Rugby LeagueEddie OttoComment

NRL Round 12 Preview - Warriors v Rabbitohs @ Mount Smart Stadium

Rugby LeagueEddie OttoComment
NRL Round 12 Preview - Warriors v Rabbitohs @ Mount Smart Stadium

New Zealand Warriors v South Sydney Rabbitohs @ Mount Smart Stadium
 
Preview - We get a Saturday night blockbuster here, as the Warriors host the Rabbitohs in the battle of two sides sitting inside the Top 4 after 11 rounds. The Warriors refused to buckle last week against the Eels, securing a scrappy but vital road victory 24-14 at ANZ Stadium to get to 8-3 on the season. The Rabbitohs got out of jail late against the Cowboys, winning 20-19 in Townsville courtesy of an Adam Reynolds’ penalty goal inside the final minute. It was Souths’ 7th win in 9 matches, as they continue to mount their credentials to be a premiership contender this season.
 
New Zealand Warriors’ Scouting Report - The Warriors get a massive inclusion with Roger Tuivasa-Sheck returning at fullback after missing their win over the Eels. Peta Hiku moves to centre, and Gerard Beale misses out with veteran backrower Simon Mannering named to start, with Isaiah Papali'i on the bench. Shaun Johnson won't be back until after next week's bye
 
South Sydney Rabbitohs’ Scouting Report - The Rabbitohs are forced into a major positional change, with Alex Johnson out injured. Greg Inglis returns to fullback after playing strongly in the centres for the majority of the last 6 weeks. Sam Burgess (glute) has been named but will face a fitness test, with Adam Doueihi starting at centre and Mark Nicholls joining the interchange.
 
Verdict - Rabbitohs by 4-12

I like the Bunnies here, despite being slight underdogs at a ground at which it is very difficult to win. I just think they match up really well against the Warriors, with their ability to match them and perhaps get on top of them in the forwards. The Warriors like to bully sides with their power game when playing at home, however I don’t think they can do that against Souths. I expect this game to be a belter, but Souths look the better and more complete football side to me as the Warriors, despite their great form, have had a couple of blow-out losses.