Form doesn’t seem to matter too much on Anzac Day.
But if history is anything to go by, Wednesday’s heavyweight clash between St George Illawarra and the Sydney Roosters is going to be a cracker.
Traditionally a clash between one finals-bound side and another beginning to battle, this year’s has all the making of the blockbuster billing it deserves.
In one corner there’s the table-topping Dragons. In the other there’s the most hyped team of the pre-season and opening two months of the competition in the Roosters
Both are now level on the second line of premiership betting.
Since the introduction of the Anzac Day clash in 2002, eight of their 16 matches have been decided by four points or less – including the past three.
That, despite the fact the two teams haven’t featured in the same finals series since 2010. A fact that looks certain to change this year.
“It wouldn’t matter on this day,” Roosters coach Trent Robinson said.
“It would still be a really strong clash. But I can imagine it’s going to create some interest outside of the interest of both teams.
“And it will create a bit more spice for the supporters and fans of rugby league.”
Never has it been more evident that a year is a long time in rugby league than looking back at last Anzac Day.
Just on a year ago, Mitchell Pearce kicked the winning field goal for the Roosters in golden point, after Josh Dugan sent the match to extra time for the Dragons.
Fast forward 12 months, and neither player is still with either of their clubs.
That loss kickstarted the Dragons’ fall. Gareth Widdop was injured and their spiral to ninth spot began. In comparison, the Roosters never looked like missing the eight.
This year though, Paul McGregor’s Dragons look a different side with Ben Hunt in the No.7. A collapse looks unlikely.
On the other side of the fence though the Roosters are still battling to find their mojo. The introductions of Cooper Cronk and James Tedesco haven’t brought with them the success the pre-season pressure demanded.
Last week’s 6-0 win over Canterbury typified their start to the year. They were gutsy in defence but still made 17 errors with ball in hand – taking them to a competition-high 96.
“I’ve watched the game a couple of times now,” McGregor said.
“They’re still finding their rhythm but they’re a quality side.
“They were pre-season favourites to win the competition and have got class players across the field. They’re a very good football team.
“But it doesn’t matter what side takes the park in these contests, there’s not much in it.”
STATS THAT MATTER:
* The Dragons and Roosters have each won three of the past six Anzac Day clashes.
* The Dragons lead the NRL for tries and tackle busts.
* The Roosters have made the most errors this year.
