For the Tigers there's also the incentive of getting back to winning ways after dropping the past 2 matches convincingly. Losses to both the Roosters (6-30) and Titans (6-22) have stalled the progress of the five wins in seven earlier this season. The dip in form has coincided with the loss of players, in particular key personnel. For this week's match up the Tigers gain four players - Robbie Farah, Braith Anasta, Sauaso Sue (all injury) and Tim Simona (suspension).
Their returns will be vital. In particular Robbie Farah as the team's leader and orchestrator and Braith Anasta as the experienced, level headed side kick for Luke Brooks. Their presence has been sorely missed, the guidance and direction they offer clearly a factor in the 12 points scored in the past 2 matches. Tim Simona's return in the centres gives the Tigers their preferred centre/wing combinations once again as he reforms his partnership with fellow youngster David Nofoaluma.
In changes to the side this week:
IN - Tim Simona, Braith Anasta, Robbie Farah, Sauaso Sue
OUT - Keith Lulia, Joel Luani, Sitaleki Akauola, Jack Buchanan (All NSW Cup)
The Tigers appear to be getting the Sharks at a good time. Down on confidence and minus the key Andrew Fifita, the Sharks are not the side expected at the beginning of the season. At Remondis Stadium though they are just that little bit more resilient so the Wests Tigers will need to bring their A game this week. With Anasta and Farah returning to the side Luke Brooks should benefit big time. This past fortnight Brooks has gained the experience of having to step up in the absence of more experienced play makers and will benefit from that in the long run.
Kurtis Rowe found the confidence he'd been lacking in recent weeks in the second half last week. His performance in the second 40 versus the Roosters was a sign that he feels more comfortable with his role in the team. Rowe was one of our best last week and he gets another shot this weekend.
The bench this week sees the return of Sauaso Sue who along with Martin Taupau and Ava Seumanufagai will look to help out muscle a hard working Sharks pack. With James Gavet still out, Sue's impact will be vital. Interestingly Cory Paterson moves into the starting line up this week. Paterson who started from the bench last week get's his reward in filling the spot vacated by Sitaleki Akauola.
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