NRL Round 4 Preview - Wests Tigers v Parramatta Eels @ ANZ Stadium

Wests Tigers v Parramatta Eels @ ANZ Stadium
 
Preview - Western Sydney rivals the Tigers and Eels lock horns in an explosive Western Sydney derby on Easter Monday at ANZ Stadium. The Tigers remarkably failed to concede a try last week, but still lost in controversial circumstances 9-7 to the Broncos in Golden Point at Campbelltown Stadium. The Tigers have conceded just two tries in three weeks, but scored just three themselves, playing in three remarkable defensive struggles, as Ivan Cleary puts his stamp on this unheralded team. The Eels suffered a third straight loss to the season with a limp 14-4 loss to the Sharks at ANZ Stadium .
 
Wests Tigers’ Scouting Report - Talented hooker Jacob Liddle has been named on the extended bench, as he aims to return from injury. There will be some doubt over Benji Marshall who suffered an ankle injury last week against the Broncos. Tui Lolohea could replace Marshall at five eight if Marshall is deemed unfit, with Lolohea named on an extended bench. 
 
Parramatta Eels’ Scouting Report - The Eels have lost Jarryd Hayne to injury, with Will Smith being named at fullback. Beven French is also out injured, with Kirisome Auva’a named in the centres, and George Jennings on the wing. 
 
Verdict - Tigers by 1-6 in a low scoring game

I hate tipping my own side, however I believe they can get the job done here against a Parramatta side that is reeling a bit for me. I am worried about the toll those three straight low scoring epics might have taken on the Tigers, however they do get nine days to get ready for this one. The Eels’ forwards are looking totally outmatched so far this season, and the Tigers should be able to get on top there in this game. The Eels will be desperate for a victory, so I’m also worried about the bounce-back factor, but there seems a disconnect in this team right now. Their attack is too sideways and, without go-forward, if the Tigers can drag this into an arm wrestle, I see them getting on top.