Round 5 v Manly: Team analysis

After a disappointing trip across the Tasman last weekend the Tigers return to their spiritual home this Sunday afternoon to tackle Manly. Sunday's clash at Leichhardt Oval is the first at the venue this season and comes at a good time for the Tigers who were left battered by a physical Warriors outfit, losing 42-18 last weekend.

The Tigers picked up 4 injuries of concern in Wellington last weekend. Thankfully 2 of those injured have been named to play this weekend. James Tedesco (concussion) and Aaron Woods (ankle). Cory Paterson (concussion) has not been named at this stage but could be a late inclusion if he passes cognitive tests regarding his concussion before Sunday.

One player who definitely won't be there is Sauaso Sue who will miss 6-8 weeks with an ankle syndesmosis injury. His replacement on the bench is Sitaleki Akauola who comes back into the reckoning and will be keen to impress.

The biggest talking point regarding the squad for the Round 5 clash is the selection of Keith Lulia and Chris Lawrence in the centres, whilst Tim Simona is only named among the substitutes. The common belief is that Simona  will force one of the two out of the starting 13 come kick off. Another good piece of news is the return of Liam Fulton who will be looking to avoid a third concussion in five weeks.

Manly represent another tough test for the Tigers. Last weekend's 8-0 win over the Roosters may not have been the prettiest of games but their defensive performance would've pleased many at the club. The Sea Eagles have the wood on the Tigers in recent years and Daly Cherry-Evans has been front and centre of that form and promises to hold the key to plotting the Tigers downfall this weekend.

The Tigers though will fancy their chances at Leichhardt!

Wests Tigers team v Manly

1 James Tedesco
2 David Nofoaluma
3 Keith Lulia
4 Chris Lawrence
5 Pat Richards
6 Braith Anasta
7 Luke Brooks
8 Aaron Woods
9 Robbie Farah (c)
10 Keith Galloway
11 Liam Fulton
12 Bodene Thompson
13 Adam Blair

Interchange
14 Martin Taupau
15 Ava Seumanufagai
16 James Gavet
17 Tim Simona
18 Sitaleki Akauola

Coach: Mick Potter