The Toyota Forklifts Canberra Raiders are gearing up to bounce back against the Wests Tigers this Sunday afternoon at Campbelltown Sports Stadium, Sydney.
After suffering a 34-16 loss to the Cowboys last Friday night at home, the Raiders will be determined to redeem themselves this weekend.
Meanwhile, the Tigers will be looking to carry over their winning momentum after claiming an 18-10 victory against the Titans last weekend.
Talking Points
- Fullback Jordan Rapana will be instrumental to the outcome on Sunday afternoon, scoring 10 of the Raiders 16 points last weekend, as well as scoring 16 tries in his last 14 games against the Tigers.
- Wests Tigers have not defeated the Raiders at Campbelltown in a decade, as the Raiders have won their past eight games against Wests Tigers.
- Raiders lock Morgan Smithies was a top performer last weekend, making 39 tackles for his side.
- Tigers centre Justin Olam was in great form last week, crossing the line to score twice.
- Tigers halfback Apisai Koroisau’s kicking game was solid last weekend, successfully converting all tries.
We know we can respond. We've got to put our best foot forward and I'm confident the boys can do that this weekend
Danny Levi on preparations for Sunday's clash against the Tigers #388
Last Time They Met
In round two, the Raiders claimed a 32-12 victory over the Tigers at GIO Stadium, Canberra.
Key Matchup
Matt Timoko v Justin Olam
As the Raiders prepare to face the Tigers this Sunday afternoon at Campbelltown Stadium, all eyes will be on the battle of the centres Matt Timoko and Justin Olam.
Timoko has been a standout for the Raiders this season, scoring three tries and providing four try assists, while averaging 166 running metres per game.
Defensively, the Raiders centre has made 165 tackles with an impressive 86.8 percent efficiency, making him a reliable asset for the Raiders in both attack and defence.
Olam has been pivotal for the Tigers, especially in their three victories, scoring six tries in 11 appearances. Averaging 125 running metres per game, he breaks through defences and creates scoring chances.
On the defensive side, Olam has made 92 tackles with a 74.2 percent tackle efficiency.
Come Sunday, the clash of these two centres will be one to watch, with the potential to shape the fate of the match.
Head-to-Head
This will be the 44th matchup between the two clubs, with the Raiders holding an advantage of 24 wins over the Tigers 19.