Round Nine – Stiff-Arm Sunday Previews
Overview
Last Stiff-Arm Sunday most people tuned in to see Floyd and Manny trade a few stiff-arms but mainly saw Floyd run and hug a lot. Fortunately the Anzac Test was on afterwards so we got to see more running and aggressive hugs galore. With the NRL returning this week we are in for more hugs but also a lot of stiff-arms with the majority of players fresh after a week with the feet up.
The first match of the day sees the Knights travel to Brookvale Farm to take on a Sea Eagles side in the unfamiliar position of dead last on the table. But after a horrendous start to the season, have Manly turned a corner? They beat the Storm in their last outing so maybe, just maybe, Manly have sorted their sh*t out. Knights fans will be hoping they haven’t.
Speaking of the Storm, they travel to Sydney’s west to take on the Eels. This game is always a firey affair with plenty of tries. Both sides should run up atleast 20 points so whoever scores 21 will probably get the chocolates.
Players to watch
Willie Mason – The big rig was running around in a Newcastle jersey last season and will relish the chance to go up against his old side. But more importantly – Is he starting to grow back the african-american 1980s afro that earned him Origin and Test match honours?
Kurt Gidley – The renowned snorer is getting a big long in the tooth, has he still got the goods? With a crop of young talented outside backs in the Knights set-up, Gidley needs to show the coaches he is still the best fullback in the club. If he doesn’t then he may be captaining the team from the bench ala NSW Origin.
Manu Ma’u – One of the most damaging ball runners in the game, goes alright on D as well. The time spent in the slammer playing ‘crash’ has served Manu well. He will look to once again show why he was always top bunk.
Jesse Bromwich – Fast emerging as one of the premier props in the game. He will look to run at Sandow all day for easy metres.
Result and Score predictions
Manly are at home and will take a lot of confidence from their last start win against the Storm. The Knights are travelling alright but home advantage and DCE should see the Sea Eagles home 24-14.
Parramatta Stadium is somewhat of a fortress for the Eels of late. However they have tended to struggle against the Storm ever since Jarryd Hayne headbutted Billy Slater a few years ago. Hard on to pick but let’s go Eels by 6.
Most likely to cross the chalk
Brookvale. Brett Stewart. Try time. Enough said.
On his return to the Eels after a prolonged stint on the sideline with injury, Semi Radradra will be fizzing and looking to grab at least 2 meat pies.