Tigers legend Paul Sironen has labelled the Round 18 clash on 6 July against the Bulldogs at Allianz Stadium as “critical” after the 38-20 loss to the Knights.
After seven straight wins, Wests Tigers has now had back to back losses and risk falling out of the top eight unless they can turn their form around quickly.
Meanwhile, the Bulldogs will come into the game on a high after five straight wins including a win over Melbourne Storm.
“We were really disappointing against the Knights. The gap between 8th and 9th has been narrowed so it’s a critical game (v Bulldogs) now,” Sironen said.
“The Bulldogs are a very good side. Any Des Hasler coached side is always going to be very competitive. They’re the form side of the competition without a doubt. Off the back of that win against the Storm and the bye, they’ll be ready to go so it’s going to be a huge game for both sides.
Buy tickets to Round 18 Bulldogs clash
“They’re playing a bit of footy. Ben Barba’s been getting all the wraps, he’s particularly dangerous and Josh Morris out in the centres but their forward pack has really stepped up. They are running to the line together giving the ball carrier options on either side which makes them dangerous. They’re all in form and playing well."
Sironen also added that Wests Tigers will need to re-assess their defence if they’re to turn their form around.
“We’ve got to get our defence right first. We shut out Canberra and held Melbourne to one try and then it’s all gone topsy turvy. Obviously there are some mitigating circumstances around that with some personal reasons but defence is attitude so I’m sure Coach (Tim) Sheens will improve the attitude to defence this week and next week beginning on the training paddock.”
The team will need a big Wests Tigers crowd to help them get over the line. Tickets for the game are now on sale so buy yours now!
After seven straight wins, Wests Tigers has now had back to back losses and risk falling out of the top eight unless they can turn their form around quickly.
Meanwhile, the Bulldogs will come into the game on a high after five straight wins including a win over Melbourne Storm.
“We were really disappointing against the Knights. The gap between 8th and 9th has been narrowed so it’s a critical game (v Bulldogs) now,” Sironen said.
“The Bulldogs are a very good side. Any Des Hasler coached side is always going to be very competitive. They’re the form side of the competition without a doubt. Off the back of that win against the Storm and the bye, they’ll be ready to go so it’s going to be a huge game for both sides.
Buy tickets to Round 18 Bulldogs clash
“They’re playing a bit of footy. Ben Barba’s been getting all the wraps, he’s particularly dangerous and Josh Morris out in the centres but their forward pack has really stepped up. They are running to the line together giving the ball carrier options on either side which makes them dangerous. They’re all in form and playing well."
Sironen also added that Wests Tigers will need to re-assess their defence if they’re to turn their form around.
“We’ve got to get our defence right first. We shut out Canberra and held Melbourne to one try and then it’s all gone topsy turvy. Obviously there are some mitigating circumstances around that with some personal reasons but defence is attitude so I’m sure Coach (Tim) Sheens will improve the attitude to defence this week and next week beginning on the training paddock.”
The team will need a big Wests Tigers crowd to help them get over the line. Tickets for the game are now on sale so buy yours now!
