Touch Footy as Tigers slam Bunnies

July 5, 2009

Wests Tigers smash South Sydney Rabbits NRL 2009Benji was back in his old number 6 jersey and Robbie Farah was superhuman once more, as the Wests Tigers turned on their attacking best to blow the struggling South Sydney Bunnies away 54-20.

The scary thing is, that Wests could have laid on even more tries had a few things bounced their way. With big winger Taniela Tuiaki scoring 3 tries and narrowly missing a 4th as he unselfishly passed inside when he may have been able to barge overhimself.

As the Tigers reached the half century things can’t get much worse for the group at Souths. They have struggled for much of 2009 but are now firmly back on the radar and the media are sure to circle. Coach Jason Taylor trying desperately to fire up his side, hooking players and reshuffling on several occasions. Big Roy Asotasi was not himself and several times dropped the pill cold, but the Bunnies big name wasn’t alone with plenty of team mates also looking like they were disinterested.

Tim Sheens seemed a happier man, the new half combination of Tim Molzten and Benji Marshall while only in its infancy – certainly giving the team better direction and good service; albeit assisted by the talented Farah who put his hand up for Origin.

While there is no questioning that Farah is best hooker available to NSW, it seems selectors may finally be realising that Origin is far more than just a game of skill. As NRL News reported prior to game 1, leaving out Michael Ennis and Matt Cooper would surely mean a series loss. The two players aren’t just good at what they do, they have a hunger and passion ready made for Origin – these guys could have really made a difference.

The Tigers have a slim chance of making the playoffs and do have a bye up their sleeve, so if things really fall their way, miracles may happen. For Souths, there may be some problems internally that are being covered up. The players really look short of zip and in the post game Jason Taylor was frank – saying several players are under the microscope and the performance was no where near first grade level.

Expect to see plenty of changes in the Souths side, with the depth and talent they have – there is no question they should be in the top 8. The Tigers will naturally gain some confidence from this win and were previously a side under pressure from the coach down. Regardless of the finals, the Wests side need to build confidence for 2010 as they start the largest rebuilding phase since their only ever finals appearance in 2005.



Written by NRL News · Filed Under NRL Results 

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