The traditional blockbuster between the Roosters and the Dragons kicks off a run of three games on Anzac Day.
The Roosters come into the match after a heavy loss to last year’s premiers the Panthers who seemed to have regained their mojo, while the Dragons will be high on confidence after posting two wins in a row, including a thriller over the Sea Eagles last week.
Despite their up-and-down season so far, Roosters however have shown they are able to rise to the occasion in their two wins over higher ranked opponents this year and also enjoy the head-to-head advantage with 28 wins to St George Illawarra’s 22, including a big 60-12 result in their game last year.
Team News
Roosters: Billy Smith’s return from suspension sees Mark Nawaqanitawase shift to the wing and Dom Young drop out. Spencer Leniu starts at prop in the absence of Nat Butcher (knee) while Angus Crichton’s return from a groin problem pushes Salesi Foketi to the bench. Having returned from injury via NSW Cup last weekend Egan Butcher comes in on the bench for his first NRL game since suffering an ACL injury in Round 12 last year. No changes in Thursday’s 24-hour update.
Dragons: Sione Finau has been called in on the wing to replace Mat Feagai, who suffered a fibula fracture and high-grade syndesmosis injury in the tackle that saw Manly’s Toafoafoa Sipley banned for four weeks. Emre Guler returns from suspension on the bench to fill the hole left by Hamish Stewart (concussion). No changes in Thursday’s 24-hour update with Loko Pasifiki Tonga the 18th man.
Stat Attack
- The Roosters have won 11 of their past 13 games against the Dragons.
- The Dragons have won only one of their past five Anzac Day clashes against the Roosters.
- Roosters captain James Tedesco has scored seven tries in his last five games against the Dragons.
- Dragons forward Blake Lawrie will make his 150th NRL appearance.
Stats supplied by David Middleton, League Information Services, author of the official annual of the NRL.
