh Reynolds
Despite losing to the Tigers last week, the Roosters showed improvements on their dismal performances of late and almost seem due for a win. Todd Carney is slowly but surely rediscovering his running game which is crucial to the overall success of the Roosters.
The Bulldogs are coming off a heart stopping golden point win over the Eels and a win for them is of utmost importance so they can stay within striking distance of the top 8.
Coach Jim Dymock, who was given the job 2 games ago, is still keeping former test international Josh Morris out of the side in favour of young Tim Lafai who is holding his own and will make Morris work for his re-inclusion into the side.
The close odds tell the tale in this one. In 2011 the Dogs have only scored 5 more tries than Roosters and conceded 2 less.
Mike’s Best Bet: None
Starting Bank: $2000, Current Bank $2476.19
(Team lists sourced from nrl.com.au)
