Warriors v Rabbitohs
Mt Smart Stadium, 7.30pm tomorrow
Key match-up:
This is the final test for Rabbitohs hooker Damien Cook to stake his claim for the NSW No 9 jersey — and what a test it will be against the rejuvenated Issac Luke. The man nicknamed “Bully” is one of the game's friendliest blokes but he's also one of its most competitive, and you can bet the former Souths fan favourite will be relishing his head to head clash with Cook.
For the Warriors to win:
They lead the NRL in offloads (165) and have the ability to cause all kinds of problems if the Rabbitohs aren't on the defensive game. The Warriors expect to have Roger Tuivasa-Sheck back from baby watch and that could spell trouble for the Bunnies.
For the Rabbitohs to win:
Second in the NRL in points scored, the Rabbitohs have transformed themselves from a predictable attacking team last year to one that strikes from anywhere on the field. They rely on rugby league's oldest game plan — brute force up front, skill in the backs — and if ain't broke don't fix it.
Prediction:
The Warriors were impressive last weekend without Shaun Johnson and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck. Issac Luke was the star in the gutsy win, but they will need to go to another level this weekend against the Rabbitohs. South Sydney have won four of the past five matches and will be hoping Alex Johnston and Sam Burgess recover in time to head over to New Zealand. Both men picked up injuries in their win over the Cowboys, but they're are positive signs for the Bunnies who are playing an entertaining brand of football under Anthony Seibold. Adam Reynolds, Damien Cook and Cody Walker have been superb this year and it will be up to these three men tomorrow night if the Rabbitohs are to register their eighth win of the season.