NRL Round 20: MNF Previews

Great insight Oz, it is the respective forwards and the benches that has me leaning toward the Rabbitohs, if they can't win tonight than that playing roster and coahing staff should be dismantled.

The Roosters bench is obviously weak, with Soliola the only player of note.  The Rabbitohs bench looks dangerous, and even if Crocker is a withdrawal Tyrrell has shown that he has adequate amounts of mongrel in him.  I just can't see how the Roosters will contain Luke and Wing late in the game, for me, they are the major difference.

As for the respective forwards, well, Asotasi / Pettybourne / Fa'alogo should walk all over the Roosters as I don't expect Mason to back up with another consistent performance.  Fitzgibbon's workrate will be missed greatly. 

Agree that Mini's impact shouldn't be too significant, I mean, whilst he has beefed up in the gym his match fitness will be lacking and I wouldn't be surprised if the Rabbitohs test him early to get a sense of preparation. 

For me, last week wasn't a great indication of the Roosters attacking ability.  The Warriors were out to throw the ball around and win in a shootout.  If the Rabbitohs are able to aim up like a top eight contender should (ie. Tigers), then the Roosters shouldn't score more than 2 tries and the Rabbits should run out easy winners.

Anyway, appreciate your input Oz.  Lets hope for a fiery Ron Coote Cup match, unlike round 1 where the Roosters were still in training mode.