Round 7 team analysis: Vs Parramatta Eels

6 weeks have now passed in the 2014 NRL season and not many people would've predicted this weeks match up to be a battle between 3rd (Tigers) and 5th (Eels), but yet it is! The Tigers last weekend were impressive in stifling a Cowboys attack that featured Jonathan Thurston, an able sidekick in Rob Lui and the experience of Brent Tate who posed questions all night long but were limited to just 4 points.

This week the Tigers face a completely different test, and not one too dissimilar to themselves in the Parramatta Eels. The Eels also boast an enthusiastic team, a bustling forward pack, and  a cheeky number 7. This weekend's match has the makings of an enjoyable game as both sides are full of confidence, believing they can knock each other off.

For the Tigers there is one major change to the team this week with Captain Robbie Farah joining the injury list, set to miss between 4-6 weeks with an elbow injury. In his place comes NSW Cup hooker Joel Luani who debuted last season, playing on 3 occasions.

At five eighth Braith Anasta returns from a one week suspension, forcing Blake Austin to an extended bench. Fullback Kurtis Rowe has been named and is expected to recover from a hip flexor complaint and play against the Eels. The return of Anasta is vital for the Tigers with his experience set to be a calming presence for the younger guys in the team, especially Luke Brooks. Anasta also takes over the captaincy in Farah's absence.

Whilst the presence of Anasta will be vital, there's no doubt the Tigers will seek greater comfort from their forward pack in Farah's absence. Look to Aaron Woods, Keith Galloway, Liam Fulton, Adam Blair and Bodene Thompson to lift this week as they look to take the pressure off Joel Luani and Luke Brooks and make their jobs a little easier. With the likes James Gavet and Marty Taupau off the bench, the Tigers could well look to ambush the Eels, just like they did against the Bunnies and Sea Eagles.

Also, don't be surprised if Luke Brooks steps it up a notch this weekend. Whilst the pressure won't be on him to do so, it wouldn't surprise me to see him step up and fill the attacking void left by Farah. So long as the forwards lay the platform, Monday afternoon looms as a little test for Brooks and his ability.

WESTS TIGERS TEAM V EELS

Tigers: Kurtis Rowe, David Nofoaluma, Tim Simona, Chris Lawrence, Pat Richards, Braith Anasta, Luke Brooks, Aaron Woods, Joel Luani, Keith Galloway, Liam Fulton, Bodene Thompson, Adam Blair. Interchange: Martin Taupau, Ava Seumanufagai, James Gavet, Sitaleki Akauola, Blake Austin (18th man)