Key man: James Tedesco. Picture: John Veage
In the Clear NRL podcast co-host Chris Boulous has outlined the 10 reasons he thinks the Sydney Roosters will defeat the Melbourne Storm in Sunday’s grand final.
- Defence: The Roosters have rebuilt the brick wall in 2018 and have based their success on their defence. When their attack was struggling, their defence was strong.When people questioned their tactics, their defence was strong. When they were missing players, their defence was strong. Another strong defensive effort can lead them to them title.
- James Tedesco: Teddy is a big game player and a proven match-winner on the biggest stage. In a game which is likely to have few points his speed around the ruck could be critical.
- Dylan Napa: Well, not just Dylan Napa but the entire Roosters bench. The addition of Napa negates one of the Storm’s biggest strength which is the size and speed on their interchange. Napa and Victor Radley’s injection at the 25 minute mark will lift the intensity.
- Ball control: The Storm have struggle at times this year to keep control of the ball and a rushing Roosters defensive line could cause them problems.
- Cam-watch: Cameron Munster and Cameron Smith are Melbourne’s biggest strengths. If history is anything to go by, Trent Robinson has done a good job in drawing up a game plan to contain the duo.
- Luke Keary: If Cooper Cronk doesn’t play, the Roosters will take confidence knowing Keary can shoulder the load.
- Home-ground advantage; The Roosters should have the majority of the Sydney fans on their side.
- History: No team has won consecutive titles since 1992/93.
- Latrell Mitchell: Well-rested and a genuine x-factor.
- Mobility: The Storm have had great success in exposing big Souths and Sharks forward packs. The Roosters don’t have that problem.
Grand final tips
BOULOUS
Premiers: Roosters, Score: 18-4, Clive Churchill: James Tedesco.
LAWRENCE
Premiers: Roosters, Score: 12-10, Clive Churchill: Luke Keary.
- Listen online: anchor.fm/in-the-clear-nrl-podcast and on iTunes.
