Round 6: Knights v Wests Tigers NRLW preview
Newcastle Knights will mount the ramparts at McDonald Jones Stadium as the Wests Tigers turn up to town for the round 6 clash.
After a couple of weeks of losses, the Knights were able to put on a good show against the Parramatta Eels last round, winning convincingly 36-16. Knights coach Ben Jefferies was pleased that the team took the Eels to the sword early and were able to maintain the momentum for a big win. Jefferies praised halfback Evie Jones, who was clear about her role in filling in for Jesse Southwell.
Evie Jones will again rum out in the halfback role as Southwell recovers from a head knock.
The Wests Tigers looked like they were on their way to a victory, being up 14-6 against the Brisbane Broncos in the last round, only to falter and go down 16-44 by full-time. Coach Brett Kimmorley cited the over 50 missed tackles as too big a hill for the girls to come back from, and even though there are moments of promise, they have to turn it into 70 minutes of fight.
With centre Rikeya Horne out due to HIA protocols, Shaianne McGlone will take her place in the run on side.
Last meeting: Round 9 2023 - Wests Tigers 8 Knights 28
Who to watch: Tamika Upton continues to produce top efforts for the Knights. She is dangerous in attack and inspiring in defence for the knights. Abigal Roche is also finding out about the cinetre. Up front, Captain Hannah Southwell and Yasmin Clysdale have been making an impression.
West's captain, Botille Vette-Welsh, will hopefully instigate some fire but will need some of the team to get on board the journey with her. Sarah Togatuki is one of the Tigers better forwards and needs to inspire her pack to get a much-needed win in the bank.
MY TIP: Newcastle have too much class to finish their movements and can dance with the best. The defending premiers are to have a field day. Knights by 20.
