THE LONG HARD LOOK WITH MIKE WILSON
Sydney Roosters v Penrith Panthers
Sydney Football Stadium, 2.00pm
Roosters $2.25, Panthers $1.65
Roosters: Anthony Minichiello, Sam Perrett, Kane Linnett, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Joseph ‘BJ’ Leilua, Todd Carney, Mitchell Pearce, Jason Ryles, Jake Friend, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Braith Anasta (c), Frank Paul Nuuausala, Nate Myles. Interchange (from): Anthony Mitchell, Mose Masoe, Brad Takairangi, Aidan Guerra, Tom Symonds.
Panthers: Lachlan Coote, David Simmons, Junior Vai Vai, Brad Tighe, Adrian Purtell, Travis Burns, Luke Walsh, Sam McKendry, Kevin Kingston, Tim Grant, Trent Waterhouse (c), Nigel Plum, Nathan Smith. Interchange: Nafe Seluini, Dayne Weston, Matthew Bell, Sarafu Fatiaki.
The Roosters are all of a sudden fielding a first 13 that contested the grand final last year, but it would be fair to say that this fact has not instilled much confidence in fans. That would have to be about the only reason for tipping them this week.
The Panthers are on a neat little run at the moment winning 4 of their last 5 and looking better and better each week. Luke Lewis is in great form and is carrying it through club games and State of Origin to the benefit of those around him. It would really appear that the side has taken to caretaker coach Steve Georgallis in the best possible way and I believe that his record will become 3 from 3 at full time in this one. One player that seems to have responded the best is halfback Luke Walsh and it’s your halves that you need firing heading into the finals.
Mike’s Best Bet: None
Starting Bank: $2000, Current Bank $2541.42
(Team lists sourced from nrl.com.au)
