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It’s coming to the pointy end of the season, the top eight is taking shape and it’s the Canterbury Bulldogs chasing a top four spot while the Gold Coast Titans are vying for a place in the eight. Join us for live scores and updates from 7.00pm.
With a number of excitement machines missing, this clash will be a battle of the forwards.
Taking on the mighty Bulldogs pack of Sam Kasiano, James Graham, Frank Pritchard and Tony Williams will be Greg Bird, Nate Myles and the Titans own big boppers: Dave Taylor and Ryan James.
Only two positional changes have been confirmed.
The Titans have moved Ryan James to the bench for Luke Douglas to start and the Bulldogs have moved Josh Jackson to the bench for Tony Williams.
It was reported on Friday that Titans fullback Will Zillman was running freely at training and could be a late inclusion.
Zillman hasn’t played since round 16 when he injured his groin and would replace David Mead who impressed last week.
If so Zillman’s inclusion would be a boost to the Titans as they are struggling without attacking weapons Albert Kelly and Jamal Idris.
Two more victories should be enough to secure a top eight spot for the Bulldogs (currently fifth place on 26 points) while the Titans have a hard run home facing both the Roosters and the Storm.
The Titans are ninth on 26 points, one point behind the Knights who are eighth. They’ve lost 4 of their last five while the Bulldogs have won their last three games, albeit their last two were over the Eels and Dragons.
Adding to the Titans pressure is the news their coach John Cartwright’s is facing the sack should they not make the finals this year. He has the lowest winning percentage of any NRL coach, winning just 24 of his past 66 games for a 36.4 per cent success rate.
In what should be a tough match i’m tipping Canterbury to be too strong at home.
Bulldogs by four
Be sure to come back at 7pm sharp for more information, all the games highlights as they happen minute-by-minute and a bit of banter with yours truly.