LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
In a clash between the Roosters and Bulldogs on Saturday, both teams are gearing up for a battle in Gosford to secure their spot in the top eight.
With key players like Connor Watson, Spencer Leniu, Angus Crichton, and Lindsay Collins off representing their state in Origin, the Roosters will be relying on their depth to step up against a surging Bulldogs squad.
It's a test of character for Trent Robinson's Roosters as they face the challenge of missing some of their heavy hitters.
Robinson may be chuffed to see Watson earn his Origin debut, even though it leaves a gap in the Roosters lineup.
On the other end of the field, Bulldogs are without skipper Stephen Crichton, but they can count on their star playmaker Matt Burton to lead the charge for a fourth straight victory on the Central Coast.
It's all to play for in this clash between two teams hungry for success.
Both sides will need to bring their A-game and leave it all on the field, as they strive to come out on top in this pivotal matchup.