Bulldogs v Roosters preview

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs v Sydney Roosters
ANZ Stadium - Friday 7:35pm

Strap yourself in for one of the games of the season.

Friday Night Football will live up to its title this week, as arch-rivals Canterbury and the Roosters battle it out in a clash which will likely see the victorious halves earn a spot in Laurie Daley's side for the first Origin.

Having started the year as one of the in-form sides, the Bulldogs have experienced a decline in form, winning just one of their past five matches. Fortunately, Canterbury will have captain James Graham back from suspension in a much-needed boost for the home side. With so much pressure upon Trent Hodkinson and Josh Reynolds to perform this week, one of the biggest weapons for the Bulldogs will be Moses Mbye; arguably Canterbury's best this season, Mbye may well prove the difference by capitalising on the platform laid by the Bulldogs giant forward pack.

Coming off the back of four narrow losses, the Roosters rediscovered their best form, dismantling the Tigers in a comprehensive performance last Friday. Being able to retain the same side, coach Trent Robinson will know his side must lift against Des Hasler's Bulldogs, despite holding a strong record in recent years, winning three of the past four clashes. While they emerged with a win against Canterbury on their last visit to ANZ Stadium, the Roosters haven't enjoyed great success in recent years, only winning once since their Grand Final victory in 2013.

Last meeting: Round 11 2014 - Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs 12 Sydney Roosters 32

Who to watch: Among the discussion surrounding the Bulldog's halves, one of the unsung players this season has been Michael Lichaa. Signed by Des Hasler after playing just one game last year, the former Shark has performed well for his new club so far, and averaging 45 tackles per game. With the Roosters expected to target the better-known players in the Bulldog's side, Lichaa will be out to show Canterbury fans he is just as capable as former captain Michael Ennis.

Having made his return from a broken jaw last week, Aidan Guerra will be looking for a big game to ensure his spot in the Queensland second row. Running for almost 100 metres and making 33 tackles against Wests Tigers, Guerra will be looking to make an impact against the Bulldogs with his willing defence and powerful running style.

The favourite: With the Bulldogs inconsistent form over the past month, the Roosters are expected to build upon last week's win on Friday.

My tip: While their past month saw them go down narrowly on four occasions, the Rooster's last-start performance should serve as a warning for other sides in the competition. Roosters by 10.

1. Sam Perrett 2. Curtis Rona 3. Josh Morris 4. Chase Stanley 5. Corey Thompson 6. Josh Reynolds 7. Trent Hodkinson 8. Aiden Tolman 9. Michael Lichaa 10. James Graham 11. Josh Jackson 12. Tony Williams 13. Greg Eastwood
Interchange: 14. Sam Kasiano 15. Tim Browne 16. Frank Pritchard 17. Moses Mbye 19. David Klemmer 21. Antonio Kaufusi 22. Lloyd Perrett

1. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck 2. Daniel Tupou 3. Michael Jennings 4. Mitchell Aubusson 5. Shaun Kenny-Dowall 6. James Maloney 7. Mitchell Pearce 8. Jared Waerea-Hargreaves 9. Jake Friend 10. Sam Moa 11. Boyd Cordner 12. Aidan Guerra 13. Isaac Liu
Interchange: 14. Jackson Hastings 15. Siosiua Taukeiaho 16. Kane Evans 17. Dylan Napa

Referees: Gerard Sutton, Alan Shortall; Sideline Officials: Nick Beashel, Brett Suttor; Video Referees: Shayne Hayne, Ben Galea;

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