Latest Rugby League News

Team Talk: Finals Week 1

Published by
Johaan Forbes-Anthony

Sydney Roosters v Brisbane Broncos

After being rested last week against the Titans, Aidan Guerra and Dylan Napa are set to return this weekend while Daniel Tupou has fully recovered from a groin injury and is also likely to regain his place in the side.

The Broncos have suffered a major blow with Darius Boyd announcing he'll miss this week's encounter due to a hamstring injury.

“I’m not playing. Hammy’s, you can’t rush them,” Boyd told Fox Sports.

Boyd's absence means Kodi Nikorima is likely to don the No. 1 jersey with veteran Benji Marshall to come into the starting side to pair up with Anthony Milford in the halves.

Jai Arrow is also set to earn a recall with Tevita Pangai Jnr's hamstring set to keep him out of the side.

Melbourne Storm v Parramatta Eels

Bevan French will make the trip south for the Eels but is unlikely to take the field on Saturday afternoon despite coach Brad Arthur saying both he and Peni Terepo are "touch and go".

The Storm are much more settled with the rested Dale Finucane and Tim Glasby set to return at the expense of Nate Myles and Robbie Rochow

Manly Sea Eagles v Penrith Panthers

Manly could be without big man Darcy Lussick after he was cited for tripping. He'll look to overturn a one-match ban on Tuesday night at the judiciary. Addin Fonua-Blake will take his place in the side after being cleared of a serious leg injury.

Dallin Watene-Zelezniak was tipped to wear the number one jersey last week and while that didn't eventuate, it has been talked about once again this week after Dean Whare's performance was considered sub-par. A simple swap to the wing could take place. Dylan Edwards is considered a less than 50/50 chance to play but will be included in an extended squad.

Matt Moylan won't play for the Panthers after being granted leave to deal with personal issues.

Cronulla Sharks v North Queensland Cowboys

The Cowboys are expected to head south to the shire with an unchanged side as Te Marie Martin and Antonio Winterstein are expected to push through the pain barrier to play.

The Sharks will be bolstered by the return of Jack Bird and Wade Graham from injuries. Sam Tagataese will have to pass a fitness test on his injured calf if he is to line up while Luke Lewis and Jayson Bukuya are both expected to line up despite copping knocks on the weekend.

Published by
Johaan Forbes-Anthony