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The Sydney Roosters are going for three wins on the trot when they host Parramatta Eels in Monday night football. Join us for live scores and commentary from 7.00pm AEDT.
The Roosters were gritty in their 8-0 victory over Brisbane last week but still have room for plenty of improvement if they are to consider themselves finals contenders.
Despite their strong defensive effort, Sydney once again struggled with their ball handling and discipline against Brisbane, and were on the back foot for the majority of the encounter.
Had they faced a team like Melbourne, Canterbury, South Sydney or Manly, the Roosters would have been put to the sword last week.
The Broncos however are struggling in attack big time this season, and the Roosters did just enough to keep them scoreless.
Parramatta’s defence on the other hand was torn to shreds by the Wests Tigers last week and coach Ricky Stuart will be demanding a far more accomplished effort without the football.
Like the Roosters, Parramatta invariably put themselves under pressure with poor discipline and mistakes.
After scoring an early try in the second half, the Eels imploded when they let Benji Marshall race away to score a try from a quick tap.
Such errors are unacceptable at NRL level so the Eels really need to improve their concentration in key moments if they are to win tonight.
Prediction
Whichever team can maintain composure and structure in attack and defence will win.
When the Eels managed to secure repeats sets last week, they invariably posted points against the Tigers and looked very dangerous with the football.
Chris Sandow in particular has enjoyed a fine start to the season and will need to be watched closely by the Roosters defence.
The Roosters will need to put Sandow under pressure on the fifth tackle, given that the Eels half has already produced several terrific 40/20 kicks this season.
Parramatta meanwhile will need to keep an eye on Michael Jennings and Sonny Bill Williams tonight.
Jennings and Williams played very well against the Broncos last week and will tear the Eels apart if Parramatta fails to respect possession.
Overall both teams still have a lot of improving to do, but the Roosters with a fit and firing Jennings and Williams should do enough to secure the two competition points.
Roosters by 6.