What: NRL Round 7
Who: Cronulla Sharks v Sydney Roosters
When: Saturday April 19 – 7.30pm
Where: Remondis Stadium
I Can Watch It On: Fox Sports
Form guide:
Cron: LLLLWL
Roosters: LWWLLL
Things You Need To Know:
Both sides come into round seven with the less said about their recent form the better. The Sharks’ only change is Jonathan Wright in for Nathan Stapleton on the wing. Enforcers Paul Gallen, Luke Lewis and Anthony Tupou are still missing, leaving obvious holes in their go forward. Although there is a whisper Tupou might return. Daniel Mortimer and Dylan Napa are added to an extended bench for the Roosters, who are looking to break a three match losing streak.
Reason To Watch:
James Maloney’s form has come under the microscope and he will be primed to turn things around. His NSW jumper may hinge on him doing so
Reason To Turn Away:
Other than the fact that both sides have left a lot to be desired in recent fixtures, there’s also the question of Todd Carney’s new Eminem-style haircut, making him stand out for all the wrong reasons against Manly. Carney only put a huge target on his back. Between a mix of a below par performance and his new ‘style’, critics were more than happy to pounce on the enigmatic five-eighth. Why give them added ammunition?
Say What:
“We need to be a lot better. It was embarrassing for us, that first half … (I am) terribly disappointed. As far as energy levels goes, other teams have enthusiasm and we don’t have it week to week,” – Sharks coach Peter Sharp sums up Cronulla’s woes in brutal fashion.
Final Word:
Although the Roosters have had a modest start to the season, they are still a genuine premiership side. The time has come for them to hit their straps and to put it simply; they are too tough for the Sharks. Cronulla’s recent form speaks for itself. Roosters by 18.
Sam Alexander
Find the preview published at http://www.sportal.com.au/league/nrl-premiership/match-centre/314075/nrl
S.J.A 