Wests Tigers v Bulldogs preview

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Western Sydney rivals meet in Sunday afternoon classic.

Breaking a six-match losing streak with a win over South Sydney in bizarre circumstances, the Tigers head into the Round 10 fixture full of confidence as they look to get back in the race for September. Coming up against the Bulldogs, the Tigers have mixed news in their team list, with the return of captain Aaron Woods offsetting the absence of dynamic fullback James Tedesco. Similarly, Tim Grant and Mitchell Moses return after missing the win over the Rabbitohs, while journeyman Justin Hunt has been named as Tedesco's replacement. New signing Elijah Taylor has been named as 18th man, but is expected to take part on Sunday. 

Starting the year as premiership contenders, the Bulldogs have been hard to gauge so far in 2016 as a result of their inconsistency. Coming up with three wins from their past seven matches, the Blue and Whites face a tough prospect against the Tigers, made even harder without the service of Will Hopoate due to religious reasons. In the absence of the star fullback, veteran Sam Perrett will take over the custodian duties, while Tyrone Phillips retains his place on the wing after being a late inclusion against Parramatta. Dominating recent matches against the Tigers, Canterbury will know what it takes to come away with the win on Sunday, after prevailing in seven of the past nine clashes.

Last meeting: Round 8 2015 - Bulldogs 14 Tigers 38

Who to watch: Having played second fiddle to a range of high-profile fullbacks ranging from Greg Inglis, Jarryd Hayne and Josh Dugan throughout his career, Tigers replacement Justin Hunt will be eager to make the most of his opportunity on Sunday. Having debuted in 2012, the 27-year-old has managed just 21 games to date, but with James Tedesco out with a long-term shoulder issue, Hunt will be fully aware of the need to perform if he is to remain in first grade. Showing glimpses of potential whenever he has been given an opportunity, look for Hunt to take on the Bulldogs without fear.

Set to play his 100th game for Canterbury on Sunday, captain James Graham will be instrumental in leading his side to victory. Since joining the Bulldogs from St. Helens in 2012, Graham has been a constant force for the Blue and Whites with his competitive streak and relentless attitude typifying the mentality coach Des Hasler instills in each of his players. While his time in Australia has experienced numerous highs and lows, there is little doubt over the influence the English international has had on the proud Belmore club.

The favourite: While their form has been inconsistent for much of 2016, the Bulldogs are favoured to topple the Tigers.

My tip: Look for the Tigers to pull off a surprise win against the more fancied Bulldogs. Tigers by 7.

1. Justin Hunt 2. David Nofoaluma 3. Tim Simona 4. Kevin Naiqama 5. Jordan Rankin 6. Mitchell Moses 7. Luke Brooks 17. Ava Seumanufagai 9. Robbie Farah 10. Tim Grant 11. Curtis Sironen 14. Josh Aloiai 18. Elijah Taylor
Interchange: 13. Sauaso Sue 15. Dene Halatau 16. Kyle Lovett 8. Aaron Woods

1. Sam Perrett 2. Curtis Rona 3. Josh Morris 4. Kerrod Holland 5. Tyrone Phillips 6. Josh Reynolds 7. Moses Mbye 8. Aiden Tolman 9. Michael Lichaa 10. James Graham 11. Josh Jackson 12. Greg Eastwood 16. David Klemmer
Interchange: 13. Sam Kasiano 15. Raymond Faitala-Mariner 20. Craig Garvey 17. Tim Browne

Referees: Grant Atkins, Alan Shortall; Sideline Officials: Brett Suttor, Kasey Badger; Video Referees: Bernard Sutton, Jared Maxwell, Bryan Norrie