Wests Tigers vs. Canberra Raiders; What do we need to produce to win?
To secure a victory against the Raiders we need a lot to go in our favour. Ricky’s Raiders have been grinding out wins based on heart and playing for each other. There have been several significant comebacks, primarily based on the back of their go forward. However, they are vulnerable and have just scraped through in a few games. The key thing for Tigers fans is that we are at the opposite end of the spectrum, having lost several games by very small margins. So, what do we need to do to produce a win?
Defence: This game will be won off the back of our defensive effort. We have the ability to score points and the Raiders are susceptible on their edges and from quick legs against their less mobile and tiring middle. The key to winning will be how well we can defend the middle corridor and our edges. A commitment to defence and our ability to scramble will deny Canberra of points and prevent them for building momentum. With a wet sail the Raiders are one of the most dangerous teams in the competition; we need to ensure that we control their momentum though our defence and strategic kicking game.
Exploit the edges: The Raiders' have a strong middle and ours just holds its own in attack. The primary defensive lapses from the Raiders have occurred on their edges. Their defence is susceptible to early shifts and second phase play where a disjointed defensive line provides opportunities. Should Luai play his agility and unpredictability could be a key weapon.
Control the middle: Given the strength of the Raider’s pack it is unlikely that we will be in a position to dominate the middle on either side of the ball. The key to winning lies in our ability to defend the middle corridor to wear down their forwards and then use the strength of Hunt as an impact forward, along with the guile of both Luai and Latu F to create attacking opportunities through second phase play. Bula needs to be lurking in the corridor to take advantage of opportunities that present from both May and Hunt.
High-Tempo Play: We need to maintain momentum and shift early and regularly to maintain the pace of the game and disrupt the Raiders' rhythm. Quick play-the-balls and dynamic ball movement will prevent the Raiders from setting their defensive line and provide attacking opportunities.
Strategic Kicking: Our strategic kicking game has been below par all year. With Luai on Blues’ duty and a possibility of not playing Api, Latu F and Mason will need to be on their game with the tactical kicks. We need to control momentum and employ our kicks to play the game at our pace and force them to work hard from deep in their own half to increase the chance of errors.
Discipline and Composure: Penalties and sin bins have cost us dearly over recent weeks. We simply need to be better and minimize penalties and handling errors to maintain pressure on the Raiders. A disciplined approach will be crucial.
Bench Impact: This is a game where our bench impact will be very important. Hunt and TDS against tired legs will make a difference. Benji needs to utilise the bench effectively to increase intensity when the Raiders start to tire. Fresh legs to exploit the middle and edges may be the difference between the two sides.
Team list Tuesday will be interesting.