Toothless Tigers in Search of Change
The struggling Wests Tigers have made significant changes in a bid to turn around their poor form. Captain Api Koroisau has been moved to the halves, while rookie Lachlan Galvin has been rested due to a hand injury. The team, currently sitting at the bottom of the ladder, is looking to end a nine-game losing streak.
Aidan Sezer returns from suspension to partner Koroisau in the halves, with Solomona Faataape coming into the side to replace Solomon Alaimalo. Tallyn Da Silva will play hooker, allowing Koroisau to shift to halfback. Off-contract five-eighth Adam Doueihi has been named in the reserves as he continues his recovery from a previous injury.
Galvin, who has been dealing with a hand injury, has been given a rest amidst speculation about his future with the club. His management has reportedly expressed concerns about the team’s direction to the club’s officials. Despite a long-standing knee injury, centre Justin Olam has been named in the team.
In other team news, Penrith’s Dylan Edwards is set to prove his State of Origin credentials after recovering from a quad issue, while Newcastle’s Bradman Best returns from a hamstring injury. NSW forward Haumole Olakau’atu has been named for Manly despite a calf injury, and South Sydney’s Cam Murray is back from a hip injury to face Brisbane.
Shaun Johnson’s return from injury will boost the Warriors as they take on Melbourne, but Melbourne’s Ryan Papenhuyzen is still sidelined with an ankle issue. The Sydney Roosters have dropped hooker Brandon Smith for missing a team meeting, with Connor Watson set to replace him.
The changes in the Wests Tigers lineup reflect the team’s determination to improve their performance and climb up the ladder. Time will tell if these changes will have the desired impact on their results.