LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
In their first-ever match against the Dolphins, the Wests Tigers claimed victory, setting the stage for their upcoming match against the Sydney Roosters at the newly refurbished Allianz Stadium.
According to weststigers.com.au, their match preview for NRL Round 26 against the Roosters reveals that captain Api Koroisau, who performed exceptionally as a halfback in the previous game, will return to his usual position as dummy-half.
This will allow experienced utility player Will Smith to don the number seven jersey.
Smith's counterpart on the Roosters side will be Sam Walker, who is making his comeback to the top flight since Round 7.
Unfortunately for the Roosters, their former fullback James Tedesco will not be able to participate in the match due to a concussion.
In his absence, Joseph Manu has been named as the replacement fullback, filling the void left by the Blues captain.
The Wests Tigers face an uphill battle against the Roosters, who have emerged victorious in 20 out of their 22 previous encounters with the joint-venture team.
To secure a win, the Tigers will need to defy recent history and overcome their previous struggles against the Roosters.
The bookmakers' odds reflect the Roosters' favoritism in the match.
According to the head-to-head odds, the Roosters are priced at $1.16, while the Wests Tigers are the underdogs at $5.25.
The line odds also heavily favor the Roosters, with a -15.5 spread priced at $1.90, compared to the Tigers' +15.5 spread at the same odds.
As the Wests Tigers prepare to make their debut at the revamped Allianz Stadium, they will need to put their best foot forward to challenge the dominant Roosters.
With the odds stacked against them, it will be a true test of their skill and determination to come out on top in this highly anticipated clash.