In the final game of Round 5 of the NRC, the NSW Country Eagles host the Sydney Rays at Simon Poidevin Oval in Goulburn. The Roar has got the game covered, with live score updates from 3pm (AEST).
The Rays are seventh on the ladder, while the Eagles sit eight, so with both teams in serious need of a bonus-point win, this should be an expansive, entertaining game.
The Eagles started the season with a fair amount of expectation after a fantastic season last year. So far though, they have failed to live up to it, recording just one win, which only came last weekend.
Kyle Godwin has had a strong start to the season for the Eagles though. The young inside centre now has the experience of several seasons in Super Rugby and while he is something of an unsung hero, if Godwin plays well, Country should win.
The Rays have only won one game, against the underperforming Melbourne Rising, and were thoroughly outclassed in their other fixtures. Despite these results, they have shown signs of their potential, but consistency seems to be their biggest issue.
Alongside his brother, on the wing, Apo Latunipulu has entered the NRC in dominant fashion. He is an old-school, barnstorming outside centre with an exciting mix of skill to boot. Latunipulu is a true impact player, making 46 metres off eight carries last weekend.
Prediction
The Eagles will look to restore some pride after a rocky start to the season and should perform well in front of a home crowd. However, the Rays have x-factor in their outside backs that cannot (and should not) be ignored.
Sydney Rays to win 35-18.
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