Rabbitohs v Sea Eagles: Hunt recalled, Manly unchanged
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NRL.com
Anthony Seibold's Rabbitohs looked terrific early on against the Panthers last week, only to be run down in the final 10 minutes. Their attitude in defence was obvious, and in truth it was a game they should have won.
The Sea Eagles were scintillating in sizzling conditions last Sunday, and if they get a roll on like they did against Parramatta they will be almost impossible to stop.
The selections: Hymel Hunt has been drafted in to replace Tyrell Fuimaono (dislocated toe) on the bench. Not surprisingly, Manly remain unchanged after romping to a 54-0 win at Lottoland.
The key match-up: Jake Trbojevic v Sam Burgess. While they won't directly line up against one another at lock with Burgess named at prop, you can guarantee fireworks up the middle between the two internationals. The respect is mutual, and both realise just how important they are if their team is to fire.
For the Rabbitohs to win: Limiting the brilliance of Manly halfback and captain Daly Cherry-Evans. The Eels had no answers last Sunday in the heat, with DCE putting on a clinic from the opening whistle.
For the Sea Eagles to win: Remaining desperate in defence. Coach Trent Barrett was delighted to keep the Eels scoreless last start, so if Manly can replicate that urgency they will be hard to contain.
Rabbitohs Stat Attack: With 73 missed tackles, they only trail the Titans and Eels (91) as well as the Sharks (78) in terms of defensive lapses. That stat needs to improve against Manly, who can be red-hot when they have momentum.
Sea Eagles Stat Attack: After thrashing the Eels last week, it is no surprise to see the men in maroon and white with the most points to their name (72) as well as the most tries (12).
And another thing: Cherry-Evans has taken on the added responsibility of goal kicking like a seasoned veteran. Last Sunday he booted nine conversions from 10 attempts, earning comparisons to club legend Jamie Lyon.
Prediction: Sea Eagles by 4.
South Sydney Rabbitohs v Manly Warringah Sea Eagles, Saturday 5.30pm AEDT at ANZ Stadium
Head-to-head: 140 games, Sea Eagles 76 wins, Rabbitohs 64 wins
Points per game: Rabbitohs 17; Sea Eagles 36
Points conceded per game: Rabbitohs 25; Sea Eagles 9.5
Televised: Live on Fox League