Roar Guru
The Wests Tigers need to bounce back from a shocking performance on Monday night but will get no favours from a Penrith Panthers outfit coming off a very strong victory. Join us for live scores and commentary from 3.00pm AEDT.
Penrith surprised many with their demolition of the Canberra Raiders last week and look well on course for two straight wins if the Tigers fail to improve on their horror showing against Newcastle.
After racing to an early six-nil lead, the Tigers simply fell apart in defence and allowed Newcastle to score 42 unanswered points en route to a commanding 42-10 victory.
Like the Warriors last week, the Tigers crumbled under the weight of their own ill discipline and poor handling and really need to improve tenfold if they are to give home fans something to cheer about today.
The Panthers will present a stern test for the Tigers, given that Ivan Cleary’s men performed very strongly against 2012 finalists Canberra.
Penrith played to their strengths last week and will really fancy their chances of out-muscling a Tigers pack that ranks as one of the weakest in the NRL.
Tim Grant, Sika Manu, James Segeyaro and Sam McKendry are all capable of causing havoc up the middle of the park if the Tigers fail to aim up in defence.
For the Tigers to get on the board today, they simply must respect possession and play the percentages well against a tough Panthers pack.
Given that they are at home, the Tigers will most likely bounce back in a bid to get onside with fans after their shocking capitulation to Newcastle.
Tigers forwards such as Aaron Woods, Braith Anasta, Adam Blair and Keith Galloway really need to stand up and be counted for today if the home side are any hope of matching Penrith’s pack.
If Mick Potter’s men can muscle up upfront, Robbie Farah and Benji Marshall may just showcase enough attacking class for the Tigers to sneak home today.
On form, Penrith do deserve to be favourites but the bounce back factor may just work in the Tigers favour infront of a home crowd demanding a strong performance.
Tigers by four.