Sydney Roosters: Round 1 Team Comparison

With Mitchell Pearce suspended for the first eight weeks of the 2016 season, the Sydney Roosters season was always going to be a tough slog.

Not many expected them to finish in 15th place though and changes needed to be made for them to return to the Top 8 in 2017.

2016 Round 1 Team

1. Blake Ferguson
2. Joe Burgess
3. Dale Copley
4. Shaun Kenny-Dowall
5. Latrell Mitchell
6. Jayden Nikorima
7. Jackson Hastings
8. Kane Evans
9. Jake Friend
10. Dylan Napa
11. Aidan Guerra
12. Mitchell Aubusson
13. Isaac Liu
14. Sio Siua Taukeiaho
15. Sam Moa
16. Ian Henderson
17. Vincent Leuluai

The most notable difference between the two Round 1 sides is in the halves. Mitchell Pearce will start the year alongside new recruit Luke Keary. This is a huge upgrade of Jayden Nikorima and Jackson Hastings.

The addition of Michael Gordon to play fullback (and kick goals) means that young gun Latrell Mitchell will most likely start the season in the centres alongside Blake Ferguson.

Overall, the 2017 Sydney Roosters look strong and experience across the park. With plenty of representative players amongst their forwards, halves and backline, expect them to start the season strongly.

2017 Possible Round 1 Team

1. Michael Gordon
2. Daniel Tupou
3. Blake Ferguson
4. Latrell Mitchell
5. Shaun Kenny-Dowall
6. Luke Keary
7. Mitchell Pearce
8. Jared Waerea-Hargreaves
9. Jake Friend
10. Dylan Napa
11. Boyd Cordner
12. Aidan Guerra
13. Isaac Liu
14. Mitchell Aubusson
15. Kane Evans
16. Connor Watson
17. Paul Carter

PICK YOUR NRL TEAM: Not a fan of the above team? Then take over as the coach and pick your line-up!