Panthers v Roosters preview

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The Panthers attempt to break free of the mid-table log-jam as they host a rejuvenated Roosters outfit with little to lose. All makes for an interesting Monday night clash.

An error riddled opening half cost the Panthers a chance to really cement their spot in the Top 8 last weekend as their brave efforts went unrewarded courtesy of a Shaun Johnson special in the final minute of Golden Point. The Panthers managed a concerning 13 errors in their battle with the Warriors, and although many of these were a product of wet and wild weather their poor ball handling nullified any chance that they had of ensuring a spirited comeback. This was particularly evident in Golden Point, in which key errors by Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, Josh Mansour and Leilani Latu robbed the away side of eventuating any real opportunities to steal a last gasp victory. Key to victory in this one will be young halfback Nathan Cleary, who has remained composed in his first season in the top grade. Outclassed by Johnson in last week's loss (Johnson forced 5 drop outs), Cleary still exhibited fine poise in yet another promising performance and will look to build pressure similar to that he did against the Broncos at Suncorp Stadium. Acclaimed fullback Matt Moylan will also come under the spotlight with his creativity paramount to victory if Bryce Cartwright is to take up his more conservative role in the halves again.

The promise the Roosters had shown in the past few months was finally rewarded on Thursday night with a dominant 32-16 victory over the Broncos. It can be noted that in recent weeks a victory over the 2015 Grand Finalists has become not much to fuss about, yet the Roosters did the best with what they got and came out comfortable victors. Integral in their domination was their forward pack, who were easily able to take advantage of a weakened Broncos contingent up front. Evidently, Isaac Liu, Dylan Napa, Boyd Cordner and Sio Siua Taukeiaho were all able to crack over 100 running metres on Thursday night, with Cordner's man of the match efforts particularly pleasing. Running 184 metres, making 25 tackles, scoring a try and busting 6 tackles Cordner's pace and strength up front was inspiring for his teammates, who responded accordingly. In front of what should be small but vocal crowd at Pepper Stadium, the battle up front may just be where this one is decided. The late omission of seasoned halfback Mitchell Pearce will need to be overcome in order for the Roosters to prevail, with question marks over Watson and Matterson's kicking game. 

Last meeting: Round 7 2016 - Roosters 16 Panthers 20

In wet, miserable conditions the Panthers outlasted the Roosters 20-16 at Allianz Stadium in Round 7 earlier this year.

Who to watch: Josh Mansour has been in absolutely electric form for the Mountain Men as of late, taking the form of a rampaging beast more so than that of a rugby league winger. Last week's effort against the Warriors was indicative of this. Despite a couple of errors in trying conditions Mansour was able to rally his troops with an incredible (expected of Mansour now) 266 running metres, 8 tackle busts and 2 tries. His ability to start off Penrith's sets is invaluable and a major reason for his recent re-signing.

Relishing a chance to shine in the No. 1 jersey, Blake Ferguson has been immense for the Roosters in attack. Last week alone Ferguson grabbed a try, set up 2, ran for 141 metres and made 2 line breaks in a dominant performance from the back. Ferguson proved hard to handle for the Panthers in their Round 7 clash and will prove a more dangerous force out the back.

The favourite: Back at home the Panthers are favoured to account for the Pearce-less Roosters.

My tip: With Pearce out look for Nathan Cleary to star and guide the Panthers home for a crucial victory. Panthers by 8

1. Matt Moylan 2. Josh Mansour 3. Waqa Blake 4. Tyrone Peachey 5. Dallin Watene Zelezniak 6. Bryce Cartwright 7. Nathan Cleary 8. Leilani Latu 9. Peter Wallace 14. Moses Leota 11. Isaah Yeo 12. James Fisher-Harris 13. Trent Merrin
Interchange: 21. Jeremy Latimore 15. Sitaleki Akauola 16. Chris Grevsmuhl 17. Zak Hardaker

1. Blake Ferguson 2. Daniel Tupou 3. Dale Copley 4. Shaun Kenny-Dowall 5. Latrell Mitchell 6. Connor Watson 16. Ryan Matterson 8. Isaac Liu 9. Jake Friend 10. Dylan Napa 11. Boyd Cordner 12. Mitchell Aubusson 13. Sio Siua Taukeiaho
Interchange: 14. Sam Moa 15. Aidan Guerra 17. Kane Evans 18. Grant Garvey

Referees: Gavin Badger, Adam Devcich; Sideline Officials: Dave Munro, Phil Henderson; Video Referees: Bernard Sutton, Luke Patten, Jason Robinson