It’s the halfway point of the NRL-W season, and this weekend will showcase two action-packed games. Nothing is guaranteed just yet, but the fight for final spots begins.
The Warriors have made some slight changes as they look to bounce back from last week’s loss. They may have struggled against a resurgent Bronco’s pack, but another strong lead in the opening minutes of this game could see them back in contention. If they can blow open the game early and hold on, they have the skill to win it.
Madison Bartlett and Hilda Peters have switched positions at second row and wing from last week’s match. Shontelle Stowers will start in the centres against her old team, and Michaela Peck has been named on the bench.
There are lots of changes for the Roosters this week, but they still have plenty of depth across the pitch. Coming off an upset win against the Dragons, they’ve demonstrated that they can be serious contenders this year.
Charlotte Caslick moves to fullback to replace injured Botille Vette-Welsh, who may miss the remainder of the competition with a grade 2 hamstring injury. Bobbi Law moves to the centre, captain Corban McGregor is named at five-eighth, with Wallaroos captain Grace Hamilton debuting on the bench. Kaitlyn Philips has not been named after a head knock last week.
My Prediction: While the Warriors started strong last week, they were helped by poor handling by the Broncos. If the Roosters come out firing again, they’ll be near impossible to beat. I think the Roosters will win by 12.
It’s the rematch of last years Grand Final, and this game could go either way.
The Dragons suffered an injury-riddled shock upset last week, leaving this week to make or break their season.
They have named the same seventeen players as last week’s loss, despite injury concerns for star centre Jess Sergis, halfback Maddie Studdon and five-eighth Shakiah Tungai. Co-captain Kezie Apps has also been named despite a concussion last week, and must pass HIA protocols to play. A loss of any one of these stars could drastically impact their chances of coming away with the win.
Despite falling behind in the first few minutes, the Broncos came back strong to prove why they’re back to back champs.
Shenae Ciesiolka replaces Tyler Birch on the bench in the only change for the Broncos. Five-eighth Raecene McGregor has been cleared of any serious injury after being stretchered off last week.
My Prediction: The Dragons have the potential on paper to be premiership contenders, but they failed to raise the bar last week when the Roosters came out firing. If the Broncos start slow again they may be in with a shot, but otherwise it could be a repeat of the grand final. Broncos by 10.
